This late 80’s work by Glenn Newick is one of the only books available that breaks down the sport of benchrest shooting into its individual components. Not only are the mechanical aspects considered such as barrels, actions, stocks, and ammunition, but also there are separate sections on shooting a match, shooting in conditions, and many other topics. Techniques are covered as well as strategies to use during a match.
Accompanying the technical discussion, there are a fair number of photos and stories sharing some of the history about benchrest shooting. The photos are not the best quality, but they were taken by various shooters at events rather than professional photographers.
Since my experience is with the rimfire side of benchrest, I initially skimmed some sections of the book, such as case preparation and similar material, but took great time in reading the sections on shooting in the wind, mirage, and benchrest techniques. Those sections were very interesting and explained how just the smallest changes can have a big influence down range.
Overall the book does an excellent job in terms of laying out the sport of centerfire benchrest shooting, but the avid rimfire shooter will have to sift through the material to find the nuggets of information that will help them. It’s well written and obviously professionally edited and constructed. At just a bit over 200 pages, it does not contain everything I would have liked to see, but then very few books ever do.
Personally, I have read the book a few times, made notes, and now look back at it on occasion to double check new ideas. It’s worthy for any dedicated shooter’s library, and a good reference for benchrest shooting, but not a must have.”