Best is a relative term depending on who you talk to. I use a cheap Caldwell and have only one complaint, it's to low so I set it on a 2x10 platform. Other than that it works well. If your looking for a match rest, don't go cheap. For many years I used a 4x6 with sand bags made fron old jean legs.

I use a Caldwell but many folks like the Sinclair.

I prefer the Lead Slead, it was about $100 but its well worth the money

With ammo prices going up I like the idea of sighting in a weapon with fewer shots and then practicing without a rest.

Let me make a suggestion. You don't need even a cheap rest like I have, and I like my rest. What would serve you well is a 4x6 about 12" long laid on it's wide side. On top of that place a couple sand bags made from old jean's. Make two for the front and one to place under the butt stock to control the elevation and set the gun better. But, on one end of the bags, sew in velcro strips so you can empty the bags and carry them hunting with you. Then in the field, if need be, just fill the bags with the dirt at your feet and you have bags all the time! The cost is free and takes just a short while to make them.

Not a bad idea. You could always use the fishing pole rest trick too with a forked branch. I don't know how practical that would be though, but might work well.

I use a harris bipod that i can remove or put on in seconds if the need arises works great

Having never used a bi-pod, I will rely on what others that have say, who's opinions I trust. I understand that if they are set on a hard surface they have a tendicity to jump away. Similar to what would happen is you were to put the rifle on a rest with no soft support under it. Which is what you would be doing. The bi-pod is attcahed to the stock and with the legs on a hard surface react just as the stock being placed on a hard surface.

I use a Harris bipod on my rifles for hunting. I also practice with them.

There are some drawbacks to a bipod, but for hunting I think they are very good. I get a nice solid rest that allows me to make a clean shot.

CVC,

Have you shot with them off a hard surface, table top or maybe a rock, and then from soft dirt? Did you notice a change in point of impact between the two?

I've thought about a bi-pod several times but for me, I just don't want that thing hanging on my rifle. It's an old guy thing! My son has one.