Precision Shooting: 5 Effective Ways to Improve Rifle Accuracy and Stability

 Precision shooting depends on how steady you can hold your rifle. Whether you're aiming for tighter groups at the range or a humane harvest in the field, keeping your gun steady is key. It’s not as simple as just staying still—your stance, grip, and even breathing play a role. The right techniques and shooting positions can help reduce movement and improve accuracy. With a few adjustments and some practice, you can gain better control, making each shot more precise and reliable. Here are 5 effective ways to improve rifle accuracy and stability.

Use a Shooting Rest 

Using a shooting rest is one of the easiest ways to improve rifle stability and accuracy. After all, you’re only human and even the steadiest hands can waver when it counts. A shooting rest helps reduce wobble, giving you a solid base to aim. Whether you’re targeting a small bullseye or hoping for a successful hunt, a rest can give you the confidence to take each shot with precision.

There are three common types of rifle shooting rests to choose from, and each has its benefits.

• Bipod: A bipod is ideal for quick setup and mobility. It's great for shooting from a kneeling or prone position. Bipods attach to the rifle’s front sling swivel and provide two sturdy legs to keep your rifle steady. They’re especially useful in the field, as they’re lightweight and adjustable, allowing you to quickly level your rifle. Tip: Make sure the bipod is securely positioned before taking your shot, especially when you're on uneven ground.

• Bench Rest: If you're at the range, the bench rest is a go-to for steady, controlled shots. You rest the rifle directly on the shooting bench, often with the use of sandbags or other supports. It’s perfect for long-range shooting, providing maximum stability. Tip: Adjust the height of your seat so your rifle aligns naturally with your line of sight for added comfort and consistency.

• Sandbag Rest: This is a classic choice for both range and hunting. Sandbags help cushion the rifle, offering stability while still allowing some flexibility in positioning. They’re especially useful when you need to create a custom rest in the field or from a bench. Tip: Pack the sandbag tightly and position it under the rifle’s forearm for the most stability.

Each of these rests offers unique benefits depending on the situation, so experiment with different types of rifle shooting rests to find what works best for you!

Shoot in Different Positions

Shooting in different positions can help you determine what works for your body, target and skills. Here are some positions to consider:

• Go Prone for Maximum Stability: Lying on your stomach takes most of the movement out of the equation. Keep your legs outstretched, turn your feet outward, and rest your elbows on the ground. If you’ve got a backpack, place it under your forearm for extra support. It’s great for long-range shots but takes time to set up.

• Sit for a Balanced Shot: Sitting with your legs crossed or knees up lets you rest your elbows for added support. This helps steady the lower body, though the upper body still moves.

• Kneel for a Quick Shot: If you need to shoot fast, kneeling works well. Drop one knee, rest your elbow on the opposite knee, and lock in. It’s not as steady as prone, but it’s great for quick, unexpected shots.

Add a Sling to Your Gun

Another way to improve accuracy and stability is by adding a sling to your gun. While slings make carrying a rifle easier, they also help steady your shot. Precision shooters wrap their arms through the sling to create extra points of contact, locking everything in place. This added support reduces movement and keeps your aim steady, especially in standing or kneeling positions. Whether you're at the range or in the field, a properly used sling gives you more control. 

Build Strength

Building strength is essential for keeping your rifle steady and making accurate shots. If you don’t have the muscle to hold your rifle properly, it’s harder to aim, especially when it counts. 

If you're not sure where to start, consider lateral arm rotations. Extend your arms and make small circles, gradually increasing the reps until you can hit 100 in each direction. It's a great way to build endurance and stability. You can add weights for extra resistance once you’ve mastered the movement. 

Wrist flexes and curls are another good addition that helps with building control. Lunges can improve your balance, especially when shooting in standing or kneeling positions. It’s also worth trying to add weight to your barrel at home and practicing holding steady on a fixed target.

Practice

No excuses—practicing is essential! The key is getting out there and trying different shooting positions. Sure, you might stumble a bit at first, but with each attempt, you'll get more comfortable. You might even come up with your own techniques. 

But here's the thing: when a shot presents itself, you can’t waste time figuring it out. You need to know exactly what to do. The more consistent you are, the more your skills become second nature, and when the pressure’s on, you won’t even hesitate. So, get out there and put in the time—it’ll pay off in those crucial moments.