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Target Shooting Matches, Discussion & Events => Field Target Gates => Hunter Class Field Target => Topic started by: SlowWalker on March 15, 2018, 01:52:31 PM
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Completely new at Hunter Field Target and was wondering what the various pro's and con's of using a case or a cradle to carry the rifle, etc around the range.
Thanks!
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Hi, Steve!
I have wondered about this, too.
Only having used a soft case, I can share the positives and negatives of using a case.
Pro:
Keeps sun off the rifle and scope, so your rifle is kept closer to ambient temperature.
Moderate protection from rain and dust.
Simple and compact to carry in the car and on the range.
Mine has a zippered pouch to carry little bits and bobs.
Gives other shooters and spectators a greater sense of security that your rifle is safely contained as you move about the range.
Con:
Maybe not as easy (or as quick) to extract the rifle and get in position as a well-designed cradle.
Some shooters do not like the idea that a soft case can rub against your rifle rig and might inadvertently change something in your scope / rifle alignment or setup.
One additional observation: I've seen fellows use a cradle made from PVC pipe that slips under and around a soft case ... best of both worlds?
Welcome,
Bob
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Completely new at Hunter Field Target and was wondering what the various pro's and con's of using a case or a cradle to carry the rifle, etc around the range.
Thanks!
I have always used a hard case.
Case:
#1 SAFETY (and perceived safety for a soft case)
I uncase/case the unloaded gun with the muzzle pointed down range, after I'm in position. I get a little uneasy seeing muzzles of cradled guns swung around horizontally on the range. You would be reprimanded on some powder burner ranges for such behavior. A case encloses the gun and you won't see muzzles sweeping you or others. Inside my latest case, I have a steel plate mounted inside just in front of the muzzle, thick enough to stop pellets (just in "case" of a worst "case" scenario).
#2 Protects the gun from sun, dust, rain, bumping, etc.
Cradle:
#1 Convenience
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Well all things considered and I think safety is first, I'll be using a case. I like that idea about putting a metal plate in front of the muzzle.