First Impressions of Allen Unfilled Front and Rear Polyester Shooting Bag Combo w/Fillable Spout
Shooting accurately and consistently often boils down to stability. As someone who’s spent over a decade dialing in rifles for various pursuits, from competitive shooting to ethical hunting, I’ve learned that a solid rest is paramount. When I first came across the Allen Unfilled Front and Rear Polyester Shooting Bag Combo w/Fillable Spout, I was intrigued by its simplicity and price point, but skeptical about its real-world performance.
I was looking for a portable and adaptable solution to stabilize my rifle in the field. I needed something better than a backpack or a wobbly bipod on uneven terrain. Upon receiving the combo, I was immediately struck by how lightweight and compact it was.
The Allen bags felt reasonably well-constructed given their budget price. I was curious to see if the 600 denier polyester could withstand the rigors of regular use. It was up against the Caldwell Tack Driver bag and the Primos group therapy sticks in my final considerations. The Allen combo seemed more flexible than the Caldwell and more stable than the shooting sticks.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. I was excited to test whether its fillable design and promise of a “tacky grip” would translate into improved accuracy.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Unfilled Front and Rear Polyester Shooting Bag Combo w/Fillable Spout to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Allen Unfilled Front and Rear Polyester Shooting Bag Combo w/Fillable Spout to my local shooting range. I tested it with both my .223 AR-15 and my .308 bolt-action rifle. The weather was dry and sunny.
Filling the bags with sand, using the included funnel, was straightforward, though a bit messy. Once filled, the bags provided a surprisingly stable platform. The “tacky grip” surface worked adequately, preventing significant slippage.
The main issue I encountered initially was getting the bags properly positioned and adjusted. It required some fiddling to achieve the correct height and level for consistent shots.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Allen bags have held up surprisingly well. There are no visible signs of tearing or seam separation. The 600D polyester appears to be more durable than I initially anticipated.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth removes most dirt and grime. Compared to using a bipod or shooting sticks, these bags offer a significantly more stable and consistent shooting platform. However, the fillable spout’s hook and loop closure is a weak point. Sand leaks after several outings.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Unfilled Front and Rear Polyester Shooting Bag Combo w/Fillable Spout
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Allen, a brand known for affordable outdoor and tactical gear.
- Color: Tan/Black. This is a practical color scheme that blends well in most outdoor environments.
- Fabric/Material: Polyester. 600 Denier Polyester construction provides a degree of water resistance and durability.
- Size: One Size. The adjustable design is intended to fit most firearms.
- The product consists of two separate compartments that clip together using metal clips and D-rings. These can easily be converted into a handle for carrying.
- Dimensions: Rear: 5.0″ Tall x 5.0″ x 4.5″, Front: 6.5″ Tall x 6″ x 5″. This is a compact size for easy transport.
- Weight: The unfilled weight is only 0.5-pounds, making it lightweight and easy to ship.
- It features a fillable spout to easily fill the shooting rest with poly beads or sand. The spout can be sealed with hook and loop straps.
These specifications highlight the bag’s focus on portability, affordability, and adaptability. The polyester construction aims to balance weight and durability, while the fillable design allows users to customize the bag’s stability based on their preferences.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Unfilled Front and Rear Polyester Shooting Bag Combo w/Fillable Spout performs its primary job adequately: providing a stable rest for shooting. Accuracy is noticeably improved compared to shooting unsupported or using less stable rests. The tacky grip material helps prevent the rifle from slipping, especially with heavier recoiling calibers.
However, the hook and loop closures on the fill spouts are a weak point, and sand leakage is a recurring issue. The bags meet basic expectations for a budget-friendly shooting rest.
Design & Ergonomics
The bag’s design is straightforward and functional. The 600D polyester feels reasonably durable, though not as robust as higher-end materials. The weight is manageable, even when filled with sand.
There is a slight learning curve involved in finding the optimal positioning and fill level. It is not as instantly intuitive as some other shooting rests.
Durability & Maintenance
The 600D polyester construction should withstand moderate use. Long-term durability may be a concern, especially with the stress placed on the seams and closures during filling.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning. Patching the hook and loop closure may be necessary over time to prevent leakage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Unfilled Front and Rear Polyester Shooting Bag Combo w/Fillable Spout comes with a small folding funnel for filling. There are no other included accessories.
The bags can be filled with various materials, such as sand, poly beads, or even rice, allowing for some customization of weight and stability. The bags are not directly compatible with any specific aftermarket accessories.
Pros and Cons of Allen Unfilled Front and Rear Polyester Shooting Bag Combo w/Fillable Spout
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Lightweight and portable design is ideal for hunting and field use.
- Fillable design allows users to customize the weight and stability.
- 600D polyester construction offers reasonable durability for the price.
- Improved accuracy compared to unsupported shooting.
Cons
- Hook and loop closures on fill spouts are prone to leakage.
- Requires some adjustment and experimentation to find the optimal fill level and positioning.
Who Should Buy Allen Unfilled Front and Rear Polyester Shooting Bag Combo w/Fillable Spout?
The Allen Unfilled Front and Rear Polyester Shooting Bag Combo w/Fillable Spout is perfect for:
- Budget-minded shooters looking for an affordable and portable shooting rest.
- Hunters who need a lightweight and adaptable support system in the field.
- Casual range shooters who want to improve their accuracy without investing in expensive equipment.
Those who should skip this product:
- Competitive shooters who require the ultimate in stability and precision.
- Shooters who demand bomb-proof durability and are willing to pay a premium for it.
A must-have modification is to either reinforce the hook and loop closures on the fill spouts or replace them with a more secure system.
Conclusion on Allen Unfilled Front and Rear Polyester Shooting Bag Combo w/Fillable Spout
The Allen Unfilled Front and Rear Polyester Shooting Bag Combo w/Fillable Spout is a budget-friendly option that offers a significant improvement in stability compared to shooting unsupported. The price is justified, given its portability and functional design.
While not without its flaws, particularly the leaky fill spouts, this shooting bag combo is a worthwhile investment for those seeking an affordable and versatile shooting rest. I would personally recommend it to beginner and casual shooters who prioritize portability and affordability. It is an excellent entry-level option that provides a solid foundation for improving shooting accuracy. Pick one up and experience the difference a stable shooting platform can make!