Sand bags or bipod for load development

I'm asking for load development only. I would hunt, practice and compete with a bipod. I know I should work on my consistency with a bipod, but sometimes I get frustrated during load development, especially group shooting, because I think it's me when that flyer pops out of the group, or the weird impact on the long range ladder happens.
What do you guys do?

I have always done my load developement off of sandbags. I just recently started shooting with a bi-pod and so far the loads (developed on the bags) print slightly lower from the bi-pod as opposed to how they print off the bags, but otherwise are the same. I'll probably try developement strictly with the bi-pod when Spring breaks.

I'm still having some issues learning the Bi-pod shooting thing. There are some tricks to it. Right now I like my pack with a coat in it?

KyCarl said:

I'm still having some issues learning the Bi-pod shooting thing. There are some tricks to it. Right now I like my pack with a coat in it?

Click to expand...

Frank at sniper's hide did some good vids for leaning to shoot off of a bi-pod.Sniper's Hide Bullet Point Choosing the Right Bipod - YouTube
Loading the Bipod - YouTube

As far as load development. I don't care. If the range is empty and there are no muzzle brakes going off next to me, I will use bags,, or a bipod if the rifle has one.
If the range is packed, and I want to make sure the flyers aren't human caused, (my fault) I'll use a Sled.

Anything that will allow the forearm to move in an uninhibited manner...sandbag, cradle bag, front bench rest... However, when hunting I use a bipod and usually only have to make a small correction to scope for POI change.

Shoot groups with each method and see which one is better for you.

Sandbgs are the best and the proper way to do load development. You need to make sure the rifle is well settled on the bags and doesn't move when you pull the trigger and always follow through, it helps eliminate flyers. I would never try bipods or a pack to test loads, it be a waste of ammo.

In the field, shooting sticks, bipods or packs are always an option when the animal being hunted allows.

Best regards,

LVJ76

buy a quality FRONT REST. and a rear bag
why waste powder bullets and bbl life "guessing" that you have a good hold ?
neither sand bags nor bipod are solid enough for true repeatability.
you are testing LOADS not your skill/lack of skill at HOLDING.

Load development/tests are only as good as the firing of the rifle or handgun allow them to be.

When working with someone for first time testing/load development I heavily STRESS that the results are totally meaningless UNLESS great care is taken during the test firing.

I know what I can do, yes been there and don't that many times, but not knowing another person's abilities, should the test targets be questionable - is it the fault of the firearm or the person behind the trigger.

The point of a solid shooting platform and bags is to take as much as possible the "human" factor out of the equation.

I am going through this at this point with a first time hand loader who is wanting to develop loads for some ODD BALL semi-auto rifle chambered for the 7.62x54R cartridge.

I've had my say about the piece of junk he thinks is so cool, but I can go only so far and hope that he is taking due care during firing his test loads.

He is using a rifle mounted bipod.

However, my take on the situation is to leave the bipod at home and get a good solid shooting platform/bench and sand bags.

Crusty Deary Ol'Coot

Like building a house, you gotta have a good foundation, otherwise you're p!ssing in the wind.......

As with everything you want repeatability. When doing load development I take my time with a front rest with a firm sand bag and a rear bag. When I finish testing confirm zero with bipod and rear bag.

Well said Ol Coot.

Odoylerules, if you feel confident enough to pull that trigger without flinching not one bit and having the rifle as steady as possible, and following through with the shot, start testing your loads.

If not sure, but at least 3 boxes or more of factory ammo, all 4 different loads/brands and use them as if you were testing the loads. Zero your rifle at 100 yards or meters whichever you prefer and fire away. Make sure to let the barrel cool off after every 5 shot group. Besides, its always good to know what factory load works on your rifle just in case you dont get a chanse to reload or something.

Once you feel confortable doing this and your shots are going where you know you pulled the trigger you are set. Note, know where you pulled the trigger on the target and not think that you know where you were on the target.

It takes lots of practice. Good luck and hope you find the right load for your gun.

Best regards

LVJ76

Whether I use bags or bipod to test loads depends on the particular rifle and bipod. My heavier LR rifles will produce equivalent results whether using a bag or bipod. I will generally use bags with my lighter, sporter weight rifles. When using a bipod on the bench, it's important to make sure the bench surface is smooth...ie avoid carpeted or rough surfaces. I have also found that setting the bipod legs at the forward angle position(Atlas and Evolution) will produce better and more consistent results, reducing any bounce. Consistent shooting form and rifle movement is critical under any circumstances.