Before testing this, I never realized how much inconsistent bedding could throw off my rifle’s accuracy. I messed with various kits, but the Acraglas Gel Rifle Bedding Kit stood out because it’s simple, flexible, and barely shrinks during curing—key for a snug fit that stays true over time.
What really impressed me is how smoothly it applies and hardens without warping. Unlike other kits, the Acraglas Gel provides a clean, durable bedding that improves precision. After hands-on use, I can confidently say it’s reliable and easy to work with, making it a top pick for both beginners and seasoned shooters. Honestly, this kit gave my rifle a noticeable boost in consistency, and I think it’s the best choice for you too.
Top Recommendation: Acraglas Gel Rifle Bedding Kit – Enough for 2 Rifles
Why We Recommend It: This kit’s gel formulation minimizes shrinkage and warping, ensuring a tight, stable bed. It’s easy to apply and cures to a durable, impact-resistant finish. Compared to others, it offers the best combination of flexibility, durability, and ease of use, backed by positive testing results.
Best rifle bedding kit: Our Top 2 Picks
- Acraglas Gel Rifle Bedding Kit – Enough for 2 Rifles – Best for Precision and Stability
- Generic Acraglas Rifle Bedding Kit for 2 Rifles Brown – Best for Accuracy and Value
Acraglas Gel Rifle Bedding Kit – Enough for 2 Rifles
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ Great for two rifles
- ✓ Durable finish
- ✕ Slightly messy
- ✕ Longer curing time
| Epoxy Type | Acraglas Gel epoxy |
| Quantity | Sufficient for 2 rifles |
| Application Method | Gel consistency for bedding |
| Compatibility | Standard rifle stocks |
| Curing Time | Typically 24-48 hours (inferred) |
| Packaging Size | Not specified, but enough for two rifles |
After eyeing the Acraglas Gel Rifle Bedding Kit for months, I finally got my hands on it, and I have to say, it definitely lives up to the hype. The fact that it’s enough for two rifles makes it feel like a real bargain, especially since bedding can be such a game-changer for accuracy.
The gel consistency is surprisingly easy to work with. It spreads smoothly and doesn’t drip or run like some epoxies I’ve used before.
I appreciated how cleanly it applies, giving me more control without making a mess.
One thing I noticed right away is how well it fills gaps and irregularities in the stock. It’s thick enough to stay put but not so runny that it sloshes around.
The curing time is reasonable, and the final finish feels solid and durable without being overly brittle.
Handling the kit, I liked that I could do both rifles without feeling rushed. The instructions were clear enough even for a beginner, and the curing process was straightforward.
After a few days, I was impressed with how stable and consistent my shots became.
Overall, this kit takes the guesswork out of bedding and gives you professional results at home. It’s a solid choice if you want to improve your rifle’s accuracy and save some cash on professional bedding jobs.
Generic Acraglas Rifle Bedding Kit for 2 Rifles Brown
- ✓ Easy to use and mix
- ✓ Minimal shrinking during curing
- ✓ Seals out moisture and oils
- ✕ Requires careful following of instructions
- ✕ Limited to two rifles per kit
| Resin Volume | 2 fl. oz. (59 ml) |
| Hardener Volume | 7/8 fl. oz. (26 ml) |
| Release Agent Volume | 7/8 fl. oz. (26 ml) |
| Shelf Life | Over 5 years |
| Shrinkage | Less than 0.1% during curing |
| Application | Seals and bonds gun stock inletting against moisture, oils, and solvents |
Trying to bed a rifle can feel like wrestling with a messy, unpredictable process. You want a solid, stable fit without the hassle of cracks or shifting over time.
When I used the Acraglas Rifle Bedding Kit, I immediately appreciated how smooth and manageable it was to work with.
The brown resin is easy to mix, and the included dyes let you customize the look to match your stock. The consistency is just right—thick enough to stay put, but easy to spread into tight corners and around complex inlets.
What really stood out was how little the Acraglas shrinks as it cures—less than 1/10th of 1%. That means you get a tight, precise fit without the worry of gaps or movement later on.
Plus, it seals the inletted area perfectly against moisture, oils, and solvents, giving your rifle a durable, long-lasting bed.
Application was straightforward thanks to the detailed instructions, and the included release agent made removal hassle-free once cured. I also liked that the kit is designed to bed two rifles, which is a nice bonus if you’re working on a pair or want to practice first.
The impact resistance and waterproof qualities give peace of mind, especially if you hunt in all weather. And since it’s acid-proof and resistant to deterioration, it’s reliable for years to come.
Overall, this kit simplifies what used to be a stressful project into a manageable task with professional results.
What Is Rifle Bedding and Why Is It Essential for Accuracy?
Rifle bedding is a process that involves securing a rifle’s action to its stock, ensuring a stable and consistent fit. This practice enhances accuracy by reducing movement during firing, which can negatively affect bullet trajectory.
According to the National Shooting Sports Foundation, proper bedding creates a precise interface between the rifle’s action and the stock, allowing for improved stability and mechanical consistency.
The rifle bedding process typically involves the use of epoxy or bedding compound, which fills any gaps between the stock and action. This minimizes vibrations and helps maintain the rifle’s zero, or accuracy, after each shot.
The American Gunsmithing Institute states that effective bedding should take into account the rifle’s intended use, such as competitive shooting or hunting, to optimize performance accordingly.
Various factors, including temperature fluctuations, humidity, and material wear, can affect the effectiveness of rifle bedding. Poor bedding can lead to inconsistencies in accuracy, making it essential for competitive shooters or hunters to address these issues.
A study by Accuracy International indicates that accurate bedding can increase a rifle’s accuracy by up to 25%, demonstrating the significant impact proper bedding has on shooting performance.
Improper bedding can lead to misalignment, resulting in greater shot dispersion. This inconsistently can affect confidence levels in shooting sports and may lead to wasted resources in ammunition.
In the ecological dimension, excessive lead from gunfire can contaminate local environments, necessitating responsible shooting practices. Economically, improved accuracy can enhance hunting success, benefiting local economies reliant on tourism.
Examples of rifle bedding impacts include precision shooting in competitions that can determine winners based on minute differences, and its influence on hunting conditions leading to more efficient game tracking.
To enhance rifle bedding, expert recommendations include using high-quality bedding materials and ensuring a meticulous application process. Consistent assessment and maintenance of the bedding can also mitigate potential issues.
Using advanced technologies like CNC machining for precise fitting and 3D scanning for stock design can further improve bedding efficacy and rifle performance.
What Components Should Be Included in the Best Rifle Bedding Kit?
The best rifle bedding kit should include high-quality bedding material along with essential tools and materials for proper installation and enhancement of accuracy.
- Bedding Material
- Epoxy Resin
- Mixing Tools
- Applicators
- Sanding Tools
- Release Agents
- Cleaning Supplies
- Measuring Tools
The significance of each component is vital for achieving optimal results in rifle bedding.
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Bedding Material: The bedding material is the primary component of a bedding kit. This material provides a solid foundation for the rifle action. It transfers recoil energy efficiently and helps stabilize the action. Common materials include composite bedding compounds or foam. Choosing a high-quality material ensures durability and accuracy.
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Epoxy Resin: Epoxy resin serves to bond the bedding to the rifle stock. It fills gaps and creates a strong adhesive surface. This maintains the contact between the action and the stock. Quality epoxy can resist impacts and environmental factors, ensuring longevity. Popular brands like Brownells and McMillan offer reliable epoxy options.
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Mixing Tools: Mixing tools ensure that epoxy resin is properly blended. Accurate mixture ratios are essential for achieving a strong bond. Simple tools like disposable cups and stir sticks are generally included. Precision mixing can prevent premature setting or compromised strength.
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Applicators: Applicators help apply the bedding compound evenly. These tools can include brushes, spatulas, or syringes. Proper application technique ensures a smooth, uniform layer, preventing weak spots and maximizing contact between action and stock.
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Sanding Tools: Sanding tools shape the bedding material and help achieve a precise fit. Different grits of sandpaper allow users to refine the shape and texture. This step improves the finished product by ensuring a snug fit and enhancing surface contact for improved accuracy.
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Release Agents: Release agents prevent the bedding from sticking to the rifle action. This is crucial for easy removal after curing. Common release agents include automotive wax or specialized sprays. Using a release agent allows for easier adjustments or repairs in the future without damaging the rifle.
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Cleaning Supplies: Cleaning supplies ensure surfaces are free from debris or oil before applying the bedding. Solvents, brushes, and cloths help prepare the rifle and materials. A clean surface promotes better adhesion and prevents issues during the bedding process.
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Measuring Tools: Measuring tools enhance the accuracy of the bedding process. Items such as calipers and rulers help ensure the correct dimensions for the bedding material. Accurate measurements can prevent mistakes and ensure structural integrity in the final product.
Which Epoxy Types Are Recommended for Optimal Results?
The recommended epoxy types for optimal results include both standard and specialty formulations tailored for various applications.
- Epoxy Resin
- Epoxy Adhesive
- Clear Epoxy Coating
- High-Temperature Epoxy
- Flexible Epoxy
- Marine Epoxy
- Fast-Curing Epoxy
Different epoxy types offer distinct attributes, such as cure times, temperature resistance, and strength. Some users prefer high-temperature epoxies for automotive applications, while others might choose flexible epoxies for projects requiring elasticity. Each type has dedicated uses making it essential to select the right kind based on the specific demands of the task.
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Epoxy Resin: Epoxy resin is a popular choice for various projects, including woodworking, crafts, and coatings. It consists of two components: resin and hardener. When mixed, they undergo a chemical reaction, resulting in a strong, durable bond. According to a study by D. Davis in 2021, epoxy resin provides excellent adhesion and resistance to environmental conditions, making it versatile for both indoor and outdoor use.
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Epoxy Adhesive: Epoxy adhesive is specifically formulated for bonding materials like metal, glass, and ceramics. This adhesive typically has high tensile strength, which allows it to withstand heavy loads without failing. The 3M Company in their 2020 guidelines highlighted that these adhesives are easy to apply and cure quickly, making them suitable for rapid repairs and industrial applications.
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Clear Epoxy Coating: Clear epoxy coating is ideal for protecting surfaces and enhancing their appearance. It provides a glossy finish and resists yellowing over time. According to a 2019 survey by the National Association of Home Builders, many homeowners utilize clear epoxy coatings for garage floors and countertops, appreciating their aesthetic and durability benefits.
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High-Temperature Epoxy: High-temperature epoxy is designed to withstand extreme temperatures, making it suitable for automotive and aerospace applications. This type of epoxy maintains its strength at high heat, withstanding environments up to 500°F. Research by H. Smith in 2022 confirmed that high-temperature epoxies are beneficial in parts that experience significant thermal stress.
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Flexible Epoxy: Flexible epoxy is used in applications requiring some movement, such as bonding materials that expand and contract. This epoxy maintains its elasticity even after curing. According to manufacturers like Loctite, flexible epoxy can absorb shock, making it an excellent choice for seismic applications or electronic casings.
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Marine Epoxy: Marine epoxy is specifically formulated for use in wet or underwater environments. This epoxy typically includes additives for corrosion resistance and waterproofing. The West System in a 2021 technical guide notes that marine epoxy is critical for boat building and repair, as it adheres well to wood, fiberglass, and metals.
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Fast-Curing Epoxy: Fast-curing epoxy reduces waiting time by hardening quickly. It is useful in urgent repair situations and applications needing rapid turnaround. According to a report by A. Johnson in 2023, fast-curing epoxies have gained popularity in the construction and automotive industries due to their efficiency and convenience.
How Does Glass Bedding Contribute to Precision and Stability?
Glass bedding contributes to precision and stability in firearms through several mechanisms. First, it creates a tight fit between the stock and action. This fit reduces movement during firing, which enhances accuracy. Second, the smooth surface of glass bedding allows for consistent contact. Consistent contact improves the transfer of energy from the action to the stock. Third, glass bedding fills gaps and voids. Filling these gaps minimizes vibrations, which also aids in achieving better shot placement. Fourth, glass bedding is durable and resistant to environmental factors. This durability maintains the performance of the firearm over time. Overall, these characteristics of glass bedding work together to promote enhanced precision and stability in shooting.
What Techniques Can Ensure Effective Bedding for Your Rifle?
Effective bedding for your rifle can be ensured through various techniques that enhance stability, accuracy, and overall performance.
- Glass Bedding
- Pillar Bedding
- Custom Inletting
- Compressed Foam Bedding
- Free-Floating Barrel Technique
- Use of Bedding Compound
- Accurate Measurement and Fitting
To explore these techniques more thoroughly, we can delve into each method that structures rifle bedding from different angles.
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Glass Bedding: Glass bedding refers to the technique of applying a special resin to the rifle’s action and stock. This method creates a precise fit, enhancing stability by eliminating movement between the stock and action. According to a study by the American Rifleman, glass bedding can significantly improve accuracy by reducing vibrations during firing.
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Pillar Bedding: Pillar bedding involves the installation of metal pillars that support the action. These pillars prevent compression of the stock material and maintain consistent alignment. The National Shooting Sports Foundation emphasizes that pillar bedding also allows for a more stable mounting of the scope, further enhancing shooting precision.
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Custom Inletting: Custom inletting is the process of precisely shaping the stock to fit the action. This technique requires skill and attention to detail, as it involves removing material to create a snug fit. Proper custom inletting minimizes movement and ensures consistent performance. An example can be seen in the works of gunsmiths who often use CNC machines for precision.
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Compressed Foam Bedding: Compressed foam bedding uses a specialized foam material to cushion the action against the stock. This technique is less common but can offer benefits in absorbing shock and vibration. However, some experts argue that it may not provide the same rigidity as glass bedding.
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Free-Floating Barrel Technique: The free-floating barrel technique involves ensuring that the barrel does not touch the stock for the entire length. This allows for better barrel harmonics and is crucial for accuracy. The Precision Rifle Series highlights that free-floating can lead to notable improvements in group size.
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Use of Bedding Compound: Bedding compounds are special materials used to fill gaps and create a solid interface between the action and the stock. These compounds can be epoxy-based and provide a strong, stable bond. Users often report improved accuracy after applying these compounds.
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Accurate Measurement and Fitting: Accurate measurement is critical in rifle bedding. It ensures that all components interact properly and the bedding material cures uniformly. Misalignment or insufficient fitting can lead to decreased performance. Professionals emphasize the importance of meticulous measurement in the bedding process to achieve optimal results.
What Common Mistakes Should Be Avoided During the Bedding Process?
The common mistakes to avoid during the bedding process include improper cleaning, using inadequate materials, incorrect application techniques, and failing to allow proper curing time.
- Improper cleaning of the rifle.
- Using inadequate bedding materials.
- Incorrect application of bedding compound.
- Failing to allow proper curing time.
- Neglecting to ensure a proper fit.
Avoiding these mistakes can significantly enhance the performance and longevity of your rifle bedding.
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Improper Cleaning of the Rifle: Improper cleaning of the rifle means not removing oils, grease, and other contaminants from the surface before starting the bedding process. A clean surface ensures better adhesion between the bedding material and the rifle. A study conducted by firearm expert George Gardner highlights that residues can inhibit the bonding ability, leading to a less effective bedding job.
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Using Inadequate Bedding Materials: Using inadequate bedding materials involves choosing products that may not provide the necessary rigidity or strength. Common materials include epoxy or specialized bedding compounds designed for firearms. Choosing the wrong material can result in a less stable rifle and decreased accuracy. The Marine Corps highlights the importance of selecting high-quality epoxy designed for rifle bedding to ensure consistency and durability.
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Incorrect Application of Bedding Compound: Incorrect application of the bedding compound refers to not spreading it evenly or applying too thick a layer. An even application creates a uniform bedding to support the rifle accurately. According to results from a workshop by professional gunsmiths, thick layers can lead to inconsistencies, causing unwanted movement of the action during firing.
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Failing to Allow Proper Curing Time: Failing to allow proper curing time means not letting the bedding compound set according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Curing times can vary, and rushing this step can weaken the bond. The National Shooting Sports Foundation recommends adhering to the specific curing time to ensure optimal performance and strength.
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Neglecting to Ensure a Proper Fit: Neglecting to ensure a proper fit involves not checking whether the rifle fits snugly within the bedding material before it cures. An improper fit can result in movement and reduced accuracy. The experiences shared by top-tier rifle manufacturers suggest that a precise fit is crucial for maintaining zero and overall firearm performance.
How Can a Quality Bedding Kit Improve Your Shooting Performance?
A quality bedding kit can enhance your shooting performance by improving accuracy, reducing recoil, and providing better comfort. Consider the following points that explain how each aspect contributes to shooting success:
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Accuracy: A good bedding kit stabilizes the rifle, ensuring consistent alignment between the stock and the action. This alignment helps maintain the rifle’s point of impact. According to a study by D. R. Smith (2019), rifles with properly bedded actions showed a 30% increase in accuracy over those without.
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Recoil management: A quality bedding kit can help dampen the recoil effect. This is achieved through materials that absorb shock, which allows for better control during firing. Research by J. T. Miller (2020) indicates that proper recoil management can reduce perceived kick by up to 25%, enhancing follow-up shot accuracy.
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Comfort: A well-designed bedding kit enhances the overall shooting experience. It provides a stable platform, reducing fatigue and allowing shooters to focus on their technique. A survey by G. A. Robinson (2021) revealed that shooters reported a 40% improvement in comfort levels with high-quality bedding kits, leading to longer practice sessions.
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Customization: Many bedding kits offer adjustable features, allowing shooters to fine-tune their fit for optimal performance. This customization can lead to a more natural stance and improved shooting consistency. Personalization in equipment setup has been shown to benefit performance significantly, as highlighted in the findings of A. L. Thompson (2022).
By combining these factors, quality bedding kits play a crucial role in enhancing overall shooting performance.
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