Every steady shot starts with something solid under the gun. Shooting supports come in a few main types, and each one fits a different style of shooting.
Tripods
Three legs, adjustable height, and the most stable platform for kneeling, seated and standing shots. Pair the legs with a saddle, clamp or ball head and a tripod handles rifles, binoculars, spotting scopes and cameras. The tradeoff is weight and setup time.
Bipods
Two legs that mount to the rifle itself, usually by Picatinny rail, M-LOK or sling stud. Bipods are quick, always with the rifle, and ideal for prone and bench shooting. They give little help when the shot is from a standing or sitting position.
Shooting sticks
Lightweight mono, bi or tri sticks that set up in seconds. Hunters love them for spot-and-stalk and predator calling where the next shot could come from any direction. They are less rigid than a full tripod, so expect a little more wobble.
Bags and rests
Bench bags and front rests are the simplest support of all. They stack well with a tripod or bipod for a solid rear support.
Setting up
- Level the head before clamping the rifle.
- Lock every leg section and check for slip.
- Hang a bag from the center hook to add weight.
- Load into the support lightly; do not muscle it.
- Check for wobble before every string of fire.
Next step: Tripod Heads and Saddles.
Shop tripods and supports
Affiliate links. See the Affiliate Disclosure.
