First Impressions of Allen Eliminator Pre Filled Bench Shooting Polyester Rest/Bag w/Cartridge Carrier
The Allen Eliminator Pre Filled Bench Shooting Polyester Rest/Bag w/Cartridge Carrier enters a market saturated with shooting rests, promising a blend of stability, convenience, and portability for both seasoned marksmen and burgeoning enthusiasts. As someone who has spent years dialing in rifles for everything from varmint hunting to long-range competitions, I’m always looking for equipment that simplifies the process and improves accuracy. This particular rest caught my eye with its pre-filled design, integrated cartridge carrier, and promise of a non-slip surface, addressing common frustrations I’ve encountered with other rests on the market.
My search began, not unlike many others, in frustration. I was tired of lugging around separate bags of fill, constantly adjusting them for the right height and stability. The Allen Eliminator seemed like a simple solution to this persistent problem. My go-to rests have historically been a hodgepodge of sandbags and adjustable bipods.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the weight, a manageable 12.1 pounds. The polyester material feels rugged enough for field use, and the stitching appears robust. Compared to a traditional sandbag setup, the Allen Eliminator offers a more streamlined and self-contained solution. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; it certainly looked the part, but the real test would be how it performed under live fire. I chose this over other similar rests because of the built-in cartridge carrier, a feature that promised to keep my ammo readily accessible.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Eliminator Pre Filled Bench Shooting Polyester Rest/Bag w/Cartridge Carrier to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Allen Eliminator Pre Filled Bench Shooting Polyester Rest/Bag w/Cartridge Carrier at my local outdoor shooting range, a spot familiar to me for its varied terrain and challenging wind conditions. I used it with several rifles, including a .223 Remington bolt-action and a .308 Winchester semi-automatic. The range offers both benchrest shooting positions and prone setups.
The rest performed admirably in the benchrest configuration, providing a stable and consistent platform. The silicone dot material on the gun cradle held the rifles securely, preventing unwanted slippage. I did not experience any issues regarding external factors like wind or unstable surfaces. There were no immediate surprises, although I did find the height to be slightly lower than ideal for my preferred benchrest shooting style.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Allen Eliminator has proven to be a reliable and convenient addition to my range gear. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the polyester fabric or the stitching. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove dirt and grime, and the inert poly beads inside have retained their shape and density.
Compared to my previous sandbag setup, the Allen Eliminator offers a significant improvement in terms of portability and ease of use. The integrated cartridge carrier is a particularly welcome feature, allowing me to keep my ammunition within easy reach. I find myself using it more often, due to the convenience that is offers compared to a bipod. It performs consistently and as expected.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Eliminator Pre Filled Bench Shooting Polyester Rest/Bag w/Cartridge Carrier
Specifications
- The Allen Eliminator Pre Filled Bench Shooting Polyester Rest/Bag w/Cartridge Carrier is constructed from rugged polyester. This material provides a good balance of durability and weather resistance, essential for outdoor use.
- It weighs approximately 12.1 pounds. This weight provides stability without being too cumbersome to transport.
- The shooting rest is pre-filled with inert poly beads. This eliminates the need for the user to fill the bag themselves and ensures a consistent fill level.
- The design includes a front bag configuration for supporting the rifle’s forend. This design is ideal for benchrest shooting and provides a stable platform for accurate shot placement.
- It also features a built-in cartridge carrier with four loops. This allows for convenient access to ammunition while shooting.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the performance and usability of the shooting rest. The polyester construction ensures durability, while the pre-filled poly beads provide a stable and consistent shooting platform. The integrated cartridge carrier adds a level of convenience that is often overlooked but greatly appreciated during extended shooting sessions.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Eliminator Pre Filled Bench Shooting Polyester Rest/Bag w/Cartridge Carrier performs its primary function – providing a stable shooting platform – quite well. The non-slip silicone dot material on the gun cradle effectively grips the rifle, minimizing movement during aiming and recoil. The pre-filled design eliminates the guesswork associated with traditional sandbags, ensuring a consistent and repeatable shooting setup.
One minor weakness is the relatively low height of the rest, which may not be ideal for all benchrest setups. However, this can be easily addressed by placing the rest on a slightly elevated surface. Overall, the Allen Eliminator meets and often exceeds expectations, particularly for shooters seeking a simple and reliable shooting rest.
Design & Ergonomics
The Allen Eliminator features a straightforward and functional design. The polyester material is durable and resistant to wear and tear, while the stitching is well-executed and appears to be built to last. The weight of 12.1 pounds provides a stable base without being overly burdensome to carry.
The integrated paracord handle makes transporting the rest relatively easy. The learning curve is virtually non-existent; it’s ready to use straight out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The Allen Eliminator Pre Filled Bench Shooting Polyester Rest/Bag w/Cartridge Carrier appears to be built for long-term use. The rugged polyester material and robust stitching should withstand the rigors of regular range use and occasional field trips. Maintenance is simple, typically requiring only a quick wipe down with a damp cloth.
The inert poly beads inside the bag are designed to retain their shape and density over time, minimizing the need for refilling or replacement. This is a durable product that can withstand normal wear and tear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Eliminator Pre Filled Bench Shooting Polyester Rest/Bag w/Cartridge Carrier comes with a built-in cartridge carrier. There aren’t many customization options for this product, as it’s primarily a standalone shooting rest. It is compatible with most rifles and shotguns.
The integrated cartridge carrier is designed to accommodate a wide range of centerfire rifle cartridges, from .223 Remington to .300 Winchester Magnum. This versatility makes it a valuable accessory for shooters who own multiple firearms.
Pros and Cons of Allen Eliminator Pre Filled Bench Shooting Polyester Rest/Bag w/Cartridge Carrier
Pros
- Stable shooting platform: Provides a consistent and reliable base for improved accuracy.
- Integrated cartridge carrier: Keeps ammunition readily accessible during shooting sessions.
- Durable construction: Rugged polyester material and robust stitching ensure long-term use.
- Pre-filled design: Eliminates the need for messy and time-consuming filling.
- Portable and lightweight: Easy to transport to and from the range or field.
Cons
- Relatively low height: May not be ideal for all benchrest setups.
- Limited customization options: No adjustable height or other advanced features.
Who Should Buy Allen Eliminator Pre Filled Bench Shooting Polyester Rest/Bag w/Cartridge Carrier?
The Allen Eliminator Pre Filled Bench Shooting Polyester Rest/Bag w/Cartridge Carrier is perfect for recreational shooters, hunters, and anyone who wants a stable and convenient shooting platform without the hassle of filling their own bags. It’s also well-suited for new shooters who are learning the fundamentals of marksmanship. Target shooters will also appreciate the stable platform.
Those seeking a highly adjustable or customizable shooting rest should skip this product. Additionally, long-range precision shooters who require a more sophisticated setup may find the Allen Eliminator too basic for their needs. A bipod might be a better option for these shooters.
Conclusion on Allen Eliminator Pre Filled Bench Shooting Polyester Rest/Bag w/Cartridge Carrier
The Allen Eliminator Pre Filled Bench Shooting Polyester Rest/Bag w/Cartridge Carrier is a solid and reliable shooting rest that offers a good balance of stability, convenience, and affordability. Its pre-filled design, integrated cartridge carrier, and durable construction make it a worthwhile addition to any shooter’s gear. At a price point of $69.79, it represents a good value for the money.
I would personally recommend the Allen Eliminator to anyone looking for a simple and effective way to improve their shooting accuracy. It has earned a permanent spot in my range bag. Pick one up and experience the difference!