Rifle Shooting Positions

If you are a hunting enthusiast, you would certainly want to know the tactics of hitting the target precisely. One of the keys to hit the target is to be in a proper position. There are many positions that you can think of when it comes to shooting at a target. However, the main thing that matters is the accuracy of the shot. A good position is important while using a rifle, as you have to adjust according to the gun's weight and physical characteristics to achieve the most effective angle of shot. Many a time, you also have to take up a position suddenly, regardless of the type of surface you are on, maintain perfect balance and capitalize on the opportunity.

Standard Positions

Standing
In this position, the shooter stands with his rifle aimed at the target. One advantage of this position is that you can get a better view of what you are shooting at and keep it in profile without making a lot of body movements. However, on the negative side, there are less chances of hitting the target, as you are cradling the rifle in your hands without an opportunity of resting it on a firm support, before aiming and shooting with it. Therefore, the position is not appropriate for long-range targets if you need to track it for a long time, but can be effective against those within short-range. For accuracy, your hands should be extremely steady. If you are using a rifle which has more recoil than average, you should use the modified offhand position. Here, you simply have to bend a bit in the front, which would help the shoulder to take in the recoil.

Sitting
The sitting position is appropriate for both short and long-range shooting. Here, a right-handed shooter sits in a way that brings both his knees in front of his chest, with the left-hand elbow being supported by the left knee to hold the rifle steadily. Whereas, the right hand is placed along the right knee bone, with the hand near the trigger guard and index finger ready to press the trigger. See to it that you do not rest your elbow points right on the knee bone, as they can slip suddenly to spoil your shot. For attaining a steady position and scoring an accurate shot, see if you can lean onto a tree or rock, as this would give you additional support while aiming and taking it.

Kneeling
This position is kind of similar to the previous one. For right-handed shooters, the right knee is down on the ground, whereas the other is placed in front to support the left hand. In this posture, the right elbow does not have any support; most of the weight of the rifle is borne by jamming it against the right shoulder and balancing it with the left hand. Make sure you are comfortable being in this posture. This position is more appropriate for a situation where you are not sure when to get up and reposition yourself. If you are sure you have to be in one position for a long time, kneeling is not a good idea as your body is balanced on and is supported by the right knee.

Crouching
Crouching with a rifle in hands has to be done only as a temporary measure, mostly to avoid detection. This is because being in crouch for even a short while, can bring cramps to your legs which can surely put a tab on your future movements. This can prove truly disastrous, if you need to change your position suddenly. It is usually considered a position to be used in between standing and kneeling. You need to sit the same way as a baseball catcher does, with the knees bent and the arms supported by the knees. The shoulder may not be in a state to handle the recoil and most probably, you will land on your butt after taking a shot from this position. Balance and comfort is a problem in this position, hence it may not be suitable for accurate shot.

Prone
Prone position relates to the person laying on stomach and using the ground for supporting the elbows before aiming and taking a shot. You might have seen most sharpshooters taking this position in action movies. For long shooting sessions, this is a good option, owing to the comfort it offers. In this position your weight is evenly distributed and is well supported by the ground; you are in a ideally balanced position and can go about your business bringing all the accuracy you can to it. The negative aspect of this position is that it offers limited view than standing or kneeling positions, which can pose a serious problem if you are lying in a patch of tall grass. For convenience and steadiness, shooters normally use bipods and shooting sticks. It is used mainly for hiding from the sight of the target and in relatively open spaces. Most basic lessons of shooting are taught in this position.

Tips for Shooting Accurately

☛ Shaky hands and arms lessen the chances of a clean shot.
☛ Heavy breathing is also not a good idea, as it can disturb a proper aim.
☛ Before taking the shot, ensure you body muscles are relaxed enough.
☛ It is always better to lean a bit in front to handle the recoil.
☛ Make sure that the rifle is supported by both hands for steadiness.
☛ A clean shot consists of proper grip, position, steadiness, and skill.

These positions can be modified as per the surface and circumstance. For a clear view, the standing position is best, whereas for accuracy, shooting at the target from the prone position is believed to be most effective. So, every rifle position has its respective merits and demerits. It is all about how you make use of these positions as per the situations.