Caldwell Lead Sled 3 Rifle Shooting Rest Recoil Reducing Bench Rest
Heavy duty rifle zeroing rest – holds up to 100lb ballast
- Recoil reduction of up to 95% with added weight
- Adjustable weight tray for sandbags, lead shot or barbell plates
- Skeletonised non-marring front rest
- Rear cradle with Shock Eliminator recoil pad
- Fingertip elevation adjustment for precise aiming
- Non-slip rubber feet for bench stability
- Up to two 25 lb (11.3 kg) barbell plates
- Up to 100 lb (45 kg) of lead shot or sand
The Caldwell Lead Sled 3 is a recoil-reducing rifle shooting rest designed to provide a stable platform for zeroing scopes and bench shooting.
Using Caldwell’s proven Lead Sled recoil-reduction system, the rest holds the rifle securely while allowing additional weight to be added to the tray. When loaded with sandbags, lead shot or barbell plates, the sled can reduce felt recoil by up to 95%, helping keep the rifle stable and improving shot-to-shot consistency.
The rest features a skeletonised front support with non-marring surfaces to protect the rifle stock while maintaining a firm hold. At the rear, Caldwell’s Shock Eliminator Technology recoil pad helps absorb recoil energy while supporting the buttstock securely.
With fingertip elevation adjustment and a micro-adjustable rear support, the Lead Sled 3 allows precise aiming corrections during zeroing or accuracy testing.
The Lead Sled 3 is commonly used for:
-
Rifle scope zeroing
-
Bench shooting and accuracy testing
-
Ammunition or load development
-
Managing recoil from larger calibre rifles
Compared with simple shooting bags, a Lead Sled style rest offers:
-
Significant recoil reduction
-
Greater rifle stability
-
Fine elevation adjustment for precise aiming
-
Consistent rifle positioning during testing
This makes it particularly useful when setting up a rifle or evaluating ammunition performance.
-
Length: 27 in (68.6 cm)
-
Width: 12 in (30.5 cm)
-
Weight: approx. 15 lb (6.8 kg)
-
Recoil reduction of up to 95% with added weight
-
Adjustable weight tray for sandbags, lead shot or barbell plates
-
Skeletonised non-marring front rest
-
Rear cradle with Shock Eliminator recoil pad
-
Fingertip elevation adjustment for precise aiming
-
Non-slip rubber feet for bench stability
Weight tray capacity
-
Up to two 25 lb (11.3 kg) barbell plates
-
Up to 100 lb (45 kg) of lead shot or sand
What is the Caldwell Lead Sled 3 used for?
The Lead Sled 3 is designed for bench shooting and rifle setup, helping shooters stabilise the rifle while adjusting optics or testing accuracy.
Typical uses include:
-
Zeroing rifle scopes
-
Load development and ammunition testing
-
Benchrest shooting
-
Managing recoil from powerful rifles
How does the Lead Sled 3 reduce recoil?
The rest reduces recoil by combining:
-
a weighted steel frame
-
an adjustable weight tray
-
a Shock Eliminator recoil pad
When the tray is loaded with sandbags or weights, recoil energy is absorbed by the mass of the rest, helping reduce felt recoil by up to 95%.
What can the weight tray hold?
The adjustable tray can hold several types of weight:
-
25 lb (11.3 kg) barbell plates
-
sandbags
-
lead shot bags
It can support up to about 100 lb (45 kg) of ballast to maximise stability.
What rifles can be used with the Lead Sled 3?
The adjustable design allows it to support many rifle types including:
-
Air rifles
-
Rimfire rifles
-
Centre-fire hunting rifles
-
Magnum calibre rifles
It is commonly used when sighting-in hunting rifles or precision rifles at the range.
Is the Lead Sled 3 portable?
Yes. Compared with heavier sled models, the Lead Sled 3 weighs around 15 lb (6.8 kg) before adding ballast, making it easier to transport to and from the range.
What is the difference between the Lead Sled 3 and Lead Sled 4?
Both models provide recoil reduction and a weighted shooting platform.
-
Lead Sled 3: classic design widely used for sight-in and bench shooting.
-
Lead Sled 4: newer version with improved frame clearance and updated adjustments.
Tactical Scope Shipping Policy
Our aim is to ensure that your order arrives with you as soon as possible and in the safest, most cost-effective means.
Shipping charges may be subject to additional surcharges if out of area or over weight restrictions.
DPD SHIPMENTS REQUIRE THE CUSTOMER TO SHOW A PIN CODE ON DELIVERY – READ MORE: HERE
Note: The above DPD link is to our group partner site Optics Warehouse, with whom we share logistics and stock. Link opens in a new window.
Couriers
We use DPD, Royal Mail, TNT, and UPS courier services for all our UK and international orders. Once your order is dispatched, you will receive an email with your unique tracking number.
In-Store Items
These are items we have in stock and aim to dispatch within 1–2 working days. During busy periods, this may be delayed slightly. If you'd prefer to collect your item in person, please contact us in advance to arrange. Collection orders must be paid for beforehand.
Pre-Order Items
Pre-order items are typically out-of-stock or in limited supply. Purchasing a pre-order secures your item, and it will be dispatched within 24 hours of restock where possible. Check the product page for estimated restock dates. These dates may change, so staying in touch is advised.
International Delivery & Taxes
If your shipping address is outside the UK, you may incur import duties or taxes upon arrival in your country. These charges are your responsibility. Customs regulations vary, so please check with your local customs office. Some packages may be opened for inspection.
Need Help?
If you need assistance, call us at +44 (0)1803 611895 (Optics Warehouse) or email [email protected].
DPD Shipments & PIN Code Delivery
We have now introduced DPD Pin Code verification for all orders shipped via DPD. You will receive a PIN via email and text.
A valid email and mobile number must be provided at checkout. Emails will come from Riviera House 3PL. Please check spam/junk folders if not received.
Failure to present your PIN to the delivery driver will result in a failed delivery and rescheduling may be required.


