- Thread starter Mindreader1
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Get what you pay for. The most expensive are also the lightest and most stable.
Define your price range and you will get reccomendations within that range.
Im fond of the Feisol with RRS leveling base. Its middle of the road price wise. RRS is going to be at the top end and there are several options sub $300.
Define your price range and you will get reccomendations within that range.
Im fond of the Feisol with RRS leveling base. Its middle of the road price wise. RRS is going to be at the top end and there are several options sub $300.
Hog saddles prst would be my choice honestly... not a rediculous price on them and they are designed with the precision rifle shooter in mind. Short center column for rapid height adjustments, lever locking legs, supports plenty of weight, carbon fiber to shave pounds.
Yikes didn't think these things would cost so much! Is there a reason they are that much? Sure there's quality, but it's a tripod? Don't see what kind of dazzle they can add for that. Sorry for my naive answers! 
The Slik 700 is a great, low cost option. You can find them for under $100. It's obviously not as light as a carbon fibre model but I have no issue lugging it around all day. I used to run a Manfrotto XproB 190 which is a bit lighter but not as sturdy, nor as high. Realistically you're still looking at around $300 for a good setup when you include a saddle and a good ballhead or levelling plate. If you look at the Hog Saddle website, there is a very good list of suitable tripods (of all budgets) and ballheads.
Here is an excellent thread detailing several of the options available:
https://www.snipershide.com/shootin...al-events-and-particularly-long-range-hunting
So on the high end RRS with leveling base you are looking at $1300 ish retail. Feisol 3372 with RRS leveling base around $800 ish.
Is there a difference absolutly if you are planning to shoot standing for sub moa accuracy. If you are shooting min of pig you can do fine with a tripod with more flex. Thats really what it boils down to is flex. The bigger tripods simply dont move they are rock solid.
Think its safe to say that more bad guys have been taken out by manfrotto 190/ hog saddle than any other rig out there. So they obviouly work in that application.
Really boils down to application and budget.
Be mindful of weight capacity and go as high as possible. Manfrotto's are rated around 15-16 lbs, very noticable difference next to Feisol rated at 55lb.
Is there a difference absolutly if you are planning to shoot standing for sub moa accuracy. If you are shooting min of pig you can do fine with a tripod with more flex. Thats really what it boils down to is flex. The bigger tripods simply dont move they are rock solid.
Think its safe to say that more bad guys have been taken out by manfrotto 190/ hog saddle than any other rig out there. So they obviouly work in that application.
Really boils down to application and budget.
Be mindful of weight capacity and go as high as possible. Manfrotto's are rated around 15-16 lbs, very noticable difference next to Feisol rated at 55lb.
SLIK 150 works well ...light weight stable enough for 10-12lb gun.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
You want something more stable, then get a fluid head with a mid size calumet or a manfrotto. Triclawps saddle is cheaper and works well.
http://www.triclawps.com/shop/
These folks are a Veteran owned company with a son recently commissioned in the USMC and a son in the Naval Academy
http://www.precisionriflesolutions.com/apps/webstore/
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
You want something more stable, then get a fluid head with a mid size calumet or a manfrotto. Triclawps saddle is cheaper and works well.
http://www.triclawps.com/shop/
These folks are a Veteran owned company with a son recently commissioned in the USMC and a son in the Naval Academy
http://www.precisionriflesolutions.com/apps/webstore/
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What does stability have to do with a fluid head? 15lb rated fluid head will not be more stable than a 30lb rated leveling base.
Am I missing something?
Am I missing something?
Is the slk link you sent for amazon supposed to be 4 lb load weight? My AR is def over that...
I run a Rem 700 ACC-SD in 308 in a MDT LSS Chassis or a AR15 in the MK12 type configuration on it and it supports them nicely. Granted it is at the edge of the ball head's limitation, but for lightweight you are going to have to "extend" it beyond its rating. If you want stable (but heavy ....6-7 lbs) go with the fluid head and manfrotto/calumet. The SLIK 150 is about 2.5 lbs . I use a QD rail attachment to keep the weight down and increase stability
Here is the Calumet tripod with a fluid head with the TriClawps saddle attached with a Rem Mod 7. The gun weighs 8 lbs and the tripod setup right at 7lbs....not good for humping, good for long range stability.
With the lightweight tripod, I will carry a super lightweight bipod to place under the stock to help stabilize my long range shots as it isn't quite as stable as the tripod in the pictures.....but it is 5 to 6 lbs lighter and much easier to hump. Here is a shot of my buddy shooting my MK12 style AR with the Calumet tripod, fluid head and TriClawps......but the thing is a beast to carry in the mountains and I only use it for setups that I don't have to hump it too long or too far.
Pic above sums up why details are important to the reccomendation.
What height do you primarily plan to run tripod at? In the sitting position most lightweight rigs work just fine. Legs retracted you have 3 layers of leg stability. Run a lightweight tripod to full extention and the leg sections in contact with ground are the smallest/thinest. This causes torsional instability.
Also I assume a normal precision rifle weight (mine is 16lbs) vs an 8 lb hunting rig.
No right or wrong answers here but more info from OP on use and price range would help.
What height do you primarily plan to run tripod at? In the sitting position most lightweight rigs work just fine. Legs retracted you have 3 layers of leg stability. Run a lightweight tripod to full extention and the leg sections in contact with ground are the smallest/thinest. This causes torsional instability.
Also I assume a normal precision rifle weight (mine is 16lbs) vs an 8 lb hunting rig.
No right or wrong answers here but more info from OP on use and price range would help.
No, it will be the same. I prefer the fluid head for my application as it provides me more range of movement. Personal preference more than anything. I am not a fan of the ball head and may someday shift to a leveling base with the lighter tripod.
Anchor Zero Six is completely right in his above comment. Your application (use) is important. My max weight rifle is right at 11 lbs and I will be firing from a sitting position most likely so the light weight tripod is sufficient for my hunting purposes where I will not be shooting more than 700 yards. The medium weight tripod shown in the photos are great for uses where I don't have to carry for long or far, but when I am humping the mountains of Idaho and a 1500-3000 ft elevation change over a couple of miles just to get to the "good spots" are the norm..I will sacrifice a little stability so I can carry more water!
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Weight is not a valid argument as the calumet tripod weighs same as Feisol 3342 and the feisol is rated for 55lbs vs 16. To be fair its also 2x cost.
Folks look at the size of RRS and Feisol and assume they weigh a ton...they dont which is a big part of the cost.
I hear ya on the ball head vs fluid. Try a leveling base and I think you will like it. Other options besides the RRS that are well under $100, RRS just has the nicest interface with the winged twist knob.
Folks look at the size of RRS and Feisol and assume they weigh a ton...they dont which is a big part of the cost.
I hear ya on the ball head vs fluid. Try a leveling base and I think you will like it. Other options besides the RRS that are well under $100, RRS just has the nicest interface with the winged twist knob.
Attachments
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Thanks for that illustration! I'm planning to downsides all my equipment so I can just carry them in a backpack to allow ease of navigati N in the thick woods, which is where the family farm is in
I run a Rem 700 ACC-SD in 308 in a MDT LSS Chassis or a AR15 in the MK12 type configuration on it and it supports them nicely. Granted it is at the edge of the ball head's limitation, but for lightweight you are going to have to "extend" it beyond its rating. If you want stable (but heavy ....6-7 lbs) go with the fluid head and manfrotto/calumet. The SLIK 150 is about 2.5 lbs . I use a QD rail attachment to keep the weight down and increase stability
Here is the Calumet tripod with a fluid head with the TriClawps saddle attached with a Rem Mod 7. The gun weighs 8 lbs and the tripod setup right at 7lbs....not good for humping, good for long range stability.
I was trying to stay within his cost requirements, but you are right, if your are willing to spend more you can get top of the line with a light weight. If I did this for a living anymore, that is the way to go.
As for the leveling head, I have a buddy who has one to loan me and I will get to try it this weekend. He has the following and I will be attaching it to a QD for a rail. The RRS....I just can't get there from here with the cost. I am "out of the game" now and my life isn't on the line, so I don't need the best, just adequate.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JG64LXA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Im not captain moneybags either lol. I picked up the tripod from B&H used at 175.00 less than new and used a cupon code for the leveling base.
Myself and another member here collectivly spent way too much time and $ trying to convince ourselves there was a cheaper option vs RRS. Afterall its just a dumb tripod right?
Amazon's return policy made it all possible lol. In the end for what we were looking for it became evident that RRS is prefered and Feisol will be close enough.
Goal was lightweight and stable for use field shooting and for PRS type matches supporting heavy rifles.
Also helps wife is into photography so I was able to convince her it was an "us" purchase not another toy for just me lol.
Probably best advice for OP is search ebay for used manfrotto carbon 55 or 190 and add pig saddle. Pretty proven set up you can get around 300 total cost if patient.
Myself and another member here collectivly spent way too much time and $ trying to convince ourselves there was a cheaper option vs RRS. Afterall its just a dumb tripod right?
Amazon's return policy made it all possible lol. In the end for what we were looking for it became evident that RRS is prefered and Feisol will be close enough.
Goal was lightweight and stable for use field shooting and for PRS type matches supporting heavy rifles.
Also helps wife is into photography so I was able to convince her it was an "us" purchase not another toy for just me lol.
Probably best advice for OP is search ebay for used manfrotto carbon 55 or 190 and add pig saddle. Pretty proven set up you can get around 300 total cost if patient.
Here is the light weight SLIK 150 tripod with the bipod brace set up for dry firing in the back yard. I pick out birds in some trees 475 yards distant and practice position, hold and trigger squeeze on them. I have to set up high as to look over the fence! The gun is a Rem 700 ACC-sd in a MDT LSS chassis.....weighs in at 11 lbs....my long range hunting rifle. The whole rig with extra mags is right around 15 -16 lbs. Plenty to carry with everything else I pack (at least plenty for an old man like me)
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I was just thinking about that type if set up recently!
When I say stable what I specificly mean is torsional twisting. Putting a rifle on saddle or clamp just adds a long lever onto the tripod at a right angle.
With the rear supported like that how much of that is reduced?
When I say stable what I specificly mean is torsional twisting. Putting a rifle on saddle or clamp just adds a long lever onto the tripod at a right angle.
With the rear supported like that how much of that is reduced?
Quite a bit....but be advised that it isn't a quick set up and it takes some positioning to make sure tripod and bipod are both stable and aligned, but it takes the play out of it COMPLETELY so you can go with a much lighter rig. You got to practice with it both in the house and field to get down the technique.
I got the idea from this video (Watch the second example https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gqMODAKoKo ) and while initially using the TriClawps, I shifted to mounting a rail on my rifle the using a QD that I drilled and threaded to reduce weight. https://www.walmart.com/ip/AimSHOT-Q...t-BLK/34720319
You apply downward pressure to the bipod and hold your off hand to the top of the stock. Again practice with it. I am dry firing on blackbirds at 475 yards and the cross hairs remain on them through the squeeze and during the trigger release and follow through.
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lol I think the cheapo Amazon purchases will suffice for now. Not sure if the expensive stuff is worth the couple of hogs that I can actually find on the property every year lol
The SLIK 150 with a "sniper saddle" will work for you then. You can get in the game for less than $80.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JJ2Z4LA/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Make your own saddle
http://www.snipercountry.com/Articles/SniperSaddle.asp
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Is there a way to put a clamp of some sort on top of the saddle? Feels like the gun would jump around a bit given the recoil?
You are only limited by your imagination.....but a strap over the top would adversely affect accuracy. If you pull the gun tightly into your shoulder and square your body to the recoil, it does not jump any different than a bipod. The saddle is being used by the USMC in the desert.
http://www.precisionriflesolutions.c...lbumid=5579520
http://www.precisionriflesolutions.com/apps/photos/photo?photoid=39308788
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An RRS leveling base is orders of magnitude more stable than a Hog/Pig saddle, orders of magnitude. And the Feisol 3372 is just plain rock solid, even in it's fully extended height. And this was for shooting prairie dogs out to 500+ yds with a .223, so a larger animal/bigger caliber should be easier.
I got tired of replacing my cheap tripods ever few years and finally bit the bullet (the cheap ones just don't last). Couldn't be happier with the decision after this year's PD trip...
For reference, I'm 6'2" and the tripod is fully extended (which is a bit tall, even for me, but worked well).
I got tired of replacing my cheap tripods ever few years and finally bit the bullet (the cheap ones just don't last). Couldn't be happier with the decision after this year's PD trip...
For reference, I'm 6'2" and the tripod is fully extended (which is a bit tall, even for me, but worked well).
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QUOTE=MarinePMI;n6482380]
An RRS leveling base is orders of magnitude more stable than a Hog/Pig saddle, orders of magnitude. And the Feisol 3372 is just plain rock solid, even in it's fully extended height. And this was for shooting prairie dogs out to 500+ yds with a .223, so a larger animal/bigger caliber should be easier.
I got tired of replacing my cheap tripods ever few years and finally bit the bullet (the cheap ones just don't last). Couldn't be happier with the decision after this year's PD trip...
For reference, I'm 6'2" and the tripod is fully extended (which is a bit tall, even for me, but worked well).
[/QUOTE]
Devil Dog, you are young and fit. I likely have been retired from the Corps longer than you have been in, so I am old and only as fit as an old man can be......every oz counts. I can buy three tripods for the price of a costly ones and as I am on retired pay, as I said before, adequate is good enough! I am going to try a leveling base this weekend and you guys got me excited about it! Here is a shot off of my medium weight rig...chuck head shot.
Semper fi
An RRS leveling base is orders of magnitude more stable than a Hog/Pig saddle, orders of magnitude. And the Feisol 3372 is just plain rock solid, even in it's fully extended height. And this was for shooting prairie dogs out to 500+ yds with a .223, so a larger animal/bigger caliber should be easier.
I got tired of replacing my cheap tripods ever few years and finally bit the bullet (the cheap ones just don't last). Couldn't be happier with the decision after this year's PD trip...
For reference, I'm 6'2" and the tripod is fully extended (which is a bit tall, even for me, but worked well).
[/QUOTE]
Devil Dog, you are young and fit. I likely have been retired from the Corps longer than you have been in, so I am old and only as fit as an old man can be......every oz counts. I can buy three tripods for the price of a costly ones and as I am on retired pay, as I said before, adequate is good enough! I am going to try a leveling base this weekend and you guys got me excited about it! Here is a shot off of my medium weight rig...chuck head shot.
Semper fi
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If you are not afraid to drill the stock you can attach a QD plate direct to stock and skip the saddle. Just not a universal solution for multiple rifles.
Chorizo check out the "Gemtune" leveling base on Amazon. I had one on a Zomie 818 and while the tripod was too flimsy the leveling base was gtg for the $
Gemtune Leveling Base DY-60i with Quick Release Clamp and plate ,Offset bubble level Replaces Sunwayfoto DYH-66i RRS,Benro,Kirk,Markins,Arca comaptible https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VE0KKR8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_6KDszbNFRCD83
Gemtune Leveling Base DY-60i with Quick Release Clamp and plate ,Offset bubble level Replaces Sunwayfoto DYH-66i RRS,Benro,Kirk,Markins,Arca comaptible https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VE0KKR8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_6KDszbNFRCD83
Thanks...I was looking at that one. I will give the one my buddy has a look this weekend and may just order the other to do a hands on comparison........I can get it by Friday.
What do you think of this one? https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JG64LXA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I am going to attach this to it so I can use it to quick attached to my rail.... https://www.walmart.com/ip/AimSHOT-Q...t-BLK/34720319
What do you think of this one? https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01JG64LXA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I am going to attach this to it so I can use it to quick attached to my rail.... https://www.walmart.com/ip/AimSHOT-Q...t-BLK/34720319
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Yeah same idea I guess. Both the leveling bases are the same and probably made in same factory in China. The one I linked has a clamp and plate so you could keep it simple and get that one and mount plate to your rifle if you are not afraid to drill the stock.
I already have a rail on most of my guns and I will mount a QD attachment to the head. I have several of these I have drilled and tapped.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/AimSHOT-Q...t-BLK/34720319
https://www.walmart.com/ip/AimSHOT-Q...t-BLK/34720319
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I have a MFT Minimalist - is it possible to drill a QD there? Alternatively I have a Sopomod stock from my SR-15, which I believe already has a QD? But attaching tripod to stock would be quite unbalanced no?
I mean the qd plate for the tripod.
Not really any more or less awkward than a hog saddle. The rifle is clipped in vs being clamped.
Not really any more or less awkward than a hog saddle. The rifle is clipped in vs being clamped.
No, I'm just old and fit; 50 ain't that far off in my future (and being half asian enhances my youthful appearance). And that rig (tripod and leveling base) is less than 5 lbs.
Any way, I'm sure you'll be impressed. Every guy in my PD shooting group were floored by the rigidity and stability of that set up, as well as the weight. And those guys are in their 60's, with one approaching 70. They kept saying I was "cheating" using this rig, and that it was like "shooting for a tank turret".
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RRS sells rail compatible acra plates that have a barricade stop built in (it's what I use on my XLR Evolution chassis'ed rifles). http://www.reallyrightstuff.com/NATO-DVTL
To the other poster asking about time to set up; less than a minute (closer to 25 secs or so). The QR attachment on the rifle makes it a cinch to drop the rifle on the base, and lock it into place.
MarinePMI, I am going to give the leveling head a go this weekend and see what I can do to set up a lightweight rig. It appears there are several ways to skin this cat and I am going to give several of them a try.
Keep at your fitness, but watch your knees and hips....way too many of my friends tried to keep up their normal PT regime in their 50's and into their 60's and now are getting hips and knees replaced/repaired. I can tell you for fact, a slightly reduced level of fitness by being guarded/restrained in your approach is MUCH better than having to undergo the knife and then being unable to exercise and having to do rehab. I am in my 60's and I am much better shape than many of my Marine peers...not because I am/was a PT stud, rather because I wasn't and I am still able to keep up a reasonable regime and remain injury free.
I can see you are shooting unsuppressed....save your shekels and buy some cans for your rigs (if you live in a free state). You will never go back.
Thanks to all who provided info.....I certainly learned more than I contributed.
Keep at your fitness, but watch your knees and hips....way too many of my friends tried to keep up their normal PT regime in their 50's and into their 60's and now are getting hips and knees replaced/repaired. I can tell you for fact, a slightly reduced level of fitness by being guarded/restrained in your approach is MUCH better than having to undergo the knife and then being unable to exercise and having to do rehab. I am in my 60's and I am much better shape than many of my Marine peers...not because I am/was a PT stud, rather because I wasn't and I am still able to keep up a reasonable regime and remain injury free.
I can see you are shooting unsuppressed....save your shekels and buy some cans for your rigs (if you live in a free state). You will never go back.
Thanks to all who provided info.....I certainly learned more than I contributed.
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I have the Feisol 3342 ($388) with Feisol leveling base ($80) topped with a $20 clamp (from Amazon) that adheres to the ARCA Swiss standard.
All in it's 3.5 lbs exactly. Bison Tactical gave me the 5% SH discount and free shipping on the Feisol stuff.
Initially I considered the 3372 but there are quite a few shooters using the 3342 with success so I figured I'd pocket the money and weight difference.
I have the RRS front handguard piece (with integrated dovetail) on my AIAX and an $8 dovetail plate (Amazon) screwed directly to the Magpul 700 Hunter stock that holds my TL2/Bartlein 223AI barrelled action.
With this setup both rifles are impressively rigid. It's a really comfortable platform, and I keep my support hand on the "handle" under the leveling base and apply a little preload to add stability. The legs are long enough and can be folded flat enough to cover pretty much any height I could need.
One thing I did not like about the Feisol leveling base is the lack of grip available on the handle. It can be difficult to loosen the handle if it's tightened a little too much (the difference between dynamic and static torque) so I dipped mine in rubber tool coating with some sand mixed in and it's plenty grippy now.
I also picked up a pig saddle (little brother to the hog saddle) and the difference between a leveling head/dovetail mount on the chassis setup and the same rifle in the pig saddle is night and day. The small amount of movement afforded by the rubber grip inserts on the pig saddle is enough to make it really challenging to keep the rifle on target, even braced with a sling.
I also have an adapter to connect the dovetail mounts to a full size Manfrotto CF tripod with fluid head. It's not as rigid as the leveling base but better than the pig saddle. It's about twice the weight of the Feisol setup, too.
I'm pretty happy with the Feisol setup.
All in it's 3.5 lbs exactly. Bison Tactical gave me the 5% SH discount and free shipping on the Feisol stuff.
Initially I considered the 3372 but there are quite a few shooters using the 3342 with success so I figured I'd pocket the money and weight difference.
I have the RRS front handguard piece (with integrated dovetail) on my AIAX and an $8 dovetail plate (Amazon) screwed directly to the Magpul 700 Hunter stock that holds my TL2/Bartlein 223AI barrelled action.
With this setup both rifles are impressively rigid. It's a really comfortable platform, and I keep my support hand on the "handle" under the leveling base and apply a little preload to add stability. The legs are long enough and can be folded flat enough to cover pretty much any height I could need.
One thing I did not like about the Feisol leveling base is the lack of grip available on the handle. It can be difficult to loosen the handle if it's tightened a little too much (the difference between dynamic and static torque) so I dipped mine in rubber tool coating with some sand mixed in and it's plenty grippy now.
I also picked up a pig saddle (little brother to the hog saddle) and the difference between a leveling head/dovetail mount on the chassis setup and the same rifle in the pig saddle is night and day. The small amount of movement afforded by the rubber grip inserts on the pig saddle is enough to make it really challenging to keep the rifle on target, even braced with a sling.
I also have an adapter to connect the dovetail mounts to a full size Manfrotto CF tripod with fluid head. It's not as rigid as the leveling base but better than the pig saddle. It's about twice the weight of the Feisol setup, too.
I'm pretty happy with the Feisol setup.
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When an option I prefer the "direct attach" method too. I found the TriClawps to be more stable than the Pig Saddle (cheaper too by 1/3) but I would bet that it isn't as durable...but as I said before, I can afford failure as my life isn't on the line, only the lives of whistle pigs, rock chuck, deer and elk.
Nice looking set up.
Nice looking set up.
So there were quite a few complaints about the Feisol leveling base either being tottally floppy (unlocked) or completly ridgid (locked). With the RRS you can adjust the tension. Has that been your experiance as well? Would really like to run the Feisol leveling base if it can function in the same manner as the RRS stuff.
I sold my 3472/Feisol combo looking to get the 3342 and a ball head so before I spend more $ would like to get your thoughts on the leveling base.
Thanks
-A06
I tried a LOT of options when I was getting my setup. I was determined to do it on the cheap - I was constantly disappointed. In my humble opinion, I feel like I came up with the perfect balance of weight savings, cost savings, and stability. My setup is as follows:
Feisol 3342 tripod (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produ...id_Tripod.html)
RRS Universal Leveling Base (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produ...base_with.html)
RRS Arca plate directly attached to rifle stock
This setup is really solid for me. I tried a ton of lesser leveling bases and ball heads. Ballheads in general don't do anything for me, I like the leveling bases much better personally - mostly due to their compactness. I took advantage of a lot of return policies. Honestly, no matter which tripod you go with - you need a RRS leveling base. STAY AWAY FROM THE FEISOL ONE. I also tried a number of tripods in the budget tripod thread - returned them all. Some guys had some great luck with them, but I did not. The only other tripod I would probably recommend in the same price range as the 3342 would be the PRST sold by the Hog Saddle guys. Great tripod - but it has 4 leg sections instead of 3 like the 3342 has, and I found the 3 leg section tripods to be quite a bit more stable.
Another thing you need to know is that shooting off a tripod is not as stable as it looks like when you watch someone do it in videos. I just want you to have realistic expectations after you spend all that money. Don't expect to shoot your best groups off of it. It's a great choice for hunting and steel targets. In my last picture - it is a full downward rotation of the leveling base. It may not look like a lot in the pic, but it's been plenty for all of my situations - even coyote hunting in the Cascades so far. You may find a situation where you need more down or up angle - and you can easily adjust the tripod legs to give you what you need.
Lastly - if at all possible - skip the HOG or PIG saddle, and mount an Arca style plate to your rifle stock. My smith did it for me - but it's not a difficult job if you are comfortable working on stocks. It's also a LOT cheaper than a HOG saddle.
Pics of my setup:
<a href="http://s133.photobucket.com/user/devldogs55/media/Mobile%20Uploads/F3D1A01F-E613-4BD4-B16D-2F853DE30D70_zps4q3objuk.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q78/devldogs55/Mobile%20Uploads/F3D1A01F-E613-4BD4-B16D-2F853DE30D70_zps4q3objuk.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo F3D1A01F-E613-4BD4-B16D-2F853DE30D70_zps4q3objuk.jpg"/></a>
<a href="http://s133.photobucket.com/user/devldogs55/media/Mobile%20Uploads/7CFC64BF-3507-400C-ABDA-840B547C6EA6_zpszhbx4rdh.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q78/devldogs55/Mobile%20Uploads/7CFC64BF-3507-400C-ABDA-840B547C6EA6_zpszhbx4rdh.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 7CFC64BF-3507-400C-ABDA-840B547C6EA6_zpszhbx4rdh.jpg"/></a>
Sitting position height:
<a href="http://s133.photobucket.com/user/devldogs55/media/Mobile%20Uploads/ED213D3C-8DCD-45F6-AE5A-AA1F3ECC734C_zpsrlclf7wm.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q78/devldogs55/Mobile%20Uploads/ED213D3C-8DCD-45F6-AE5A-AA1F3ECC734C_zpsrlclf7wm.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo ED213D3C-8DCD-45F6-AE5A-AA1F3ECC734C_zpsrlclf7wm.jpg"/></a>
Prone height:
<a href="http://s133.photobucket.com/user/devldogs55/media/Mobile%20Uploads/B3866412-F497-4A57-A326-3CF60168445E_zpsspekzsna.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q78/devldogs55/Mobile%20Uploads/B3866412-F497-4A57-A326-3CF60168445E_zpsspekzsna.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo B3866412-F497-4A57-A326-3CF60168445E_zpsspekzsna.jpg"/></a>
Full downward rotation of leveling base:
<a href="http://s133.photobucket.com/user/devldogs55/media/IMG_7125_zpsw5nualpo.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q78/devldogs55/IMG_7125_zpsw5nualpo.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_7125_zpsw5nualpo.jpg"/></a>
Feisol 3342 tripod (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produ...id_Tripod.html)
RRS Universal Leveling Base (https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produ...base_with.html)
RRS Arca plate directly attached to rifle stock
This setup is really solid for me. I tried a ton of lesser leveling bases and ball heads. Ballheads in general don't do anything for me, I like the leveling bases much better personally - mostly due to their compactness. I took advantage of a lot of return policies. Honestly, no matter which tripod you go with - you need a RRS leveling base. STAY AWAY FROM THE FEISOL ONE. I also tried a number of tripods in the budget tripod thread - returned them all. Some guys had some great luck with them, but I did not. The only other tripod I would probably recommend in the same price range as the 3342 would be the PRST sold by the Hog Saddle guys. Great tripod - but it has 4 leg sections instead of 3 like the 3342 has, and I found the 3 leg section tripods to be quite a bit more stable.
Another thing you need to know is that shooting off a tripod is not as stable as it looks like when you watch someone do it in videos. I just want you to have realistic expectations after you spend all that money. Don't expect to shoot your best groups off of it. It's a great choice for hunting and steel targets. In my last picture - it is a full downward rotation of the leveling base. It may not look like a lot in the pic, but it's been plenty for all of my situations - even coyote hunting in the Cascades so far. You may find a situation where you need more down or up angle - and you can easily adjust the tripod legs to give you what you need.
Lastly - if at all possible - skip the HOG or PIG saddle, and mount an Arca style plate to your rifle stock. My smith did it for me - but it's not a difficult job if you are comfortable working on stocks. It's also a LOT cheaper than a HOG saddle.
Pics of my setup:
<a href="http://s133.photobucket.com/user/devldogs55/media/Mobile%20Uploads/F3D1A01F-E613-4BD4-B16D-2F853DE30D70_zps4q3objuk.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q78/devldogs55/Mobile%20Uploads/F3D1A01F-E613-4BD4-B16D-2F853DE30D70_zps4q3objuk.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo F3D1A01F-E613-4BD4-B16D-2F853DE30D70_zps4q3objuk.jpg"/></a>
<a href="http://s133.photobucket.com/user/devldogs55/media/Mobile%20Uploads/7CFC64BF-3507-400C-ABDA-840B547C6EA6_zpszhbx4rdh.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q78/devldogs55/Mobile%20Uploads/7CFC64BF-3507-400C-ABDA-840B547C6EA6_zpszhbx4rdh.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 7CFC64BF-3507-400C-ABDA-840B547C6EA6_zpszhbx4rdh.jpg"/></a>
Sitting position height:
<a href="http://s133.photobucket.com/user/devldogs55/media/Mobile%20Uploads/ED213D3C-8DCD-45F6-AE5A-AA1F3ECC734C_zpsrlclf7wm.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q78/devldogs55/Mobile%20Uploads/ED213D3C-8DCD-45F6-AE5A-AA1F3ECC734C_zpsrlclf7wm.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo ED213D3C-8DCD-45F6-AE5A-AA1F3ECC734C_zpsrlclf7wm.jpg"/></a>
Prone height:
<a href="http://s133.photobucket.com/user/devldogs55/media/Mobile%20Uploads/B3866412-F497-4A57-A326-3CF60168445E_zpsspekzsna.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q78/devldogs55/Mobile%20Uploads/B3866412-F497-4A57-A326-3CF60168445E_zpsspekzsna.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo B3866412-F497-4A57-A326-3CF60168445E_zpsspekzsna.jpg"/></a>
Full downward rotation of leveling base:
<a href="http://s133.photobucket.com/user/devldogs55/media/IMG_7125_zpsw5nualpo.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q78/devldogs55/IMG_7125_zpsw5nualpo.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_7125_zpsw5nualpo.jpg"/></a>
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So I had the 3472 (4 section) and plan on the 3342 (3 sectio). Without having them side by side I think or hope the difference between the 42 and 72 will ne minimal as I will be going from a 4 section to 3.
Had same experience cheap dosnt cut it for leg choices for precision shots. Hogs and bigger game sure but not for sub moa.
Had same experience cheap dosnt cut it for leg choices for precision shots. Hogs and bigger game sure but not for sub moa.
@devldog, I'm happy if I can shoot 1 MOA 5 shot groups from my tripod setup. Can't quite do it standing, but kneeling, seated, or prone, I can. I don't think I could shoot 1 MOA in any position with just a pig saddle or support, though... it's all in the rigidity added by solidly coupling the rifle to the tripod.
@anchor, The Feisol leveling base is either locked or loose, there's no in between with friction or drag.
I loosen the handle, reposition the rifle, then snug the handle.
RRS claims their leveling base has fluid motion when unlocked, so maybe it is worth 2.5 to 3 times the price of the Feisol unit, but I'd have to try one before I'd spend that kind of money on it. Their use of the term fluid may just be describing a small amount of drag that their unit has inherently (from the weight of the equipment) since the aluminum inverted dome moves in a plastic cup (at least as I understand it) whereas the Feisol unit is hard anodized aluminum sliding in hard anodized aluminum which has practically no friction at all when unlocked.
@anchor, The Feisol leveling base is either locked or loose, there's no in between with friction or drag.
I loosen the handle, reposition the rifle, then snug the handle.
RRS claims their leveling base has fluid motion when unlocked, so maybe it is worth 2.5 to 3 times the price of the Feisol unit, but I'd have to try one before I'd spend that kind of money on it. Their use of the term fluid may just be describing a small amount of drag that their unit has inherently (from the weight of the equipment) since the aluminum inverted dome moves in a plastic cup (at least as I understand it) whereas the Feisol unit is hard anodized aluminum sliding in hard anodized aluminum which has practically no friction at all when unlocked.
Nice looking rig DevlDog....for the fellow Jarheads here, I had the honor of attending the wake of Capt Aurthur Jackson, USMC, a MoH recipient today https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthur_J._Jackson
We might need to take this to another thread...The poor fellow (OP) wanted something light weight and inexpensive for a once a year hog hunt. There are ADEQUATE inexpensive tripods & ballhead combos out there that fit the bill.
When I get the leveling head in to try tomorrow, I will set up a thread with some parameters: weight, cost, and rigidity. Let's see if we can get some agreement on those parameters, say like: 1. best tripod/head combo under 3lbs, under $200, and rigid enough to shoot while sitting or lower; 2. best tripod/head combo under 5lbs, under $350, rigid enough for standing; 3. Best tripod/head combo, light as you can get it, cost no barrier. We can talk about the best attachment system also.
Unfortunately without some parameters all we have is a "mine is the best set-up" polite peeing contest.
Comments?
We might need to take this to another thread...The poor fellow (OP) wanted something light weight and inexpensive for a once a year hog hunt. There are ADEQUATE inexpensive tripods & ballhead combos out there that fit the bill.
When I get the leveling head in to try tomorrow, I will set up a thread with some parameters: weight, cost, and rigidity. Let's see if we can get some agreement on those parameters, say like: 1. best tripod/head combo under 3lbs, under $200, and rigid enough to shoot while sitting or lower; 2. best tripod/head combo under 5lbs, under $350, rigid enough for standing; 3. Best tripod/head combo, light as you can get it, cost no barrier. We can talk about the best attachment system also.
Unfortunately without some parameters all we have is a "mine is the best set-up" polite peeing contest.
Comments?
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