When my friend wanted to buy a shooting bench, he came to me for some advice on choosing the right one for the type of shooting that he does. He’s someone who usually hunts varmints on his farm, where it can take hours for prey to come by, so it’s difficult for him to hold the same position for long with a heavy gun.
Shooting benches are great for staying comfortable during long hunts, and the right one can really help you improve your accuracy as well. Personally, I have found a sturdy shooting bench to be of great help when I need to quickly sight in my rifle or take an accurate shot with my shotgun.
So to help him out, I set out to find the best shooting benches in the current market. After a lot of testing and research, I’ve put together a list of shooting benches that can be a good fit for different shooters with different needs.
Before we dive into the list, let’s take a quick look at how a shooting bench can help you out.
Why do you need a shooting bench?
If you are serious about shooting, a shooting bench can really help you up your game:
Now, you might ask why not use a regular table or any other flat surface instead of going for a specialized shooting bench. One reason is that you can experience some recoil with your gun when firing, and while regular tables can cause skidding, shooting benches are specially designed to stay stable. Secondly, a shooting bench can give you a lot of flexibility in hunting and is usually customizable to fit you; from adjustable rests to ammo compartments, shooting benches can be very helpful to a shooter.
While I do think that most shooting benches bring net positives, there are a couple of cons to them as well. Here’s a quick comparison between the pros and cons of shooting benches in general.
Since there are quite a few options out there, I tested some shooting benches to find the best ones in the market.
To test the benches, I first made a shortlist of 15 benches based on the ones that I’ve enjoyed shooting with and the ones that my buds at Gun University have liked as well. Then, I designed a few tests based on a few specs to evaluate the shooting benches.
After putting the shortlisted benches through these tests, I finally came up with the top shooting benches for different shooters. Keeping in mind that not every shooter’s needs are the same, I didn’t rank them in any particular order. Instead, I’ve thought of what different shooters might want out of their shooting benches and sorted them into those categories.
Below is a table of the specifications for each shooting bench. Click the name of the item to jump to that review.
| Shooting Bench | Material | Surface Area | Weight (lbs) | Dimensions | Does it come with a seat? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caldwell Stable Table | Plastic, alloy steel | 34” x 23” | 60 | 7.1” x 23.4” x 34.5” | Yes |
| Caldwell DeadShot | Aluminum | N/A | 22 | 9” x 20” x 24” | Yes |
| MTM HLST High Low Shooting Table | Plastic, aluminum | 17” x 33” | 11 | 11.5” x 18.5” x 40.5” | No |
| X Stand Hunting Bench | Padded, steel | 21” x 28” | 35 | 4.5” x 22” x 33” | Yes |
| Benchmaster | Steel | 36” x 23.5” | 30 | 4” x 27” x 37” | With/ Without |
Here is our list for the best shooting benches
I’ve written a detailed review of the best products for each category and listed factors that can help you choose the best one for your needs.
The Caldwell Stable Table is sturdy shooting table with adjustable seat height and strong construction.
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Caldwell Stable Table has some great features that can support shooters in a lot of different scenarios. Though it isn’t the best table for any particular category, its overall performance is solid and that’s why it’s my pick for the best overall shooting bench.
I initially bought the Caldwell Stable Table Lite, which is a good collapsible option, and I was so impressed that I decided to upgrade to its big brother, the Stable Table. This table has exceeded my expectations, offering exceptional stability that really improves my shooting experience.
The feature that stands out most is the stability—true to its name. The Caldwell Stable Table is built with a sturdy steel frame. While it doesn’t have a wood top, it makes up for it with a molded plastic tabletop and a robust under-frame. This makes it a heavy-duty surface that handles anything you throw at it. I love the ample space on this table; it’s perfect for keeping my ammo, cleaning forks, and other gear organized without feeling crowded.
I mainly use it for sighting rifles, and the spacious tabletop is a huge plus. It also features two slots for cleaning forks, which saves time when I need to clean my rifle for better accuracy. The adjustability is another great feature—the table and seat rotate 360 degrees, and the adjustable legs prevent wobbling on uneven ground.
That said, the Stable Table is a bit heavy and not collapsible, so transporting it can be a hassle. It’s best suited for a fixed spot like a backyard rather than hunting trips. While it’s fine for shooting prairie dogs, its lack of portability makes it less ideal for more mobile hunting scenarios. Additionally, the seat lacks back support, which might be uncomfortable for extended sessions.
Despite these minor issues, I still believe Caldwell’s Stable Table is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a reliable, sturdy shooting bench. It’s well-priced and provides excellent stability, making it a top recommendation from me.
The Caldwell DeadShot Chairpod is a very portable shooting platform with adjustable shooting rest.
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Another Caldwell on the list! That’s because they are one of my most trusted shooting table brands whose quality of work and craftsmanship is always top-notch.
The DeadShot Chairpod is technically more of a shooting rest with a chair rather than a full-on shooting bench. It doesn’t come with a tabletop, which is a bit of a bummer since there’s no place to keep ammo or gear. But the design does a fantastic job of keeping both the gun and shooter steady, which is key for making accurate long-range shots.
The chair itself is super comfortable and provides great support. I’ve used the rest with several rifles and crossbows, and it worked well—though it wasn’t a perfect fit for my Excalibur Matrix Micro 335. Even so, I can overlook the missing tabletop for the sake of stability.
The Chairpod is also a great option for hunters who need a rest on uneven terrain. With a bit of practice, I’ve set it up on hillsides and rocky ground without any issues. It collapses neatly into a bag and weighs just 22 lbs, so it’s easy to carry. I took it on a hike last season, and while it does thump against your back a bit, it’s a convenient option for shooters on the move.
Assembly was pretty straightforward, but you’ll need to follow the manual carefully. I made a mistake with the pivot during my first setup, so I had to take it apart and try again.
The DeadShot Chairpod has a lot going for it, but there are a few downsides. It’s pricey, and if you’re on a budget or need a bench with a tabletop for storing gear, this might not be the best choice. Even with those issues, I still think it’s a solid investment for long-range shooting.
The MTM HLST is a very lightweight and portable shooting platform with a tripod base.
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MTM Case-Gard is known in the shooting community for quality gear, and their portable MTM HLST High Low Shooting Table is no exception. Having used this bench extensively, I can confidently say it’s the best portable option out there.
What really stands out to me is its portability. At just 11 pounds, it’s incredibly easy to transport. The bench breaks down into two pieces—the tabletop and the tripod stand—both of which are designed for easy carrying. The tabletop has a molded handle, and the tripod features a shoulder strap, making it simple to haul around.
The tabletop is made of sturdy polypropylene plastic and provides plenty of space for my rifle, gun rest, and ammo. I especially like the side slots that let me rest the rifle securely when I’m not using it. While it lacks storage pockets, the focus on portability makes that a minor issue.
The individually adjustable tripod legs are a real bonus. They let me level the bench on uneven ground, and the pointy tips keep it stable in different terrains. The height adjusts from 18 to 55 inches, and it rotates fully, so I can take shots from any angle.
On the downside, it doesn’t come with a chair, so I had to bring my own. Plus, the spiked legs can be unstable on smooth surfaces, which isn’t ideal for indoor ranges.
If you’re after a portable shooting bench for outdoor use and don’t mind bringing a separate chair, the MTM HLST High Low Shooting Table is a fantastic choice.
The X Stand is a portable shooting bench with build in chair and gun rest.
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I was excited to test the X Stand because I heard so many good things about it. After I tested it, I found its performance very impressive, considering it only costs $129.
The X Stand’s sturdy steel frame impressed me right away. It kept my gun rock steady, and the barrel support was a handy addition. Assembly was straightforward; I had it set up in about an hour.
What really stood out to me was the accuracy boost. I compared my shooting with and without the bench and saw a noticeable improvement when using it. For beginners or those on a budget, the X Stand is a solid choice. It’s affordable and great for developing muscle memory.
I was initially skeptical about the vinyl tabletop, expecting it to be less durable than wood or plastic. To my surprise, the vinyl turned out to be softer and more comfortable, and it stabilized the gun well.
The included padding was a nice touch. I used it for a two-hour shooting session and felt no discomfort. The chair was soft and adjustable, and the tabletop was spacious. However, the lack of back support might be a drawback if that’s important to you.
On the downside, the X Stand struggles with durability. It’s not ideal for outdoor use due to its susceptibility to rust, as it lacks a powder coat. Transporting it is also a hassle; it’s large, heavy, and not collapsible, making field trips inconvenient.
If you’re mainly shooting at the range and need something budget-friendly, the X Stand gets the job done without breaking the bank. For more portable and durable options, though, you might want to invest in a higher-end bench.
The BenchMaster is a sturdy shooting bench with optional chair.
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Since I spend a lot of money on my shooting equipment, I want to make sure they’re durable–no point in burning cash if the gear won’t last for a while. That’s why I really like the Benchmaster; it’s built to take a beating and still keep on going strong.
The Benchmaster is impressive for its durability. Its top and legs are powder-coated, resisting rust much better than painted surfaces. The solid steel legs provide exceptional stability, which is crucial during extended shooting sessions.
I also appreciate its easy storage. The folding mechanism is smooth and quick, making setup and takedown effortless. Weighing 30 lbs, it’s portable and comes with a sturdy carrying handle. Plus, there are no extra parts to assemble in the field, so you won’t leave anything behind.
The spacious tabletop is another advantage. It offers ample room for gear, ammo, and even snacks, which is great for long hunts. The large surface also accommodates various rifle positions.
However, the Benchmaster isn’t the most comfortable. It lacks padding and a backrest, so sitting for extended periods can be uncomfortable. Additionally, it only adjusts in height by two inches, which might be an issue for taller shooters.
If you’re after a durable shooting bench and don’t mind sacrificing some comfort or adding your own padding, the Benchmaster is a solid choice.
Shooting benches can keep you comfortable and boost your performance during the long hours spent looking for game. But finding the right balance between these features can be difficult, especially for beginner shooters. That’s why I put together this buyer’s guide to help you pick the right shooting bench for you. Let’s get right into it.
Before you can find the right shooting bench for you, let’s take a quick look at the types of shooting benches. As shooting benches come in many shapes and sizes, it’s easiest to start by narrowing down the type of shooting bench you want to go with.
Do-It-Yourself (DIY) – I’m not a handyman myself, but if you like to build your equipment from scratch, you can always make a shooting bench yourself. There’s plenty of material online to help you design and build it at home, but keep the following in mind if you are choosing this option:
Portable – If you often go beyond your own backyard and like to explore new environments to hunt in, a portable shooting bench would be the best option for you. These are easy to transport and store as they can be assembled, disassembled, and folded. They usually come in a range of sizes to fit in a pickup or even a smaller vehicle. The right size for you really depends on what you’re looking for, how big your vehicle is, and how much storage space you have at home.
Adjustable – The shooting bench that best fits me won’t always be good for you; no two shooters are the same, after all. That’s why I always look for adjustable shooting benches, as they can be customized according to my build and height. The height, armrest, and table are usually adjustable in this type of shooting bench.
360-degree swivel – The best part about having 360-degree rotation ability is the wider shooting range. Most of these benches can be rotated with or without the legs, and some of them let you rotate the chair in tandem with the table.
The best type of shooting bench for you will depend on where you plan on using it and the different features you want out of your bench. So let’s take a look at that next.
Now that we’ve looked at the types of shooting benches in the market, the next step is to think about the features that you should consider when buying one. I’ve put together the features that I look for when I buy a shooting bench; have a look and see how this list can help you.
Purchasing a shooting bench is a big decision and you need to look at a lot of different specs to find the right one for you. Once you’ve found the one for your needs, it’ll help you improve your accuracy as well as stay comfortable during long shooting sessions.
Shooting benches are great for improving comfort and accuracy during long sessions of shooting, but picking the right one can be a little nerve-wracking for most shooters. Since they’re usually a one-off investment, read the reviews and think carefully about what you need from your shooting bench before making a purchase. Happy shooting.
Yes, shooting benches are easy to assemble and take apart. Setting up your bench for the first time can be tricky, but after that, they are pretty easy to handle.
What is the best shooting bench for beginners?X Stand Hunting Bench is a good option for beginners as it is value priced and gets the job done. Once you get more familiar with bench shooting, you can look for more premium options.
Are shooting benches universal for left-handed and right-handed shooters?Not all shooting benches are made with both left-handers and right-handers in mind. I recommend looking at the product descriptions before you make a purchase–they usually specify if it’s ambidextrous.
Do you need a chair when using shooting benches?You don’t need a chair to use shooting benches but I recommend getting one for comfort. While you can get by without a chair, it can make long shooting sessions a lot more comfortable. If you’re looking for a complete shooting bench setup, it’s worth looking to see if a chair is included in the set.
What is the best height for a shooting bench?A typical table is around 32” to 34”. If you DIY a shooting bench, just pick a height that seems to work best for you, depending on how tall you are and the targets you often go for. If you’re looking to buy one, try and opt for one with adjustable heights.
What is the best What should I look for in a shooting bench if I need a compact design for easy transport?
If you want a shooting bench with a compact design for easy transport, look for one where the legs screw in securely. This feature allows the bench to be assembled quickly and provides stability while in use. Combined with a folding seat, it makes the bench both portable and convenient for field setups.
How to level the shooting bench on the ground?It depends on the type of shooting bench; most of them are adjustable and will work on most surfaces. However, if you require additional support on very uneven surfaces, you can try using a sturdy piece of wood to help level the surface.
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