Cocking Technique for a Newbie

Misny · Post by **Misny** » Wed Jul 30, 2008 12:07 pm

Ok, I got a FWB 601 air rifle. I've tried it out on my home range. I've tried resting it on my stand and cocking with my (shooting) right hand. I've tried laying it on its side and cocking it with my left hand. I read in the instructions not to leave it on a stand and cock it, because it can fall off. What is the prefered technique which still allows me to stay in my position?

pdeal · Post by **pdeal** » Wed Jul 30, 2008 4:54 pm

Maybe someone who used one more than I did will give you better advice but when i had my 600 I used to put the butt against my hip I think and cock it. I don't know that there is a real good way to do it while in position. If you think about it cocking the rifle disrupts your position pretty badly anyway so I don't think I would worry about breaking postion to cock the rifle. Just find the way to do it that gives you the least effort.

Westy · Post by **Westy** » Wed Jul 30, 2008 5:49 pm

Use a chair to rest it on when cocking it. Place the chair close enough to your position so that you can rest the butt of the rifle on it.
This is what I used to do when I had a crank and what members of my club continue to do.
If it works for you great, but if you find out a better way let me know and ill tell the shooters at my club about it.

Misny · Post by **Misny** » Wed Jul 30, 2008 7:31 pm

Thanks, that gives me some ideas. I'm right-handed. Which hand should I use to cock the air rifle, or doesn't it matter?

RobStubbs · Post by **RobStubbs** » Thu Jul 31, 2008 2:06 am

Misny wrote:Thanks, that gives me some ideas. I'm right-handed. Which hand should I use to cock the air rifle, or doesn't it matter?

I always use my left hand - but use whatever feels best for you.

Rob.

Misny · Post by **Misny** » Thu Jul 31, 2008 8:26 am

Thanks Rob. I am recovering from an injury to the right arm, side and shoulder. I think, I'll try to go the left hand route. Now, when cocking, is it ok to let the charging handle slap back, or is it best to hold on to the handle and control it back into position?

RobStubbs · Post by **RobStubbs** » Thu Jul 31, 2008 10:35 am

Misny wrote:Thanks Rob. I am recovering from an injury to the right arm, side and shoulder. I think, I'll try to go the left hand route. Now, when cocking, is it ok to let the charging handle slap back, or is it best to hold on to the handle and control it back into position?

I'd always say slapping is bad, controlled closure is much better. Violent movements induce more vibration and stresses and are probably asking for trouble.

Rob.