Best Rifle Bipods: Stable Solutions For Your Rifle
There are not a lot of accessories, gadgets, or gizmos you can toss on a weapon to make it more accurate. I’d argue there is none. Some accessories can help you shoot accurately. The most inaccurate part of 99% of weapon platforms is the shooter. Removing the human element of weaponry helps improve potential accuracy and precision. One accessory that removes some of that human factor is a bipod.
A bipod attaches to your weapon, often under the barrel, and allows you to add two legs and two feet to your rifle. These bipods allow you to stabilize your rifle or handgun, which removes some of the human element from the platform. This greatly aids in accuracy, and when it comes to precision shooting at long range, a bipod is a must-have.
Bipods can also provide support for bigger, longer, and heavier weapons. Some weapons are simply too big to be handled without a bipod. Any kind of heavy-duty, long-range rifle will require a bipod. Try to hold a hefty rifle up like an M82A1 without a bipod or rest, and let me know how it goes.
Today, we will look at the very best bipods currently on the market and help decipher the static that surrounds them. We aim (pun intended) to provide you with a wide variety of options to cover all budgets and common rifle types.
Who Needs a Bipod?
We’ve covered long-range precision shooters and guys rocking rifles weighing in the tens of pounds, but they aren’t the only shooters who could use bipods. Honestly, any rifle could benefit from a bipod. They increase precision and make taking accurate shots easier. Bipods come in various sizes and configurations to allow you to fit practically any rifle with a bipod.
Hunters who stalk can certainly benefit from a bipod. When you’re out of the tree stand, you might not have many places to rest your rifle. A bipod gives you the arms to rest the rifle, increase your precision, and take precise and humane shots on target.
Bipods on ARs have become quite common. These rifles aren’t known for their long-range engagements, but that does mean you can’t shoot one precisely within their effective ranges. A little bipod action helps turn your normal AR into a more accurate platform, especially when paired with a modern LPVO.
Plenty of Marines and Soldiers served as designated marksmen with accurized M16s that sport bipods and optics.
I also like to keep a bipod on the 22LR rifle I used for training new and young shooters. The bipod does a few things. A, it basically glues the rifle to the table and keeps young shooters from pointing the rifle in any direction besides downrange.
It makes it easier to shoot the little rifle accurately and ensures nervous shooters feel a bit more secure and confident when shooting. A bipod-equipped 22LR can be an excellent training tool for new shooters.
Don’t ever think a rifle can’t be improved by a bipod. Rarely does one cause a distraction in its performance.
Best Rifle Bipods
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Best Rifle Bipods
- Magpul Bipod
- Atlas Bipods 5-H
- Caldwell Accumax Premium
- Harris S-BRM Bipod
- Atlas PSR Bipod
- Warne Skyline Precision Bipod
- MDT Cyke Pod Gen2 Single Pull Short/PRS
Best Rifle Bipod Specifications
Below is a list of our Best Rifle Bipods. So we can compare and line up the specs from each of the products and help you make the best decision possible.
Bipod | Weight | Height | Attachment Type |
---|---|---|---|
Magpul Bipod | 11 ounces | 6.3 to 10.3 inches | Pic/M-LOK/Sling QD/A.R.M.S. 17S |
Atlas Bipods 5-H | 25.74 ounces | 6.62 to 10.5 inches | Attachment Type 1913 rail and Various No Clamp models |
Caldwell Accumax Premium | 11.76 ounces | 13-30 inches | Picatinny |
Harris S-BRM Bipod | 14 ounces | 6 to 9 inches | Picatinny rail or Sling Swivel |
Atlas PSR Bipod | 11.42 ounces | 6.56 to 9 inches | Picatinny Rail |
Warne Skyline Precision Bipod | 16.5 ounces | 6.9 to 9.1 inches | Pic or Arca |
MDT Cyke Pod Gen2 | 21 ounces | 7.5 to 13 inches | Picatinny rail |
Best Rifle Bipod Reviews
Now we’ve had an overview and looked at our list, let us take the time to individually review each item. In this section we’ll be revisiting our specs, speaking into the product and looking at the pros and cons.
1. Magpul Bipod
Magpul Bipod
The Magpul Bipod for M-LOK offers serious strength and versatility at a price that provides unmatched value.
Magpul Bipod Specs
- Weight 11 Ounces
- Height 6.3 to 10.3 inches
- Attachment Type Pic/M-LOK/Sling QD/A.R.M.S. 17S
Magpul Bipod Review
Magpul captured everyone’s attention with the release of their bipod. The Magpul bipod takesMagpul’s knowledge of polymer and mixes it with a high-quality, affordable bipod. The Magpul bipod works perfectly on lighter rifles like your basic bolt action hunting rifle or AR 15 style rifle. While it might be stable enough for PRS shooters, for the vast majority of shooters, it’s more than enough bipod.
The Magpul bipod forms a low-profile design that doesn’t intrude on unsupported firing. A fairly simple design allows you to easily extend the legs with a single hand along seven different half-inched detents. This setup and design make it easy to take the bipod hunting to the range or for tactical use.
The Magpul bipod packs 50 degrees of cant and 40 degrees of pan. A glove-friendly locking knob ensures it’s easy to lock things down for maximum stability. The Magpul bipod is tough to beat when you’re on a budget and need a capable bipod.
Magpul Bipod Pros and Cons
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Low Profile
- Not appropriate for heavy and hard recoiling rifles
2. Atlas Bipods 5-H
Atlas Bipods 5-H
The BT35-NC 5-H Atlas Bipod “No Clamp” has a two hole pattern of 1.100” with the holes being 10/32 threads.
Atlas Bipods 5-H Specs
- Weight 25.74 ounces
- Height 6.62 to 10.5 inches
- Attachment Type 1913 rail and Various No Clamp models
Atlas Bipods 5-H Review
Atlas bipods bring an entirely new level of awesome for heavy-duty precision shooters. The Atlas 5-H bipods provide shooters with one of the best precision rifles options on the planet. It’s a favorite of pro shooters. This big, beefy beast weighs almost 26 ounces, and it’s the biggest bipod Atlas makes.
When you start shooting calibers that go beyond a thousand yards, this is the bipod you need. When your rifle weighs tens of pounds, this is the bipod you need. The 5-H bipod is one of the best cant options on the planet and allows you to apply proper and precise cant to your rifle and then lock it down entirely. You do get 30 degrees of pan and cant to make tracking and stability easy.
The height is an interesting development that allows you to get a super low profile at 6.62 inches to 10.5 inches. It’s just right for the prone or at the bench. You can lock out the legs at 45, 90, and 135 degrees.
Atlas Bipods 5-H Pros and Cons
- Extremely Strong
- Superbly Stable
- Versatile Height
- Hefty
3. Caldwell Accumax Premium
Caldwell Accumax Premium
The Caldwell Accumax Premium Carbon Fiber Pic Rail Bipod utilizes carbon fiber legs to keep weight to a minimum, while ensuring strength and durability.
Caldwell Accumax Premium Specs
- Weight 11.76 ounces
- Height 13-30 inches
- Attachment Type Picatinny
Caldwell Accumax Premium Review
This is a budget-friendly bipod and the most budget-friendly bipod on this list. As such, I only recommend it for hunting use. The design of the Caldwell Accumax Premium makes it better suited for hunting and less so for heavy-duty precision rifles and tactical applications. The fact the legs are 13 to 30 inches certainly puts it into its own realm.
The long legs are less for walking and more for allowing shooters to assume a sitting or kneeling position. The Accumax Premium allows you to assume a good stable position in environments covered in brush and tall grass. The carbon fiber design ensures the weapon remains lightweight and at only 11 ounces.
The Caldwell Accumax Premium offers 360 degrees of swivel rotation and 10 degrees of cant. The bipod legs only lockout at 90 degrees. It’s a very simple bipod but is priced well for its size.
Caldwell Accumax Premium Pros and Cons
- Long Legs
- Lightweight
- No 45 or 135-degree settings
4. Harris S-BRM Bipod
Harris S-BRM Bipod
The Harris Engineering Spring Loaded Bipod features spring-loaded legs for fast deployment and built in sling swivel studs for attaching to your sling.
Harris S-BRM Bipod Specs
- Weight 14 ounces
- Height 6 to 9 inches
- Attachment Type Picatinny rail or Sling Swivel
Harris S-BRM Bipod Review
The Harris S-BRM bipod gives shooters the most proven and price-friendly bipods on the planet. The S-BRM bipod is one of the most famous and has been in use by the United States Marines, SOCOM, and the US Army. It’s an all-metal design that uses heat-treated steel and hardened alloys. The 6 to 9-inch height grants you a stable design that works best with modern semi-auto and bolt action rifles.
It’s not quite what the heavy-duty precision shooter needs, but it’s more than enough for most shooters. The S-BRM model uses quickly deploying legs designed to be deployed in the prone. When you press the extension button, they fly out of the bottom as far as they can. If done outside of the prone, they max out their height.
The S-BRM offers adjustable cant with a lockout option, but you don’t get any pan with this bipod. The Harris bipods are quite popular and, as such, are endlessly customizable with lots of aftermarket support.
Harris S-BRM Bipod Pros and Cons
- Easy to Use
- Affordable
- Proven
- No Pan
5. Atlas PSR Bipod
Atlas PSR Bipod
Steady your rifle for the perfect shot with the Atlas Bipods PSR 1913 Picatinny Bipod.
Atlas PSR Bipod Specs
- Weight 11.42 ounces
- Height 6.56 to 9 inches
- Attachment Type Picatinny Rail
Atlas PSR Bipod Review
SOCOM went bipod shopping one day, and they ended up with an Atlas bipod in the cart. The Atlas PSR bipod is the current bipod in use by SOCOM and, ounce for ounce, one of the best bipods on the market. Designed with modern rifles in mind, the Atlas PSR grants users a durable, reliable, and extremely strong design that’s plenty user adjustable.
The height can be as low as 5 inches with the legs locked at 45 degrees, and the legs can lock at 0, 45, 90, 135, and 180. Adjustment height is perfect for most modern rifles and their various magazine lengths. The Atlas PSR bipod comes capable of 30 degrees of cant and 30 degrees of pan.
Unfolding, folding, and extending either leg is super simple and can be done with a single hand. It’s quick, easy but also stable and secure. This bombproof bipod makes waves in all the right ways.
Atlas PSR Bipod Pros and Cons
- Easily Adjustable
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Adjustments at ¾ inch only
6. Warne Skyline Precision Bipod
Warne Skyline Precision Bipod
The Warne Skyline Precision Bipod is one of the most functional ergonomic and strongest bipod on the market today.
Warne Skyline Precision Bipod Specs
- Weight 16.5 ounces
- Height 6.9 to 9.1 inches
- Attachment Type Pic or Arca
Warne Skyline Precision Bipod Review
Most of us likely know Warne from their series of awesome optic mounts and optic tools. Magpul getting into bipods is hardly a stretch, and the Warne Skyline Precision bipod is certainly a for shooters by shooters bipod. The Skyline precision features immaculate machining and tough-to-beat durability.
The height is a standard 6.9 to 9.1 inches, and the legs lock in the 0, 45, and 90-degree positions. The bipod comes with 22 degrees of cant and 44 degrees of pan. Plenty of adjustments, and the design certainly fits competitive shooting standards. At the same time, it could be used for tactical applications and hunting.
With a weight of only 16.5 ounces, the Skyline is far from heavy. It’s a very versatile and extremely well-made bipod that’s perfect on a variety of rifles. It’s a great mix of PRS features with tactical weight and design.
7. MDT Cyke Pod Gen2
MDT Cyke Pod Gen2
If you’re a hunter or a match shooter looking for a game-changing piece of gear, look no further than the MDT Bipod.
MDT Cyke Pod Gen2 Specs
- Weight 21 ounces
- Height 7.5 to 13 inches
- Attachment Type Picatinny rail
MDT Cyke Pod Gen2 Single Pull Short/PRS Review
The MDT Cyke Pod Gen2 approached the PRS competition circuit and turned it on its head. These are the premium-grade bipod used by professional shooters. If PRS is your game, the MDT Cyke Pod Gen2 is the way to go. These big beefy bipods are designed to help you squeeze out every little bit of accuracy from your gun.
The MDT Cyke Pod Gen2 features 170 degrees of cant with a tension adjustment knob. We get 360 degrees of lockable pan that allows you to track and shoot at will. The tension adjustments for the pan and cant feature are completely separate.
The MDT Cyke Pod Gen2 comes in various sizes, but the Single Pull short/PRS offers the standard 7.5 to 13 inches, which is versatile for most shooters. Different lengths ranging from 9 to 15 to 14.5 to 36 inches. MDT offers a height for everyone.
MDT Cyke Pod Pros and Cons
- Extremely Well Made
- Versatile height
- Plenty of Pan and Cant
- Expensive
Best Rifle Bipods – Buyers Guide
So now we know the best bipods, but let’s explain the features and details that make them the best. Our goal here is to allow you to understand what makes a good bipod and how you can go forward and choose your own. This section will give you a better understanding of why I chose the above bipods.
Height
How tall is the bipod, or how tall can it be? This can be a serious consideration that will often depend on how you plan to shoot and what you plan to shoot. Another consideration is your weapon’s height, which often ties into magazine length.
This won’t be an issue on most bolt action rifles, but on modern rifles like the AR-15, then the longer magazines can get in the way of short bipods. It might be the first decision you need to make before you consider anything else.
Typically the lower the bipod, the more stability you’ll have. Additionally, lower bipods allow tactical shooters to take a lower prone position.
Let’s take a look at some of the common bipod heights you’ll run across.
Shorter than 6 Inches – These short little bipods aren’t all that common these days. Typically bipods with legs shorter than six inches will extend to 9 or 10 inches. However, anything less than six inches should be reserved mostly for bench rest shooting. They don’t offer much clearance but do offer tons of stability.
6-9 inches Tall – 6-9 inch tall bipods tend to be the most popular for a variety of purposes. They tend to be quite stable and provide an acceptable height for both bench rest shooting and prone shooting. They are quite popular in the tactical world and allow for a stable, versatile stability range.
10-15 inches – These taller bipods often accommodate larger weapons or are used in environments where getting low in the prone isn’t easy. They aren’t too uncommon in the hunting world, where a shooter might need to clear brush or tall grass. They can also be used for shooting uphill a little easier.
Over 15 Inches – Bipods can get as tall as 30 inches or so. These are used to take shots from the sitting position. You can shoot in kneeling, sitting, and similar positions. It makes it easy to shoot when hunting and sitting at the base of a tree or hill. They put you well above high grass and brush but still provide good stability. They tend to work very well for uphill shots.
Adjustment Range
Most bipods are not a fixed height. They offer adjustments between two different ranges. When shopping for a bipod, you need to consider the minimum height and total height to ensure it will allow you to accomplish your goal.
Most premium or even just standard-quality bipods feature independent leg adjustments. This means each leg can be adjusted to a different height to use on uneven terrain. Rarely a bipod won’t have this feature, so it might be wise to avoid it when they lack it.
Adjustments can be made to predetermined lengths or can be fluid. Fluid tends to be more versatile but slower to properly set up. Quick pull allows you to move rapidly between different preset lengths and get into shooting.
Leg Positions
Leg position is where the bipod legs can lock out at. The different angles allow for different approaches, allow a taller bipod to be used in a lower prone position, help remedy weird terrain issues, and are generally convenient.
A good bipod should lock in the zero position, meaning the bipods are folded and out of the way. They should also allow you to lock the legs at 45 degrees, 90 degrees, and 135 degrees. This ensures you have a very versatile option for any situation.
Panning
Panning is your ability to move from left to right with your rifle locked into a bipod and your bipod locked into the ground. The ability to pan ensures you are not locked into one position that requires you to uproot your rifle to change. Panning allows you to scan an area, track a target, and more.
Pan is measured in degrees and varies widely and allows you to go anywhere from the humble 30 degrees to 360 degrees of pan. A locking lever can be a nice add-on with the higher limits since you won’t be spinning around your rifle.
Cant
Cant on a rifle bipod allows you to use uneven ground without having an unlevel rifle. A little cant allows the rifle to become level. Cant is always nice, and the further away you are shooting, the more important it is. Cant with a locking lever allows you to maintain a level rifle with a stable base.
Feet Design
The feet of your bipod can be a very personal decision. It is a preference, and you’ll also need to consider your terrain. The feet vary between circular rubber feet that are grippy, sled-style feet, spikes, claws, and more.
If you plan to shoot on hard terrain, you might want soft rubber. On good, firm ground, you might want sleds. You might want spikes or claws if you need to dig into soft dirt or small pebble-like terrain. If you’re shooting off someone else’s benches, you might avoid spikes and claws that tear wood, carpet, etc., up.
Additionally, there are several patterns for different feet styles. Most good bipods allow you to switch between bipod feet, and threat and design patterns have become commonplace. Atlas and Harris, for example, are very popular and present on bipods made by other companies. Pay attention to the ability to change the feet and the pattern required.
Attachment Options
How does the bipod attach to your rifle? There are several acceptable ways, and we’ll cover each here. Trust me, you need to pay attention to your rifle and your attachment method, or you’ll end up paying for a return tag.
Sling Swivel – Bipods can attach directly to the sling swivel. They fit with ease and lockdown tight on the rifle. These are very handy if you don’t have any type of traditional rail on your rifle. Lots of standard bolt action rifles don’t have rails, and the sling swivel makes it simple and easy to mount a bipod to your weapon.
Picatinny Rail – Most modern rifles, especially AR-type rifles, have some form of Picatinny rail across the bottom of the gun. These rails allow the bipod to attach directly to the rifle, and it is one of the simplest means.
Direct M-LOK – Direct M-LOK attachments work a lot like rail attachments. Instead of just squeezing in on a rail, it directly attaches to the M-LOK slots. It’s stable, and the lightest weight often means attaching a bipod. If you have a modern M-LOK handguard, this is the best way to attach a bipod.
The Weapon Factor
Your bipod should match your rifle. The bipod that’s best for an AR 15 carbine likely isn’t the best for that big Barrett 50 caliber rifle. The weapon’s size, weight, and recoil need to be factored into your selection. The bipod will tear itself to pieces if the weapon is too big and the recoil too great.
If you pick a bipod made for a powerful rifle and place it on a not-so-powerful rifle, the biggest problem will be the extra weight and unnecessary costs. Look at what weight and recoil the bipod can withstand when you shop for a bipod. You can also look at military contracts, professional shooters, and the weapons and bipod combinations they use to try and find the right bipod for your setup.
It’s Got Legs
Bipods seem to be a fairly simple subject and a fairly simple item. However, once you get into the weeds, you’ll see why so many bipod companies exist. There is a great big need for good bipods for various rifles and purposes. At this point, there is no way you can’t find the right bipod for your specific rifle and its specific task.
Hopefully, you’ve walked away a bit more educated on the subject with the right bipod in mind for your next trip to the range.
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May 26, 2023
May 26, 2023
One of the better bipod reviews in some time.
IMHO the Atlas is hands down a battle field bipod, literally bomb proof and is superior to all other on this list especially if put on a long action rifle. The author did mention that some are not great for rifles with higher recoil energy, and he’s absolutely correct. I have Harris bipods fall apart (the nut, and broken spring) while loading the bipod in prone shooting AI, another time was on the M40A5 300 WM (not a clone), and it’s why I have a love hate relationship with HARRIS.
The only advantage Harris has over Atlas is the legs tend to load better(bit more flex forward) where the Atlas legs are a bit stiffer. The technique is a slightly different when you put a load on bipods with stiffer legs.