How to Use a Lead Sled

A lead sled is a strong, steel device that holds a rifle, slug gun or other high-power gun in place as you shoot. This tool takes the recoil of the shot, protecting your shoulder and eliminating the instinct to flinch, which can ruin your aim. If you are a veteran shooter with a bad shoulder, or a beginning shooter learning to perfect your form, the lead sled can protect you from injury.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 to 4 bags of 25 pound lead shot
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the lead sled on a platform that comes to the level you would like to shoot, or on the ground if you wish to take a shot lying on your stomach. The lead sled itself is only about a foot tall from the bottom tray to the gun holder.

    • 2

      Place your 25 pound bags of lead shot in the tray at the bottom of the lead sled. These bags add weight and help the lead sled take the recoil of the shot.

    • 3

      Place the butt of the rifle in the back pad. Place the front of the gun in the front pad. This placement should be comfortable when you are holding the butt of the rifle with your dominant hand and holding it on the neck with your supporting hand.

    • 4

      Turn the dial in the middle of the lead sled to raise or lower the position of the gun. Once again, this should be at a comfortable height when in shooting position. Tighten the center lock when you have the gun in its correct position.

    • 5

      Load your gun, come to aim with the help of the lead sled and fire. Lead sleds take approximately 90 percent of the recoil. If you still feel significant recoil, you may not have placed the gun properly in the sled.