How to shoot off a tripod
How to Shoot a Rifle From a Tripod
Caleb from Brownells is at the range with a quick look at how he uses a shooting tripod to support a rifle.
Most Brownells range shooting is done from the ground or a bench, but there are situations where a tripod makes sense. Hunting and other field shooting positions are good examples.
There are several ways to configure a rifle tripod. Caleb demonstrates the equipment and techniques he typically uses while emphasizing that these aren't the only ways to do it.
Using an ARCA Tripod Mount
Caleb's preferred setup uses an ARCA mounting system.
ARCA provides a secure connection between the rifle and tripod while allowing the rifle to be attached or removed relatively quickly. Depending on the tripod head, the shooter may use a knob or quick-detach lever to secure the rifle.
Another advantage is versatility. A rifle equipped with an ARCA rail can potentially use the same mounting area for compatible bipods and other support equipment.
Finding the Rifle's Balance Point
When attaching a rifle to a tripod, Caleb tries to position the mount as close to the rifle's balance point as possible.
The rifle in the demonstration is a gas gun, and much of its weight is concentrated closer to the receiver. That means the ideal balance point isn't necessarily located where the available mounting position allows.
If the perfect balance point isn't available, Caleb recommends getting as close as the rifle's configuration allows.
A more balanced setup reduces the tendency of the rifle to tip forward or backward and helps create a more stable shooting position.
Setting the Tripod Height
Tripod height depends on whether you're standing, kneeling, sitting, or using another position.
For the standing demonstration, Caleb sets the rifle roughly around chest height and then builds his shooting position behind it.
Rather than forcing his body to adapt to a poorly positioned tripod, he adjusts the tripod and rifle until he can establish a comfortable position square to the target.
The tripod's ball head provides additional adjustment for aligning the rifle.
Basic Cradle-Style Tripod Rest
ARCA isn't the only option.
A basic cradle-style rest is one of the simplest and most affordable ways to support a rifle from a tripod.
Instead of mechanically attaching the rifle, the shooter places the rifle into the rest.
That can be particularly useful for hunting because it doesn't require an ARCA rail or other dedicated mounting hardware on the firearm.
The tradeoff is stability. A simple cradle doesn't lock the rifle to the tripod the way an ARCA system does.
Using a Tripod as a Monopod
A basic cradle-style tripod can also provide a quick field support without fully deploying all three legs.
Caleb points out that a hunter can deploy a single leg and use the setup similarly to a monopod when circumstances call for a faster support option.
It's less stable than a fully deployed tripod, but it provides another way to use the equipment already being carried.
Hog Saddle-Style Tripod Clamp
Another option is a clamping saddle.
This type of tripod head clamps around the rifle rather than requiring an ARCA rail or other direct mounting interface.
For a rifle that isn't already equipped with ARCA hardware, Caleb considers this one of the better alternatives.
The tradeoff is that it generally isn't as fast or convenient as his preferred ARCA setup.
Tripod Leg Configuration
Caleb demonstrates two primary ways he positions the tripod legs.
The first has one leg extending forward toward the target with two supporting legs toward the shooter.
This provides a straightforward and stable tripod arrangement that works well with the rifle mounted near its balance point.
Caleb keeps his input into the rifle relatively light with this configuration.
The Rear-Leg Tripod Setup
The second configuration is Caleb's preferred method.
He rotates the tripod so two legs extend forward while one leg extends back toward the shooter.
On the tripod shown, one leg has a textured gripping section. With that leg positioned toward him, Caleb can use it as an additional point of contact.
Because Caleb shoots left-handed, he demonstrates the technique from that perspective. A right-handed shooter would mirror the position as appropriate.
Stabilizing the Rifle With the Rear Leg
The rear-leg configuration allows Caleb to add more controlled input to the shooting position.
As he settles behind the rifle, he uses the rear tripod leg as an additional support point while maintaining the rifle's position on the tripod.
The goal is a stable, repeatable position rather than simply resting the rifle on top of the tripod.
Caleb notes that he particularly likes this configuration when working with a heavier-recoiling rifle.
Making the 500-Yard Shot
With the rifle mounted and his position established, Caleb demonstrates the setup on a 500-yard target.
He settles into the tripod, stabilizes the rifle, and gets an impact.
The shot provides a straightforward demonstration of why a properly configured shooting tripod can be useful when a bench or prone position isn't available.
Choosing a Rifle Tripod Setup
There isn't one universal tripod configuration for every rifle or shooter.
Caleb prefers ARCA because it's secure, fast, and works well with rifles already configured for compatible accessories. A basic cradle can provide a simple hunting solution, while a clamping saddle can work well on rifles without dedicated tripod mounting hardware.
The tripod leg arrangement can also change depending on the rifle, shooting position, recoil, and personal preference.
Experiment with your equipment in a controlled range environment and find a stable setup that works for you before relying on it in the field.
If you have a preferred rifle tripod technique, share it in the comments so other shooters can learn from your experience.
As always, if you need help selecting equipment for your rifle, give the Brownells Tech Line a call. We'll be happy to help.
