Benchrest Shooting  

Benchrest is a precision rifle discipline where the shooter fires from a seated position at a bench, using a rest or support to stabilise the rifle. It’s designed to minimise physical strain and eliminate variables, allowing a focus on sight alignment, trigger control, and consistency. 

This discipline is ideal for: 

  • New shooters learning the fundamentals 
  • Shooters with limited mobility 
  • Those who enjoy a technical and equipment-focused style of shooting 

Equipment Used 

  • Rifles: Most benchrest competitions use a standard .22 calibre bolt-action target rifle, though some rifles are specifically customised for this discipline. Rifles may feature: 
  • Heavy barrels 
  • Adjustable stocks 
  • High-magnification scopes 
  • A front rest or sandbag with a hard flat top  to stabilise the forend  
  • Scopes: Optical sights are commonly used, providing better target clarity at 20 or 25 yards. 
  • bench  
  • Score overlays for target evaluation 
  • Spotting scope (optional) 

Targets and Distances 

Benchrest is typically shot at 20 or 25 yards indoors during the winter season, using NSRA 2010 BR targets. These targets feature multiple aiming marks to allow for a series of precise shots on the same card without interference between groups. 

In the summer season, we also shoot at 50 metres and 100 yards outdoors. These longer distances require careful attention to wind and environmental conditions and are a great test of both shooter and equipment. 

  • 20 yards: NSRA 2010 BR targets with multiple bullseyes 
  • 25 yards: Similar format with slight scaling adjustments 
  • 50 metres and 100 yards: Outdoor benchrest with targets appropriate to each distance 
20yd target
50m target
100yd target

Competitions 

Benchrest shooting is a popular competition format due to its focus on precision and the ability to accommodate a wide range of shooters. 

Our club takes part in: 

  • Oxfordshire Rifle Association postal leagues  
  • Local friendly matches with other clubs 
  • Oxfordshire county competitions and regional events 

Scoring is strict, and consistency is key — making benchrest both challenging and highly rewarding.