The family meant well and got me a mechanical metal rest for shooting from the bench, and I have been using it for a couple years. I usually over-analyze everything. For some reason, I never sat down and stared at this thing and considered what it does when the rifle recoils. A couple times, my synthetic PH buttstock came loose, so I socked the bolt down with fresh loctite. A couple times, the recoil pad shifted vertically, so I loosened up the screws and put it back where it belongs. Still didn't take the hints. Sometimes I let it 'free recoil' without anything but cheek and trigger pressure, sometimes I'd sorta hold it down with my free hand on top of the scope.
What I feel stupid about is the quantity of components I've used up trying to get away from vertical groups, flyers etc. I've learned a lot about tuning loads and TC Encores, too, so guess that's a good thing. I think most of that was because of the rest and the way I've been using it. First clue was my .223 26 inch heavy barrel was throwing consistent type groups. Second clue was when the front clamping rabbit ears mechanism just wouldn't tighten enough. Third was when trying to get groups with a new 7mm-08 24" standard barrel. 3/8" horizontal vs. 2" vertical, several loads. That is the lightest barrel, greatest recoil combo and it finally got me thinking. Also decided I couldn't have confidence in groups or POI unless I went hunting with that thing clamped on the rifle!
So I did a bunch of web digging and decided to order a Bull's Bag 15" bench model. I'll report when it gets used!
Wallypedal
