How To Choose The Best Bipod Height: Definitive Guide
There are a plethora of shooters that see a bipod and ponder, “Bipod? I don’t need one!” While there are others who in the absence of a bipod ponder, “No Bipod? How will I shoot?”
So let’s just move beyond both the cases and determine the use of a bipod objectively.
Of course, a steady rest is indispensable to create an accurate rifle shot, but an appropriate bipod height can actually form that steady rest.
Attaching it to the rifle’s forend makes it an essential part of the rifle, as well as a great asset during field conditions. However, the key to accomplishing consistent accuracy is to choose the correct bipod height.
Wondering how to choose bipod height?
Well, here are some things to consider before choosing a bipod height:
Things To Consider Before Choosing The Best Bipod Height
1. Measure Scope Height
This is determined by many numbers in the following format- (minimum magnification – maximum magnification * objective lens diameter). In order to get a rough measurement, take the objective lens diameter in millimeters, and add 2 to 4 mm for the thickness of the body and then divide the result by 2 to ascertain the scope height.
The result is the distance from the middle of the scope body to the external of the tube at the thickest point. For a more accurate measurement, simply determine the diameter of the scope body, and divide the number in half.
This is best to way to get an exact number. Ring height is mostly overlooked while fitting a scope to a rifle.
So, you must fit it with rings that are too low, and your scope will certainly hit the barrel before it rests on the scope ring. The appropriate ring height must be between the two extremes to ensure the most accurate shooting and comfortable fit.
2. Select The Right Base
This is much easy as compared to ring selection as most manufacturers make only one particular base for the receiver. However, one important thing to consider here is the height of the bases as they will contribute to your ring height.
3. Choose The Appropriate Rings
Once you know the scope height, the next step is to select the smallest ring along with the base combination that is much higher than this measurement.
For instance, if you have ascertained that your scope height is 20 mm, you can choose any ring and base combination higher than 20 mm. Some manufacturers determine the scope ring heights differently, so it is imperative to do a proper research before buying.
4. Quality
If you want to invest in a bipod with an appropriate height, which is also fast and easy to assemble, you must look at the earnest considerations.
If you want to increase your accuracy with controllable heights and compact construction while shooting, then quality must be the top priority than the price.
Best And Most Popular Bipod Height For Almost Everything
A swivel 6″ to 9″ is the most popular and best bipod height to go for the game. A swivel lever 9″ to 13″ is another good height for almost everything.
The rifle height must accommodate the shooter and not the other way around. An exceptionally high bipod will certainly result in a sore upper back or neck. You must also get a swivel lever to adjust the lock in it.
Bipod Height For Prone Shooting
Ideally, a bipod must allow shooting comfortably from the lowest prone position possible, as one basic rule is that any discomfort can result in a precarious rifle.
Sometimes a tiny stone in the sternum is inescapable, but when you have to forcibly lift your torso, the reticle will quiver like a bobble head. And that is why a bipod height of 9″ to 12″ can certainly work well for prone shooting.
A Harris bipod of appropriate height can be promptly adjusted so that both buttstock and forend are the appropriate comfortable heights above the surface level.
So, in order to make a wise decision for the best bipod, choosing the appropriate height is a paramount consideration, and you must consider all the above-mentioned factors.
Furthermore, adjust the bipod legs as low to the ground level as possible, in order to minimize its reflex while your bullet is still in the rifle.
A prone shooter will place bipod legs in a shallow trench, making it easier for him to lean into the rifle and set the bipod legs by providing a strong push against the flex without actually pushing the gun away.
A bipod is certainly a wonderful tool, but like any other damn tools, it has to be used appropriately.