How Stable Is Your Kneeling Position When Using A Roll?

by
posted on August 28, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
kneel_roll1.jpg

Above: Creedmoor Sports offers kneeling rolls in regular (left, $22) and deluxe versions ($27).

The most important feature of a kneeling roll is security―the roll should not move or lose its shape while in use. The best kneeling rolls are filled with wood shavings, straw, sawdust or rug and should not cause any unnecessary strain on the shooter.

The Kneeling Position
NRA Smallbore Rule 3.14.1 regulates the use of a kneeling roll. Rule 5.10 governs the kneeling position.


It is crucial to find a kneeling roll with the appropriate diameter in accordance to the shooter’s needs. While length of the roll will not affect a shooter’s position, a roll that is too thick will cause the shooter’s sight picture to be below the target, and a roll that is too thin will cause the sight picture to be above the target. Ideally, when a shooter is in position, he or she should be able to settle exactly into their point-of-aim without any major adjustments. Also, a roll that is not the correct diameter will keep the shooter from utilizing the shoe on the kneeling leg for proper stabilization.

When in the kneeling position, the weight distribution of the shooter should be evenly dispersed between the left foot, right knee, and the tip of the right foot, or instep, with the kneeling roll. If the weight is distributed evenly between these points the shooter should experience maximum stability. If there is added strain on the kneeling foot, then the diameter of the kneeling roll should be adjusted, or the shooter’s position should be reevaluated.

Latest

1 Natalia Siek Rangebag
1 Natalia Siek Rangebag

What’s In Your Range Bag, Natalia Siek?

NCAA Division I rifle athlete Natalia Siek shares her journey from first perfect 10 to international competition, plus the gear and mindset driving her success.

Six New Competition-Ready Optics for the 2026 Season

Six new optics from SHOT Show 2026 designed for competitive shooters, featuring quality glass, improved reticles and versatile mounting options across platforms.

SHOT Show 2026: Staccato HD C4X

Staccato’s HD C4X pairs a 4-inch compensated barrel with an aluminum frame, aiming to balance duty-grade shootability and everyday concealment in a compact 2011.

Benelli Updates Montefeltro Silver Semi-Automatic Shotgun Lineup

Benelli updates the Montefeltro Silver semi-auto for 2026 with engraved nickel receivers, AA walnut furniture, Inertia-Driven action and Crio chokes in 12- and 20-gauge models.

Winchester’s USA 250th Anniversary Ammo Puts History in a Box

At SHOT Show 2026, Winchester displayed its USA 250th Anniversary Commemorative ammo boxes with archive art and theme-matched loads in a limited run of 15,000.

WATCH: Fabarm Infinite RS Sporting

Fabarm’s Infinite RS modernizes the side‑by‑side with a quick‑release rib, competition fit and remarkable durability—see why in our on‑range video.



Get the best of Shooting Sports USA delivered to your inbox.