The best shooting rests provide a solid platform for gun cleaning, routine maintenance, and shooting applications. The adjustable settings emphasize the focus on superior accuracy. Each shot is meant to be a direct hit, at whatever distance.
As much as we would like to hold steady, our hands are usually shaky. Especially in the heat of the moment, when we might get nervous, it could cost us a lovely buck, or a shot at beating our personal best.
Non-slip and solidly built, shooting rests are the perfect accessory for a precise shot. Even better, you need to worry less about your gun recoil with any of the best shooting rests available.
So let’s go through them and find the best shooting rest for you…
Contents
- 1 Top 10 Best Shooting Rest On The Market 2024 Reviews
- 1.1 1 Caldwell 101777 Lead Rifle Shooting Rest
- 1.2 2 Caldwell 488000 DeadShot FieldPod Shooting Rest
- 1.3 3 Caldwell 336677 Lead Sled 2 Rifle Shooting Rest
- 1.4 4 Caldwell The Rock Jr Rifle Shooting Rest
- 1.5 5 Caldwell 548664 Steady Shooting Rest
- 1.6 6 Caldwell The Rock Deluxe Rifle Shooting Rest
- 1.7 7 Caldwell 820310 Lead Sled 3 Rifle Shooting Rest
- 1.8 8 Primos Group Bench Anchor Adjustable Shooting Rest
- 1.9 9 CTK Precision P3 Ultimate Shooting Rest
- 1.10 10 Vanguard Porta Aim Gun Rest
- 2 Best Shooting Rest Buying Guide
- 3 So What’s The Best Shooting Rest?
Top 10 Best Shooting Rest On The Market 2024 Reviews
1 Caldwell 101777 Lead Rifle Shooting Rest
The Caldwell 101777 shooting rest is compatible for use with all rifles. And is manufactured from heavy-duty steel, so is very durable. It features an anti-skid rubber base that helps keep it in one place. Therefore, even when used with heavy weapons, the gun recoil will not change its sitting position.
Elevation adjustment is made simple, and it can be done with one hand. You also get a fore-end strap and a weight tray that can hold up to 25 lbs of lead shot. This also helps ensure that your gun never moves out of position.
With all of these features, the Caldwell remains easy to move around. It only weighs 14 pounds and has several points that offer an easy grasp with one hand.
(4.6 / 5)Pros
- Compatible for use with all rifles.
- Anti-skid rubber base.
- Easy to make elevation adjustments.
- Easy to transport.
Cons
- The anti-skid function is best applicable to small and mid-range firearms.
2 Caldwell 488000 DeadShot FieldPod Shooting Rest
The Caldwell 488000 weighs less than 6 pounds and has an integrated space where you can attach a carrying strap. This makes a great option for on-the-go needs. For hunters, and sport shooters, this is a practical option, as it does not confine you to one position for an extended period of time.
This shooting rest from Caldwell features a tripod telescoping stand. This stand can be adjusted anywhere from 20 to 42 inches. This offers you a setting that best suits your needs every time. Sitting, or kneeling, this stand is designed to meet and exceed all field expectations.
At the base of each leg is a non-skid plastic base. However, there is a “Magnum” model that has a pin-styled base. While the plastic base will fare well on concrete, the Sharp ended base of the Caldwell Magnum pierces into non-concrete surfaces, to give you the best ground grip possible.
The upper frame of both models is 360-degree rotatable, so you can use it to follow a moving target. Even better, these mounts are not only compatible for use with rifles, but you can also use them with shotguns and crossbows.
Providing you a quick-adjust tension knob, these best shooting rests have all that it takes to make your every shot count.
(4.6 / 5)Pros
- Two models for different user needs.
- Compatible with rifles, shotguns, and crossbows.
- Integrated shoulder strap for easy carrying.
- Lightweight and easy to fold.
- Adjustable height.
- Rotatable upper frame for effectiveness against moving targets.
- Quick-adjust tension knob.
Cons
- The plastic base is not very durable.
- The height adjustments are not high enough for use in a standing position.
3 Caldwell 336677 Lead Sled 2 Rifle Shooting Rest
The Caldwell 336677 has adjustable features that make for its universal rifle compatibility. One of the most important of these, however, is the recoil reducing butt pad. This is made of specialized material that absorbs the impact of your gun recoil.
While the feet are non-skid, this recoil absorbing feature helps improve the overall non-skid that you get with this product.
With this product, you get conveniently placed adjustment knobs. The elevation adjustment is ambidextrous, so anyone can easily access it. And to make for the most compatibility with heavy-duty firearms, this unit weighs 24 pounds. While this enables it to sit more firmly, you also get a tray that can hold up to 100 pounds of lead shot to improve this feature if needed.
(4.5 / 5)Pros
- Compatible for use with all rifles.
- Specialized recoil-reducing features.
- Easy to access adjustment knobs.
- Weight tray that holds up to 100 lbs of lead shot.
- Well adapted for use with heavy-duty firearms.
Cons
- The non-detailed assembly instructions make it difficult to set up.
- Non-skid is best achieved with lead shot bags in the tray.
4 Caldwell The Rock Jr Rifle Shooting Rest
The Caldwell The Rock Jr provides you with fully cushioned rests to place your firearm. The first is fixed to a sturdy heavy-duty cast iron base, while the rear rest is large enough to sit the gun base on its own.
This best shooting rest simply requires that you place your gun on it. The only adjustments you might need to make are height adjustments. However, this aspect is fully covered as the controls are ambidextrous and easy to use. The base of the shooting rest is wide, so is not easily affected by the impact of your gun. In any case, the rest bags absorb most of the recoil impact.
Lightweight and with several points for hand carry, the Rock Jr is a decent option for your hunting or sport shooting activities.
The feet are interchangeable, with an option of non-slip rubber or steel spikes. These will provide a suitable non-skid grip for almost any surface.
(4.5 / 5)Pros
- The cushioned rests protect your firearms finish.
- Two non-slip base variants for different terrains.
- Lightweight for easy transport.
- Wide base for better stability.
Cons
- The bag stitching comes loose when faced with consistent gun recoil.
- Does not features straps to hold your weapon properly in place.
5 Caldwell 548664 Steady Shooting Rest
The Caldwell 548664 is a versatile product and is designed as a three-piece set. For rifles and shotguns, the front and the back part are joined to give you a proper sitting base. For pistols and handguns, you only need the front part to take your shots.
At the core of the design of this Caldwell product is ergonomics. Regardless of whatever firearm you are using, you are provided with a neoprene hand support. This ensures you are comfortable, and it also holds your hand steady for precise shooting.
On the front and rear cradles, there is non-marring material that protects your gun’s finish. And for practicality, it has a rubberized non-skid base that holds it in place.
Overall, the whole unit is built to last, and it holds up well over time.
(4 / 5)Pros
- Compatible for use with pistols, rifles, and shotguns.
- Neoprene hand supports provided for user comfort.
- Non-marring material on the cradles to protect your gun’s finish.
- Non-skid rubberized base.
- Sturdy build.
Cons
- Not designed for use with heavy-duty guns.
6 Caldwell The Rock Deluxe Rifle Shooting Rest
The Caldwell The Rock Deluxe is a slightly larger variant to the Caldwell The Rock Jr. This model features larger cushioning bags that absorb impact a lot better. The stand of this model is manufactured with heavy-duty cast iron, so it is very durable.
You get several easy to reach adjustments with this best shooting rest. There is an elevation adjustment, a fore-end stop, an adjustable rear cradle assembly, and a lock lever. And they are all ambidextrous, so they can be used by anyone. Even better, they respond quickly, so it will save you much needed time.
As a non-skid feature, the feet have sharp ends that make them stay in position. In any case, the cradle bags are designed so that they absorb most of the recoil impact to make for the best non-skid.
The Caldwell The Rock Deluxe features an integrated handle that makes it easy to move about.
(4.7 / 5)Pros
- High impact absorption cradle bags.
- Manufactured with top-grade materials.
- Fully ambidextrous adjustments.
- Non-skid pointed feet.
- Integrated handle for easy transport.
Cons
- The front cradle bag falls apart when repeatedly subjected to heavy-duty gun recoil.
- Does not features straps to hold your weapon properly in place.
7 Caldwell 820310 Lead Sled 3 Rifle Shooting Rest
The latest in the Led Sled line of heavy-duty gun shooting rests, this model sure packs a punch. The first upgrade on the Caldwell 820310 is its reduced weight. Second is its upgraded ability to absorb your gun’s recoil impact.
Let us start from the basics. At 15 pounds, this shooting rest is easy to carry to where it is needed. Place it on your shooting surface, and the special “no wobble” rubberized base holds it firmly in position. Then, you place your firearm. The Lead Sled 3 is compatible with all rifles, so a quick adjustment will make it fit perfectly with yours.
While shooting, the upgraded rear pad absorbs up to 95 percent of your gun’s recoil. This serves two functions. First, it reduces the impact felt by you. And secondly, it greatly assists the non-skid feet as they have much less “work” to do.
In any case, you get a unique weight tray with this product. This is adjustable to hold 25-pound barbell weights, sand or lead shot bags. This makes it user-friendly and ensures you get a precise shot, no matter what.
(4.3 / 5)Pros
- Lightweight for easy transport.
- Rubberized non-skid feet.
- All rifle compatible.
- The specialized rear pad absorbs up to 95 percent of your gun’s recoil.
- Weight tray can hold a wide variety of weights.
Cons
- The front cradle clearance is small.
8 Primos Group Bench Anchor Adjustable Shooting Rest
The Primos Group shooting rest is manufactured with full stainless steel for durability. The feet are studded, to ensure that when in use, your shooting rest never shifts from its sitting position.
Designed to absorb all of your gun’s impact, the butt plate cancels your gun’s recoil. This specialized plate makes this unit the preferred choice for several gun owners.
For user comfort, and to protect your gun’s finish, the front rest is cushioned. And the stand on which the cushioned rest is fixed has coarse and fine elevation adjustments. As with a number of the stands in this review, they are designed for use by both right-handed and left-handed folks alike. They are very easy to use and offer a good response.
If you use a heavy-duty firearm, then you will benefit from using the weight tray. This tray supports weights that help hold your Primos steady even with the largest of weapons.
(4.2 / 5)Pros
- Manufactured with full stainless steel for durability.
- Cushioned front rest to protect your gun’s finished.
- A specialized back plate that absorbs your gun’s impact.
- Coarse and fine elevation adjustments.
- Non-skid studded feet.
- Ambidextrous.
- Weight tray feature for additional weight.
Cons
- No utility straps to hold your gun firmly in place.
- The front cushioning bag gives way under consistent gun recoil action.
9 CTK Precision P3 Ultimate Shooting Rest
The CTK Precision is manufactured with heavy-duty steel making it both sturdy and durable. It is finished with a special E-coated marine carpet to make it rust-resistant and give it the ability to withstand decades of use.
It fits any type of rifle. The back rest can be adjusted forward or backward to easily accommodate your rifle’s base. You can even move it so close to the front that you can use it with a handgun! For the most practicality, the front rest is adjustable vertically. This quick telescoping ability allows you to get a comfortable position for a precise hit.
Need a vise?
There is an optional vise attachment. With this best gun vise, you get zero recoils. Dead-on accuracy, guaranteed!
Also providing a solid non-skid base on all three feet, you can trust this best shooting rest.
(4.6 / 5)Pros
- Very durable finish.
- Adjustable to fit all rifles, shotguns, and handguns.
- Quick and easy adjustment.
- Vise attachment to eliminate your gun’s recoil for better targeting.
- Durable non-skid base.
Cons
- The vise attachment is sold as an independent item.
- No weight tray.
10 Vanguard Porta Aim Gun Rest
True to its name, the Vanguard Porta Aim is lightweight. But it also gives you a decent aim. And the shooting rest can rotate a full 360 degrees, so your target has nowhere to hide.
Designed to be mobile, this best shooting rest for hunting has a portable tripod stand. The unit is very light, weighing less than two pounds, so setting up should not be a problem.
Once set up, you can make a quick height adjustment to suit your needs. The height can be varied from 8.8 to 12.6 inches. The adjustment option is with a patented center column ring. This is ergonomic and offers you very quick adjustments.
Then, place your firearm on the shooting rest and do your thing. There are straps that enable you to hold your rifle firmly in place. That, and the impact-absorbing cushioning reduces the recoil impact of your gun to give you a consistent aim.
Manufactured with an industrial-grade aluminum frame, the Vanguard Porta Aim stands the test of time. While the feet have rubber caps to make for an effective non-skid feature.
Once done, simply fold the legs, and maybe even throw your shooting rest in your bag!
(4.5 / 5)Pros
- Lightweight and portable for easy transport.
- Full aluminum frame for durability.
- Quick height adjustment.
- Straps that hold your gun firmly in place.
- Anti-skid leg fittings.
- Impact-absorbing cushioning to reduce gun recoil impact.
- 360 degree rotatable.
Cons
- The cushioning bag gives way under heavy-duty gun recoil action.
Best Shooting Rest Buying Guide
We have shown you quite a number of shooting rests. But, understanding what features to look out for will enable you to make a better pick for your own needs. So let’s go through what needs to be considered…
Compatibility
While most units have near-universal compatibility due to their adjustable features, you need to look at this a little closer. The front rest should have a space wide enough to support the barrel of your gun. While the back rest, if you opt for a unit that has one, should also be adjustable to make it an exact match for your needs.
For pistols and handguns, several specialized shooting rests exist that are easy to convert for such use.
Therefore, check for compatibility with your firearm before any other thing.
Adjustment Options
Apart from gun compatibility adjustments, there are other adjustment features that you also need to consider. One of these is height adjustment. This is important as you will need to set your stand for the most comfortable use.
There should also be windage adjustment features that are ergonomic to make the use of your shooting rest extremely practical.
Mobility
If you are a hunter, a lightweight unit will benefit you the most. Also, bear in mind that good carrying options make mobility much easier. A lightweight unit that doesn’t have a decent place to hold and carry it might require using two hands, which is obviously not ideal.
In our opinion, being lightweight and having a good carrying ability go hand in hand to providing you with the most comfort.
Conversely, if you are on a shooting range, you might benefit from using a heavy-weight model. Some models even offer weight trays that allow you to add more weight to your shooting rest. These provide decent support for heavy-duty gun recoils.
The key here is understanding your shooting application and selecting a unit that best caters to your needs.
Recoil Reduction Features
One of the core functions of a shooting rest is to reduce or eliminate recoil. The unit you opt for could either implement a cushioning bag, or a backrest for the butt of your gun. The units with a backrest are the best option if you use heavy-duty weaponry. These have a metal frame and some light cushioning that absorbs impact better.
On the other hand, cushioned shooting bags have advantages, such as being more portable and lighter. However, they are not able to withstand consistent recoil impact from heavy-duty guns.
Once again, define your needs and choose whichever suits you best.
Functionality
As noted, a lightweight shooting rest is flexible. They are easily converted from one shooting position to another. Lightweight or not, what you then need to consider is whether you need both a front and a back rest, or you may be interested in the combination of both. Most heavy-duty rests have both, and they will take most of your gun’s recoil impact.
The lightweight models offer a variation.
What you need to consider as a hunter or sports shooter is what kind of target you commonly set your sights on. If you aim at big game or fixed targets, then the dual rests will do the job nicely.
However, if you hunt varmints or aim at moving targets, a single rest is a better choice. These allow you a lot more freedom and are mostly rotatable a full 360 degrees. They ensure you keep your target within your sights at all times.
So What’s The Best Shooting Rest?
Offering you an opportunity to take a relaxed and precise aim, the best shooting rests are recommended for all gun owners. Also taking the gun’s recoil, it helps you to take great shots without unnecessarily wearing yourself out.
Used and loved by gun professionals and shooting enthusiasts worldwide, you should tap into the superior features that this rather simple device has to offer you.
We hope our best shooting rest reviews have been of help. While these are the top models on the market, we would still recommend that you go through our buying guide before making a final pick. In it, there are tips that will help you make the best pick for your needs.
Our best overall unit, however, is the…
This product stands out because it is lightweight despite its heavy-duty gun compatibility. Top of the line, this unit is able to absorb your gun’s impact consistently without damage. It also offers you quick adjustment features and a non-skid base for superb practicality.
Also putting into consideration the “heavy-duty” gun users, there is a weight tray that allows you to load your shooting rest down with some additional weights.
