Quick Answer
For shooting prairie dogs from a prone position, the ideal setup involves a bipod or shooting rest, a low to moderate power scope (4-6x), and a rifle chambered in .22 Creedmoor with a weighty bullet. This setup allows for precise shots at distances up to 400 yards. A spotter or rangefinder is also highly recommended.
Setting Up for Prone Shooting
To maximize accuracy while shooting from a prone position, it’s essential to use a stable rest or bipod. A Harris or Atlas bipod is highly recommended due to their adjustable legs and sturdy design. When setting up, position the bipod about 6-8 inches in front of the rifle’s action, and ensure the legs are securely tightened to prevent movement during firing.
Choosing the Right Rifle and Scope
The .22 Creedmoor cartridge is an excellent choice for prairie dog hunting due to its flat trajectory and manageable recoil. When pairing with a rifle, look for a model with a heavy barrel (around 24 inches) and a free-float design to minimize scope movement. For optics, a low to moderate power scope (4-6x) is ideal for prairie dog hunting, as it allows for precise shots at longer ranges while minimizing magnification.
Additional Considerations
A spotter or rangefinder is a must-have for precise shot placement at longer ranges. The Leupold Mark 6 or Nikon Monarch 7 are excellent choices for spotting scopes, while the Leica CRF or Bushnell G-FORCE are excellent rangefinder options. When shooting from a prone position, it’s also crucial to maintain a comfortable shooting position, with your body weight evenly distributed and your elbows relaxed under the rifle. This will help minimize movement and ensure accurate shots.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.