Crosstac BFB Front Shooting Bag Review

First Impressions of Crosstac BFB Front Shooting Bag

The Crosstac BFB Front Shooting Bag promises to be a stable and reliable platform for precision shooting, a claim I intend to rigorously evaluate. Crosstac advertises it as a durable, pre-filled, and wobble-free solution, built for bench shooting and optic support, and retailing for an enticing $39.99. This positions it as an affordable option, but can it deliver the stability and precision serious shooters demand?

My journey to the Crosstac BFB Front Shooting Bag stemmed from a frustrating experience with inadequate rests. I needed a front support that would reliably eliminate wobble and provide consistent height for my rifles on the bench, something my improvised solutions simply couldn’t offer.

Upon unboxing, the BFB immediately impressed with its substantial weight and rugged appearance. The 1000D Cordura fabric felt incredibly durable, and the non-skid base inspired confidence. Compared to cheaper, flimsier bags I’ve handled, the Crosstac BFB felt like a serious piece of kit.

Other front shooting bags I considered included the Caldwell DeadShot Front Rest and the cheaper, often rectangular, sand-filled rests available at local sporting goods stores. The Caldwell offered adjustability, but at a significantly higher price point. The rectangular bags felt unstable and prone to tipping, something the BFB’s pyramid design aimed to solve.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The weight and material quality were promising, but the real test would be its performance on the range. I was eager to see if the Crosstac BFB Front Shooting Bag could live up to its claims and provide the stability I desperately needed.

Real-World Testing: Putting Crosstac BFB Front Shooting Bag to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local outdoor shooting range, under moderately sunny conditions. I used the Crosstac BFB Front Shooting Bag with a variety of rifles, from a lightweight .22LR to a heavier .308 bolt-action, to assess its versatility.

The BFB performed admirably, providing a stable and consistent rest for each rifle. Its height was perfect for bench shooting, eliminating the need for any improvisations. After only a couple adjustments, it became clear that the Crosstac BFB Front Shooting Bag was doing its job.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Crosstac BFB Front Shooting Bag has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. It still feels as solid and stable as it did on day one.

There are no visible signs of wear and tear, a testament to the quality of the 1000D Cordura and double-stitched seams. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes any dirt or debris. It has significantly outperformed the cheaper sand-filled bags I’ve used in the past, offering superior stability and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Crosstac BFB Front Shooting Bag

Specifications

The Crosstac BFB Front Shooting Bag boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. It’s constructed from durable 1000D Cordura, known for its resistance to abrasion and tearing. It weighs approximately 13 pounds, providing a solid and stable base.

The bag is pre-filled with a coarse grind of walnut media, offering a balance of support and flexibility. It measures approximately 9 inches high at the center, 9.5 inches at the ears, and the base is 9.5 inches wide by 7.5 inches long. The non-skid base prevents movement on the shooting bench, enhancing stability.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the bag’s stability, durability, and ease of use. The 1000D Cordura ensures longevity, while the weight and pyramid shape prevent tipping. The pre-filled walnut media provides a stable yet adaptable surface for different rifles.

Performance & Functionality

The Crosstac BFB Front Shooting Bag excels at its primary function: providing a stable and consistent shooting rest. It significantly reduces wobble and recoil, allowing for more precise shot placement. The non-skid base keeps the bag firmly planted on the bench, even with heavier recoiling rifles.

Its greatest strength is its simplicity and effectiveness. The only minor weakness is the lack of height adjustment, which might be an issue for shooters with benches of varying heights or using rifles with very high scopes. However, for standard bench shooting, it meets and exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The BFB’s pyramid shape is a smart design choice, preventing the tipping often associated with rectangular bags. The build quality is excellent, with durable materials and reinforced stitching. The padded soft top panel protects the rifle’s finish from scratches.

The design is undeniably user-friendly, requiring no setup or adjustments beyond placing it on the bench. There’s virtually no learning curve, making it suitable for shooters of all experience levels.

Durability & Maintenance

The Crosstac BFB Front Shooting Bag, with its 1000D Cordura construction, is built to last. The double-stitched seams further enhance its durability, resisting tearing and abrasion.

Maintenance is minimal; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The zippered opening allows for easy adjustment of the fill level, should it be necessary over time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Crosstac BFB Front Shooting Bag doesn’t come with any additional accessories, nor does it require any. The fill level can be adjusted via the zippered opening, offering some customization in terms of firmness.

It’s compatible with virtually any rifle, making it a versatile addition to any shooter’s setup.

Pros and Cons of Crosstac BFB Front Shooting Bag