How to Make a Rifle Rest

A rifle rest is a small wood stand that supports a rifle when not in use. The stand is placed onto a mantle or shelf to display the rifle. Rifle rests can also be used to support the barrel of the rifle while the rifle is in use, but they are often too bulky to take on frequent trips. You can make your own rifle stand from a few pieces of wood and some long screws. Adjust all measurements as necessary to build a rest customized to your rifle.

Things You'll Need

  • 2-by-4 boards
  • 1-inch thick plywood
  • Pencil
  • Ruler
  • Rifle
  • Table saw
  • Drill
  • Screwdriver
  • 1-inch screws
  • Wood stain
  • Paintbrush
  • Wood sealer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the 2-by-4 boards to a measurement equaling 5 ¼ inches wide and 8 ¼ inches long. Mark the lines with a pencil to prepare for cutting. Mark a line 8 inches wide onto the plywood with a pencil. Place your rifle over the board and mark a line from the stock to the middle of the barrel for a customized length. Use a ruler to keep the lines straight.

    • 2

      Cut the boards on the penciled lines. Cut a 2-inch wide and 2-inch deep triangle notch into the top of the 5-inch board. Cut a 2-inch wide and 3-inch deep triangle notch into the top of the 8-inch board.

    • 3

      Cut a board from the plywood that is 2 inches longer than your rifle on both sides and about 8 inches thick.

    • 4

      Drill a small hole through the un-notched pieces of wood about 6 inches from the edge on both sides. The screw holes should align with the barrel and the stock of the rifle. Drill two matching holes into the bottom pieces of the notched wood.

    • 5

      Fit the notched pieces over the holes and screw the notched pieces to the base board from the bottom up through the sides of the notched pieces.

    • 6

      Rest the rifle on the stand to test the fit. Adjust the placement of the rest if necessary.

    • 7

      Paint or stain the wood to your desired color. Allow the stain to dry for two hours. Follow the stain or paint with an application of wood sealer to protect the wood and add shine.