There are different types of supports on the market intended to support your weapon and stabilize your movements when firing.
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When we are facing distant game and it seems to be dancing salsa in our riflescope because we are moving in all directions, we need a point of support. In many cases, a branch or fence post could do the trick, or you can simply lean against a tree. However, positioned in this way, we often find ourselves deprived of any object that could allow us to achieve our goals.
During a recent visit to the Canadian Tire specialized store in Saint-Eustache, specialist Richard Sicard presented me with various models.
Tripod
Photo provided by Patrick Campeau
All shooting sticks with three points of support have the common advantage of limiting unwanted movements from bottom to top, from left to right and from front to back. The Havoc Camo Tripod is made from lightweight aluminum and its total weight is only 25 ounces (744 gr). It is well suited for seated or kneeling shooting positions, as it extends from 20 to 40 in. Its patented Switcheroo system allows you to quickly change between an optical device and a weapon. With its 360-degree panoramic range of motion, the Nimrod can track game on the move. Its strap makes it easy to transport and its rubber handle ensures a good grip. Price: $149
Monopode
Photo provided by Patrick Campeau
The Excalibur company has marketed a very practical retractable rod called Cross-Stix. When extended, it goes from 22.25″ to 63.9″ in length. The U-shaped support allows you to support a crossbow as well as a rifle or an optical device. The three-legged folding foot increases its hold, even on a mesh hunting platform. Made from lightweight aluminum, it features a swivel ball joint to accommodate all shooting angles. The whole thing weighs less than 2 lbs. Price: $110
Bipode
Photo provided by Patrick Campeau
This tool limits unwanted movements from left to right, but not from front to back. The Primos Hunting company revolutionized the market a few years ago with its quick and smooth deployment system equipped with a lockable trigger allowing extension with one hand. The Trigger Stick Gen2 easily extends from 24″ to 61″. Its V-shaped support point rests on a 360-degree rotating base. Quiet, it has non-slip legs.
Prix : 75 $
Exceptional support
Photo provided by Patrick Campeau
Imagine all the advantages of the previous tripod, but with the added stability provided by a support that holds your rifle, shotgun or crossbow securely in place thanks to an adjustable vice. In fact, he literally holds the gun back. We no longer need to support her, not even partially. We can therefore aim in one direction and wait for the fateful moment. All that remains is to gently shoulder and pull the trigger. The BOGgear Deathgrip is available in various versions, including aluminum, as well as the ultimate, durable, lightweight and stable carbon fiber. They are equipped with a spirit level to guarantee the perfect inclination. The vice pivots easily on all axes. The extendable legs can be positioned at angles of 20, 45 and 85 degrees to accommodate all terrain shapes. Able to stretch up to 59 in., it weighs only 6.5 lbs. Price: $450
The high end
Photo provided by Patrick Campeau
All the other models I’ve introduced to you today are portable and can be easily carried in a backpack, on the shoulder with a carrying strap, or simply in one hand. Even though it only weighs 5.25 lbs, the next support that I present to you is more cumbersome to move, especially if you plan to do some fine hunting during your transits.
If you try your luck in a hide station in the form of a cabin or tent, or even just set back, you will be delighted with the stability of the Bog Fieldpod system. Whether rifle, rifle or crossbow, you can install your weapon on the upper plate at the height of the stock and barrel. There is therefore a real limitation in terms of involuntary movements during firing. The receiving part is fully adjustable vertically and horizontally. Your caliber can be placed without the risk of it tipping over or falling aside. Ranging from 20″ to 42″ tall, it’s perfect for those who spend long hours sitting on their butt.
Advice
What is great about all these products with adjustable legs is that it is possible to adjust their height as desired in order to perfectly match the shape of the terrain and thus be well level and above all easy.
A common mistake that many people make with single or double sticks is to hold the central shaft very tight with one hand, then the stock and trigger guard with the other. This inevitably has a negative effect on shooting. Everything must be maintained without pressure with a good grip and a good body position. You need to make sure you maximize your aiming angle. Then exhale the air from your lungs, hold your breath and pull the trigger within the next five seconds.
One of the worst blunders an amateur can make, with any shooting stick or even with a homemade or improvised support, is to lean directly on the barrel. It must be able to vibrate freely and return to its initial position afterwards. If you create a pressure point on a floating barrel when pressing, it will negatively affect the point of impact. Please note that there is no problem in leaning on the barrel, this part of the stock is designed for that.
If necessary, use an odorless lubricant to eliminate any squeek-squeek sounds that could frighten game. A washer of black tape, like that used by electricians, can sometimes limit or reduce certain noises or movements in certain parts.
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