The Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench Made a Bold First Impression
The Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench promises a stable and comfortable shooting platform, a critical factor for any serious shooter. As someone who’s spent countless hours behind a rifle, I’m always on the lookout for equipment that enhances accuracy and reduces fatigue. My search for a portable and versatile shooting bench led me to the Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench.
I’ve grown tired of lugging around cumbersome, fixed-position benches or settling for unsteady makeshift rests. The promise of 360-degree swivel action and a comfortable seat immediately piqued my interest. Unboxing the Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench, I was initially impressed by the seemingly sturdy construction and the thoughtful inclusion of gear pouches. The padded seat and extended armrests looked inviting, promising a more comfortable shooting experience.
Compared to other portable shooting benches I’ve considered, like the Caldwell Stable Table Lite or the Primos Hunting Double Bull Blind Table, the Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench seemed to offer a better balance of portability and stability, at least on paper. The Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench’s key selling point, the 360-degree swivel, set it apart. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to see if it lived up to its potential in a real-world shooting environment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, where I spend most weekends honing my skills. I set up the Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench on a relatively level surface, and the assembly was straightforward. The bench provided a stable platform for sighting in my .223 AR-15.
The 360-degree swivel was immediately useful, allowing me to easily transition between targets at different angles without moving the entire bench. However, the coated gun rest needed adjustment to accommodate my rifle properly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench has held up reasonably well. The padded vinyl cover on the seat shows no signs of tearing or excessive wear, which is a good sign.
The frame remains sturdy, although I did notice some minor loosening of the bolts, requiring occasional tightening. I’ve taken care to wipe down the bench after each use, preventing any rust.
Compared to shooting from improvised rests, the Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench offers a significantly more stable and comfortable platform. It enables more consistent shot placement, leading to tighter groupings.
Breaking Down the Features of Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench
Specifications
The Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench features a 12″ W x 14″ D x 2″ T top. This provides ample space for supporting rifles and other gear.
The bench’s dimensions provide comfortable spacing. The benchtop is a 29″ square.
The bench can accommodate a shooter up to 300 lbs, which is impressive. The adjustable, coated gun-rest can accommodate various firearms.
The 360-degree swivel action is a key feature, allowing for a full range of shooting angles. Two shell/gear pouches are included for convenient storage.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the shooter’s comfort, stability, and ability to accurately engage targets. The weight capacity ensures it can accommodate a wide range of users and equipment.
Performance & Functionality
The Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench excels at providing a stable and comfortable shooting platform. The 360-degree swivel function is a major asset, enabling quick target acquisition across a wide field of view.
However, the adjustable gun rest could be improved with a more robust locking mechanism. It occasionally slips under the weight of heavier rifles.
Overall, the bench meets my expectations for a portable and versatile shooting rest. It definitely enhances my accuracy and shooting comfort.
Design & Ergonomics
The Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench is designed with a focus on functionality and comfort. The padded seat and extended armrests are welcome additions, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
The bench is relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport. The assembly is straightforward, with no complicated steps.
Durability & Maintenance
The Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench appears to be reasonably durable. The steel frame should withstand years of use.
The padded vinyl cover is easy to clean. Occasional tightening of the bolts is necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench comes with two shell/gear pouches. These add convenience.
There are limited customization options beyond adjusting the gun rest. While there’s no direct provision for mounting accessories like lights or spotting scopes, some users might find ways to adapt it with aftermarket clamps.
Pros and Cons of Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench
Pros
- Provides a stable shooting platform, enhancing accuracy.
- The 360-degree swivel action is a game-changer, allowing for versatile target engagement.
- Comfortable padded seat and extended armrests reduce fatigue during long shooting sessions.
- Two included shell/gear pouches offer convenient storage.
- Relatively lightweight and easy to transport.
Cons
- The adjustable gun rest could be more robust, as it may slip with heavier rifles.
- Limited customization options.
- Some users may find the 300 lb weight limit restrictive.
Who Should Buy Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench?
The Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench is perfect for hunters, target shooters, and anyone who needs a portable and stable shooting platform. It’s especially beneficial for varmint hunters who need to quickly engage targets in different directions.
This product is not ideal for individuals exceeding the 300 lb weight limit. Competitive shooters seeking a highly customizable bench might prefer a more advanced setup.
A must-have accessory is a set of leveling feet to ensure stability on uneven terrain. A more robust gun rest would also be a worthwhile upgrade.
Conclusion on Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench
The Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench offers a compelling blend of stability, comfort, and portability. The 360-degree swivel action sets it apart from other portable shooting benches, providing unparalleled versatility.
At a price of $139.49, the Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench is reasonably priced, considering its features and benefits. The value proposition is solid for anyone seeking a convenient and effective shooting platform.
I would recommend the Birchwood Casey Swivel Action Bench to hunters and target shooters looking to improve their accuracy and comfort in the field. It’s a worthwhile investment that can significantly enhance your shooting experience. Consider adding this versatile bench to your gear and enjoy the benefits of stable, comfortable, and adaptable shooting!