Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest Review

First Impressions of Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest

The Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest promises to solve a universal problem for shooters: uneven terrain. Crosstac aims to provide a stable platform regardless of the surface. It’s a bold claim, especially in a world saturated with shooting rests and bipods.

For years, I’ve struggled with finding consistent stability in the field. Whether it’s varmint hunting on uneven prairie dog towns or trying to get a steady shot during deer season against a tree, the lack of a perfectly flat surface is a constant frustration. I’ve tried bipods, tripods, and even improvised rests using my pack, but nothing has truly satisfied my need for adaptability and stability.

Upon receiving the Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest, my first impression was positive. The Wolf Grey 1000D Cordura fabric felt rugged and durable, instilling confidence that it could withstand the rigors of the field. It felt substantial in my hands, yet not overly heavy, striking a good balance between portability and stability.

Compared to other shooting bags I’ve used, the saddle design immediately stood out. Many bags are simply rectangular or cylindrical, offering limited versatility in varied terrains. The Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest’s unique “ears” and saddle cut seemed specifically designed to conform to and grip uneven surfaces. I chose this over a traditional Caldwell bag because of its unique adaptability promise, hoping it could be the all-in-one solution I’ve been seeking.

I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype. Could this simple bag actually provide a stable and adaptable shooting platform in challenging environments? Only real-world testing would tell.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest came during a prairie dog hunt in Eastern Montana. The terrain was a mix of rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and sparse vegetation. I used it primarily with my .223 bolt action rifle, aiming at targets ranging from 100 to 300 yards.

The Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest performed admirably in the dry, dusty conditions. The rubberized “ears” gripped the uneven surfaces of rocks and fence posts surprisingly well, providing a stable platform even when angled. I found that the saddle cut on top provided a secure rest for my rifle’s forend, minimizing wobble. After a full day of shooting, I found the Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest very easy to use. My shot placement was more consistent compared to using my backpack as a rest.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including a deer hunting trip and numerous range sessions, the Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. The 1000D Cordura fabric shows no signs of wear and tear, even after being dragged across rocks and exposed to rain. The double-stitched seams appear robust and well-constructed.

Maintaining the Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest has been minimal. I simply brush off any dirt or debris after each use. The walnut media filling has not shown any signs of breaking down or clumping. Compared to using a bipod, the Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest is far more adaptable to varying terrain. It significantly outperforms a traditional shooting bag in non-flat environments.

Breaking Down the Features of Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest

Specifications

• The Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest is manufactured by Crosstac. This reputable company is known for its tactical gear.
• It comes in a Wolf Grey color. This is a neutral color that blends well in many environments.
• The bag is made from durable 1000D Cordura fabric. This ensures longevity and resistance to abrasion.
• The bag comes as a single unit. Ready for immediate use.
• The Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest utilizes a unique “ears” design. This allows it to drape over various objects and conform to uneven surfaces.
• It also has a saddle cut top. This provides a stable platform for the rifle.
• Rubberized non-skid bottom “ears” ensure a secure grip. This minimizes slippage on slick surfaces.
• The Mil-Spec coated fabric has a “grippy” exterior. This enhances stability and reduces movement.
• A padded and soft top panel prevents scratches on the rifle. This protects the firearm’s finish.
• It has a zippered opening, allowing for easy adjustment of fill levels. This enables users to customize the bag’s firmness.
• Double stitched seams throughout enhance durability. This ensures long-lasting performance.
• The bag is pre-filled with a special coarse grind of walnut media. This provides flexibility and prevents the bag from becoming too hard.
• It measures approximately 7.5 inches high (bottom to middle of sway), 8 inches at the ears, and 8 inches wide by 6.5 inches long. These dimensions provide ample support without being overly bulky.
• The saddle legs are a full 4 inches, offering plenty of room to drape over various objects. This versatility makes it adaptable to diverse shooting scenarios.

Performance & Functionality

The Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest excels at providing a stable and adaptable shooting platform in a variety of environments. The rubberized ears grip well, and the saddle cut securely cradles the rifle. Its ability to conform to uneven surfaces is a major strength, making it far more versatile than a traditional bipod or shooting bag.

One slight weakness is that it requires a suitable object to drape over for optimal stability. On completely flat ground, it’s less effective than a dedicated benchrest. However, this is a minor trade-off for its overall versatility. The Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest meets and exceeds expectations as a portable and adaptable shooting rest.

Design & Ergonomics

The Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest features a well-thought-out design. The 1000D Cordura fabric is rugged, and the Wolf Grey color is practical. Its weight is manageable, making it easy to carry in a pack or by hand.

The Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest is generally user-friendly, though it may take a few tries to find the optimal positioning on different surfaces. There’s no significant learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest is built to last. The 1000D Cordura fabric and double-stitched seams are highly durable. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest does not come with any additional accessories. Its design is relatively simple, focusing on core functionality. The zippered opening allows users to adjust the fill level. While not a traditional “customization” option, this is still a notable way to fine-tune the bag’s performance.

Because it is a simple bag, there is no support for attachments. The bag will support any rifle, as long as the saddle accommodates the stock.

Pros and Cons of Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest

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Who Should Buy Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest?

The Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest is perfect for hunters who often find themselves shooting from unconventional positions in the field. It’s also ideal for varmint hunters and competitive shooters who need a stable and adaptable platform for accurate shots. Anyone who shoots frequently in environments where a flat surface is not readily available will benefit from this product.

Those who primarily shoot from a benchrest at a range should probably skip this product. Likewise, individuals who prioritize ultra-lightweight gear above all else might find it a bit bulky. A must-have modification would be to add a small carabiner clip to the bag. This would allow it to clip onto a backpack for easy transport.

Conclusion on Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest

The Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest is an excellent piece of gear for shooters who need a versatile and adaptable platform in the field. Its rugged construction, thoughtful design, and ability to conform to uneven surfaces make it a standout product. At $35.99, the price is justified by its durability and functionality.

I would personally recommend the Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest to any serious shooter who values adaptability and stability in challenging environments. If you’re tired of struggling to find a flat surface for your shots, this bag is a game-changer. Take your shooting to the next level. Get the Crosstac Saddle Bag Shooting Rest and conquer any terrain!