5 Best Hunting Bipods for Every Hunter’s Needs (Summer 2022)
We've conducted the necessary research to determine which hunting bipods are the best, and we've ranked them according to their benefits and drawbacks.
A successful journalist and news reporter in the past, George is now focused on freelance work to be able to dedicate more time to the most important things in his life: family, friends, his dogs, and fishing.
John is an avid traveler, hiker, and RVer. Moreover, it seems like he knows everything when it comes to fishing and hunting: his father started sharing all the tips and tricks he knew when John was a kid.
Last updated: June 10, 2022
Outdoorsly is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process here
Hunting without a hunting bipod is a real mess. It is difficult to take aim and shoot accurately without a bipod. A hunting bipod will help you remain steady while taking your shot.
When considering best hunting bipods, there are several factors you’ll need to keep in mind. First, consider the type of terrain you’ll be using it on. If you’re only going to be using it on relatively flat ground, then you don’t necessarily need one with legs that can be independently adjusted to different angles. Second, think about the weight of your gun. If you have a lightweight rifle, then you can get away with a lighter and less expensive bipod. Finally, consider the height of the gun. Some bipods are adjustable, so you can use them with different-sized guns.
"With a wide height extension from 12″ to 25″, adjustable 3-piece legs, made from lightweight aluminum alloy and tempered spring steel, it has built-in swivels that compensate for uneven terrain."
"This bipod is easy to deploy with its legs extending from 6.3” to 10.3” in length, that stow neatly forward and snap down into place with one hand. Made of aluminum, steel, and polymer providing years of dependable performance."
"It is made of steel and aluminum, has a non-rust black anodized finish, and is lightweight, comes with a Picatinny adapter. It also has adjustable leg length with return springs."
"It attaches to almost any firearm with a sling swivel stud and is made from aluminum, features spring-loaded legs to get into position easily and a pivot to level your firearm."
The Harris 25 Series S Rotating Bipod is Editor’s Choice because it has a wide height extension, extending from 12″ to 25″ and it features fully adjustable 3-piece legs, making it ideal for use in a variety of firing positions. Additionally, the bipod is made from lightweight but strong aluminum alloy and tempered spring steel, making it durable enough to withstand the rigors of hunting. Furthermore, the bipod features built-in swivels that help compensate for uneven terrain, and comes with a sling swivel stud for attaching a sling. Finally, the bipod clamps to most Q.D. stud equipped bolt action rifles, making it a versatile and convenient option.
The Harris 25 Series S has a lot in common with the Harris 25 Series CS. They are identical in design and materials and will give you a nearly identical user experience. The only difference between the two bipods is their heights. The Harris 25 Series S extends from 11 inches to25 inches while the Harris S-25C extends from 13 ½ inches to 27 inches.
More features: adjustable friction knob, adjustable leg lengths in 0.5 in increments or a total of 7 positions
The Magpul Bipod is the best option with a low-profile design. Its legs extend four inches, from 6.3” to 10.3” in length which is ideal for prone hunting. It is quick and easy to deploy and adjust, with spring-tensioned legs that stow neatly forward and snap down into place with one hand. The mil-spec hard anodized 6061 T-6 aluminum, stainless steel internals, and injection-molded reinforced polymer provide years of dependable performance and dependability while also shaving weight. A glove-friendly knurled tool-less bipod locking knob between the extended legs allows for quick adjustments between shots and offers 50° of total tilt. The Magpul Bipod has a soft rubber bipod locking knob cap that provides a steady, non-marring forward rest while the bipod is folded.
The Magpul bipod is older than the Harris 25 series S, but both bipods are excellent performers. Since Magpul has been in the market longer, it makes it bipods with the hunter in mind. It is lighter in weight and doesn’t have the hard edges or corners that the Harris 25 series has. You can comfortably carry it on your back longer. If you need a lightweight low bipod? the Magpul bipod is a better option.
What are our favorite features?
Lightweight
No exposed springs
Easy to use
The legs fold up fast with push button retraction and will not collapse when loaded.
The CVLIFE 6-9 Inches Bipod Picatinny Bipod with Adapter is the best budget-friendly bipod on the market. It is made of hardened steel and aluminum, has a non-rust black anodized finish, and is lightweight. Additionally, it comes with a Picatinny adapter which allows it to be quickly attached or detached from the swivel stud. It also has adjustable leg length (5 settings) with return springs, meaning you can adjust the length to meet different needs when hunting. Finally, the high-quality rubber on the bottom of the legs makes the bipods shockproof and antiskid.
Magpul and Harris Model 25 Series S may have the heft of their reputation, but when it comes to hunting or traveling, weight matters more. The CVLIFE 6-9 Inches Bipod Picatinny Bipod is a better lightweight option. Its convenient features like a Picatinny adapter and external springs set it apart from the premium likes of Magpul and Harris. Though the latter have a more reliable build quality.
Why did it make our list?
External springs
High quality rubber on the bottom of the leg
Picatinny adapter included
Lightweight
What is not ideal about it?
The sling studs are bent to the left
The stock-pad protectors do not stay in position
The locking pin is pressed against a very thin plate.
More features: knurled knob, preloaded pan, and cant: 15 degrees, four different leg positions
The PSR Atlas Bipod is a Premium Pick because it is made from durable T6061 aluminum and features preloaded pan and cant adjustments, making it easy to get your rifle positioned perfectly for that perfect shot. The four-leg positions and Picatinny rail mount interface make this bipod versatile and durable, while the soft rubber feet provide stable footing on a variety of surfaces. With a height range of approximately 5-9 inches, the PSR Atlas Bipod is a great choice for shooters who want a high-quality bipod that can be used on any terrain.
The PSR Bipod is quite similar with the BT10 Bipod by Atlas. They have the same build quality and a nearly identical design. However, the PSR has non-rotating legs, pivot limiting bosses and stronger inner legs. The PSR is ideal for use in rough-and-tumble hunting situations, while the BT10 is perfect for bench or range use. Also, you would save some change with the BT10.
More features: soft rubber feet, non-marring padded base
The Caldwell XLA Pivot Model Bipod is an excellent choice for those looking for a quality bipod at an affordable price. This bipod attaches to almost any firearm with a sling swivel stud and is made from lightweight aluminum, making it quick and easy to deploy. The spring-loaded legs make it easy to get into position, and the padded base and soft rubber feet provide a stable and comfortable shooting experience. The pivot feature is also handy for quickly leveling your firearm. It compensates for terrain that is not level by up to 20 degrees. It is available in three different sizes.
The Caldwell XLA Pivot Model Bipod outdoes all the bipods on this list in offering the best value for money. It has a decent rugged build and equally impressive features like the high-end Harris 25 Series S, yet it is conveniently priced. It is the ultimate beginner option until you become a pro hunter to upgrade to a premium option like the PSR Atlas bipod.
What are our favorite features?
Offered in black and camo
Easy attachment
Quick deploy legs
Available in three sizes
What could be better?
It doesn't feel stable
The bottom pads are simply cheap and come off easily
The locking mechanism is misaligned, and it must be manually bumped to secure it
Things to Consider
A hunting bipod is a support device that helps to stabilize a rifle or other gun during shooting. It typically consists of two legs that can be extended and adjusted to different lengths, as well as a mount that attaches to the gun. Bipods can be used in a variety of situations, such as when hunting from a blind or tree stand, or when shooting at long range.
It can help in:
• reducing fatigue from holding the rifle steady for extended periods of time
• taking more accurate shots, since the rifle will not be moving around as much
• situations where the hunter needs to take quick, successive shots, as the bipod will help keep the rifle in roughly the same position.
Size
Consider the weight of the rifle, the height of the shooter, and the distance between the shooter and the target, when choosing the size of a bipod.
One thing to keep in mind when choosing a bipod is that taller bipods tend to be less stable than shorter ones. This is because the taller legs are more likely to flex under the weight of the gun. If you plan on taking long-range shots, you may want to consider a shorter bipod that can provide more stability.
Another factor to consider is the terrain you will be hunting in. If you are going to be hunting in rough terrain, a taller bipod may be necessary in order to get a clear shot. However, if you are hunting in relatively flat terrain, a shorter bipod should suffice.
It’s also possible that it’ll come down to personal preference, as well as your height and body type.
If you have a deep chest/upper body, using a 7-10″ bipod might be uncomfortable for you.
7-10” BIPODS
Ideal for prone shooting
Stable
Not for hunting in taller vegetation
Not for shooting steep uphill shots
10-14” BIPODS
For various hunting scenarios
For shooting in tall grass/sagebrush
A little less steady
12-27” BIPODS
For shooting in a seated position
For shooting in tall grass/sagebrush
Not for prone shooting
Not stable due to the height
Material
When it comes to choosing a hunting bipod, one of the most important factors to consider is the material it is made from.
Aluminum and steel are the two most common materials used in the construction of rifle bipods.
Aluminum is often chosen for its lightweight, while steel is prized for its durability.
Aluminum is also more prone to bending and breaking under heavy use than steel, making it less ideal for tactical or competitive shooters who might need to put their bipods through a lot of abuse.
Steel bipods are also generally more expensive than aluminum ones.
Settings
When you are looking for the best hunting bipod, you will want to consider the different settings that are available.
One setting is known as the panning setting. This is where the hunter can move the rifle from side to side in order to get a better shot at their target.
Another setting is known as the canting setting. This is where the hunter can tilt the rifle up or down in order to get a better shot at their target.
The last setting is known as the swivel setting. This is where the hunter can rotate the rifle in order to get a better shot at their target. Each of these settings has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important that you take the time to learn about each one before
Mounting Style
The most important factor to consider when choosing a hunting bipod is the mounting system. There are three different types of mounts: Picatinny rail, sling swivel stud, and Harris bipod adapter.
Picatinny rail: A Picatinny rail is a MIL-STD-1913 rail that is used on many modern firearms. It allows for the attachment of various accessories such as sights, scopes, and bipods.
Sling swivel stud: A sling swivel stud is a small metal stud that is typically threaded into the stock of a rifle. It allows for the attachment of a sling.
Harris bipod adapter: A Harris bipod adapter is a specialized mount that is designed to attach a Harris bipod to a Picatinny rail.
When choosing a hunting bipod, it is important to select the mount that is compatible with your firearm. For example, if you have a Picatinny rail, then you will need to choose a bipod that has a Picatinny rail mount. If you have a sling swivel stud, then you will need to choose a bipod that has a sling swivel stud mount.
Weight
The weight of a hunting bipod is important because it affects both the stability of the bipod and the ease with which you can carry it.
A bipod that is too light may not provide the stability you need, while a bipod that is too heavy can be difficult to carry. The best hunting bipods strike a balance between weight and stability.
Tips for Using a Hunting Bipod
When you first use a bipod, take your time to get used to how it feels. Practice setting it up and taking practice shots. The more comfortable you are with using a bipod, the better your results will be when using it in the field.
Whether you are using a bipod for deer hunting, varmint hunting, or big game hunting, there are some general tips that will help you make the most of this handy piece of equipment.
When setting up your bipod, make sure that it is securely attached to your rifle. There is nothing worse than taking a shot only to have your bipod come detached and send your rifle flying!
Extend the legs of your bipod fully before taking your shot. This will give you the most stability and reduce the likelihood of your rifle moving when you take your shot.
Take a few practice shots before heading out on your hunt. This will help you get a feel for how your bipod affects your shooting and will allow you to make any necessary adjustments before taking a shot at the game.
Equipment for Hunting
In addition to a hunting bipod, you will need a rifle and ammunition. You may also want to consider investing in scopes and binoculars to help improve your accuracy. If you haven’t got these accessories yet, you can check out the 10 best binoculars for hunting and the 5 best thermal scopes for hunting to make your hunting experience more successful.
Depending on the type of game you are hunting, you may also need additional gear, such as calls or decoys. Always check local regulations to make sure you are compliant with all laws before heading out on your hunt.
One common problem with bipods for hunting is that they can be difficult to set up and take down. Another common issue is that they can be unstable, which can make it difficult to take a shot. Additionally, they can be bulky and heavy, making them difficult to carry around. Finally, some bipods are not adjustable, which can limit your shooting options.
To keep your bipod in good condition, it is important to regularly clean and lubricate it. You can use a mild soap and water solution to clean the metal parts, and a light oil or lubricant to keep the moving parts working smoothly. It is also important to inspect your bipod regularly for any damage or wear.
There are a few things that you can use instead of bipods for hunting. Some people like to use shooting sticks, which are essentially two poles that you can rest your rifle on. Others like to use a sleeping bag or a blanket to create a makeshift rest.
If you haven’t found a nice sleeping bag yet, look through our 9 best sleeping bags under $100 to be ready for your hunting adventures.
Our Verdict
The Caldwell XLA Pivot Model Bipod is great for those looking for a quality bipod at an affordable price. It’s easy to deploy, has spring-loaded legs, and comes with a pivot feature that makes it easy to level your firearm on uneven terrain.
The PSR Atlas Bipod is an amazing choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, durable bipod that can be used on any terrain. With its four-leg positions and Picatinny rail mount interface, this bipod is easy to use, while the soft rubber feet provide stable footing on a variety of surfaces.
The Harris 25 Series S Rotating Bipod is one of the best hunting bipods thanks to its wide height extension, fully adjustable legs, and built-in swivels. Additionally, the bipod is made from durable materials and clamps to most Q.D. stud equipped bolt action rifles.
References
1.
Monopod, Bipod, Or Tripod? | Realtree Camo
You go to the range and practice off a bench rest. You put bullet after bullet into a nice, tight cluster at all your hunting distances. The reason why: Your gun is solid and stable. When your gun is strapped into a Lead Sled or rested on sandbags, human error is eliminated.
When you are hunting there will be times when you won’t have a gun rest and you will need to assume one of four different shooting positions, either prone, kneeling, sitting or standing. Many times visibility of the target will determine which position you adopt. Practice shooting from each of these positions.
