How should the trigger pull of a target rifle used in the prone position compare to that of a hunting rifle?

In target shooting, especially when in the prone position, the trigger pull of a target rifle is often designed to be shorter and lighter compared to that of a hunting rifle. This is primarily because the goal in target shooting is to achieve precision and accuracy with minimal disturbance to the rifle's position when the trigger is pulled. A shorter trigger pull allows the shooter to maintain steadiness and focus on their sight picture without inducing unnecessary movement that could affect the shot placement.

Hunting rifles tend to have a slightly longer and heavier trigger pull. This design choice can help prevent accidental discharges in outdoor settings where quick reflexes may be necessary and could provide a more solid feel when making decisions in fast-moving scenarios. Moreover, hunting often involves engaging targets at varying distances and in different environments, where a heavier trigger might help in mitigating movement induced by fatigue or environmental factors.

In contrast, the nature of target shooting emphasizes control and precision, which aligns with the need for a shorter trigger pull. Therefore, the trigger pull of a target rifle used in the prone position is optimized to enhance accuracy, setting it apart from the specifications typically preferred in hunting rifles.