Class F Bipods for dual use off the ground for varminting

[VaRandy]

I ned to purchase a class F bipod for use with my ELR rifle. Since they are about $500, I am hoping I can use it off the ground as well for varminting and also getting dual use with my .260 Ackley. I have not seen one of this class of bipods in person and have learned what I can from the Internet. Does anyone use a Star Shooter out of Canada. Looks like it might be perfect for me if it had the option of swiveling. What is your recommendation for a F-class bipod for quick deployment to the ground that also swivels?

 

[fredo]

I had an Atlas 5-H on my big Norma Imp., for a spell. It offered what you're lookin' for. Didn't like it for 'me'...too gawky in the field. Sold it & slapped the BT10 back under it. Much mo' betta for field shooting & actually carrying the rifle...

 

[BronzeArcher]

Killed lots of varmints in my time with a Harris bi-pod, which is what most of my friends and family also use for F-Class. High Master scores are common. It comes down to reading the wind more than the bi-pod.

 

[K22]

No question shooting off a bipod prone is a more stable position than shooting sticks thus enabling one to make better and longer shots. However I quit using a bipod about 17 years ago.

I switched to shooting cross sticks and shoot from a lightweight sportsman's chair in the sitting position. Even though this is a less stable setup than a prone bipod, I'm able to get a much larger field of view thus increasing my opportunities for more shots. Where I hunt I estimate that I'd have to give up about 50% of my shots if I was restricted to a prone position. In other words, I'm significantly less restricted by terrain with the shooting sticks. Also staying off the ground keeps the ticks off me. Thirdly, I have back problems which prevents me from shooting comfortably in the prone position.

As of this season I've taken 1,751 ghogs using this system covering a spand of about 17 years. Most of my shots are under 250 yards so this system works for me.