How to Make a Rifle Rest for Long-Range Shooting

A rifle rest is a must for serious long-range shooters. A good target or hunting rifle is capable of incredible accuracy, but the precision of the shot also depends on the shooter. A rifle rest limits the amount of human error that goes into a shot. It is usually used at the range, to sight in a scope on a rifle before you go hunting. Making a solid rest from home takes some work, but it's well worth the effort.

Things You'll Need

  • Scissors car jack
  • Small cushion
  • 2-by-2-inch metal tubing
  • Flat metal scraps
  • 1/2-inch bolts
  • Welder
  • Nylon strap
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Instructions

    • 1

      Weld the jack onto the support tubing. The tubing should run the length of the jack and stick out a few inches on either side. A shaped cushion on top of the jack will hold the muzzle end of the rifle. The jack can be adjusted up and down for aiming.

    • 2

      Weld another length of tubing onto the first. This tubing should run perpendicular to the other, and it should join the first beneath the middle of the jack. This piece should be more than 2 feet long: enough to accommodate the stock and fore end of a rifle.

    • 3

      Vertically weld two metal scraps to the sides of the end of the perpendicular tubing. These pieces should face each other and stand about 5 inches above the tubing. They should be no more than 2 inches thick.

    • 4

      Mount the nylon strap around the two vertical metal scraps. Tie the strap around the scraps, looping it up and down, in and out, in such a way that a rifle butt will rest in the opening created between the two scraps. Wrap the back side of the two scraps, but not the front.

    • 5

      Weld bolts onto the corners of your rest. Mounting at least four bolts to your rifle rest will keep it level and balanced. Your rest has an adjustable front height, a stock holder, and is constructed from solid metal.