08-18-2017, 04:12 PM
Bowhntr6pt Wrote:Most of the nuts n bolts have been covered so I'll just add a commentary...
I was schooled years ago and still subscribe to it today that successful PR shooting requires belief in and the commitment to the idea of RIFLE, OPTIC, AMMO, SHOOTER. Each is a separate component where end performance is a culmination of the combined components. Overall performance will always he hampered by the "weak link" in the components.
In my classes, many time I see people bring sub-standard rifles, optics, and ammo to class which hampers performance and attitude, which in the end, hampers skill building and learning (The Shooter).
Like mentioned above, some come to class thinking they "got this" in reference to one or more of the aforementioned components. Many will respond "Well... this scope is just as good as.....", same with ammo and rifles. No... it is not "just as good as".... that's why it cost half of what you should have bought.
Just about anyone shooting anything can get to the 500-600 yard mark with no issue... but for true extended range shooting, QUALITY components are a must to be consistently successful IMO. No... you don't need a $4K S&B scope.... but you're not going to get much done in the long run with a cheap scope.
While reasonable cash outlay can address three of the four components, one must put in the time using and learning the limitations of their "system". You can acquire adequate gear but if you don't shoot often, your performance will suffer. You can shoot A LOT, but with sub-standard components, your performance will suffer. Successful PR shooting in my opinion requires the TOTAL PACKAGE approach.
As you are talking about the variables that put rounds on the target my understanding is the following;
1. Rifle (includes scope).
2. Ammo.
3. Rest (what stabilises the gun to the ground; bags, bench, bipod, sticks, supported or unsupported?).
4. Environment (wind, mirage, fog, rain, temp etc).
5. Shooter.
I agree, the weakest link in the combination of variables will influence the result. Like a team effort; 'you are only as fast as your slowest man'.