[longrange1947]

Originally Posted by BryanK

I've always been curious. The "hold hard guys" part of your sig line LR, to me sounds like you are to stiffen the hold. Is this for wind only? The way I was taught, you try to hold the same time every time semi-loosely (naturally) to ensure consistency of the shot. This is just me, but every time I've shot long range, I've been most successful holding kind of loose.

I'm not trying to sharp shoot, just curious.

Hold Hard is a quote from a Marine CPT when they were out numbered. As the Japanese advanced on them at range, he told his troops to Hold Hard, (Steady) or it would be a long night.

On holding the weapon, the weapon needs to be held firmly into the shoulder and the weight of the head rested on the stock of the weapon. This reduces recoil movement of the weapon and allows your body to absorb that recoil. It allows the shooter to sense his shot placement and permits a rapid follow on shot. Many advocate pushing hard into the tripod to "load the tripod", I am not an advocate of that as it can only be accomplished in some shooting situations. That means you must change your technique as the situation changes. I prefer to keep my bipod neutral and maintain good head weight on the stock. This can be accomplished in all situations. It also allows for recoil reduction and shot follow on shot placement.

In standing off hand, it is important to bring the weapon to your head and set your jaw line on the top of the stock. Maintain good steady pressure into your should wiht your shooting hand but using only the middle and ring finger, not the little finger. This sets up a steadier and repeatable position while "reaching" for he stock means as your neck gets tired you will change your body position. One thing about shooting is that you must be consistent.

My thoughts on the subject.