Whether it’s a tactical rifle bipod or just a general use rifle bipod, it’s one of the shooting accessories you really need to have. They’re even good for the bolt-action guys; plenty of bipods will work with a swivel stud (make sure you practice off-hand, though!) and let you get that deer rifle dialed in.
What makes for the best AR-15 bipod? As with anything, “best” is subjective (except in some cases; blue cheese is objectively better with wings than ranch dressing and everyone knows it) but there are a few things you should look for.
Adjustable legs, rubber feet and heavy-duty construction are definitely a plus. If your rifle has a rail, the bipod you buy should include a Picatinny mount. However, it’s a good idea to buy one that can be mounted on a rail mount or swivel. That makes for a more versatile accessory that can be used on your hunting rifle with a sling swivel stud mount.
Additionally, consider what you’ll use it for. If this is for a hunting rifle, you’ll want a lightweight bipod. You should be able to level it for use in almost any shooting position including uneven terrain. If just for target shooting, get one that’s heavier. You’re only lugging it from the car to the bench; who cares? Feet on bipods bound for the bench need to be a little rougher so they don’t slip on smoother surfaces. Interchangeable feet, therefore, are also a good feature.
With that said, here are 5 solid picks.
For the budget-minded, look at the Ohuhu Tactical Rifle Bipod. For the princely sum of $16.95 on Amazon (Prime eligible, BTW) you get a steel/aluminum bipod. It works with swivel studs, and includes a rail adapter.
Rubber feet, adjustable legs, and spring tension control. It has a black anodized finish, and adjusts from 6 inches to 9 inches in height. The only features it lacks is there’s no tilt feature for leveling. You’ll have to do that by adjusting the legs. But for $17….
Another good budget option is a Leapers UTG Tactical OP Bipod series. There are several models, each with a different range of adjustable length. Each adjusts two to three inches; you can choose a 5.9-, 6.1-, 8.0- and 8.3-inch base heights. They all work with Picatinny rails and swivel studs. Their Super Duty Bi-pod is dual mounting, working with both sling swivels and Pic rails. It has a quick detach QD lever for easy on/off when rail mounting. Price is about twice that of the bargain bipods ($49) but they’re quality options
A standard-bearer for this product segment is Harris Engineering. They make a good range of well-made, durable bipods to fit many different tastes. Their entry-level solid-base model – the Harris Engineering 1A2-BRM model – actually has a lot going on for it at just under $70 at Amazon.
If you don’t mind dropping another $20, go for the S-BRM Hinged Base 6-9 Inch model. It has extendable legs with four height settings, spring-assist opening and closing, with hard rubber feet. The base model works with sling swivels (you’ll need an adapter for rail mounting, sold separately) but the party piece is that the hinged base plate. This allows you to compensate for uneven ground, making it tactical AND practical for any environment.
A newer option is the first bipod from AR magazine and furniture (and a lot more) maker Magpul. It’s made of anodized aluminum and has three mounting options; Pic rail, M-LOK and ARMS 17s. If you’re looking for a bipod that will work with sling swivels, this isn’t the one for you. The Magpul bipod is light weight at only 11 oz. and is designed for easy one-handed adjustment. Price at Amazon is $105.
However, some people want the best and don’t care about price. For that sort, get an Accu-Shot Atlas BiPod. Practical, tactical and mil-spec, these are investment pieces that you’ll have for years. Atlas BiPods pivot and cant, allowing you to get the perfect shot on any terrain. All models have swappable feet, with spikes, rubber feet, claw feet and more for the choosing The features such as height adjustment vary by make and model, as does the price. Entry level models, such as the BT10 V8 Atlas Bipod, start at $220 and go up to $449.95 for the 5-H Atlas model.
Which one should you get? Depends on what you’re looking for. If you just want a good bipod and get to using it, the budget models (Ohuhu, Leapers UTG) are good starting points. Harris makes great workhorse bipods, maybe not the most advanced, but darned if they won’t work. And the Magpul has become very popular very quickly. If you demand nothing but the best, Atlas is the way to go.
Is there a different model you prefer (there always is)? Sound off in the comments!
