Bipod question

[lordkyleofearth]

I am building out my sniper rifle setup (dedicated FSR for engagements at 40-90 yards with 1-2 shots per target). I want to keep things lightweight but stable, but need at minimum 9" of height for functionality and mag clearance (Caveat: I am building a custom foregip and so I can add some spacers to the lower rail mount if needed).

I've looked at Harris style bipods and they run 12-16 ounces. Folding foregrip models run 6-10 ounces. Each model offers some pros and cons, and I'm not experienced with any of them enough to make a real informed decision regarding what might work best for me.

Which bipod style do you prefer and why?

[ghost0302]

I saw this the first day you posted, but it took a bit to reply. I typically check in on my phone, so I don't always get in front of a keyboard quick enough when a more detailed answer is required.

I experimented with a bipod (tactical folding bipod with extending legs by UTG - it was a pretty nice bipod) a couple of times on my ParaPro, but largely found it to be more cumbersome than helpful. Anytime I am in a sniper role I look for the most stable shot platform available. Oftentimes that is prone or kneeling with a "hasty" sling (I can explain in more detail if needed). This also allows me to move quickly if neccesary. I have not found a situation yet that I absolutely had to have the bipod and could not make the shot when needed. I think part of this is that the extreme range of FSRs is 100+ yards, not several hundred yards, so stability, while critical, is not as demanding as say, a 700 yard shot. That's just my 2 cents. I do think they have a place and aren't just "tacticool" - I just personally have not found the benefit with my current sniper rig. Current sniper rig = Milsig Parapro w/ MATS stock & 2-point sling; Magpul AFG2; Hammerhead Sniper kit with 0.686 fin; Milsig mock suppressor; Hawke Optics XB30. I use a Bushnell laser rangefinder and TiPX as my secondary with this rig.

I would actually like to hear from the folks that use one regularly to see if I am missing something in my personal experience.

Either way you go, happy hunting!

[lordkyleofearth]

Thanks! I ended up snagging a UTG 9-13 off amazon. I only plan to mount it for sighting in or occasions where long ranges are possible (few and far between around here).