Let’s Dive into Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag
The Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag, manufactured by Lyman, is designed to provide a stable platform for shooters in various scenarios. It’s built with durable materials and a non-slip base, aiming to improve accuracy and reduce recoil. I initially sought out a shooting bag to enhance stability while sighting in rifles and practicing precision shooting.
My first impression upon receiving the Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag was a mix of intrigue and slight skepticism. The materials felt robust, but the overall feel was lighter than I anticipated. Having used heavier, sand-filled bags in the past, I was curious to see how the Lyman bag’s ground plastic fill would perform.
Compared to other shooting bags I’ve used, like the Caldwell DeadShot series (known for their rigid support) and some generic, sand-filled bags, the Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag aimed for a balance between portability and stability. I ultimately chose this one hoping for a lighter option that still provided sufficient support for my rifles. While the construction seemed solid, I was somewhat concerned about the level of firmness, as the user feedback I reviewed noted it could use more filler.
My initial excitement was tempered by a slight reservation regarding the fill volume, but I was eager to put it to the test and see if it could live up to its promise of stability. I was hoping for a versatile shooting rest that could improve my accuracy across various firearms and shooting positions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag at my local outdoor shooting range, primarily using it with a .223 AR-15 and a .308 bolt-action rifle. The weather was dry, with a slight breeze, providing typical shooting conditions. The bag was set up on a wooden shooting bench.
The bag provided a decent rest for the rifles. However, I quickly noticed that it wasn’t high enough to comfortably support my AR-15 when using its bipod, confirming the user feedback I had read. It required me to either remove the bipod or use an adjustable front rest in conjunction with the bag to achieve a proper shooting position.
The bag also seemed to compress more than I expected under the weight of the .308, leading to some initial instability. I found myself needing to readjust the rifle frequently to maintain a consistent point of aim. This suggested the need for more filler material, as the bag lacked the rigidity I was accustomed to.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag has held up reasonably well in terms of durability. There are no signs of tearing or seam separation, and the 600D nylon material remains intact. However, the compression issue has persisted.
The bag continues to compress significantly under heavier rifles, and I’ve found that it requires frequent fluffing and readjustment to maintain its shape. Cleaning has been relatively easy; I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust. Compared to my experiences with other bags, the Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag falls short in terms of initial stability due to its softer fill.
While the bag has proven durable, its performance hasn’t consistently met my expectations for providing a rock-solid shooting platform. The need for frequent adjustments and the lack of height for bipod-equipped rifles are significant drawbacks.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag
Specifications
The Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag is designed by Lyman and features a black color scheme. It is comprised of both a front and a rear bag.
The bag is made of heavy-duty, abrasion-resistant 600D nylon, with micro-suede padding where the rifle rests. It also includes a rubberized non-slip base for added stability and is filled with a ground plastic material. These specifications are intended to provide a durable, stable, and user-friendly shooting rest.
The choice of 600D nylon indicates a focus on abrasion resistance, ensuring the bag can withstand repeated use in outdoor environments. The rubberized base aims to prevent slippage on various surfaces, while the micro-suede padding protects the rifle’s finish. The ground plastic fill is intended to be lightweight yet capable of holding its shape, though my testing indicates it could benefit from being more densely packed.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag’s primary function is to provide a stable shooting platform, and it performs this task with mixed results. It offers a decent level of support for lighter rifles, such as .22s, but struggles with heavier firearms like .308s due to the compressibility of the fill.
One of its strengths is its portability, thanks to the lightweight fill material. However, a notable weakness is its lack of height, making it less suitable for rifles with bipods. While the bag is usable, it requires more frequent adjustments than I would prefer, and it does not consistently meet my expectations for a rock-solid rest.
It falls short of the ideal shooting rest, needing added height and a firmer structure.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag features a straightforward design with a focus on durability and user comfort. The 600D nylon construction feels robust, and the micro-suede padding is a nice touch that prevents scratches on the rifle.
The bag is relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport. However, the overall shape and fill density contribute to a somewhat less stable feel compared to heavier, more rigid bags. There is no significant learning curve; the bag is easy to use right out of the box.
The bag is easy to transport, but may need an upgrade to the current fill.
Durability & Maintenance
The 600D nylon construction suggests that the Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag is built to last. After several weeks of use, there are no signs of significant wear and tear.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional wiping down with a damp cloth. The bag appears to be relatively resistant to staining and dirt accumulation. Overall, the bag seems likely to hold up well under normal use, but its long-term durability will depend on how well the seams and fill material withstand continued compression.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag comes as a set of front and rear bags, with no additional accessories included. There are no specific customization options offered by Lyman for this product.
Given the bag’s straightforward design, there are limited options for aftermarket modifications. However, users could potentially add more fill material to increase the bag’s rigidity, but this would require carefully opening and resealing the bag, which could compromise its integrity.
Pros and Cons of Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag
Pros
- Durable construction with 600D nylon and micro-suede padding.
- Lightweight and portable due to the ground plastic fill.
- Non-slip rubberized base provides added stability on various surfaces.
- Simple and user-friendly design requires no learning curve.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of shooters.
## Cons
- Insufficient fill material leads to excessive compression and instability, especially with heavier rifles.
- Lack of height makes it unsuitable for rifles with bipods without additional support.
Who Should Buy Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag?
The Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag is perfect for casual shooters who primarily use lighter rifles, such as .22s, and who prioritize portability and affordability. It’s also a decent option for those who already own an adjustable front rest and need a simple rear bag for added support.
This product is not ideal for shooters who use heavier rifles or those who frequently shoot with bipods. Those looking for a rock-solid, highly stable shooting platform should consider alternatives with denser fill or adjustable height.
A must-have modification would be to add more fill material to improve the bag’s rigidity and stability.
Conclusion on Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag
The Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag offers a budget-friendly and portable solution for shooters seeking a basic level of support. However, its shortcomings in terms of fill density and height limit its versatility and overall effectiveness, especially for those using heavier rifles or bipods.
At a price of $53.79, the value proposition is somewhat justified, considering its durable construction and ease of use. However, potential buyers should be aware of its limitations and consider whether its performance aligns with their specific shooting needs.
While I appreciate its portability and build quality, I personally would not recommend the Lyman Crosshair Shooting Bag without reservation. Its lack of stability and height necessitates additional modifications or supplementary equipment to be truly effective. Ultimately, it’s a decent entry-level option, but serious shooters may want to invest in a more robust and adjustable shooting rest. Consider your firearm type and primary shooting style before purchasing.