Catalyst Arms has released the Apex Bag Rider 2.0, an accessory designed to refine elevation control for shooters utilizing the Ruger Precision Rifle platform. This second-generation bag rider aims to shift the critical task of micro-elevation adjustments from the support hand to a mechanical ramp system, promising enhanced stability and repeatability for competitors.
The factory buttstock on the Ruger Precision Rifle features a bottom Picatinny rail. While robust for mounting accessories, this rail's narrow, slotted profile tends to dig into rear bags, hindering smooth elevation adjustments and making it an unsuitable riding surface. The Apex Bag Rider 2.0 directly addresses this by presenting a significantly wider contact area. This increased surface spreads the rifle's load more effectively across a rear bag, pack, or the support hand, facilitating smoother movement and reducing resistance.
Crafted as a molded polymer wedge, the Apex Bag Rider 2.0 boasts a narrowed profile and a re-engineered angle at its rear. Its design incorporates three relief cutouts running through the body, tapering to a distinct point. Operation is straightforward: sliding a rear bag toward the muzzle causes the ramp to lift the buttstock, while pulling the bag back allows the stock to settle. This method aims to offer a more consistent and less fatiguing alternative to manually squeezing and relaxing a rear bag during a long string of fire.
Installation of the Apex Bag Rider 2.0 is designed for simplicity, sliding directly over the RPR's factory bottom rail and securing with a single screw on its upper face. Catalyst Arms confirms that the rider is compatible with Gen 1 through Gen 3 Ruger Precision Rifles, covering both short-action and magnum-action configurations. While the unit attaches to a standard Picatinny rail, Catalyst Arms advises that its guaranteed fitment is limited to the specified RPR models, cautioning against assumptions of compatibility with other chassis systems.
For competitors in disciplines like the Precision Rifle Series and NRL22, efficient and precise height adjustments between targets are crucial for maintaining position and meeting par times. The Apex Bag Rider 2.0 offers a repeatable ramp system for re-indexing height, which can prove more consistent than relying solely on a support hand squeeze, especially under pressure. Its unobtrusive design ensures it does not protrude excessively, preventing snagging on slings or barricade edges, a significant consideration in dynamic stage design.
Beyond barricade work, prone competitors can also leverage the Apex Bag Rider 2.0. By allowing the stock to rest fully and stably on a rear bag, the accessory frees the shooter's support hand for other tasks, such as maintaining balance, manipulating controls, or simply relaxing. This removal of the support hand's constant engagement with the bag can also eliminate a potential source of movement or 'drift' between shots, contributing to greater shot-to-shot consistency.
The Catalyst Arms Apex Bag Rider 2.0 is available now for $44.95.
