using sand bags

[floydster]

I need some input on the proper use of sand bags for rest shooting my pistols.
I want to shoot for accuracy, i am working up some loads for my 38 Super and .45ACP.
Thanks for any input.
Floyd

[tomaz45]

As an instructor I would want you to achieve a proper 2 handed grip( put as much of YOU on the gun as possible), the brace that grip on the sandbag to establish a positive base. Don't rest the barrel on the sandbag, and remember "sight picture, trigger press".
tomaz45

[floydster]

tom,
Do I rest any part of the gun on the bags, like say the butt of the gun?
Or do I use the bags as a rest for my wrists and the pistol hanging over the
bags.
Thanks again, Floyd

[dakotasin]

there's a few different ways to do it. the way that i have been using recently is to rest the butt of the gun on the bag, firm grip w/ my strong hand, and a relaxed easy grip w/ my weak hand, and fire. this is my preferred method now because of ease and speed.

for semi-autos, i have had good luck resting the butt on a bag, and resting the frame on another bag, and use the same grip. if you pull this stunt w/ revolvers you'll wreck your bags. this is my preferred method for accuracy testing beyond 50 yards. it works well, just slower to do.

[tomaz45]

Sorry i didn't get back quicker. I prefer to rest my hands on the bag, thus creating a gun-hand-sandbag-table-ground link. If I can pocket my hands into the bag even better. The key is STABLE SIGHT PICTURE. Set up and experiment without ammo (DRY-Fire), and see what works best for you to achieve that undisturbed sight picture though trigger press and hammer fall. Be sure to hold full depression on the trigger after fall for a count or two and not be to quick to release the pressure on the trigger. Goog luck and good shooting.
Tom

[floydster]

Thanks guys for your input, I will use your info and I am sure it will help
me to achive what I want to do.
I did shoot off the bags today with very good results.
Thanks again, Floyd:)