Shooting positions- Side of a Hill

[megastink]

I have a spot I hunt that requires me to set-up on the slope of a big hill. The hill overlooks a swamp that the deer cross to escape other hunters (see photo). I can't set up on top: too many obstructions.

The furthest shot I have is around 325. I never feel comfortable or steady while shooting on this slope. It's probably around 50-55* I'm guessing. What positions should I practice in so that I'll be comfortable taking shots at my max distance?

 

[Rick Richard]

Back against a tree while seated or even a turkey chair and adjustable shooting sticks. Key is to have a sold back rest. Just my opinion.

 

[megastink]

Back against a tree while seated or even a turkey chair and adjustable shooting sticks. Key is to have a sold back rest. Just my opinion.

There are no trees on the slope. Can I fabricate a backrest? Adjustable shooting sticks are a good idea.

 

[Rick Richard]

There are no trees on the slope. Can I fabricate a backrest? Adjustable shooting sticks are a good idea.

As I mentioned, a low to the ground chair like they use for turkey hunting works great. That is what I use and you can get plenty stable.

 

[slv hunter]

Take a look at a bipod used for the sitting position. I practice up hill and downhill in the sitting position. 55 degrees is really steep maybe spend some time in the off season and do a little landscaping.

 

[memtb]

I have a spot I hunt that requires me to set-up on the slope of a big hill. The hill overlooks a swamp that the deer cross to escape other hunters (see photo). I can't set up on top: too many obstructions.

The furthest shot I have is around 325. I never feel comfortable or steady while shooting on this slope. It's probably around 50-55* I'm guessing. What positions should I practice in so that I'll be comfortable taking shots at my max distance?
View attachment 120919

A good set of shooting sticks! memtb

 

[YZEATER]

Dig a flat spot into the hillside. We did the same till we built a shack.

 

[Greyfox]

I use adjustable shooting sticks, facing square to the target, slight lean forward with a back-pack filler between my arms/torso for rear support. Flexible, fast, and accurate.

 

[Rich Coyle]

Greyfox, I am going to try that. Thanks.

 

[hunter67wa]

+1 on greyfox. Are you sure thats 55 degrees as that would be very steep

 

[the hunter]

I'am thinking a pig saddle on one of those tripods they sell?

 

[snox801]

Get a nice tripod and pig or hog saddle. I got one this year and it is perfect for exactly what you are talking about. I was in that same situation and this works great. Plus it's very fast to swap out and clamp you bios in for some scanning. I am shocked at how much more I am able to spot when set up this way. I feel comfortable out to about 400 with this setup and I have very little to no practice with it. It was my first run last week but works great.

 

[yobuck]

As has been mentioned, a little pre season elbow grease with a pick and shovel. That would be step #1, from that point other good ideas will formulate.

 

[Greyfox]

Shooting angles don't get much steeper then this. A crazy front rooftop stage at a PRS match a few years ago. My bipod worked out quite well shooting 300/500 yard 10" steel. IMO, the key on slopes is to get a solid rear support and a good bite on the legs of the bipod. As mentioned by others, a tripod/saddle with adjustable 90 degree legs can also work well on slopes. After setting the height on the two forward legs, brace against the slope with the 90 degree third rear leg rearward.