How to Properly Hold a Rifle For Shooting

Holding a rifle properly is key to accurate shooting.

If you only watch movies or television, it appears that hitting a target with a rifle or other gun is simply a matter of pointing in the general direction and shooting. The reality is that it is not so easy. There is a reason why deer hunters do not hit the animal they're shooting at every time, and why people shooting at ranges sometimes miss a stationary target. One of the best ways to increase your rifle accuracy is to hold the weapon properly.

Instructions

1. Hold with your non-dominant hand the stock of the rifle near where it meets the barrel. On most rifles, the stock is the wooden part of the gun.

2. Place the butt of the gun on the inside of your shoulder. The top of the butt should be near the top of your shoulder, the bottom on the outside of your breast.

3. Hold the stock near the trigger with your dominant hand. Your index finger should be close enough to the trigger to pull it.

4. Bend your head down so your cheek is against the stock, and so you can see down the length of the gun.

5. Lean against a tree or other object -- if one is available -- to further stabilize yourself. You can stabilize yourself even better by sitting down. Sit on the ground with both knees up and brace your elbows on your legs. No matter whether you are standing or sitting, your grip on the rifle should not change.

References

• Gunnersden.com: Proficient Rifle Shooting