Understanding the Benchrest Philosophy
In the realm of competitive shooting, where millimeters separate triumph from defeat, benchrest shooting stands as the epitome of precision. It is a discipline defined not just by skill, but by an unwavering dedication to accuracy. The pursuit of the perfect shot, the tightest group, the absolute minimization of variables – this is the essence of benchrest. Within this challenging arena, the humble .22 Long Rifle cartridge has risen to prominence, proving itself to be a surprisingly effective and economical choice for achieving remarkable accuracy. Building a custom .22LR benchrest rifle is not merely an endeavor; it’s a passion, a commitment to the craft of marksmanship, and a journey into the heart of ballistic perfection.
This article will delve into the intricacies of crafting a custom .22LR benchrest rifle, from understanding the core principles that govern its design to exploring the critical components that contribute to its exceptional performance. We’ll examine the distinct features that set a benchrest rifle apart from its more general-purpose counterparts, and explore the myriad of factors involved in selecting the right parts and putting them together. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a curious newcomer, this guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the fascinating world of custom .22LR benchrest rifles, guiding you towards building a rifle that can achieve the extraordinary.
At its core, benchrest shooting is about removing as many variables as humanly possible to achieve the ultimate level of accuracy. This philosophy dictates every aspect of the rifle’s design, the ammunition used, and the conditions under which the shooter competes. The focus is not on speed, rapid follow-up shots, or tactical applications. Instead, the emphasis is solely on creating a single, perfect shot.
The ideal shooting environment is a meticulously controlled one, with a stable platform, minimal wind influence, and consistent lighting. The shooter, in turn, must be equally meticulous, honing their skills in areas like trigger control, wind reading, and the art of ammunition selection. Every component of the rifle is chosen with the singular goal of enhancing accuracy. This level of dedication is what makes benchrest shooting so rewarding, and building a custom .22LR benchrest rifle is the ultimate expression of this dedication.
Key Differences From Standard .22LR Rifles
The differences between a standard .22LR rifle and a dedicated benchrest model are immediately apparent. These modifications are not just cosmetic; they are fundamental to the rifle’s ability to deliver exceptional results.
Consider the Weight and Dimensions. A benchrest rifle often weighs significantly more than a standard .22LR. This extra weight is crucial for stability. A heavier rifle is less susceptible to movement during recoil, which means the muzzle will remain in the same position after the shot is fired, contributing greatly to accuracy. The dimensions are often also substantially larger with wide fore-ends designed to rest securely on a bench, providing the steady foundation needed for precise shooting.
Then there is the design of the Barrel. The barrel is often free-floated. This means that it does not come into contact with the stock along its length, except at the action. This ensures that any pressure or stress on the stock will not affect the barrel’s vibrations or point of impact. The freedom of movement minimizes distortions caused by environmental factors and stock flex, further enhancing accuracy.
High-Magnification Target Scopes are a hallmark of benchrest rifles. These scopes allow shooters to clearly see their target at extended ranges, enabling them to make precise adjustments to their point of aim. The magnification levels used are often significantly higher than those found on hunting or sporting rifles, allowing for the fine-grained corrections necessary to hold tight groups.
Furthermore, the construction of the Stock plays a critical role. Benchrest stocks are designed with a very specific focus on stability and shooter comfort. They often feature wide, flat fore-ends for stable bench contact, adjustable cheek pieces to ensure proper eye alignment with the scope, and adjustable buttplates to allow shooters to custom fit the rifle to their body for a more comfortable and more accurate shooting position. The overall design prioritizes both recoil absorption and a consistent shooting platform.
The shooting environment itself plays a significant role in benchrest shooting. A stable platform, such as a concrete bench, is critical. Wind flags, carefully placed at various points downrange, are used to assess the wind’s influence on the bullet’s trajectory. Shooters also meticulously consider the conditions to compensate for the effects of wind and other external forces.
Components of a Custom .22LR Benchrest Rifle
Constructing a custom .22LR benchrest rifle is an intricate process that involves the selection of high-quality components, each playing a crucial role in its overall performance. The build can be time-consuming and potentially complex, but the results are definitely worth the effort.
The Action provides the foundation of the rifle. Many shooters look to manufacturers specifically known for the quality of their actions. Companies such as Anschutz, known for their precise engineering and reliability, are popular choices. Other excellent options are available from companies like Rimfire Technologies and Vudoo Gun Works, both of which have gained acclaim for their high-quality actions, often custom-designed for benchrest shooting.
The action is much more than a receiver for the barrel and other parts. Precision machining and the use of high-quality materials are absolutely vital. Tight tolerances in the action minimize any potential for play or inconsistency, and smooth bolt operation is essential for consistent primer ignition and reliable feeding. The action’s design directly affects the rifle’s accuracy and reliability. Choosing the right action will involve consideration of factors like the action’s reputation for accuracy, the availability of aftermarket parts, and, of course, the price.
The Barrel is the heart of the rifle and is largely responsible for its accuracy. The reputation of the barrel maker can significantly impact the rifle’s performance. Barrel makers known for their high level of quality include Lilja, Bartlein, and Shilen.
The barrel’s profile and length also contribute significantly. Common barrel profiles, carefully chosen to balance rigidity, weight, and handling characteristics, are used in benchrest. Shorter barrels may be more maneuverable, while longer barrels tend to improve accuracy by allowing the bullet to stabilize more fully before exiting the muzzle.
The chambering of the barrel is critically important. Precise chambering that perfectly fits the bullets you plan to use is essential for maximizing accuracy.
Another significant factor is the barrel crown. The crown is the very end of the barrel, where the bullet exits. A perfectly cut and recessed crown ensures that the escaping propellant gasses do not disrupt the bullet’s trajectory, helping to achieve tight groups.
The Stock is another component that plays a large part in the rifle’s overall performance. The material used in the stock can have a significant impact on its stability and weight. Fiberglass, composite, and laminated wood stocks are frequently used in benchrest rifles. These materials offer a good balance of rigidity, strength, and weight.
The stock’s design is centered around stability, adjustability, and ergonomics. Wide, flat fore-ends provide a stable platform for the bench, while adjustable cheek pieces and buttplates allow the shooter to perfectly fit the rifle to their physique. The goal is a comfortable and consistent shooting platform that aids in the shooter’s ability to maintain the same position from shot to shot.
Custom stock options can further improve the rifle’s performance. Adjustable cheek pieces, buttplates, and fore-ends allow the shooter to customize the rifle to their specific shooting style and preferences.
The Trigger is another key component that contributes significantly to accuracy. A light, crisp trigger pull is essential for allowing the shooter to break the shot without disturbing the rifle’s alignment.
Aftermarket trigger units often provide a lighter, more consistent pull than standard triggers. Fine-tuning the trigger is vital, as a smooth, predictable trigger pull minimizes the chances of pulling the shot.
The scope and mounts are vital for taking full advantage of the rifle’s accuracy. High magnification scopes are the norm in benchrest, allowing for precise aiming at extended ranges.
The scope mounts must be robust and repeatable. The slightest movement in the mount can throw off the point of impact. High-quality scope mounts are critical for ensuring that the scope remains securely attached and that its adjustments are consistent from shot to shot.
Building Your Custom Rifle
Building a custom .22LR benchrest rifle can be a rewarding experience. It gives you the freedom to choose every single component. You are also responsible for the finished product. Alternatively, many shooters prefer to hire a gunsmith, who can utilize their expertise and experience to build a rifle of superior quality.
If you are planning to build the rifle yourself, you’ll need to develop a strong understanding of each component. You’ll also need to have the required tools and the patience and attention to detail. If hiring a professional, carefully research and select a reputable gunsmith with experience in building benchrest rifles. Consider the gunsmith’s experience, reputation, and communication style. You should establish a clear line of communication and collaborate with the gunsmith throughout the build process.
The building process itself, if you are undertaking a DIY project, typically includes steps such as action preparation, barrel fitting and chambering, stock bedding, and trigger installation. Each step requires meticulous attention to detail and a clear understanding of the components.
When the rifle is assembled, the break-in process is very important. Proper barrel break-in helps to condition the barrel and optimize its accuracy potential. Ammunition testing is absolutely vital. It can take a lot of testing to discover which ammo your rifle likes the best. Grouping and zeroing are also part of the process, allowing you to make adjustments to the scope and refine your shooting technique.
Optimizing Accuracy
Once the rifle is built, optimizing its accuracy is a continuous process.
Ammunition selection is extremely important. Different brands and batches of .22LR ammunition can perform very differently in the same rifle. The ammunition that you ultimately choose will play a vital role in your rifle’s accuracy potential.
Testing is absolutely required. This is a time-consuming process. Test various brands, bullet weights, and even different production lots of the same ammunition. Keep good records and pay attention to the grouping patterns that each lot produces.
Loading techniques may be something that you may want to consider if you become an advanced benchrest shooter. Reloading .22LR is very difficult, but it can allow for the careful selection of components and customization to optimize for your specific rifle.
Cleaning and maintaining the rifle properly is important to keep it in top condition. Proper cleaning techniques will help maintain accuracy over time. You must take care to clean the bore without damaging the barrel’s internal surfaces. Always store the rifle in a safe location and inspect it regularly for any signs of wear or damage.
Finally, you must develop your shooting skill through consistent practice. Practice trigger control, wind reading, and all of the other skills associated with benchrest shooting.
The Benchrest Community and Resources
The benchrest shooting community is close-knit and passionate about the sport. Benchrest organizations like the International Benchrest Shooters (IBS) and the American Rimfire Association (ARA) provide guidelines, organize competitions, and foster a supportive environment for shooters.
Online forums and communities offer opportunities to learn from experienced shooters, share knowledge, and find valuable resources.
Competitions and events give shooters the opportunity to test their skills against others and measure their progress.
The path to building a custom .22LR benchrest rifle is one of passion, precision, and commitment to excellence. It’s a journey of constant learning, refinement, and the pursuit of the perfect shot. The rewards of building a custom .22LR benchrest rifle extend far beyond the tightest groups, including the camaraderie within the benchrest community, the satisfaction of pushing the boundaries of marksmanship, and the pleasure of creating something truly exceptional.
Building a custom .22LR benchrest rifle takes commitment, but the journey is worth it.
