SETTING UP RIG FOR F CLASS - HELP ON BIPOD SELECTION

[hubbard1986]

My first post to the forum.
Question - Looking for guidance on using either a Sinclair Tactical Bipod or the Sinclair F Class Bipod for competing in F T/R. Also, what type of adapter to use to ensure the bipod won't slip along the bottom of the rifle (Savage F/TR model 12)

Background:
-My major concern is being able to shoot with same feel as a sling shooter - good stock weld and shoulder pressure (have dabbled in high-power and indoor rimfire competition years ago)
-Haven't competed for years and wanted to start competing again this year without all the equipment (jacket, sling, etc).

Equipment and Range:
-I'm slowly setting up a 308 Savage Model 12 F/TR.
-At this point, I've got the rifle mounted with a 12-42 Nightforce Benchrest model scope with Ken Ferrell rings and base (30 moa base).
-Home rifle range goes out to 300 yards.
-Have been shooting the rifle across a bench with no support and groups have been holding 2 to 2.5 inches (Lake City and Federal Match).
-Plan on reloading; that's another area I'll hit the forum up on later.
Respectfully,
Hub

 

[hubbard1986]

gstaylorg'

Appreciate the reply - the "load" discussion was very helpful. Sounds like I might want to have a traditional bipod to replicate the feel of having a sling on (at least slightly) regarding shoulder pressure.
r/
Hub

 

[Scott Harris]

Duplin Rifles is the best bipod I have found yet for F-TR. Nothing wrong with a Harris bipod for a more traditional feel.

 

[hubbard1986]

Thanks for the input. Have you shot with the Duplin? Can you "load" it as described by gstaylorg or is that what you meant by "traditional" feel with a Harris?

 

[Rustystud]

You might give a look at the Mpod made by Mystic Precision. Simple, light, and strong.
Nat Lambeth

 

[Keith Glasscock]

Give the flex pod a look. It will allow you to load the rifle. Monte can comment on it when he gets back from worlds.

 

[hubbard1986]

Gents,
Appreciate all the input - going to take a look at all the options. I think I may start with a traditional bipod for starters and get some experience shooting F Class for starters. Hoping I can get a few matches in before the snow flies.
Hub

 

[mao0720]

Hubbard, I have used both the sinclair tactical and the sinclair f-class bipod on my FT/R rifle and I can tell you that the F class bipod is the way to go. With the tactical bipod I would get vertical stringing from varying preload pressure. With the F class bipod it is much easier to keep a very constant (and firm) pull into my shoulder and cheek weld. Give one of the ski type bipods a try and I doubt you will look back.

 

[seismicshooter]

HUB,
I am considering purchasing a Savage model 12 F/TR in 308. I am concerned about the 12 inch twist handling a 175 SMK. Have you shot that heavy of a bullet in your model 12? Are you satisfied with the overall quality of the Savage? Does the rifle come with an adjustable cheek piece? Any info would be greatfully appreciated.
Thanks,
George Yarborough

Centennial, Colorado

 

[Dgd6mm]

I use a Werks ski type bi-pod, first one I've owned and I like it. I shoot my Harris also and do not preload either, only because when I tac shoot you can't always preload depending on position. I've got enough bad habits, if you know what I mean.

George, you should be fine with a 1-12 shooting a 175 SMK out of it.

 

[hubbard1986]

mao0720 - thanks for your opinion on the sinclair bipods. Good to know that you can still get a firm stock weld and shoulder pressure using the ski type.

George - the Savage is a nice rifle. Cheek piece that came was fixed - might have been two that came - can't remember. There are some spacers that came as well to adjust the length of the stock. That's about the extent of my experience. I've only fired match grade 168 grn SMK and that only at 300 yards, so I don't have any opinion regarding 175s. The rifle does group under 1 MOA at 300 - probably would be better once I get some more trigger time. The groups are primarily due to my inconsistencies.

 

[seismicshooter]

Hubbard,
Thanks for the info on the Savage. I appreciate it!
George

 

[sbrabec]

Here is what I have: http://censhot.com/. I needed to save on weight. Works very well and I'm at 18 lbs with it.
Good luck
Scott