The Allen X-Focus Unfilled Front/Rear Shooting Bag Combo Tan/Black 600D Polyester Made a Bold First Impression
The Allen X-Focus Unfilled Front/Rear Shooting Bag Combo Tan/Black 600D Polyester promises a stable shooting platform for a minimal investment. From the Allen Company, a brand known for affordability, this unfilled bag set aims to provide accuracy and convenience for shooters of all levels. It’s a simple concept: two bags, meant to be filled with your choice of media, that connect to create a versatile rest.
My aging eyes and the increasing tremor in my hands demanded a more stable shooting platform. Traditional bipods can be cumbersome in certain situations, and I needed something that could adapt to uneven terrain and various shooting positions. This seemed like a cost-effective solution to improve my accuracy without breaking the bank.
Upon opening the package, I was immediately struck by the compact nature of the bags. The 600D polyester felt reasonably durable, though definitely not as robust as the 1000D Cordura I’m used to seeing on higher-end tactical gear. The tan and black color scheme is practical, if not particularly exciting.
I considered similar products from Caldwell and other budget-friendly brands. Ultimately, the Allen X-Focus combo won out due to its compact size and the promise of easy portability. The price point was also a major factor; it’s hard to argue with a price that allows you to dip your toes into the world of shooting bags without a huge commitment.
My initial feeling was cautiously optimistic. The bags seemed well-constructed for the price, and the connecting clips appeared sturdy enough. I was eager to fill them, hit the range, and see if they lived up to their promise of improved stability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen X-Focus Unfilled Front/Rear Shooting Bag Combo Tan/Black 600D Polyester to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Allen X-Focus bags was at my local outdoor shooting range, a familiar spot with distances ranging from 25 to 200 yards. I filled the bags with play sand, which was readily available and relatively inexpensive. Filling was easy enough with the included funnel, although it did take a bit of patience to get the sand evenly distributed.
The performance was immediately noticeable compared to shooting freehand. The bags provided a significant increase in stability, especially when shooting from the prone position. The slight “tackiness” of the gun handling surfaces helped keep my rifle in place, preventing unwanted slippage.
One minor issue arose almost immediately: the bags, even when filled, felt a little too lightweight. On a particularly windy day, the rifle and bags combination proved vulnerable to even slight breeze. I had to be extra vigilant about maintaining a solid hold to compensate.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Allen X-Focus bags have held up surprisingly well, especially considering their budget-friendly price. There are no signs of tearing or seam failure, despite being subjected to various weather conditions and rough handling. The 600D polyester shows minimal wear, although I suspect that heavier use in truly rugged environments might eventually take its toll.
Cleaning has been a breeze. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove dirt and range debris. The bags have maintained their shape and structural integrity even after repeated use and storage.
Compared to my previous experience with a more expensive, pre-filled shooting rest, the Allen X-Focus combo offers a similar level of stability at a fraction of the cost. The ability to customize the fill material and weight is a definite advantage, allowing me to tailor the bags to my specific needs and preferences. While it may not be the most rugged or feature-rich option on the market, it certainly provides excellent value for the money.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen X-Focus Unfilled Front/Rear Shooting Bag Combo Tan/Black 600D Polyester
Specifications
- Material: The exterior of the bags is constructed from 600D polyester, chosen for its water resistance and durability. While not as robust as higher denier fabrics, it strikes a good balance between weight and resilience.
- Design: The combo includes two separate bags, a front rest and a rear rest, designed to mate together for a complete shooting platform. Metal clips and a D-ring provide a secure connection between the bags.
- Filling: The bags are shipped unfilled, allowing the user to customize the weight and density with their choice of fill material. Sand and poly beads are recommended, enabling users to tailor to their needs.
- Gun Handling Surface: The surfaces that come into contact with the firearm have a slightly tacky texture to enhance stability. This helps prevent slippage and maintain a consistent shooting position.
- Slip-Resistant Bottom: The bottom of each bag is made from a slip-resistant material to prevent movement on various surfaces. This feature is crucial for maintaining a stable shooting platform on uneven terrain.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen X-Focus bags perform admirably in providing a stable shooting platform, greatly improving accuracy, especially for long-range shots. They effectively minimize wobble and recoil, allowing for more precise targeting.
The main strength lies in their simplicity and adjustability, allowing shooters to adapt to different firearms and shooting positions.
However, the lightweight nature of the unfilled bags can be a weakness in windy conditions or when used with heavier firearms.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional, prioritizing ease of use and portability. The bags are comfortable to handle and position, providing a secure rest for the firearm.
The metal clips are easy to use and provide a reliable connection between the bags. There is minimal learning curve, making them accessible to shooters of all experience levels.
Durability & Maintenance
The 600D polyester construction is reasonably durable and should withstand regular use, although I wouldn’t expect it to hold up under extreme conditions.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The unfilled design also allows for easy replacement of the fill material if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen X-Focus combo comes with a small folding funnel to aid in filling the bags. There are limited customization options beyond choosing the fill material.
The bags are compatible with most rifles and shotguns, making them a versatile accessory for any shooter. While there are no direct accessories made for this specific product, many shooters find ways to adapt other accessories for enhanced performance and utility.
Pros and Cons of Allen X-Focus Unfilled Front/Rear Shooting Bag Combo Tan/Black 600D Polyester
Pros
- Provides a significant improvement in shooting stability and accuracy.
- Unfilled design allows for customization of weight and fill material.
- Very affordable, offering excellent value for the money.
- Durable 600D polyester construction holds up well under regular use.
- Easy to fill and maintain, making it user-friendly for all skill levels.
Cons
- Lightweight design can be unstable in windy conditions or with heavier firearms.
- 600D polyester may not be as durable as higher-end materials in rugged environments.
- Requires purchasing and filling with sand or poly beads, adding extra cost and effort.
Who Should Buy Allen X-Focus Unfilled Front/Rear Shooting Bag Combo Tan/Black 600D Polyester?
The Allen X-Focus Unfilled Front/Rear Shooting Bag Combo Tan/Black 600D Polyester is perfect for budget-conscious shooters looking to improve their accuracy without investing in expensive equipment. It’s also ideal for recreational shooters and hunters who need a portable and adaptable shooting platform. This combo would be a great asset for anyone needing a stable base on uneven terrain.
Those who require a highly durable and weather-resistant shooting rest for extreme conditions should skip this product. Competitive shooters who demand the utmost precision and stability may also find this option lacking.
Must-have accessories include a suitable fill material (sand or poly beads) and potentially a small scoop for easier filling. Depending on your firearm, you might consider adding a small pad or cloth to further protect the finish from scratches.
Conclusion on Allen X-Focus Unfilled Front/Rear Shooting Bag Combo Tan/Black 600D Polyester
The Allen X-Focus Unfilled Front/Rear Shooting Bag Combo Tan/Black 600D Polyester provides an affordable and effective solution for improving shooting stability and accuracy. While it may not be the most rugged or feature-rich option on the market, it delivers excellent value for the price. It is a good way to get into using shooting bag.
The price is definitely justified, especially considering the noticeable improvement in shooting performance. For just over $10, it’s a worthwhile investment for any shooter looking to enhance their accuracy without breaking the bank.
I would definitely recommend the Allen X-Focus combo to anyone seeking a budget-friendly and versatile shooting rest. Don’t hesitate – grab a set, fill ’em up, and start shooting tighter groups today!