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Monopod vs. Rear bag

Whit

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Nov 19, 2009
600
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Ohio
I was wandering if there is a advantage of using a monopod vs. rear bag? I have never used a monopod but was looking at getting one. What is everyones opinion?
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

My Barrett 98 Bravo came with a rear monopod and personally, I didn't like it at all. The rear bag feels more solid to me. The monopod felt like the rear of the rifle was on stilts or something.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

Monopod, especially Accushot.

Weak side hand, thumb and forefinger, steers the rifle, adjusts the elevation, and pushes the rifle butt into the shoulder.

Works for me anyhow. Bench or prone.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

Thanks for the replies.

Michael, by the way I received my Viper Skins and I love them. They look great.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

To me monopod is more convenient and more stable (less of shooter-induced fluctuation). Plus - monopod is always there. Rear bag could be faster. For me it's monopod all the way.

<span style="font-style: italic">Edit: I use AccuShot monopod on AICS, and DTA monopod on DTA (but of course
smile.gif
). I find both to be excellent. I used to strongly prefer AccuShot version of monopod (great job, Kasey!) - but now that I've got more experience and understanding of how DTA monopod should be used, I'm getting great results with it. Great job, DTA!! My AICS now seldom leaves the storage.</span>
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

personally, bag. but i do see the argument of being able to first adjust the monopod, then use the hand to hold the stock - which is a bit harder with the bag.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

I am biased.

A properly designed monopod, when used by someone that understand it's function and application will see the monopod has benefits the beanbag cannot offer.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

I was looking at a accushot monopod.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

+1 for accushot monopod. More stable faster to adjust and lighter than a rear bag.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

I have used both, and both have advantages in certain situations.

If you are shooting static off a bench a monopod works extremely well. If can give you a very fine, repeatable adjustment.

On spongy/nasty ground the bag has an advantage.

A lot of it is going to be personal preference and practice in order to get the most out of either.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

I have used both an Accushot and a bag.

One weakness of the Accushot is that at least on my setup (OBR with a CTR & POD) it is a little wobbly when you have to dial it up, not bad but not quite as steady as I found for a bag.

The real weakness of a monopod is that they are illegal if you plan to shoot F-TR class since only a bag is allowed in the rear.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: whit</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Thanks for the replies.

Michael, by the way I received my Viper Skins and I love them. They look great. </div></div>

Glad to hear it! Btw- if you want we can cut your rear skins to fit the AICS AccuShot monopod if you decide to go that route. The AccuShot is the BEST monopod out there and give you a rock solid platform.

Here is one that we cut for one of my sticks:

260-1.jpg


Rifle4.jpg
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

I think both have advantages and disadvantages. I think for a single shot off a firm platform, the monopod is the way to go. You can adjust it just right and its stiff and doesn't budge with time or fatigue. The downsides are that its slower to readjust after a shot, and there can be a 'rickety' feel to it.

The bag is nice because its infinitely adjustable and quick to readjust after a shot. However you do have to keep a firm grip on it and depending how much squeeze is required for the shot. Its also a separate component. Whereas the pod is always on the rifle. I find I can have a better grip on the rifle with the pod also.

Rich
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

Use both and decide on which based on where I'm shooting from.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

Some very key points have been made here on the use and application of a monopod by fellow members. to see the level of understanding growing is refreshing. We will be doing a video demonstrating the use and application of the monopod.

To be clear, the monopod is not for everybody, for whatever reason, it simply does not fit in some shooting styles.

Regarding F-class, that is a fact, no rear monopods for F-class. So one could argue monopods are an un-fair advantage.... but honestly, I believe the same level of accuracy is possible with either method and neither in of itself, constitutes accuracy success at the range. (as a side note, I suggested to a gentleman that has something to do with making the F-class rules that having a weight limit for ALL gear taken to the line made better sense than current rules. That was 5 years ago...
smile.gif
)
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

FWIW, I still use my monopod but would be very interested a video demo on the use and application of the monopod.

My own take on the use of monopod for F-class is that I agree with you i.e. the same level of accuracy is possible using a monopod and bag.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

As stated previously both have advantages and disadvantages. I've always believed in the using the best tool for a specific task when possible. Neither does everything perfect, but both do many things extremely well.

For bench work I tend to favor a bag for it's rock solid stability and adjustability. For everything else I use my Accu-shot mono-pod becasue it's afixed to my PRS stock.
smile.gif


Where it shines is at rapid target transitions in a competition setting. The coarse adjustment via the button and fine adjustment by twisting it; is really quick to set and fine tune. I also like that it's attached to the rifle so it's one less thing I have to remember to pack for a match or retrieve after a stage. I have the BT13-QK and have found it to be the proper height for 98% of the situations I've encountered. I can think of one instance where the monopod was too short so I just gripped it lower and used my fist to make up the difference. In another instance the monopod was too long so quickly collapsed it and used my hand/fist. All in all a great piece of kit for a PRS stock on an AR platform rifle! YMMV based on the type of shooting you normally do.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

I am interested in seeing a video too. I don't shoot F-Class either. It will be used (if I get it) on my 338 Lapua. I just don't want to get it and not like it. I also want the Atlas V10 bipod but I am going to have to wait for it
wink.gif
. I just want to know what others thoughts are on them.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

I don't even know how to use a monopod. how do you adjust T&E with a monopod on the go without having to move the rifle or dial the knob to adjust height on a monopod?

rear bag is easy. put the rifle on it and squeeze.

I need a video of how a accushot works, I can see for load development it can be better because it's probably more stable

and can you install a sling to the accushot monopod if you use the stud version?
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

damn I just measured my B&C A2 and with the Atlas bipod fully extended (how I shoot) I have a 6" distance from floor to swivel stud. I would need their longest one... Doesn't seem right.

or is it?

you guys make me wanna get it now. lol
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: LCJones</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Monopod, especially Accushot.

Weak side hand, thumb and forefinger, steers the rifle, adjusts the elevation, and pushes the rifle butt into the shoulder.

Works for me anyhow. Bench or prone. </div></div>

Strange - i found the monopod obtrusive to my support hand. Couldnt stand the thing so i built some sand socks out of bean bag filler.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

Support hand stays on knob/handle while acquiring and firing.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

You want both. Having the accushot doesn't negate the use of a bag. Honestly a rear bag is way faster to the point that I use it almost exclusively in competition. On uneven ground or softer soil the monopod is hard to get repeatably dialed in, however when you have all the time in the world to make a shot, ie load devel., etc., the monopod shines. Like I said, you can have both, I simply fold up the pod when not in use and it doubles as a nice bag bar.
 
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Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: taseal</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I don't even know how to use a monopod. how do you adjust T&E with a monopod on the go without having to move the rifle or dial the knob to adjust height on a monopod?

rear bag is easy. put the rifle on it and squeeze.

I need a video of how a accushot works, I can see for load development it can be better because it's probably more stable

and can you install a sling to the accushot monopod if you use the stud version? </div></div>

Unless you have a LOT of extra padding, you are probably running the rifle too high. I most often shoot on level ground with the Atlas legs fully collapsed. This is while installed on the AI Spigot which actually puts it closer to the bore than most of the other mounting methods.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

So is there clarity here?
For example, an accushot model for the Harris 6-9, then perhaps a separate model for a bipod that goes to 13-14"...?
Or is one going to cover me for 6-14"?

I ask because I would like one for stability on long range prone coyote shots, but do also shoot prone at the range, so my height adjusts that much depending upon terrain/use.

Will these attach to a choate tactical stock?
I appreciate the candor gentlemen
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

calling4life, like the 2 separate bipod heights you are referring to, there is not a one size fit all monopod.

HOWEVER, you can use the monopod leg like a lever, pivoting it front to back to raise or lower the POA, so this allows you to get lower, then you can grab the leg with thumb, index and middle fingers and let the rest get under the knob to add height. We'll cover this in the video as well as how the above pivoting method is fast no matter the surface shooting from.

"I don't even know how to use a monopod. how do you adjust T&E with a monopod on the go without having to move the rifle or dial the knob to adjust height on a monopod?"

You use it as a handle on the rifle for the "T" and pivoting it front to back for the "E" this will become a fluid and controllable fast motion from one target to another. Driving to target with off hand firing with trigger hand.

And as a side note, members of 5th group liked our monopods, but they were too short to use the above method (which to my knowledge they discovered) with their SR25's and requested a longer version. We gladly obliged them and the next part number for us was 05, so it became the BT05, thus the connection will always be part of our history.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

So is there a better to have it and not need it, then need it and not have it dynamic here?

If you use your hand to angle the monopod for height adjustment, wouldn't it be best to buy the longest, have that length if I need it while out in the field, then when I'm at the range just angle it with my off hand to adjust height down to what I need??
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

at the end, everyone has to make his/her own experience.

all we can do is provide ideas/opinions and help you along. what really will work for you, at the end, only you can figure out.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

Depends on the bag and the situation I like bags but in the field carrying them they can be a but on the heavy side think a monopod is better then nothing but off a bench bag anyday allows for better tracking IMO but I also like a front rest over a bipod so it's gonna be interesting with the new Sinclair f-class bipod but anyway I'd go rear bag unless you carrying the gun around I like their stability monopods are a bit flimsy to me but their better then nothing
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

Depends on the bag and the situation I like bags but in the field carrying them they can be a but on the heavy side think a monopod is better then nothing but off a bench bag anyday allows for better tracking IMO but I also like a front rest over a bipod so it's gonna be interesting with the new Sinclair f-class bipod but anyway I'd go rear bag unless you carrying the gun around I like their stability monopods are a bit flimsy to me but their better then nothing
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

calling4life, on the "need" the monopod, being attached, was designed to replace the "need" to carry a beanbag and eliminates the possibility of forgetting or losing the bag.

Regarding which size, you have to determine which will best fit your shooting style by observing your needs while in the field. But your observation seems to be on track.

What really needs to be the focus is what position can I get into to get the most stable sight picture of the target. NOT I want to use "X" to make the shot. (The exception is in the game fields. One can determine if shooting Prairie Dogs the prone position is a good choice. Coyotes, sitting seems logical so a taller front support makes sense.)

Big Cal, I'll suggest that because a monopod is mechanically attached to the rifle, it takes half the effort to track targets over a beanbag whose relationship to the stock must be maintained by the shooter.

If properly installed the Accu-Shot brand of monopod is not at all "flimsy". We need to do a better job of demonstrating the proper installation and use which we hope to do in the video.

But the thought of a flimsy piece of gear is "better than nothing" is contrary to my thoughts. Kinda makes think of carrying a folding knife that's rusted shut.... I'd rather depend on my fist as was suggested above than try to use something that had a "known" fault of being "flimsy".
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

Has anyone put a monopod on their gas gun? I took it off of my bolt gun because I think I prefer the bag.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

I prefer the rear bag but then again I have never used a mono pod. When I first bought my gun I didn't own a bi pod and shot my groupings with a front and rear bag. They required much less skill on my part to have 1 ragged hole groups at 100 yards. Now that I have a bipod and rear bag it takes more skill on my end. A mono pod seems like it would be more accurate because you remove human error from the equation but it seems like it would be slower at variable distance shots.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

my recommendation would be to have both that way for fully extended bipod shots put the bag under monopod. plus a folded monopod rides a bag just fine, however if you forget bag at least you have a monopod.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

Kasey when I say track I mean slide through the bag under recoil not acquiring the target which a monopod I feel has trouble sliding along rough ground in the field but this also depends on if you free recoil or hold your rifle tight
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

I've gotten used to the bag. Like the adjustments and ability to reacquire faster, imo. Only tried one monopod, didn't take.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

Big Cal - I think I am following you now and that seems like it would be an issue for free recoil, not for the hold hard style. But by wrapping your off hand around the monopod leg so the base or heel of your hand become a "interface" between the monopod and surface you are shooting off aids in tracking/recoil consistency.

And regarding "faster" when does the clock start? After you are all set up and fired the first shot? Or when getting into position? Either way, approached with an open mind and given a chance the monopod can become a viable component to your system. I hope the video will help demonstrate this.
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

Love the quick adjust accushot, but in all honesty I'v been in several hunting situations where it did more harm than good(mostly on the hard ups'n downs) but fortunately it folds down for convenience. Great on the bench!
 
Re: Monopod vs. Rear bag

I'd recommend both. I use the bag with my left hand (right hand on trigger) when I am on prone to provide extra stability in addition to monopod. You'll see that you can and should use both in concert.
 
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