Should I use a steady rest when shooting at running deer?

Choosing a Steady Rest

When considering whether to use a steady rest for running deer shots, it’s essential to weigh the benefits against the potential drawbacks. A steady rest can help stabilize the rifle, allowing for more accurate shots at moving targets. This is particularly true at longer ranges, where even slight movements can affect the accuracy of the shot. However, a steady rest can also be cumbersome and may limit the hunter’s ability to quickly follow the deer.

Setting Up a Steady Rest

If you decide to use a steady rest, it’s crucial to set it up correctly. A common setup involves placing the steady rest against a tree trunk or other stable object, then leaning the rifle against it. The rest should be adjusted to fit the rifle, with the stock resting comfortably against the rest. For running deer shots, it’s often best to use a shooting stick or bipod-style rest, which can be easily adjusted to accommodate different shooting angles.

Practical Considerations

In some situations, a steady rest may not be practical or necessary. For example, if you’re stalking deer in dense cover, a steady rest may be too cumbersome to set up quickly. In these situations, it’s often better to rely on the rifle’s inherent accuracy and the hunter’s ability to quickly take a shot. Additionally, if you’re shooting at very close ranges (less than 50 yards), a steady rest may not be necessary, as the deer will be moving slowly enough to allow for accurate shots without stabilization.