How to Master the Kentucky Rest Shooting Technique

Most hunters practice and use variations of four basic shooting positions in the field: prone, sitting, kneeling and standing. But back in the 19th Century, the back position was also commonly used. (Research suggests this was also called the Creedmoor position; a version of it was later used by many handgun hunters, including Elmer Keith, and handgun silhouette shooters.)

It is an odd contortion. With a rifle, the shooter is supine, and the gun’s forend and barrel are rested along the length of his leg, without any support of the other hand (which may be used to brace the neck). The back rest offered much of the stability of a prone shooting position, while also allowing more ground clearance of the muzzle. One problem with using it today is that most rifles are shorter than they once were, and this rest can put the shooter’s foot dangerously out in front of the muzzle (handgun shooters like Keith bent their knee—more similar to what I’m about to describe—and used their leg as a post rest).

Still, the position isn’t obsolete. Some hunters—particularly squirrel hunters from Appalachia—use a version of this shooting position for shooting at extreme upward angles, like at squirrels high in hickory nut trees. Most of the time, a more comfortable way to rest the rifle is available, either by holding the forend against a tree trunk or by supporting it with shooting sticks. But not always. Shots at squirrels are usually too steep to take from a conventional sitting position, and I’ve yet to meet anyone who can consistently brain squirrels at 50 yards offhand. When shots are steep and there’s no other rest available, the “Kentucky Rest” works very well.

Simply lay flat on your back, as with a back rest, with your right knee bent slightly. Cross your left foot tightly over your right knee (if you shoot right-handed). Now shoulder the rifle, rest your left forearm against your left knee, and steady the rifle’s forend. Plant your right elbow on the ground, and you have multiple points of contact all along the rifle. Using your pack (if you carry one) as a neck rest definitely helps alleviate fatigue.

Try It Out

Some hunters are reluctant to try this rest, partly because it looks odd, and partly because the forest floor is crawling with ticks during early squirrel season. Yet, those who do try it are usually surprised at how easy and stable it is. Obviously, when you’re shooting rifle bullets into the air, it goes without saying to be aware of their trajectory should you miss.

---