Recommendations for Spotting Scope Stand

[daved]

I'm upgrading my spotting scope and realize that I will also need something more appropriate to prone shooting than my small camera tripod. I've looked at various stands available that will allow a low position for prone as well as extensions for use when standing or seated at a bench (Creemoor, Freeland, Jarhead and Giraud). I'd appreciate any suggestions as to what features to look for as well as any specific recommendations.

Thanks,

Dave

 

[anarchist]

Dave,

I've been looking at the Ray-Vin, APO, and Tactical Tripod. I pulled the trigger on the TT and found it to be very well made and 1/2 the price of the APO. The Ray-Vin just doesn't seem ready for rough terrain. Probably better at Camp Perry. With the head inverted, the MK4 can get lower than I can. Check out tactical tripod.com

 

[daved]

Dave,

I've been looking at the Ray-Vin, APO, and Tactical Tripod. I pulled the trigger on the TT and found it to be very well made and 1/2 the price of the APO. The Ray-Vin just doesn't seem ready for rough terrain. Probably better at Camp Perry. With the head inverted, the MK4 can get lower than I can. Check out tactical tripod.com

Thanks for the info - looks like a good package!

 

[Six Feet Under]

How much you want to spend?

 

[daved]

How much you want to spend?

Basically what I need to allocate to get the features that are beneficial. I'll primarily be using it prone but also want to use it while sitting at a bench or standing when spotting. I'll probably being using it on ranges (some primitive) and not shlepping it in the field much if at all so the ultimate bullet-proof construction is not a high priority. Design, function, reliability all are factors.

 

[pmclaine]

Creedmoor is having a holiday package deal on an 82SV Kowa with accesories and a Polecat Stand with accesories. Its not best suited for field use but excellent for using at your typical range NRA match. I bought this set up two years ago and works great for the truck to firing line shooting I do. Price about $1390 IIRC.

It comes complete and will hold your scope from prone to offhand.

http://www.creedmoorsports.com/shop/Creedmoor_Kowa_Holiday_Scope_Package.html

 

[Six Feet Under]

Daved, on a cheaper end- check this link out. I have this tripod and it's nice for the money... It's not the best out there but it's nice for the money. There's a lot of reviews and videos on youtube. Shooting prone you can hang your spotter upside down from center post or the legs spread out..
The ravelli is a heavier tripod and good for the money. Bog pod is ok too. And of course manfrotto for $. Precision rifle solutions look nice. Just depends what you want t spend ..
Amazon.com: Ravelli APGL4 New Professional 70" Tripod with Adjustable Pistol Grip Head and Heavy Duty Carry Bag: Camera & Photo

 

[Bigwheels]

I sent my Vortex Viper XD back, & ordered a Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 20-60x80. It has all the bells and whistles, & was a little cheaper from optics planet. If it isn't better I'll just order another viper from cabelas. They dropped the price over $100 since I got mine.

 

[2_many_dogs]

I use the large tripod that PRS sells with their rifle saddles. Works prone thru high kneeling for me - above that and the small amount of leg wobble gets annoying. It does dual duty for me - if spotting, I can throw a mk4 on, and if shooting it serves as a rifle support.

 

[cjgemm]

I have one Of Jim Owens stands sitting in my basement that I would sell you for $100. It's a nice robust stand, kind of reminds me of a beefed up cymbal stand for a trap set.

That being said I think one of these will serve you just as well and most likely be whole lot more versatile.

Bogen - Camera Land NY
Bogen - Camera Land NY