PRS and other tri-pod manufacturers

[AEROMechanic]

Some users of these devices have said they've retired their bi-pods in favor of a tri-pod with some form of cradle. My question to those users is: How does a separate piece of equipment which I assume (because I've never handled one) weighs more than a bi-pod and takes up extra space in/on your pack/person an improvement? I can certainly see their strengths when taking shots while sitting or standing but prone? Wouldn't it be easier drop the rifle on a already deployed bi-pod or even just tossing your bag up front and using it as rest would be faster?

Larry A

 

[WyomingShooter]

Re: PRS and other tri-pod manufacturers

Larry - I'm about to buy a tripod and found plenty of good intel via this SH Google Search Engine. Best regards, ELN.

 

[Hogstooth]

Re: PRS and other tri-pod manufacturers

Not really retired, but if you have time and opportunity it makes sense to set up a better platform to shoot from via either pack or shooting platform.

The bipod is convienent but if you ran a test of shooting between a bipod and a pack or tripod I think you would find that the pack would win, tripod a close second, and bipod would be last.

I think that Lowlight should produce his next video comparing the three different systems and see what the results are!!

A pack or tripod you do not have any muscular tension of loading the bipod, you get to relax and let the rifle do the work for you. It is easier to also pan, tilt, and traverse using the tripod or pack, just a little more difficult with a bipod. There are several people who are extremely good working from a bipod, but there are those like me who grew up shooting from a pack and prefer that type of platform.

 

[magnum_99]

Re: PRS and other tri-pod manufacturers

Given the setup time, a tripod in front and shooting sticks under the butt is like having a bench in the field. If you might have a chance at a long range shot, then carrying both is worth it.

 

[BayouRobert]

Re: PRS and other tri-pod manufacturers

Unless you shoot an AR??? Loading the bipod seems such an important part of my precision AR shooting, especially with heavier recoiling AR's. That reciprocating mass gives me fits with my PRS tripods.

 

[lonely_wolf]

Re: PRS and other tri-pod manufacturers

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: LarryA</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Some users of these devices have said they've retired their bi-pods in favor of a tri-pod with some form of cradle. </div></div>

I'm one of those people.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: LarryA</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> My question to those users is: How does a separate piece of equipment which I assume (because I've never handled one) weighs more than a bi-pod and takes up extra space in/on your pack/person an improvement? </div></div>

I only see improvements.

I like to shoot as much as I can in gravel pits and fields. I find these areas more challenging and enjoyable than most ranges. When I started shooting in these types of locations, I found myself frequently removing my bipod. As you mentioned, it was always easier to set up position off a ruck or with my rear bag as a front rest. Grass, weeds, and rocks often made shooting fully prone with a bipod difficult.

As I spent more time walking and shooting in the filed, I realized how much I disliked the bipod. When hiking it sometimes caught on stuff and depending on how I carried the rifle, it could be uncomfortable or awkward. Left in my pack it was simply unnecessary weight since I wasn't using it.

While the ruck and rear bag had their place, elevated positions were often necessary and more comfortable. Bags were not always adequate rests for these positions. I began asking questions and came around to the tripod.

I received a medium PRS for Christmas and I haven't used my bipod since. Now, I can easily shoot any position from kneeling to prone without issue. It does take longer to setup than a bipod, but my experience has been that if I have the time to setup a position, than adjusting three legs isn't an issue anyway. It really isn't that difficult. The odd time I need a quick shot while hunting, I wouldn’t be using the tripod any more than a bipod anyway. Plus, no extra weight on the front of the rifle for offhand.

Weight wise, the PRS isn’t that much heavier than a Harris swivel with podloc. Considering the tripod's ability to adjust to various positions, I don't mind the ounce or too extra weight, anyway. It is small enough that when strapped to pack, I don’t even notice it.

I have been pleased with PRS' saddle. I find it much easier to control the rifle's recoil than with a bipod. I'm not always successful loading the bipod correctly on certain surfaces. This hasn't been an issue with the tripod. As I am more comfortable using the tripod, my groups are also more consistent.

I started a thread before Christmas asking about tripods:

http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Main=256771&Number=2943814

There was a lot of helpful information posted. I should have updated that tread with a post, as I have been very happy with the switch!

 

[LoneWolfUSMC]

Re: PRS and other tri-pod manufacturers

They are all tools to accomplish a task. Each have strengths and weaknesses.

When I buy a sledgehammer, I don't toss out my tack hammer.

 

[macman2564]

Re: PRS and other tri-pod manufacturers

I do not have a bipod any longer. I shoot only from my PRS tripod. Once you become proficient with the tripod it doesn't take much longer to get set up than it would a bipod. Plus, I can use it for any other position I desire. Sure it takes up a little room inside the bag but not if you strap it to the exterior. The PRS is super light and I can use it comfortably standing and I am 6'5". I also can use it for any weapon system I shoot. My precision bolt gun, AR's, whatever.

I only wish I would have used them long before I did.

 

[Driftwood]

Re: PRS and other tri-pod manufacturers

I just ordered my PRS tripod and saddle. PRS makes a great product and their service is outstanding. The tripod gives me more versatility on a non square range. They just don't trim the grass and bushes off the range to allow me to employ my bipod as I would like. The taller bipods are too tall for prone and a little too short for seated positions. I end up going to a slung position. Even with my TIS sling, I can only stay in that position for so long. The tripod is much more comfortable to use for long periods. I agree that its just a tool in the chest, but its a much more versatile tool than my bipod. I have found there is a definite learning curve. It's just like anything else, the more you practice with it the better you will be. My goal is to become more proficient with my sling as well as shooting off a tripod. They both seem to be more useful off the range.

 

[magnum_99]

Re: PRS and other tri-pod manufacturers

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: LoneWolfUSMC</div><div class="ubbcode-body">They are all tools to accomplish a task. Each have strengths and weaknesses.

When I buy a sledgehammer, I don't toss out my tack hammer. </div></div>

Exactly. Often, field shooting does not allow the use of a bipod, so sticks, tripods, tree trunks and deadfall, etc. become useful tools. Lots of ways to skin that cat.

 

[allghilliedup04]

Re: PRS and other tri-pod manufacturers

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: LoneWolfUSMC</div><div class="ubbcode-body">They are all tools to accomplish a task. Each have strengths and weaknesses.

When I buy a sledgehammer, I don't toss out my tack hammer. </div></div>

Well said