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

Ky WVU Collegiaterifle 2026 1
Ky WVU Collegiaterifle 2026 1

Collegiate Rifle: No. 2 WVU Defeats No. 1 Kentucky, Claims Third Straight GARC Title

No. 2 WVU outperforms No. 1 Kentucky by 10 in air rifle to overcome a five-point smallbore deficit, winning the GARC regular season title for the third consecutive year.

Milan Cortina 2026: Irwin Posts 17th-Fastest Course Time in Biathlon Women’s Pursuit

Deedra Irwin finished 35th in the women’s 10 km biathlon pursuit at Milan Cortina 2026 after qualifying with a clean shooting performance in Saturday’s sprint.

Collegiate Rifle: No. 14 Akron Falls in Heartbreaker to No. 16 Army

No. 16 Army edges No. 14 Akron 4706-4700. Natalia Siek sweeps top-gun honors on Senior Day as Zips post three 4700+ scores.

Blackjack: The New Rimfire and Air Gun Challenge Testing Marksmanship Skills

Blackjack, a new rimfire and air gun competition, challenges shooters with tiny steel plates, strategic scoring and multiple equipment divisions at 50 and 100 yards.

NRA, Iowa DNR Partner to Offer NRA Online Hunter Education Course

The NRA Online Hunter Education course is available in Iowa thanks to a collaboration with the state’s DNR, expanding certified online options while maintaining state oversight of hunter education.

Milan Cortina 2026: Campbell Wright Takes 12th in Men’s Biathlon Sprint, Eyes Pursuit Podium on Sunday

Campbell Wright finished 12th in the men’s 10 km sprint biathlon race at Milan Cortina 2026, positioning himself for a pursuit bid on Sunday.

Interests



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