Which of the standard rifle firing positions provides the least support?

The standing position provides the least support when firing a rifle because it relies solely on the shooter’s muscles to stabilize the weapon. In this position, the shooter has the most freedom of movement, which means there is a higher level of fatigue and difficulty in maintaining aim, especially during prolonged shooting. Without any rest or support from the ground or other surfaces, the upper body and arms have to work harder to keep the rifle steady.

In contrast, the prone position offers the most stability by allowing the shooter to lie flat on the ground, distributing their weight evenly and using the surface beneath them for full support. The sitting and kneeling positions also provide varying levels of support; sitting allows for a stable base with the legs forming a triangle, while kneeling offers a compromise between mobility and stability. Thus, among all these positions, standing is the least supportive for accurate shooting.