Ever tried to hit a target and your rifle just wobbled all over the place? A good shooting bag can fix that! But what you fill it with makes a huge difference. It can be confusing trying to figure out what the best fill is. There are so many options like sand, plastic pellets, and even dried corn. How do you know which one will give you the steadiest shot?
Choosing the wrong fill can be a real pain. It might be too heavy to carry, or not heavy enough to steady your rifle. Some fills can even absorb water and get moldy! Nobody wants a smelly, wobbly shooting bag. That’s why picking the right fill is super important for accurate shooting and comfortable use.
In this blog post, we’ll break down the most popular shooting bag fills. We’ll talk about their pros and cons. You’ll learn about weight, durability, and how they handle different weather conditions. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to put in your shooting bag to get the best performance. Get ready to say goodbye to shaky shots and hello to bullseyes!
Our Top 5 Fill For Shooting Bags Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Shooter’s Choice Shooting Bag Fill (14lbs) | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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HYSKORE #30203 Rest Bag Fill | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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Spex•Lite® 5125 Shooting Bag Fill (Liters | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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Frankford Arsenal 15 lb Bag of Walnut Hull Media for Case Tumbling | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
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Birchwood Casey Gun Rest Filled | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Fill For Shooting Bags Detailed Reviews
1. Shooter’s Choice Shooting Bag Fill (14lbs)
Rating: 8.6/10
The Shooter’s Choice Shooting Bag Fill (14lbs) gives you the support you need for accurate shooting. It’s made to fill your shooting bags and rests, giving you a stable base for sighting in your rifle or practicing your aim. This fill is durable and designed to last, so you can count on it for many shooting sessions.
What We Like:
- Durable Filling: The recycled rubber granules are tough and will last a long time, even with heavy use.
- Generous Quantity: You get 14 pounds of fill, which is enough to fill most shooting bags and rests.
- Versatile Compatibility: It works with Shooter’s Choice AccuRest and other brands of shooting bags, making it easy to use with your existing gear.
- Conforms to Shape: The fill easily molds to the shape of your bag, giving you a secure and custom fit.
- Lightweight and Sturdy: It provides great support without being too heavy to carry around.
What Could Be Improved:
- Dust Potential: Rubber granules can sometimes create dust, so filling the bag might require some care.
- Odor: Recycled rubber sometimes has a slight odor, which might bother some users initially.
This shooting bag fill is a solid choice for any shooter looking for a reliable and long-lasting way to support their firearm. It offers great stability and will help you improve your accuracy at the range.
2. HYSKORE #30203 Rest Bag Fill
Rating: 8.9/10
The HYSKORE #30203 Rest Bag Fill is designed to give shooters a stable and reliable base for their rifles. It comes with 5 pounds of lightweight, granular plastic pellets and a handy funnel for easy filling. This fill helps improve your accuracy and consistency whether you’re at the range or in the field.
What We Like:
- Versatile Shooting Rest Bag Filling: The small, uniform plastic granules provide excellent stability for your rifle, making your shooting experience better.
- Light Weight: This fill is easy to carry, which is great for shooters who move around a lot.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: The plastic granules keep your rest bag supportive and reliable, even when it’s humid.
- Compatible with Various Rest Bags: You can use this fill with bench rests, rabbit ear rest bags, and other types of shooting rests.
- Easy to Use: The included funnel makes filling your rest bag quick and mess-free.
What Could Be Improved:
- Pellet Size:** While the small size is good for stability, some shooters might prefer larger pellets for a different feel.
- Static Electricity:** Plastic pellets can sometimes generate static electricity, which can make them stick to surfaces.
Overall, the HYSKORE #30203 Rest Bag Fill is a great choice for shooters looking for a lightweight, durable, and versatile fill for their rest bags. The included funnel is a nice bonus that makes filling your bag a breeze.
3. Spex•Lite® 5125 Shooting Bag Fill (Liters
Rating: 9.3/10
The Spex•Lite® 5125 Shooting Bag Fill is a great option to fill your shooting bags. You get 4 liters of this medium-weight fill. This fill gives you a very rigid and conforming support. It is also water resistant, so you don’t have to worry about getting it wet. This fill is ideal for hunters and shooters. It works well for bench rest shooting, F-Class, and PRS. Each liter of SpexLite fill weighs about 7.2 ounces. It provides a stable base for accurate shooting.
What We Like:
- Medium weight makes it easy to carry but still provides stability.
- The fill is very rigid and conforming, so it molds to your rifle.
- It is water resistant, protecting it from moisture and spills.
- Perfect for a variety of shooting styles, including hunting and competition.
- Each liter provides a good amount of fill at approximately 7.2 oz.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some shooters might prefer a lighter or heavier fill, so more weight options would be nice.
- While water-resistant, it is not fully waterproof. Complete waterproofing would be better.
Overall, the Spex•Lite® 5125 Shooting Bag Fill is a solid choice for shooters looking for a reliable and versatile fill. It will help you improve your accuracy and consistency on the range or in the field.
4. Frankford Arsenal 15 lb Bag of Walnut Hull Media for Case Tumbling
Rating: 8.6/10
The Frankford Arsenal Walnut Hull Media is a great choice for cleaning your brass cases. This 15-pound bag of media will help you remove dirt, grit, and powder residue. You can use it in your tumbler to get your brass ready for reloading. Plus, you can even use it to fill your shooting bags for extra stability at the range.
What We Like:
- It cleans brass cases quickly and well.
- It is easy to use; just pour it into your tumbler.
- It is versatile; you can use it for cleaning and for filling shooting bags.
- It is durable and can be used many times.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cardboard box may not be the most durable for long-term storage.
- Some users may find 15 pounds to be a lot if they only reload occasionally.
In conclusion, the Frankford Arsenal Walnut Hull Media is a great product for reloaders and shooters. It will help you keep your brass clean and your shooting steady.
5. Birchwood Casey Gun Rest Filled
Rating: 8.7/10
The Birchwood Casey Gun Rest is a filled front and rear bag set that helps you aim your gun with more stability. These bags are designed for shooting or hunting. They help you get more accurate shots. The bags are pre-filled and ready to use right out of the box.
What We Like:
- The bags are filled and ready to use. You don’t have to fill them yourself.
- They are easy to carry. A clip makes transportation simple.
- The material is tough and water-resistant. They can handle outdoor use.
- The bottom is non-slip. This helps keep the bags in place while you shoot.
- The suede leather topper protects your gun. It prevents scratches and damage.
What Could Be Improved:
- The size of the rear bag might be too small for some shooters.
- While durable, the 600D polyester might not be as rugged as some higher-end materials.
- The bags are pre-filled, so you can’t adjust the fill level to your preference.
If you want a simple and effective way to improve your shooting accuracy, the Birchwood Casey Gun Rest is a good option. These durable and easy-to-use bags offer a stable platform for your rifle.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Filling Your Shooting Bags Like a Pro
Choosing the right fill for your shooting bags can make a huge difference in your accuracy and overall shooting experience. This guide will help you understand the different types of fill, what to look for, and how to choose the best option for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When choosing a fill for your shooting bag, consider these important features:
- Weight: The weight of the fill affects how stable your bag is. Heavier fills generally provide more stability, but they can also be harder to carry.
- Density: Density refers to how tightly the fill packs together. Higher density fills offer better support and reduce movement.
- Durability: You want a fill that will last a long time and won’t break down easily.
- Moisture Resistance: Some fills absorb moisture, which can affect their weight and performance. Choose a fill that resists moisture, especially if you shoot in humid environments.
- Consistency: The fill should be uniform in size and shape to provide consistent support.
- Cost: Different fills vary in price. Balance your budget with your performance needs.
Important Materials
Several materials are commonly used to fill shooting bags. Here’s a look at some popular options:
- Sand: Sand is an affordable and readily available option. However, it can absorb moisture and may not be as consistent as other fills.
- Plastic Beads: Plastic beads are lightweight, water-resistant, and durable. They offer good stability and are a popular choice.
- Rice: Rice is a natural and inexpensive option. However, it can attract pests and may break down over time. Avoid it in wet conditions.
- Corn Cob Media: This is a processed corn product that is lightweight and durable. It’s a good option for those looking for a natural fill that resists moisture better than rice.
- Airsoft BBs: Airsoft BBs are very consistent in size and shape, providing excellent support. They are also water-resistant and durable, but can be more expensive.
- Crushed Walnut Shells: These shells are a natural and renewable resource. They’re relatively lightweight and provide good support.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors can affect the quality of your shooting bag fill:
- Cleanliness: A clean fill is essential. Dirt and debris can affect the fill’s performance and durability.
- Moisture Content: As mentioned earlier, moisture can negatively impact many fills. Store your shooting bags in a dry place to prevent moisture absorption.
- Particle Size: Uniform particle size is crucial for consistent support. Fills with varying particle sizes may not pack as tightly or provide as stable a platform.
- Degradation: Some fills, like rice, can break down over time. Choose a fill that is durable and resistant to degradation.
- Proper Sealing: Make sure your shooting bag is properly sealed to prevent leaks and spills.
User Experience and Use Cases
The best fill for you depends on your specific needs and shooting style.
- Benchrest Shooting: For benchrest shooting, you’ll likely want a heavier, denser fill like sand or airsoft BBs for maximum stability.
- Field Shooting: If you’re shooting in the field, you might prefer a lighter fill like plastic beads or corn cob media for easier portability.
- Hunting: Hunters often prioritize lightweight and water-resistant fills like plastic beads or crushed walnut shells.
Consider the terrain you’ll be shooting on, the weight you’re comfortable carrying, and the level of stability you need.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best fill for a general-purpose shooting bag?
A: Plastic beads are a great all-around choice. They’re lightweight, water-resistant, and provide good stability for various shooting applications.
Q: How do I fill my shooting bag?
A: Most shooting bags have a zipper or Velcro closure. Use a funnel to pour the fill into the bag, making sure not to overfill it. Leave some room for the fill to move and conform to your rifle.
Q: How much fill do I need?
A: This depends on the size of your bag. Start with a smaller amount and gradually add more until you achieve the desired firmness and support.
Q: Can I mix different types of fill?
A: While you *can* mix fills, it’s generally not recommended. Mixing can lead to inconsistent support and performance.
Q: How do I clean my shooting bag fill?
A: This depends on the type of fill. Some fills, like plastic beads, can be washed with soap and water. Others, like sand, may need to be replaced if they become dirty.
Q: Will the fill damage my rifle?
A: No, the fill itself shouldn’t damage your rifle. However, ensure the bag’s outer material is soft and non-abrasive to prevent scratches.
Q: Where can I buy shooting bag fill?
A: You can find shooting bag fill at most sporting goods stores, online retailers, and some hardware stores.
Q: How long does shooting bag fill last?
A: The lifespan of your fill depends on the material and how often you use it. Durable fills like plastic beads can last for years, while more fragile fills like rice may need to be replaced more frequently.
Q: Is rice really a bad choice?
A: Rice *can* work, but it’s not ideal. It attracts pests, absorbs moisture, and degrades faster than other options. It’s best to avoid it if possible.
Q: What is the best way to store my shooting bag when not in use?
A: Store your shooting bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help prevent moisture absorption and degradation of the fill.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Robert Contreras, a passionate archery instructor based in the USA. With years of experience under my belt, I’ve dedicated my life to mastering the art of archery and sharing its intricacies with enthusiasts of all levels. Through my website, 10Bows.com, I invite you to explore a treasure trove of tips, techniques, and personal insights that reflect my journey in the world of archery. Whether you’re picking up a bow for the first time or refining your skills, I’m here to help guide you toward precision, focus, and a deeper appreciation for this timeless sport.