10 Best Rifle Bipods for Hunting

Harris HBRMS Bipod

• Adjustable from 6” to 9”
• Notched legs with S-lock for pan and tilt
• Lightweight at 13 oz
• Spring-loaded legs for quick deployment

GG&G XDS-2 Tactical Bipod

• Made of MilSpec anodized aluminum
• Weighs 15 oz
• 20 degrees of pan and 25 degrees of cant
• Leg lock at 45 and 90 degrees
• Installation on Picatinny rail

Magpul A.R.M.S. 17S Style Bipod

• Lightweight (11 oz) and durable
• Made from MilSpec hard-anodized aluminum
• 20 degrees of pan and 50 degrees of cant
• Legs extend from 6.3” to 10.3”

When you’re shooting from a prone position just holding up your rifle with your hand isn’t going to cut it. It provides little added stability over shooting from a kneeling or standing position, and you can’t always rely on a handy rock or log to prop it up on. A lightweight bipod grants you a stable shooting position for accurate shots over long distances. Today we’ll be covering the best bipods available to help you pick out the one that works best for you.

Best Bipods Reviewed

There are as many different bipods and shooting rests out there as there are rifles and shooters. Picking out the best bipod really comes down to your rifle, the type of shooter you are, and how you intend to use it.

We’ve put together a list of the 11 best bipods across a range of price points, functions, and design styles.

Harris HBRMS Best Bipods

Buy from Amazon

The Harris HBRMS is a 6” to 9” bipod designed for use primarily with tactical rifles. It’s compatible with a Picatinny rail system and uses a single button quick detach system.

The legs are notched and individually adjustable. This makes it really easy to get an even position even on rough terrain. It uses an S-lock instead of a knurled knob to provide greater turning torque.

This allows just about anyone to adjust the angle and pan their bipod. It can both pan and can’t for rapid adjustments to your aim.

The legs themselves are spring-loaded to deploy quickly and smoothly. It’s made from aluminum and weighs just 13 oz.

We found the Harris HBRMS to be a well-made and easy to use shooting bipod. Its size makes it suitable for those shooting without wearing large body armor.

GG&G XDS-2 Tactical Bipod

Buy from Amazon

I’ve used the GG&G XDS-2 Tactical Bipod for a while now, and it’s been a solid companion on my outdoor shooting ventures. Its construction is robust with MilSpec anodized aluminum, making it capable of standing up to some serious use out in the wilderness. The matte finish adds a refined look that appeals to my aesthetic sense. I was initially drawn to its lightweight nature, weighing merely 15 ounces, which is a boon when I am hiking to my favorite shooting spots.

The installation is a breeze. It’s designed for a toolless setup with Picatinny rail systems which is convenient when I’m out and about. The ease with which I can attach and detach it from my rifle is remarkable, saving me a good deal of time and hassle. It’s not the quick detach version, but honestly, I’ve had no issues with its ease of detachment.

Adjusting the bipod is pretty straightforward with its 20 degrees of left and right pan and 25 degrees of up and down cant. It’s the kind of flexibility I need when I’m nestled on uneven terrain, trying to get a steady aim. The legs lock securely at both 45 and 90 degrees, providing a steady base on a variety of terrains. This feature came in handy during my last camping trip on some seriously rough trails.

One of the highlights for me is the action of folding out the legs and locking them in at 45 degrees. It’s a small but significant feature that adds to the bipod’s functionality. The textured rubber feet ensure a firm grip, which is crucial when I’m aiming for precision.

However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The adjustment knobs could be a bit larger for better grip, and sometimes I find it challenging to torque them down sufficiently with just my fingers, especially when it’s cold outside. The tilt lock, nestled between the legs at the top, is a bit of a reach, and I’ve had a couple of instances where it loosened up, nearly causing my rifle to topple over.

During my recent RV trip through the Rockies, I had the GG&G XDS-2 Tactical Bipod along, and it proved to be a reliable companion. One morning, amidst the crisp mountain air, I found a secluded spot with a clear view over a beautiful valley. Setting up the bipod was a breeze, and soon I was ready. The ground was uneven and rocky, but the bipod’s legs adjusted smoothly, locking securely at a 45-degree angle, providing a stable platform for my rifle.

As I zeroed in on my target, the left to right pan and up and down cant adjustments were smooth, allowing me to follow a moving target with ease. The feeling of control and stability, even in such rugged terrain, was reassuring. After a successful session, detaching the bipod was straightforward, and I was back on the trail. This experience reaffirmed my appreciation for the thoughtful design of the GG&G XDS-2, which clearly had outdoor enthusiasts like me in mind.

The quick disconnect feature is something I appreciate, but the design could use some tweaking to allow better torque on the adjustments. Despite these minor gripes, the GG&G XDS-2 Tactical Bipod has been a worthy addition to my outdoor shooting gear, blending a rugged design with a wide range of adjustment features. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but given its build quality and functionality, I find it to be a sound investment for any avid outdoorsman and shooter.

Pros:

• Robust Construction: Made with MilSpec anodized aluminum, ensuring durability.
• Easy Installation: Toolless setup with Picatinny rail systems is a time-saver.
• High Adjustability: Offers 20 degrees of left and right pan, and 25 degrees of up and down cant, ideal for uneven terrains.
• Leg Locking Feature: Legs lock securely at both 45 and 90 degrees, providing a steady base on a variety of terrains.
• Lightweight: Weighing just 15 ounces, it’s easy to carry on outdoor adventures.
• Textured Rubber Feet: Ensures a firm grip, essential for precise aiming.
• Appealing Matte Finish: Adds a refined aesthetic touch to the bipod.

Cons:

• Small Adjustment Knobs: Difficult to torque down sufficiently, especially in cold or wet conditions.
• Inaccessible Tilt Lock: Hard to reach and tighten, which can lead to instability.
• Pricey: The higher price point might be a consideration for some buyers.
• Tweaking Needed for Better Torque: The design could benefit from extended levers for better torque down on adjustments.

Magpul A.R.M.S. 17S Style Good Bipod

Buy from Amazon

Magpul is a titan in the shooting sports and tactical world. They’re most famous for their rugged polymer magazines but also make a range of other accessories and equipment. The A.R.M.S is a lightweight and durable bipod designed for use with Magpul’s 17S mounting rail system.

It’s made from MilSpec hard anodized 6061 T-6 aluminum and weighs just 11 oz. Magpul put a lot of work into the design of the A.R.M.S. bipod and came up with a sleek and modern looking tool that lacks many of the bumps and protrusions that snag on other bipods.

It has spring tensioned legs built to snap securely against your rifle when not in use and instantly deploy when needed. The legs are adjustable from 6.3” to 10.3”, with 7 clearly visible half-inch adjustment notches.

The A.R.M.S. offers 20 degrees of pan in either direction and a full 50 degrees of forward and backward cant. That gives you substantial room to adjust your aim without moving your rifle from a secure spot.

It comes standard with a pair of soft rubber feet great for a non marring hold on multiple surfaces. If you wish to customize your bipod feet just about all Atlas pattern feet will fit on the A.R.M.S. legs.

There’s a reason Magpul is so respected, the A.R.M.S. is a great bipod at a very reasonable price. It offers an excellent range of features for the tactical shooter and won’t let you down when it counts.

Accu-Shot Atlas Bipod BT46-LW17 PSR

Buy from Amazon

The Accu-Shot Atlas Bipod BT46-LW17 PSR is a high-end tactical bipod designed for precision shooting. It’s made from MilSpec Type III anodized 7075-T6 aluminum with a heat treated stainless steel internal parts.

It can extend from 4.75” to 9” and weighs just 13.61 oz. It’s capable of panning and canting 15 degrees in either direction for more effective aim adjustments without moving.

It has highly textured and rounded feet to give you the strongest possible hold on different ground types. The legs are capable of deploying at 5 different positions to make finding that perfect aim point easy.

The only real downside to the PSR is its price. Because of its precision manufacturing and high standards it’s one of the most expensive bipods on the market.

Without a doubt the Atlas BT46-LW17 PSR is one of the best bipods on the market. So good that it was selected as part of the SOCOM Precision Sniper Rifle Weapon System.

CVLIFE 6-9 Inches Tactical Rifle Bipod

Buy from Amazon

The CVLIFE Tactical Rifle Bipod is a spring deployed bipod adjustable from 6” to 9”. It’s made from anodized aluminum with stainless steel structural components and designed for use on a variety of different rifle platforms.

It offers 5 notched leg lengths for easy adjustment and has a quick release swivel stud. This makes it really easy to attach and remove the bipod from your rifle for changing conditions.

The legs end in a textured rubber foot pad designed to provide a firm grip on multiple terrain types. When you combine them with the individually adjustable legs you wind up with a pretty stable shooting surface.

The CVLIFE weighs just 10 oz and is actually more useful and durable than its price would lead you to expect. It can’t pan or cant for aim adjustments but is otherwise a serviceable bipod, especially if you’re using it for something like hunting or target shooting.

UTG PRO TBNR Picatinny Bipod

Buy from Amazon

The UTG PRO TBNR is a Picatinny compatible bipod designed for use with tactical rifles. It’s made from Type III Class 2 6061-T6 and 7075-T6 aluminum with a steel on steel lockup of the bipod’s locking mechanism.

This makes it extremely strong and prevents it from opening during rapid movements or sudden impacts. If you’re moving fast in the field and have to duck for cover it’s important to know that your bipod won’t pop loose and catch on something.

It’s adjustable from 7” to 9” and uses market standard interchangeable foot pads. The stock pads are rugged, textured for grip, and end at a sharp point for the most versatile hold.

Each leg is individually adjustable and has a really easy to use spiral guide system that allows you to quickly find the ideal height. It’s capable of canting at 19 degrees in all directions and is designed to allow 360-degree panning.

The UTG PRO TBNR is a rugged and highly dependable tactical bipod. It’s made from high-quality materials and manufactured in the USA.

UTG Heavy Duty Recon 360 Bipod

Buy from Amazon

The UTG Heavy Duty Recon 360 is a more affordable version of the company’s high-end tactical bipods. It’s made to the same high standards as their MilSpec products using more affordable materials.

The body is made from lightweight aluminum and comes standard with both a Picatinny compatible mount and a swivel mount. This allows you to quickly and easily mount it to both modern tactical rifles and traditional wood body ones.

It offers full 360 degree panning and broad range canting. This allows you to shoot in basically any direction without having to lift your bipod off a secure shooting position. The sensitivity of this is controlled with two tension screws that allow you to customize the speed and responsiveness of your panning.

The legs themselves are adjustable with 5 visible notches to find the best possible position. The Recon 360 uses a cantilevered base that helps separate the body of the bipod from its mounting point. This gives you a ton of additional movement space and allows you to more easily adjust your aim without moving the bipod itself.

Overall the UTG Heavy Duty Recon 360 offers one of the best combinations of price and usability on the market. It isn’t the best bipod available, but it is a quality bipod at a great price.

Caldwell XLA Bipod

Buy from Amazon

The Caldwell XLA is a swivel stud mounted bipod designed for target shooting, hunting, and other long distance shots. It’s made from lightweight aluminum with polymer components.

It uses a spring deployment system that makes it easy to flip out when needed but keeps it safely stowed away while on the move. The legs are individually adjustable and available in multiple heights, including 6” to 9”, 9” to 13”, and 13.5” to 27”.

This gives you a range of choices from prone shooting positions up to sitting. They also offer an easy set of notch guides to quickly find the best position.

It’s capable of panning and canting up to 20 degrees in either direction. When combined with the range of adjustable heights this makes it easy to find the best shooting position.

The Caldwell XLA is a hunting optimized bipod that allows you to find the best and most comfortable shooting position for your needs.

BOG Adrenaline Bipod

Buy from Amazon

The BOG Adrenaline is a lever lock style bipod designed for use with any type of long gun. It’s made from heavy-duty aluminum and uses a three lever locks on either leg for endless adjustments.

This is the same system that camera tripods often use and is one of the most customizable bipod systems. Rather than a standard Picatinny or swivel mount the Adrenaline comes with a USR shooting yoke.

This allows you to switch weapons at will depending on game and conditions. It can adjust from 23.5” all the way up to 71”. That allows you to shoot from either a sitting or standing position.

The feet are made from textured rubber and have a retractable metal spike. Once you find the perfect position in soft ground you can deploy the spikes and securely plant your bipod.

The downside to this design is its weight and size. The Adrenaline weighs over 2.5 lbs and is nearly two feet long when fully stowed. It’s not particularly portable and definitely not something you want to bring into a tactical situation.

The BOG Adrenaline is a great bipod for hunters and other sports shooters. It’s not recommended for tactical use though.

UTG Recon Flex M-LOK(R) Bipod

Buy from Amazon

The UTG Recon Flex M-LOK is a specialty bipod designed to work with an M-LOK rail system. It’s actually two different components built to attach on either side of the barrel at the 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock points.

It’s made from lightweight aircraft grade aluminum and has a spring-loaded leg system. It’s adjustable from 5.7” up to 8” and has a pair of textured rubber feet. This gives it an excellent hold on uneven ground and grants you a very secure shooting position.

The design of the Recon Flex M-LOK is optimized to reduce weight and bulk without sacrificing stability. It adjusts through 5 preset positions to help you find the best position for your rifle and shooting style.

The UTG Recon Flex M-LOK is a lightweight and affordable bipod. If you already have an M-LOK handguard on your rifle it’s a great option.

Best Bipod Comparison Table

Buyers Guide to Buying the Best Bipods

The features that make the best bipods can vary wildly depending on your shooting style and the use you intend to put it to. Military personnel and Law Enforcement have significantly different requirements than do sport shooters and hunters.

The best bipod for a Recon Marine is going to look a whole lot different than the best bipod for a gentleman hunter.

Price of the Best Bipods

There’s a wide range of prices in bipods depending on the features you need and the type of shooting you’re doing. If you’re just looking for something to use with an airsoft or pellet rifle you can find a serviceable bipod for well under $50.

If you need a highly portable and rugged bipod you can stake your life on in a high stress tactical situation you’re looking closer to the $200+ range.

Leg Length

The length of the leg on your bipod depends on what style of shooting you’re participating in and your own size. If you plan to shoot from a prone position you’ll need a lot shorter bipod legs than if you want to shoot from a sitting position, such as inside a blind.

Another important factor is what type of rifle you’re shooting. If you’re shooting a modern sporting rifle with a 30 round magazine you’ll need several more inches of space between the rifle and the ground.

If you’re wearing body armor or other heavy layers the same issue comes into play. Most bipods fall in the range of 6” up to 30”.

Individual Leg Adjustments

By definition bipods have a pair of legs. You get a lot more flexibility if each leg is capable of individual adjustment.

This allows you to adjust for things like rocks, uneven terrain or your own physical needs. You can quickly and easily get a balanced shooting position no matter where you are.

Notched Legs

Notched or marked legs on bipods are an often overlooked feature. They show the various levels of adjustment on the bipod legs and make it easy to remember different settings.

This is especially useful if you often shoot with a bipod on a range or local shooting area. You can get set up and adjusted within seconds.

Multi-Purpose Bipods

If you’re out hunting with a classic rifle a bipod pretty much just needs to be a bipod. If you’re going to be in tactical situations though, having more functions can be really helpful.

One of the coolest developments in recent years is the multi-purpose bipod. These are designed specifically for tactical operators who need basic bipod functionality but mostly find themselves shooting while moving.

They’re both a vertical fore grip and folding bipod. The bipod isn’t the most stable you can find but it does provide useful capability on the go.

Panning and Canting

Panning and canting are two advanced shooting features that are really nice to have on a bipod, especially a tactical one. Panning refers to a bipod’s ability to swivel to the left or right.

This allows you to turn to the left or right without moving the feet of your bipod. It’s really useful when making small adjustments to your aim.

Canting adjusts the angle of your rifle up and down on the bipod. It really comes into play when you’re talking about very long shots where bullet drop is an issue.

By canting your rifle up you can compensate for the distance while still maintaining contact with the ground.

Feet

The feet of your bipod are arguably the most important part. They act as the sole point of contact between your rifle and the surface you’re shooting from.

Depending on where you’re shooting and from what position there are specialized feet that provide the best performance. Most bipods come with fairly standard soft rubber feet that work reasonably well in most conditions.

Soft ground provides some of the best ground to shoot from. It grips the feet and helps reduce recoil to keep your rifle on target.

A really great feature to look for in a bipod is exchangeable feet. This allows you to adjust your bipod for conditions.

Material, Construction and Durability of the Best Bipods

Modern bipods are made from a variety of materials, with aluminum and polymer being the two most common. For the best bipod we highly recommend you stick with aluminum.

A bipod isn’t just holding up the relatively light weight of a rifle. It needs to be able to handle the recoil of every shot without bending or breaking. For that aircraft grade aluminum offers the best combination of weight, affordability, and strength.

That’s not to say every piece of your bipod needs to be metal. Polymer has its place, but it shouldn’t be in the body or supporting legs of the bipod.

Size and Weight of the Best Bipods

With bipods it can be really hard to balance weight and size with performance. Larger, heavier bipods provide better performance pretty much across the board. They offer greater strength, stability, and can help redirect recoil.

If you’re shooting a heavy caliber rifle designed to be fired from a resting position we think it’s best to go with a heavier and stronger bipod.

For lighter rifles such as an AR15 or Ruger Mini 14 it becomes a much thornier question. You’re just as likely to be firing one of those from an unsupported position as you are prone or seated.

You need a bipod that’s smaller and lighter so it doesn’t throw off your aim.

Compatibility/Attachment Method

If you’re out hunting with a traditional wood hunting rifle you’ll need a substantially different attachment method than if you’re using a modern sporting rifle like an AR15. The vast majority of AR15 style rifles and other tactically focused shooting platforms will use a Picatinny rail system.

This offers a lot of benefits as you can attach all kinds of scopes, sights, and other gear using the same mounting system.

Benefits of using a Bipod

If you’re shooting from a prone position you need a bipod. There’s no getting around it. Relying on a conveniently placed log or rock just isn’t going to cut it.

Trying to hold your rifle up with your hand while shooting prone significantly reduces accuracy versus using a bipod. It helps reduce recoil, maintain your aim, and improve accuracy with every shot.

Shooting Stick vs Bipod vs Tripod

There are three real options available for supporting your rifle while shooting. These are a shooting stick, a bipod, and a tripod.

A shooting stick is exactly what it sounds like, a long stick you can set your rifle on to shoot from. It has the benefit of flexibility as you can fire from a standing, sitting or prone position.

The downside is their lack of stability and portability. Shooting sticks don’t attach to your rifle and so don’t offer recoil reduction.

Tripods are the most stable shooting platform when properly secured and set up. They can fully support your rifle and offer excellent accuracy, recoil reduction, and aiming support. There is a significant caveat though.

Rifle tripods are pretty much only good for shots taken from a sitting position. They’re also the least portable of the three options.

A bipod offers many of the benefits of a tripod and a shooting stick without the downsides. They’re attached to your rifle and offer substantial accuracy, recoil, and aim support but are far more portable than a shooting stick and allow shots to be taken from a sitting or prone position.

Top Bipods Video

FAQ: Best Rifle Bipods

In this section, we aim to address some common questions and concerns regarding the selection, use, and maintenance of rifle bipods. We understand that choosing the right bipod for your shooting needs can be a daunting task, especially with the variety of options available on the market. Whether you’re an avid hunter, a precision shooter, or simply someone seeking more stability for your rifle, we’re here to provide clarity and guidance.

The Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section covers essential aspects such as the definition and purpose of rifle bipods, the different types available, factors to consider when choosing a bipod, and tips for proper attachment and adjustment. Additionally, we delve into the compatibility of bipods with various rifles, explore key features to look for, and discuss their suitability for different shooting activities.

We hope that the answers provided here will assist you in making informed decisions when it comes to selecting the best rifle bipod to suit your specific shooting style, intended use, and budget. Remember, safety and functionality are paramount, and by understanding the fundamentals of rifle bipods, you can enhance your shooting experience, improve accuracy, and make the most out of your outdoor adventures. Let’s dive into the frequently asked questions and equip ourselves with the knowledge necessary to elevate our shooting capabilities.

What is a rifle bipod?

A rifle bipod is an accessory that attaches to the forend of a rifle to provide stability and support when shooting. It typically consists of two adjustable legs that can be extended or retracted to suit various shooting positions.

Why should I use a rifle bipod?

Using a rifle bipod offers several advantages. It enhances stability, allowing for more accurate shots by reducing rifle movement. It also helps to alleviate shooter fatigue during long shooting sessions, particularly during hunting or tactical operations.

Are there different types of rifle bipods?

Yes, there are various types of rifle bipods available on the market. The most common types include fixed bipods, which have a fixed leg length, and adjustable bipods, which allow you to change the leg height for different shooting scenarios. Additionally, some bipods offer features like swivel or tilt functions to accommodate uneven terrain.

How do I choose the right rifle bipod for my needs?

Consider factors such as your shooting style, intended use, and budget when choosing a rifle bipod. If you frequently shoot from prone positions, a bipod with longer legs may be beneficial. If you need to move quickly between targets, a lightweight and compact bipod might be more suitable. Additionally, ensure that the bipod is compatible with your rifle’s attachment system.

What are some key features to look for in a rifle bipod?

When selecting a rifle bipod, consider features such as adjustable leg length, ease of installation and attachment, durability, weight, and stability. Some bipods also offer additional features like quick-detach mechanisms, swivel and tilt capabilities, and rubberized or spiked feet for different terrains.

Can I mount a rifle bipod on any type of rifle?

Most rifle bipods are designed to be compatible with a wide range of rifles. However, it’s important to ensure that the bipod you choose is compatible with the attachment system of your specific rifle. Common attachment systems include sling swivel studs, Picatinny or M-Lok rails, or accessory adapters.

Are rifle bipods suitable for all shooting activities?

Rifle bipods are versatile and can be used for a variety of shooting activities, including hunting, tactical shooting, precision shooting, and long-range shooting. However, if you primarily engage in dynamic shooting or shooting on the move, a bipod may not be the most practical choice.

How do I properly attach and adjust a rifle bipod?

The process of attaching and adjusting a rifle bipod may vary depending on the specific model. However, most bipods attach to the rifle’s forend using screws, clamps, or quick-detach mechanisms. Once attached, you can adjust the leg length by extending or retracting the legs to your desired height.

Can I use a rifle bipod for other activities besides shooting?

While rifle bipods are primarily designed for shooting purposes, they can also be useful in other activities. For example, they can provide stability and support when using a spotting scope or binoculars, or even as a makeshift support for a camera tripod in certain situations.

How should I care for my rifle bipod?

Proper care and maintenance of your rifle bipod will ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Regularly inspect the bipod for any damage or loose components. Clean it after each use to remove dirt, debris, and moisture, and lubricate any moving parts as recommended by the manufacturer. Store the bipod in a dry place when not in use.

Remember, when selecting a rifle bipod, it’s essential to choose one that suits your specific needs and shooting style. Always prioritize safety and follow proper firearm handling practices when using a bipod in conjunction with your rifle.

Final Thoughts on the Best Bipods

With a bipod your shot goes from pretty accurate to rock steady. If you’re a fair shot without one you’ll definitely see improvement with one.

As long as you know what kind of rifle you’re shooting and a have a good idea of the conditions you’ll be in it’s easy to find the best bipod for your needs.