Best Tripod Shooting Rest for Airgun

Best Tripod Shooting Rests in 2024

Primos Gen 3 – the best tripod shooting rest
Vanguard Pro T68
Vanguard VEO AM-234TU
Vanguard Scout B62

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Choosing the ‘best’ is often subjective, a bit like sifting through a box of opinions. Everyone has a point of view, and mine is just one of many. If you’re looking for a top-notch tripod shooting rest, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of choices. Ideally, you’d try each one out, but that’s not always possible. So, here I am, offering my perspective based on thorough testing and experience with a variety of shooting rests, hoping to simplify your search in this crowded market.

Why you would use a tripod shooting rest

Using a tripod shooting rest enhances stability and accuracy, especially in scenarios where precision is paramount. It’s an indispensable tool for long-range shooting, where even slight movements can drastically affect your aim. The tripod provides a steady platform, reducing fatigue and allowing for prolonged focus during target practice or hunting.

Enhanced stability

Tripod shooting rests provide a stable platform, reducing movement and increasing accuracy, especially important in long-range shooting.

Improved accuracy

The steady support of a tripod helps in maintaining precise aim, crucial for activities like varmint hunting or competitive shooting.

Reduced Fatigue

By supporting the weight of the firearm, a tripod rest allows for longer shooting sessions without physical strain, beneficial during extended periods of waiting or aiming.

Versatility in Various Terrains

Tripods offer a reliable shooting base in diverse environments, especially where natural supports are lacking.

Adjustability for Comfort

Many tripod rests feature adjustable heights and angles, allowing for a comfortable shooting position tailored to individual preferences and situations.

When you would use a tripod shooting rest

Tripod shooting rests are ideal for situations requiring extended periods of waiting or aiming, like in varmint hunting or target shooting. They’re also beneficial in rugged terrains where finding a natural rest might be challenging. In competitive shooting, where precision is crucial, a tripod rest can be the difference between a hit or a miss.

What to look for in a tripod shooting rest

When selecting a tripod shooting rest, consider stability, adjustability, and portability. A sturdy build is essential for consistent accuracy, while adjustable features enable customization for different shooting styles and environments. Lightweight and easy-to-carry designs are preferable for those who frequently move between locations. Compatibility with your firearm and the rest’s durability are also key factors to keep in mind.

Most airgun hunters I know favour the additional stability of tripods, and the Primos Trigger Stick has been their go-to choice for the past few years. The recently released Gen 3 model has established a high standard that competitors will have to strive to meet. I have had a lot of experience with the Primos Trigger Stick, and I am a big fan. However, there are many alternatives available.

We’re going to explore the range of tripods available for a budget of up to £150, starting with the Vanguard Pro T68 and Ultrec Quick Change Tripod at the higher end, followed by the HSF Tripod Shooting Stick Black from The Sportsman Gun Centre at the lower end and concluding with the Vanguard Veo AM-234TU in the middle. Let’s find out how they all stack up.

Richard Saunders: An experts view

All of our reviews are based on Richard Saunders’s opinions. Richard has been shooting air rifles for nearly forty years. Today he hunts and carries out pest control on more than a thousand acres spread across different locations in the south of England. He is a regular contributor to Airgun Shooter magazine, writing mainly hunting features and product reviews, as well as The Airgun Show on YouTube.

Disclaimer

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

Best tripod shooting rests for airgun shooting

1. Primos Gen 3 Trigger Stick – the best tripod shooting rest

Let’s dive into the world of the Primos Trigger Stick, a go-to choice for air gunners and a personal favorite of mine. I’ve been relying on Primos sticks for years, and they’ve consistently provided a stable platform for shooting in various scenarios. They’re not just versatile and well-crafted; they’re an essential part of my shooting gear.

There are two main versions available – the Gen 2 and the Gen 3. While they might look similar at first glance, the differences between them are both subtle and significant, particularly in certain shooting scenarios. Both models feature a convenient trigger arrangement at the top, allowing for easy adjustment of the legs’ height and angle. This versatility is invaluable, whether you’re shooting from a hide, standing up, or sitting down.

The Gen 2 model, with its independently moving legs, offers great flexibility during the day. However, in low-light conditions, setting up can be a bit of a challenge, as it’s hard to see and adjust the legs properly.

The Gen 3, however, addresses this issue with a smart design tweak. It features a collar at the top that ensures all the legs deploy evenly, creating a more stable base and reducing the hassle of setting up in the dark. This feature is particularly beneficial for night shooting. Additionally, the Gen 3 has a rotation mechanism on the collar, facilitating easier transitions into low-down hunting positions, which is a real advantage when shooting from a seated stance.

In the end, both the Gen 2 and Gen 3 Primos Trigger Sticks are excellent products, but the Gen 3 gets a slight nod from me due to its improved functionality, especially in varied shooting conditions. That said, the Gen 2 is still a fantastic option, particularly if night-time hunting isn’t a frequent activity for you. Whichever model you choose, you’re getting a reliable, well-made shooting stick that enhances your shooting experience. The Primos Trigger Sticks, in both their iterations, are designed to meet the needs of air gunners, offering stability, versatility, and ease of use. Whether you’re an avid hunter or enjoy casual target practice, these sticks are sure to serve you well, adapting seamlessly to your shooting style and environment.

Primos Gen 2 – Check Prices

Primos Gen 3 – Check Prices

See our video review comparing the Primos Gen 2 vs. Primos Gen 3:

Watch this video on YouTube

2. Vanguard Pro T68 – the best budget tripod shooting rest

The Vanguard Pro T68, crafted by the China-based company Vanguard, stands out for its feature-rich design and excellent value. This aluminum tripod, coated in non-reflective black, is discreet and practical, folding down to a manageable 78cm and weighing just over a kilogram, enhanced by foam grips for ease of transport.

It extends from 1.33 to 1.91 meters, offering versatility with its two-stage locking system. The yoke assembly, adjustable for various leg spreads, allows for shooting heights up to 1.65 meters or lower settings for seated positions. Its 360-degree rotation adds to its adaptability.

Vanguard’s attention to detail is notable, with rubber balls on the leg ends for grip on hard surfaces and spikes for softer terrain. The adaptable gun rest caters to different firearms, adding to its utility. The Pro T68’s height is particularly beneficial for shooting from elevated positions, such as targeting birds in trees.

In essence, the Vanguard Pro T68 combines quality materials and thoughtful features, making it a practical choice for diverse outdoor shooting scenarios.

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2. Vanguard VEO AM-234TU

The Veo is easily portable due to its small folded-up size of 57cm and light weight of less than a kilo. The rubber grip, wrist strap, and carabiner allow you to securely attach the stick to your belt or backpack.

The Veo tripod has a black aluminum leg that extends three times and locks in place with flip-up catches. It stretches to 1.64 meters and the three feet deploy easily and click securely into place. It should be noted that when retracting the feet, one’s hands may become dirty. It does not offer the same flexibility as a traditional tripod with independently adjustable legs, so it must be placed on a flat surface. The Veo gun rest has a durable, rubberized U-shape with several fins for a strong grip that allows for 360-degree rotation. A ball joint located above the three feet makes it possible to tilt the Veo for better aiming. A wheel controls the degree of leaning and can be locked in place for a stable hold. The Veo is a hybrid design, providing greater stability than a monopod but not as much as a traditional tripod. Despite this, I was impressed with the craftsmanship and attention to detail.

I went on a squirrel-hunting excursion with the Veo for its field test in one of my wooded properties. The dense foliage made my usual spot increasingly cramped, and using the Primos Trigger Stick caused too much rustling and commotion. I was able to utilize the Veo’s small size to my advantage, allowing me to fit it into the hide without taking up too much space. Having the adjustable height and tilt features allowed me to easily adjust the camera to the perfect angle for the shots I wanted.

The Veo AM-234TU is more compact and easier to use in tight spaces than a conventional tripod, though it may be less stable.

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3. Vanguard Scout B62

The Vanguard Scout B62 Shooting Stick is designed with the outdoor enthusiast in mind, balancing portability with practicality. Its lightweight nature makes it a boon for those who spend long hours in the field, ensuring that carrying it isn’t a burden. The stick’s height can be adjusted to suit different shooting positions, offering a degree of flexibility. However, when it comes to stability, especially on uneven ground, the Scout B62 doesn’t quite match the firmness provided by a traditional tripod. This aspect might be a crucial consideration for users needing utmost stability. The stick’s simplicity in design and ease of use are commendable, but for scenarios demanding rigorous versatility and unshakable steadiness, it may fall short. In summary, the Vanguard Scout B62 is a solid, user-friendly option for those prioritising lightness and convenience over the supreme stability of larger setups.

During a recent birdwatching session in a hilly area, I took the Vanguard Scout B62 for a test. The terrain was uneven, making it challenging to set up a standard tripod. The Scout B62, with its lightweight design, was easy to carry uphill. Although it couldn’t provide the same level of stability as a heavier tripod, its portability allowed me to quickly move and set up in various spots. The adjustable height was particularly useful for getting the right angle, despite the limitations on uneven ground.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best tripod shooting rest for your airgun can greatly enhance your shooting experience and help you achieve maximum accuracy and comfort. With so many options available, it’s important to consider factors such as adjustability, stability, and durability when making your selection. By taking the time to research and compare different models, you can find the perfect tripod shooting rest to meet your specific needs and ensure a successful shooting session. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced shooter, the right tripod shooting rest can make all the difference. We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights and information to help you choose the best tripod shooting rest for your airgun.

FAQ’s

1. Why do I need a tripod shooting rest for my airgun?

A tripod shooting rest can provide maximum accuracy and comfort when shooting your airgun. It can help stabilize your gun and reduce fatigue, allowing you to shoot for longer periods and with greater precision. A tripod shooting rest can also help you achieve consistent shot placement, which is essential for improving your accuracy and overall shooting performance.

2. What features should I look for when choosing a tripod shooting rest for my airgun?

When choosing a tripod shooting rest for your airgun, it’s important to consider factors such as adjustability, stability, and durability. Look for a tripod shooting rest that is easy to set up and adjust to your specific shooting position, and one that can accommodate different types of airguns. You should also look for a tripod shooting rest that is stable and sturdy, with non-slip feet to prevent sliding or movement. Finally, consider the durability of the materials used and whether the tripod shooting rest is suitable for outdoor use.

3. Are tripod shooting rests suitable for all types of airguns?

Most tripod shooting rests are suitable for a wide range of airguns, including rifles and handguns. However, it’s important to check the specifications of the shooting rest to ensure it is compatible with your specific airgun. Some shooting rests may have weight or size limitations, or may be better suited for certain types of airguns, such as those with longer barrels. By doing your research and choosing a shooting rest that is compatible with your airgun, you can ensure maximum accuracy and comfort when shooting.

Best Tripod Shooting Rest for Airgun

Best Tripod Shooting Rests in 2024