Ever watch a benchrest competition and wonder how the shooters achieve such incredible accuracy? A big part of their secret weapon is a quality rear bag. But choosing the right one can feel like navigating a minefield. There are so many shapes, sizes, and materials! It’s easy to get overwhelmed and end up with a bag that doesn’t quite fit your needs, leading to frustration and wasted money.
Benchrest shooting demands extreme precision. Even the slightest wobble can throw off your shot. A good rear bag provides crucial support and stability, helping you fine-tune your rifle’s position for that perfect shot. But with so many choices, how do you know which bag is right for you? What features really matter? And how much should you spend?
This guide is here to cut through the confusion. We’ll explore the different types of rear bags, explain the key features to look for, and offer practical advice to help you find the perfect match for your rifle and shooting style. By the end of this post, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to choose a rear bag that will improve your accuracy and boost your confidence on the bench. Let’s dive in and discover the world of rear bags for benchrest shooting!
Our Top 5 Rear Bag For Benchrest Shooting Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rear Bag For Benchrest Shooting Detailed Reviews
1. Caldwell DeadShot Boxed Combo Front and Rear Bag with Durable Construction and Water Resistance for Outdoor
Rating: 9.0/10
The Caldwell DeadShot Boxed Combo is a set of front and rear shooting bags. The bags are designed to help you get a steady shot when you are hunting, shooting at the range, or just practicing outdoors. They come in green and black and are made to last. The front bag measures 10 inches long, 8 inches high, and 7.5 inches wide, weighing 7 lbs 10 oz. The rear bag is 5 inches long, 5 inches wide, and 4.5 inches deep. You will need to fill the bags with dry silica sand or another filler before you use them.
What We Like:
- Versatile: You can use these bags on almost any surface. They can be adjusted to fit your needs.
- Durable: The bags are made of strong, water-resistant 600 Denier polyester fabric.
- Convenient: The Quick-Connect System makes it easy to carry the bags together. They stay organized.
- Guaranteed: Caldwell offers a limited lifetime warranty on this product.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires Filling: The bags do not come pre-filled. You need to buy sand or another filler separately.
- Weight (Front Bag): The front bag is quite heavy at almost 8 pounds before filling. This could be difficult for some users to carry.
These bags are a good choice if you need a stable shooting rest. The durable construction and water resistance make them suitable for outdoor use.
2. Caldwell Deadshot Filled
Rating: 9.0/10
The Caldwell Deadshot Rear Shooting Bag helps you shoot more accurately. It’s made tough and can handle getting wet. Take it to the range, use it for hunting, or just practice your aim. This bag will help keep your gun steady for a better shot.
What We Like:
- It is easy to carry because of the quick-connect strap.
- The 600 denier polyester is strong and keeps water out.
- You can use it with almost any Caldwell front rest.
- The bag’s shape holds your gun’s stock tightly. This helps you aim better.
- Caldwell offers a limited lifetime warranty. This shows they stand behind their product.
What Could Be Improved:
- The size (4.5″ L, 5″ W x 5″ H) may be too small for some larger rifles or shooting styles. Consider offering different sizes.
- While water-resistant is good, completely waterproof would be even better for harsh weather conditions.
This Caldwell Deadshot Rear Shooting Bag is a reliable tool for steadying your aim. It is built to last and will improve your shooting accuracy.
3. Tactical Rear Squeeze Bag
Rating: 9.3/10
The S2Delta Tactical Rear Squeeze Bag is a versatile shooting rest designed for precision and stability. This Coyote Tan bag weighs just 1 pound and is ready to use right out of the box. It’s made for long-range shooting, PRS (Precision Rifle Series) competitions, and even hunting. This medium-sized barricade bag helps you get steady in various shooting positions.
What We Like:
- The bag is filled and ready to use immediately.
- It is made with tough, water-resistant nylon that can handle wear and tear.
- You can easily carry and position the bag using the rear and side handles.
- The inner bag is removable, so you can change the filling for different needs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 4.5-inch length might be too short for some shooters and rifles.
- The plastic bead filling could be replaced with heavier material for increased stability in windy conditions.
The S2Delta Tactical Rear Squeeze Bag is a solid choice for shooters seeking a lightweight and adaptable shooting rest. It offers durability and versatility for various shooting applications.
4. Protektor Model Dr. Bag with Mid. Leather Ear T.S. Between Ears Rear Benchrest Bag
Rating: 9.0/10
The Protektor Model Dr. Bag is a specialized rear benchrest bag designed for serious shooters. It’s crafted in the United States, promising quality and attention to detail. This particular model features mid-leather ears and a 1/2-inch spacing, offering precise support for your rifle. You won’t need any batteries to use it; it’s a straightforward, reliable piece of sporting equipment designed to improve your accuracy on the range.
What We Like:
- Made in the USA! You know you’re getting a quality product.
- No batteries needed, so it’s always ready to go.
- The mid-leather ears give good support and help with stability.
- The 1/2-inch spacing is great for fine-tuning your rifle’s position.
- It’s designed specifically for benchrest shooting, so it does its job well.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “Dr. Bag” name might be confusing for some people.
- It’s a specialized product, so it might not be useful for all types of shooting.
- Leather care might be needed to keep it in good condition.
- Detailed instructions on optimal use would be helpful for beginners.
If you’re a benchrest shooter looking for a quality rear bag, the Protektor Model Dr. Bag is a solid choice. Its design and construction focus on providing the support you need for accurate shots.
5. Caldwell Universal Rear Shooting Bag – Medium High with Durable Construction for Shooting
Rating: 9.5/10
The Caldwell Universal Rear Shooting Bag is a great tool for hunters and shooters. The Medium-High bag is designed to provide a stable and reliable rest. It helps you improve your accuracy. It is green and built to last in the outdoors.
What We Like:
- The bag is ready to use right out of the box because it is filled with corn cob media.
- It works on almost any surface. You can use it at the range or in the field.
- The leather and polyester construction is tough. It will not stretch or sag over time.
- The medium-high size is a good balance. It offers support without being too bulky.
- Caldwell provides a limited lifetime warranty. You can have peace of mind knowing your purchase is protected.
What Could Be Improved:
- The corn cob media filling may not be ideal for everyone. Some users may prefer a different fill.
- The green color, while practical for outdoors, might not appeal to all users.
This shooting bag gives you a stable platform to improve your shot. If you are looking for a dependable rear bag, this Caldwell model is worth considering.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Rear Bag for Benchrest Shooting
Benchrest shooting requires precision. A rear bag is a crucial tool. It helps you stabilize your rifle. This guide helps you pick the best one.
What is a Rear Bag?
A rear bag is a small, filled bag. You place it under the butt of your rifle. It allows fine adjustments. These adjustments help you aim accurately. It reduces wobble and improves consistency.
Key Features to Look For
When buying a rear bag, consider these features:
- Shape and Size: Bags come in different shapes. Some are rectangular. Others are V-shaped. Choose a shape that fits your rifle stock well. The size should be comfortable for you.
- Fill Material: Common fillings include sand, plastic beads, and heavy polymers. Each offers different levels of stability. Sand is heavy and stable. Plastic beads are lighter. Heavy polymers offer a good balance.
- Material of the Bag: The outer material matters. Leather, nylon, and Cordura are popular. Leather is durable and looks nice. Nylon and Cordura are weather-resistant.
- Adjustability: Some bags have adjustable straps. These straps let you fine-tune the height. Adjustability is very important. It allows for precise elevation control.
- Stitching Quality: Strong stitching prevents leaks. Check the seams carefully. Double stitching is preferred.
Important Materials
The materials used in a rear bag impact its performance:
- Outer Shell: As mentioned before, leather, nylon, and Cordura are common choices. Consider the environment you’ll be shooting in. If it’s often wet, choose a water-resistant material.
- Fill: The fill material determines the bag’s weight and stability. Sand provides excellent stability. However, it can be messy if it leaks. Plastic beads are cleaner but may not be as stable. Heavy polymers are a good compromise.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors affect the quality of a rear bag:
Improving Factors:
- High-Quality Materials: Durable materials ensure the bag lasts. They also resist wear and tear.
- Precise Stitching: Strong, even stitching prevents leaks and keeps the bag intact.
- Consistent Fill: A bag with evenly distributed fill provides better support.
- Good Design: A well-designed bag fits comfortably and allows for easy adjustments.
Reducing Factors:
- Cheap Materials: Low-quality materials tear easily. They also wear out quickly.
- Poor Stitching: Weak stitching leads to leaks and bag failure.
- Inconsistent Fill: Uneven fill creates instability. This makes it hard to aim accurately.
- Bad Design: A poorly designed bag is uncomfortable to use. It also makes adjustments difficult.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good rear bag improves your shooting experience. It provides a stable platform. This platform helps you achieve better accuracy.
Use Cases:
- Benchrest Competition: A high-quality rear bag is essential for competitive shooting. It provides the stability needed for tiny groups.
- Target Practice: Using a rear bag during practice improves consistency. It also helps you develop good shooting habits.
- Load Development: When testing new loads, a stable rest is critical. A rear bag helps eliminate shooter error.
Choosing the Right Bag
Consider your budget and shooting needs. A basic bag might be enough for casual shooting. Serious competitors should invest in a high-quality bag with adjustable features.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best fill material for a rear bag?
A: It depends on your preference. Sand is very stable but heavy. Plastic beads are lighter. Heavy polymers offer a balance of both.
Q: How do I adjust a rear bag?
A: Squeeze or push the bag to raise or lower the rifle’s butt. Some bags have adjustable straps for finer adjustments.
Q: What size rear bag should I get?
A: Choose a size that fits comfortably under your rifle’s butt. It should allow for easy adjustments.
Q: Can I use a rear bag for other types of shooting?
A: Yes, you can use it for any shooting where you need extra stability. For example, prone or supported shooting.
Q: How do I maintain my rear bag?
A: Keep it clean and dry. Store it in a cool, dry place. Check the stitching regularly.
Q: Are leather rear bags better than nylon ones?
A: Leather is durable and looks nice. Nylon is more weather-resistant. Choose based on your environment and preference.
Q: Where can I buy a good rear bag?
A: You can buy them at gun stores, sporting goods stores, and online retailers.
Q: How much does a rear bag cost?
A: Prices vary depending on the quality and features. Expect to pay between $20 and $100 or more.
Q: Can I fill my own rear bag?
A: Yes, some bags are sold unfilled. This lets you choose your own fill material.
Q: What’s the difference between a rear bag and a front rest?
A: A front rest supports the front of the rifle. A rear bag supports the butt. They work together to provide maximum stability.
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.