shooting jackets

[ragenmoan]

does anyone have data/experience as to how much shooting jackets really shrink shot grouping? the investment is rather high and would be interested to hear how much the shooting jacket really helps.

[Timberwolf]

Depends on the application - they are designed with padding in the pulse points - upper arm where you sling goes, elbows and shoulder. Are you speaking from a general shooting presepective or target shooting.

[nemisis1400]

the investment is rather high

What kind of jackets are you looking at? And how much are they? I got mine from a friend and I don't think i paid all that much.

You do know that this isn't a cheap sport right?

[ragenmoan]

i was looking at shooting jacket for target shooting only. i've been looking at the creedmore jackets since they offer a pretty wide range in styles and cost. i can see the non slip pads on shoulder, side of upper torso and elbows. understand the padding for pulse points and buckles to reduce chest heaving. really was wondering about the stiff back style and also if someone had measured the improvement in group size before and after wearing the jacket especially in the prone and offhand positions.

[Timberwolf]

I shot for years with a heavy leather jacket similar to the ones you speak of - they don't help that much on prone beyond the obvious but they will tighten up your off hand shooting - think of shooting in a straight jacket.

When you say target shooting what dicipline as some don't allow jackets.

[bruce_ventura]

If you're shooting across the course high power or service rifle competition, then you really need a jacket for off hand shooting and you need one with the stiff back insert - it makes off hand shooting like leaning up against a fence post.

Go with a custom jacket. Creedmore makes some of the best jackets for the money. Be sure to call them and get advice on the size (especially arm length). Yea, it's pricy, but it will last forever (unless you gain a lot of weight).

Nothing has improved my shooting more than an occasional service rifle match.

[smle-man]

I always wear a shooting jacket with shoulder and elbow pads, even in the summer. The shoulder pad is the only thing stopping complete shoulder failure after 30+ years of high power shooting. When you are young you don't think of these things but believe me at age 56 you will!

[ocabj]

1. The coat keeps the upper body compressed and provides torso support for unsupported standing.

2. The coat protects the support bicep from the sling. Shooting slings are put on very tight (if used properly) and it will eat your arm without some protection.

3. The coat deadens pulse beat at the various contact points (i.e. sling and bicep)

Creedmoor full shooting coats are designed specifically for CMP/NRA High Power Rifle aka "Across the Course". If you shoot specifically prone, get one of Creedmoor's prone coats. But if you don't use a sling for support, then I wouldn't bother with a coat. If you need a shoulder pad, just get a shoulder pad.