Of the standard rifle-firing positions, offhand (standing) provides the least support for the shooter.
When firing from the offhand position, the shooter stands upright with no external support for the rifle other than their own body. The rifle is typically held with the buttstock against the shoulder, the support hand under the forearm of the rifle, and the dominant hand on the grip and trigger.
This position has several disadvantages that make it the least stable:
- The shooter's body forms a tall structure with a high center of gravity
- There are no points of contact with the ground except the feet
- Natural body movement and sway affect aim
- Muscle fatigue sets in quickly from holding the rifle's weight
- Breathing causes more noticeable movement in this position
By comparison, other positions like prone (lying flat), sitting, kneeling, or using supports like shooting sticks, bipods, or rests provide significantly more stability. These positions create more points of contact with the ground or other surfaces and lower the shooter's center of gravity, resulting in steadier aim and more accurate shots.
