Versa bipod, why so unpopular

[01mikep]

I am new here, but have been reading this forum for about a month now. I have searched and read quite a bit about versa bipods and I have a few questions.

I have never felt the need to use a bipod of any kind before but I am recently rethinking that. It seems that 75% of shooters use a harris of some configuration if they use a bipod. I planned to go the same route until I started reading up on the all steel versa model with the locks. I like the design but cannot find anyone who has one local to check out before buying one.

The versa bipods seem fairly unpopular on this board from what I have read. Is it because of its bad design or just does not fit the application of most users here.

I have a RRA LAR-8 with the 26in barrel and a Burris XTR 6x24. The rifle is heavy by my standards, 14 pounds. Most of my shooting is from a concrete slab bench where I use an adjustable rest. I would like to start taking this rifle to shoot hogs from a blind or prone.

Would the all steel versa work for me or should I stick with the harris. I don't think I need any of the more advanced types I have read about, just something functional that I will not be cussing at when I need it.

Mike

 

[CrazyDonkey]

Re: Versa bipod, why so unpopular

I think most people buy products because of the name, not because of the merits of the product.

 

[coldboremiracle]

Re: Versa bipod, why so unpopular

I have both the Harris and the versa pod, they are both good, obviously they both have their pros and cons. The Harris swivel bipod is nice but I sometimes wish it would swivel just a tad more. One thing I like about the Versapod is the QD function, I can pop it on or off the rifle in a second or less, put it in my pocket or bag if I'm on the move to avoid snags and such. And then pop it right back on when I need to shoot. The down side to the Verasapod is there is no spring tension on the swivel, so your rifle is bound to tip to one side when not supported. Not a big deal but, it would be nice. It also tips farther than the Harris, which could be good or bad.

 

[Chiller]

Re: Versa bipod, why so unpopular

go to the Atlas....you you will find at the end of the day it is well worth the money.

 

[01mikep]

Re: Versa bipod, why so unpopular

coldboremiracle, you mention that the part you dislike about the versa is the lack of tension in the swivel. Do you have the model with the locking swivel. It seems it come in two versions, one with locks and another without.

If anyone has the versa with the swivel lock, does it vary the tension/resistance or is it eithor locked or unlocked. I have read about shooters without a swivel lock having their rifle roll and tip the bipod over as they let go due to lack of tension in the swivel. If this is possible, I would think the locking versa bipod would be the only way to go if one was going the versa direction. I'm interested in hearing of your experience.

I'll check into/read up on the Atlas. I have heard a little about it, but may be overkill for what I need. I'm not going to be needing it for any upcomming deployment or field use, just recreational shooting and hog hunting now and again. Thanks for the recomendation and I'll read up on it.

Mike

 

[coldboremiracle]

Re: Versa bipod, why so unpopular

Yes mine is without locks or tension of anykind. There are many better options (atlas,ect.) but they are in another ballpark.

 

[O_W]

Re: Versa bipod, why so unpopular

I don't mind my versapod. I like the harris better. I think the thing I don't like about the versa pod is the big mountoing block on the front. AFA its functionality, it performs well.

 

[netranger6]

Re: Versa bipod, why so unpopular

All consideration for other bipods went away, after my first Atlas.

 

[HotrRod308]

Re: Versa bipod, why so unpopular

+1 on the Atlas Bipod.

 

[6BR_Sniper]

Re: Versa bipod, why so unpopular

I just don't like the design of the versa pod. I just don't like the way the legs fold (both up or both down) and the notches in the leg. I just think in that price range you would be better with a harris.

 

[quattrodoc]

Re: Versa bipod, why so unpopular

I personally like the Versa; I had a Harris and didn't care for it - as the quick detach works great; I don't have trouble with the rifle canting, I just tighten the lock nut. I haven't tried the Atlas; to each their own.

 

[Nocalphoenix]

Re: Versa bipod, why so unpopular

I like the versa pod and run them on a couple rifles but only if I can mount the spigot into the end of the forend. I think the mount is to bulky to attach under the forend and the balance is a little funky. The locks are a huge improvement, turns it into a completely different bipod.

 

[01mikep]

Re: Versa bipod, why so unpopular

Well, after quite a bit of comparing and reviewing input I ordered a all steel versa pod with swivel and pan lock. I will take pics and attach them to this post as I get time.

Of quick note, the locks work very well and solid. The swivel lock will allow the swivel to adjust from loose to locked solid in varying degrees of tension depending on how tight one tightens the knob. The same with the pan lock, except if one locks the pan lock, the legs cannot be retracted as the pivot/hinge is locked as a unit.

I have never used the versa pod without the locks. I did remove the lock tension so I could see what previous members had experienced with that model. I agree with them, I think I would be unsatisfied with a versa pod with out the locks as it does not feel solid, as in too loose with no lock tension.

I did not weigh the versa pod. It is the all steel version and it is heavier than a bench rest model harris with swivel. It does not feel flimsy. The only part not steel is the adapter to attach the bipod to the rifle. It is solid plastic and the steel spigot is molded into it. I would rather have had it made of steel, but that would have made the ounce counting users unhappy I suppose. For my purpose weight is not a concern.

The quick disconnect takes a about a second to install and remove. Works very well and is very solid once installed. I can see how this would be handy for folks using one rifle for differing conditions (bench, tall grass, etc) could carry a couple different height versa pods and just attach the one that fits the scenario best when needed. Or have the adapters installed on a few rifles and share one bipod.

I do not have much experience with other bipods so I cannot compare. I have handled a few harris models but never owned one.

I paid $125 shipped to my door for the 9-12 inch model (160-052). No one had one local and most places I looked did not have the all steel model with locks. I do not know if the non all steel models handle or feel different than mine.

First impression I like it and am satisfied. I still have not shot with it only mounted and handled.

thanks, Mike