Tripod setup for tactical events and particularly long range hunting

[Jedi]

Still researching options for my tripod upgrade
Must work from prone so min height should be 7-9"
IS 15' elevation enough to allow target engagement from 100 to 1k without adjusting tripod legs or otherwise disturbing shooting position beyond elevation adjustment via levelling base?

 

[Dragonfly77]

Have you taken a look at Mission Critical Designs new PRST Tripod?

http://stores.hogsaddle.com/prst-carbon-fiber-tripod/

 

[Jedi]

lot of tripods will work from prone thats mostly a non issue
ball head elevation range kinda is, hard mount kinda pointless if when prone you can not adjust for range via head without adjusting tripod
hopefully someone has gear on hand and provide info, prone adjustment target lock @ 100, what is max range? where does adjustment max out 600, 1k etc

 

[Shanerbanner10]

Still researching options for my tripod upgrade
Must work from prone so min height should be 7-9"
IS 15' elevation enough to allow target engagement from 100 to 1k without adjusting tripod legs or otherwise disturbing shooting position beyond elevation adjustment via levelling base?

I've easily shot prone from 100 yards to 1050 yards with a Feisol 3372 and RRS TA-U-LC with a hard mount. That is a leveling head. 15 degrees does not sound like much but for most of what you'll do it will be plenty. It was from a wooden deck. The height of the rifle was perfect. Recoil was different, had to get used to it, but it worked great.
I believe the RRS legs will do the same, I'm unsure of their minimum height though.
http://i1055.photobucket.com/albums/...ps2i0e3xve.jpg
<a href="http://s1055.photobucket.com/user/Shane_Keeley/media/IMG_2229_zps2i0e3xve.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1055.photobucket.com/albums/s502/Shane_Keeley/IMG_2229_zps2i0e3xve.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_2229_zps2i0e3xve.jpg"/></a>

 

[Jedi]

That is exactly the setup i,m looking at, quinky dink or what
perfect just didnt want to get shooting position set then have mess with tripod legs
perfect thnx

 

[ZenBiker990]

Any opinions on this?

 

[MPHReallyRightStuff]

That is exactly the setup i,m looking at, quinky dink or what
perfect just didnt want to get shooting position set then have mess with tripod legs
perfect thnx

Most of the tripods on the market will go to that position if they do not have a center column installed. Once ready you just have to pick it up and use the click stops to go higher. If you need to get in position higher than kneeling you will obviously then need to do some leg adjustments. That position pictured is the least structurally stable, meaning if your tripod is rated lower that is the position it will most likely break a piece during. Those leg joints at the apex could break or you could crack the actual apex depending on the design/brand/quality/etc..
Michael

 

[surprise]

I've easily shot prone from 100 yards to 1050 yards with a Feisol 3372 and RRS TA-U-LC with a hard mount. That is a leveling head. 15 degrees does not sound like much but for most of what you'll do it will be plenty. It was from a wooden deck. The height of the rifle was perfect. Recoil was different, had to get used to it, but it worked great.
I believe the RRS legs will do the same, I'm unsure of their minimum height though.
http://i1055.photobucket.com/albums/...ps2i0e3xve.jpg
<a href="http://s1055.photobucket.com/user/Shane_Keeley/media/IMG_2229_zps2i0e3xve.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1055.photobucket.com/albums/s502/Shane_Keeley/IMG_2229_zps2i0e3xve.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_2229_zps2i0e3xve.jpg"/></a>

So I was looking hard at the 3372 but an acquaintance of mine said he had a 72 and sold it for a 3342. I know there are 4 legs in the 42 and the diameter of the legs are a bit smaller but it is a little easier to pack and a little lighter..... Someone convince me either way. Intended use is PRS stye shooting/matches, limited hunting, and observation. It will likely be transported around a lot with some bino's... I will typically be carring it on my pack. I was very interested in a "rock" solid platform but after speaking with the 42 owner I don't want to over/under buy. An added note, I have not done any tripod shooting.

Thoughts?

 

[Sheldon N]

For what it's worth, the vast majority of my tripod use in PRS style competition comes as rear support and not shooting off the tripod. If the match and time limitations within the stage allow it, rear support is the next most stable option to prone IMO. With some practice you can get smooth and fast enough that the tripod is not an encumbrance but just part of the flow of shooting off a barricade or odd object.

Things that help me most with tripod rear support are having a tall tripod... gives more options for the height of barricade you can shoot off of and also gives a wider more stable footprint. Other things that help are having fewer leg locks to get in the way of your support hand, and simply having rigid legs with less lateral flex/bowing.

 

[Shanerbanner10]

So I was looking hard at the 3372 but an acquaintance of mine said he had a 72 and sold it for a 3342. I know there are 4 legs in the 42 and the diameter of the legs are a bit smaller but it is a little easier to pack and a little lighter..... Someone convince me either way. Intended use is PRS stye shooting/matches, limited hunting, and observation. It will likely be transported around a lot with some bino's... I will typically be carring it on my pack. I was very interested in a "rock" solid platform but after speaking with the 42 owner I don't want to over/under buy. An added note, I have not done any tripod shooting.

Thoughts?

Mr. Sheldon said it very well. For me, I got the 72 because it is beefier and I know it will take the abuse I give it "throwing" my stock into it for rear support from positional shooting. Weight is not something we want to carry around, but for stability purposes the heavier the better. Take a lighter smaller tripod and put it in the wind with a rifle on it and you'll quickly see that gusts of wind can take you off small targets, then take a large tripod like the Gitzo, Feisol 72 series, or RRS tripods and you'll notice that the carbon fiber, large legs and a little weight will make things very stable.

Definitely can't make the decision for ya but at the end of the day its 160$ difference for the two Feisol tripods (3372/3342). That difference is probably lost in selling the tripod anyway.

Sidenote: The 72 and 42 series both have the option of 3 or 4 leg sections. I'm honestly not sure what he first number stands for in the model number but the second number is the number of leg sections while the last 2 numbers are the series. So a 3442 would be a 4 leg section 42 series tripod, where as a 3372 is a 3 leg section 72 series, and so on. 3342= 3 leg section, 42 series. etc.etc. etc.

 

[bbowles]

Got my rrs setup. Love it. Wondering how u guys transport it. Attached to pack? Strapped on your back? Etc. Both in hunting and prs events. Thanks. Pics would be great.

 

[Shanerbanner10]

Got my rrs setup. Love it. Wondering how u guys transport it. Attached to pack? Strapped on your back? Etc. Both in hunting and prs events. Thanks. Pics would be great.

PRS Stuff I just throw it on my shoulder and walk it to the next stage. No need to push the legs back in.

 

[devldogs55]

Yep.. my 3342 has 3 leg sections, and it's stout enough for me. I probably would have gone with the 72, but this comes with me hunting.

 

[bbowles]

Shanerbanner, Did you attach a carrying strap to your tripod? I figured this what most do.

 

[MPHReallyRightStuff]

Shanerbanner, Did you attach a carrying strap to your tripod? I figured this what most do.

In the next few weeks I should have something new for you to try. It'll help you carry it bbowles!
Michael

 

[Blowby]

So far my carry method works for a long hike and running where you need it secure. Takes about 20-30 seconds to fold, collapse and strap on the side.
Just finished Sanitas trail this morning with the X3/Lowdrag and solid as can be.

 

[LawnMM]

Sunrise Tactical Tripod bag

https://www.instagram.com/p/BQqX5pMDCsW/

 

[bbowles]

Thx for some ideas. I want something that can secure it and get back out fairly quickly like for calling coyotes at multiple locations. Even for moving between stages at tactical competitions.

Michael, ​​
Will ​​​what u are working on help me for this?

 

[MPHReallyRightStuff]

Thx for some ideas. I want something that can secure it and get back out fairly quickly like for calling coyotes at multiple locations. Even for moving between stages at tactical competitions.

Michael, ​​
Will ​​​what u are working on help me for this?

What I am working on is mainly for personal carry, not pack carry, it could be suited for dual use if you use your imagination. As soon as it is almost available I will let you guys know. About a month time frame.
Michael

 

[knockemdown]

I'd be curious to see what you guys come up with.
As for coyote calling, we make upward of 18-20 stands a day during a contest. Although I haven't had a problem with carrying a lw tripod in hand, It'd be nice to have some type of tripod sling. Note: it'd hafta have a quick detach feature to keep from tangling up in the legs when deployed. Something retractable that clips on a leg might be interesting?

 

[MarinePMI]

What I am working on is mainly for personal carry, not pack carry, it could be suited for dual use if you use your imagination. As soon as it is almost available I will let you guys know. About a month time frame.
Michael

Michael,

Do you guys have a list of compatible plates for rifles/chassis/attachment systems? I just ordered a leveling plate (TA-U-LC), but I'll be if I can't figure out what plate I need to order for either an AI-AT, a KRG X-Ray chassis, or a Cadex. Appreciate any direction or help.

P.S. Is your RRS Acra plate spec releasable to the public? I could just mill a plate if I had that...

 

[MPHReallyRightStuff]

Michael,

Do you guys have a list of compatible plates for rifles/chassis/attachment systems? I just ordered a leveling plate (TA-U-LC), but I'll be if I can't figure out what plate I need to order for either an AI-AT, a KRG X-Ray chassis, or a Cadex. Appreciate any direction or help.

P.S. Is your RRS Acra plate spec releasable to the public? I could just mill a plate if I had that...

PM'ed you, not wanting to hijack thread.

 

[Shanerbanner10]

Shanerbanner, Did you attach a carrying strap to your tripod? I figured this what most do.

Nope, I literately just fold the legs in and toss it on my shoulder. Its usually less than 100 yards and its only 4-5 lbs so i barely notice it. If I have to carry it a ways I'll bring the legs in and throw 2 or 1 of the legs in the scabbard of my X3 Eberlestock pack. It'll wiggle around a little but its not bad at all. I'm sure itd be very easy to make a simple strap to carry it I just never mess with it.

 

[Triggs75]

So I have ordered the feisol 3372 and the TAULC leveling base should be getting in before the weekend. First tripod set up.

My my question is has anyone gotten the feisol short center column with hook to add weight/pack on it to the tripod? Or is the 3372 plenty stable enough already?

 

[Shanerbanner10]

So I have ordered the feisol 3372 and the TAULC leveling base should be getting in before the weekend. First tripod set up.

My my question is has anyone gotten the feisol short center column with hook to add weight/pack on it to the tripod? Or is the 3372 plenty stable enough already?

It comes with a small hook on the base of the center thingy. I have a piece 550 cord on that hook that I used to put a little weight on (just pull the tripod into the ground) in super windy conditions. RRS struggle with the same issue in windy condition. However with a rifle on either Feisol or RRS legs it's enough weight to keep it steady. Different story with just glass (binos/spotter).
By the way the wind I'm talking about is 25-30+ mph. Welcome to Oklahoma. For less than 20 mph absolutely should not issue.

Even with the short center column you may run into issues if you try to go prone with the Feisol 3372. I can verify tomorrow. I don't have it but I'll get a measurement of the current hook to the ground when laid flat for prone.

 

[locotrician]

Has anyone played with using a set of sticks or maybe even a monopod or hiking pole for rear support when shooting off a tripod in standing/kneeling/ sitting positions?

 

[Shanerbanner10]

Has anyone played with using a set of sticks or maybe even a monopod or hiking pole for rear support when shooting off a tripod in standing/kneeling/ sitting positions?

I have used a monopod just screwing around at the range. It can help, but with a direct mount to my rifle I have no problem hitting moa sized plates. For hunting I think it wouldn't be a terrible idea. Just not practical from competitions as it would take too long to set up for a singular shot.

 

[surprise]

On the old site I seem to remember a thread about someone that put a RRS TA-3 Leveling Base on a Feisol 3372. Do any of you recall that? I think I am going with the 3372 and was hoping a TA-3 would work instead of a TA-U.....

 

[Shanerbanner10]

On the old site I seem to remember a thread about someone that put a RRS TA-3 Leveling Base on a Feisol 3372. Do any of you recall that? I think I am going with the 3372 and was hoping a TA-3 would work instead of a TA-U.....

Doesn't work. The base for the 3372 is too small. You would need to machine it to make it work. The TA-U is 99% as good as the TA-3. One thing I like in particular about the ta-u is that you can adjust a how tight or loose you want it to lock up with a screw on the inside of the head. There is nothing bad about the TA-U in comparison to the TA-3.

 

[Jedi]

Still pondering some options, concept i,m working now and would seem to most versatile
joystick top married to tripod, top in question yields 100" of adjustment both vert and horz @ 100 yds
Hard mount once tripod is setup joystick top provides precise control of target acquisition
just gotta fig out mounting options and tripod height required with top installed, may even be able to utilze my trusty old silk tripod

 

[Shanerbanner10]

Still pondering some options, concept i,m working now and would seem to most versatile
joystick top married to tripod, top in question yields 100" of adjustment both vert and horz @ 100 yds
Hard mount once tripod is setup joystick top provides precise control of target acquisition
just gotta fig out mounting options and tripod height required with top installed, may even be able to utilze my trusty old silk tripod

Those Joysticks kinda suck, in my opinion. From a stability stand point the closer to the the ground the more stable it will be. When it comes to tripods, the closer you the can the weight to the base the more stable it will be. I'm messed with those Manfrotto type joystick things and just never really liked them. I found them more difficult to work with than a basic leveling head. I'd highly suggest finding someone with a leveling head with 15 or so degrees of tilt and seeing how much that really is. I think you'll be surprised at how much it moves.

 

[Shanerbanner10]

I am about to transfer over a post from Scout that had my review and some pictures of the Feisol 3372 and the RRS TA-U-LC. I will also post a quick youtube video that shows how quickly you can get in the RRS head with an Arca style plate mounted directly to the rifle. It will be in the equipment section shortly.

 

[jbrand11]

Use both the RRS and their leveling base w/ DTA attachment and the Feisol 3342 I got from Bison Tactical w/ the Feisol leveling base and a hog saddle. both are great tripods. The RRS is more stable but they both have served me well

 

[Jedi]

Hmm me thinks wrong joystick has been envisioned, not referring to camera eqipment
joystick top as used by bench rest shooters etc nowt to do with camera gear period
As always we are trying to adapt gear not ideally suited to sport, my concept marries proven bench rest tech to a tripod.
Now while that may sound pert easy, saying it and doing it however not so much
Not a camera guy so researching and specing mounting options is pita but not building to market just a tool for my use
If i had deep pockets and access to camera mounts to try at no charge .... not so unfortunately
Then there is gettng one off bottom plate made for top etc etc

 

[surprise]

So what plate would I use to fasten to the bottom of an AI 1.5 chassis. Assuming I'm using the universal leveling base from really right stuff with that quick clamp ?

 

[Conrad]

Any reason to not go for the 23 SOAR given you can save a lb in weight but it is still rated to 40lbs. Seems like a good way to go and only ~6" shorter than the 3 series. Thoughts?

 

[Sheldon N]

Any reason to not go for the 23 SOAR given you can save a lb in weight but it is still rated to 40lbs. Seems like a good way to go and only ~6" shorter than the 3 series. Thoughts?

You miss out on being able to use the TA-3 style leveling base and use the universal style leveling base instead.

If you shoot tripod rear support (grabbing one leg of the tripod) that missing 6" of height is crucial to be able to get the low standing barricade height easily.

 

[Conrad]

Thanks, very important info as I definitely want the leveling base!

 

[Jedi]

Another solution found looking for parts for other project
Feisol 3342
feisol lb 7567
acra qd plate
RRS pict rail adapter

like this more as lb 7567 sits down in tripod vs on top, replaces standard top.
all in plate rrs afapter etc $600, turn key solution

Using RRS gear same platform $1400, ta3 plus 3 series tripod etc

note
ideally you want prone height if your worried about shooting from prone to be in 7-9" range

3_legged_thing_leogrey_eclipse_leo_carbon_fiber, min height 4.75, max load 66lbs

really_right_stuff_ta_u_lc_leveling_base_universal_leveling_base_with.html

RRS pict adapter

not endorsing any product etc etc, just sharing what i found while reasearching options for other project

those wanting to shoot prone from platform, tripod min height is important

hope that helps or at least saves ya some coin

 

[Sheldon N]

Ask Shanerbanner10 how he feels about the Feisol leveling base.

 

[PresTex]

http://www.zrodelta.com/product/dclw-head-s/

Has anyone played with one these heads on their tripod setup?

Curious if this would be preferable to some of the options listed previously. Or if there are any issues others see with this system.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Shanerbanner10]

Ask Shanerbanner10 how he feels about the Feisol leveling base.

haha They are shit. They lock up as well as any of the leveling head, but they have zero fluidity. They either lock up solid or are completely loose.

 

[Fred @ Bison Tactical]

So far my carry method works for a long hike and running where you need it secure. Takes about 20-30 seconds to fold, collapse and strap on the side.
Just finished Sanitas trail this morning with the X3/Lowdrag and solid as can be.

Sanitas - are you in Boulder? If so give me a shout

 

[Fred @ Bison Tactical]

Has anyone played with using a set of sticks or maybe even a monopod or hiking pole for rear support when shooting off a tripod in standing/kneeling/ sitting positions?

Actually, I am pretty fast in this setup for kneeling. If you use the primos sticks that self assemble, this setup is almost as stable as prone. I stole the idea from Scott DeCapio - and a few other guys I have seen use it as well. Its also great for hunting.

 

[GrantB]

$400 for everything

 

[Sheldon N]

Nice! Love those old metal Gitzos, super solid though not the lightest.

You should check out the Really Right Stuff TA-3 head, it will drop right into your tripod and replace the whole top flat plate assembly. It's super slick and very stable, and the handle underneath is very user friendly and allows you to adjust from any direction without having to worry whether the handle is facing you properly on the left side or not.

 

[Sledge1]

$400 for everything

What pic clamp is that on top of your leveling head?

 

[GrantB]

There actually carbon fiber legs, weight is the same as the RRS stuff. The clamp and the cheese plate is made by small rig, they make a lot of camera rigs. I mount my rangefinder on the right side of the cheese plate so ti is stable and ready at all times for varmint hunting. The leveling base is fluid and super smooth even smother than RRS. I'm thinking of tryouts ng this clamp to see how well it works

 

[Sheldon N]

There actually carbon fiber legs, weight is the same as the RRS stuff. The clamp and the cheese plate is made by small rig, they make a lot of camera rigs.

Nice! Didn't realize those were carbon fiber. Which legset are you using?

That's a smoking deal for carbon fiber Gitzo's if you're only $400 into your setup. Cheapest I've seen Gitzo CF legs is around $300 for the older 1325. I've got a set of the 3530LS but they were more around $450 used.

 

[Sheldon N]

This is what I'm running.... Gitzo GT3530LS with RRS TA-3 head.

Next build is going to be based off a Manners carbon fiber stock with a RRS adapter plate that attaches to the Manners competition mini-chassis barricade stop receiver. Just need to get my barreled action finished. For now my current stock doesn't have a plate adapter so I just throw a GameChanger bag on top of the tripod head. It's actually impressive how well that works.