I am working on my first long-range rifle (a savage 10 in 7.62x51mm). I am working to do this on a tight budget and looking at putting a bipod on it, but wasn't sure which would be best.
Do I automatically need to get a Harris Swivel Bipod? Or, are there others out there that are worthwhile? Or, better?
Thanks for any feedback or guidance you can give!
I have two Harris bipods, one 6-9, one 9-13, both "S" models. There may be others in the same price range that perform well, but I haven't heard of them. But, I've only been at this for a couple of years.
Since you're on a budget, I won't mention the higher priced products, but will give you a few words of caution.
Harris makes a good product, but in the original configuration, they tend to loosen a bit, so I suggest getting either the "Sarge" knob by ZRO Delta, or the "S" lock that Harris sells. Both will allow you to have your cant locked down, or as loose as you'd like.
Also, buy from a reputable dealer-or direct from Harris. There are too many knockoffs that are hunks of junk, and you don't want to waste your money on crap, as this craft can get pretty expensive if you let it!
As an example, I was at the range Saturday and a guy could not get his bipod attached to the sling stud. The clamp would tighten almost enough to be secure, then let loose! I'm pretty sure he said the brand was something that starts with the letter "C" and the last four letters are associated with getting water from a deep hole.
If it will fit, you may want to consider the pic rail adapter. It seems to hold a bit tigher than just the swivel stud.
Also, Loctite is your friend. The wheel at the bottom of the bipod should be locked down as tight as you can possibly get it! I found out when I started out that my groups were horrendous because my bipod was loose! There was absolutely no consistancy in the harmonics, so the target looked like I was looking through a kaledoscope.
Next to last thought. I wouldn't invest in any attachment that allows you to pan across the range. At least not the ZRO Delta one. It sits too high and is a PIA. Although a QD pic rail adapter is kinda nice. ADM makes a decent one at a good price.
Finally, if you are shooting on a flat range, the 6-9 Harris is good to go, unless you are really big-I'm 5'10, 170ish. I hear that it's good for ranges that are somewhat downhill, too.
If you'll be shooting uphill, the 9-13 will be better. Look at my post here under the Training tab for pics of the Mifflin Co. live fire range. It looks flatter than it really is. The 9-13 was perfect for shooting up the hill to 1000 yards. Other guys with shorter bipods had to stack bags under their bipods, which was not condusive to having a stable platform.
Hope this helps!
I also have an Harris 9-13" s bipod and am very satisfied with it and havent considered spending anymore on any other type of bipod. Have a 13-20" or so in a cheaper brand non swivel and it's only ok for my dear rifle when I sit with my back against a tree and just would like a steady shoot over tall grass but then again I have knees to prop up on and just save the hassle. So I would say take your time and find some thing that will fit your application and have some dual purpose options. Happy shooting and train hard.
Hard to go wrong with a Harris bipod. Like Geoff, I have one of each. I also modded mine with some very effective low cost spikes. See my post about using arrow field points inserted into the rubber feet. They worked great at the RX18 Live Fire in Pennsylvania.
Guys,
Thank you all for the feedback. About 3 weeks ago I went ahead and ordered the 9-13 Harris S model bipod directly from Harris. I got it installed on the rifle the same day I received it. Went on smooth and functions fine. Due to a busy work schedule I have not been able to get it out to the range yet, but should be to test out in the next 2 weeks. Thank you all!