Hello folks,
I am writing today to ask about your preferences regarding the pressure of your cheek weld. What approach do you like, and does that change depending on whether you are shooting prone, from the bench, or off-hand?
My background in rifle shooting is limited, and I do most of my shooting off-hand an within 100 yards. I have always used quite a firm cheek weld so that the flesh of my cheek is compressed and significantly puckered on the comb, and with my cheek bone resting decisively against the stock. It has been my feeling that this firm cheek-weld assists me with more consistent eye placement.
However, I noticed today that one of my more experienced range buddies contacts the stock with his cheek lightly and with only slight distortion of his flesh. We got to talking about the subject, and he voiced the opinion that a gentle cheek weld helps him to stay relaxed on the gun and that he is weary of exerting significant pressure on the stock with his face. This was during rimfire shooting I should add, as I suspect his technique may lead to a bruised cheek under substantial recoil.
What do you like, and why? And does that change, based on the circumstances?
Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Best regards,
Ryan