"Practicality" of a Monopod?

[Wannashootit]

Could have posted this in the bolt gun forum as well, but since this relates to a specific "request" from my son for his .308 gasser...

I can see how a monopod would be advantageous when doing things like load workup with a crony, or zeroing an optic to help keep the ass end of the rifle mol stationary.

But beyond that, I can't see how it would be easier to use than a rear bag when shooting off a bench (or mat) with a bipod up front. Just seems it would be easier with a rear bag to make the minute elevation adjustments required for long-range shooting. I can't see how-even if you could "screw in" the monopod to precisely where you need it for one shot, how it would even be repeatable for the next.

What am I missing?

 

[wareagle700]

Given the choice between a monopod and bean bag, I'd take the bean bag just about every time. The only thing I can think of that the monopod offers is not having to carry a rear bag around with you. The monopod can be gripped with your support hand and used similar to a rear bag but IMO does not work as well. I would rather have a bean bag for load work up as well.

 

[1slow01z71]

Ive got a monopod I'll make you a deal on. Seriously, a quality rear bag is the way to go. My personal favorite for ARs is the triad wedge as it can be used under the grip at the thin end of the bag or stand it up on the fat end and its long enough to work under a MOE stock or be laid on the long flat side and work under my PRS. Its also not huge and has a loop on the end so you can attach it to your pack with a hook. Also I've found that the back of my hand works well under the grip rather than messing with the monopod.

 

[ckruse]

I use both. With the monopod folded up, the rear bag works the same way it did without, with most stocks. In a hasty situation, the monopod can be really handy, and if you lose/forget/misplace your bag, it's a lifesaver. I'll never get completely away from the bag, it's just too good. But the monopod has it's merits. I've got one on my Department bolt rifle, and on the JP LRP-07. CKruse

 

[samnev]

I bought an Accu-Shot monopod for my PRS stock and do not use it as I find a bean bag gives you a more stable support.

 

[bunsen27]

The biggest advantage the monopod has over a sand sock is that is affixed to the rifle and always there when you need it, not back in the truck or back on the last stage. There are two methods to running a pod: 1. have it locked out and adjust height by either rotating the pod or the quick knob. 2. running a longer pod unhinged and using it and your hand in conjunction similar to a sand sock.

I use the second method and buy the longest pod B&T offers. I've run pods on both my gas and bolt competition guns the past few years and had zero complaints. I actually feel the pods are faster to adjust and more versatile in a dynamic situation like competition.

Is one significantly better than the other, not really IMO, but most people will go with what they know which is a sand sock.


Lonewolf did a good video on mono-pods:

B&T Ind. Accu-Shot Precision Monopod Review on an Accuracy International AE MkII - YouTube

 

[The Gump]

My groups shot with mono pods and shooting sleds have always produced larger groups than off a loaded bipod and rear bag.

If you want it to stay with the gun D-Ring it to your sling.

 

[chevytruck_83]

Depends on your stock design. If the rear of your stock has a hook or doesn't ride bags well a monopod may work nicer. I personally like the feeling that it's a part of the gun and saves a lot of carry weight. A heavy bench rest gun with wide flat front clamped in a vise will produce great groups too but it may not appeal to everyone. Like ckruse said. The monopod folded up rides bags pretty well too. On my trg it actually improves the way it rides a bag.

 

[hotbrass]

Monopod works with bags and without. I think it is the best choice, and it is my choice. If you cant carry bags all the time, or in the field, you will still have a monopod for a good steady rest if needed.