A tripod is a tool that can give you a steady shooting rest in scenarios where you don’t have access to a shooting bench, or in places where you can’t effectively go prone. Many hunters prefer to use them in environments with tall grass and brush, while long-range shooters use them to stabilize their rifles when in the sitting, kneeling, or standing position.

It depends on where you’re using your rifle. A bipod is best for applications where you’re able to go prone on open ground. Meanwhile, a tripod can work almost anywhere, so long as you have enough space to set it up. With one, you can shoot over brush, tall grass, or you can use them to stabilize your position when on uneven terrain.

Both are great options, but they have their own unique benefits. Carbon fiber shooting tripods typically weigh much less than aluminum ones, which is advantageous for long treks and backcountry hunts. Aluminum shooting tripods are still strong and cost less than carbon fiber ones, but they’re heavier, meaning you’ll need to be more conscious of the total weight you’re carrying. If you plan to carry your tripod a long way, investing in a good carbon fiber tripod is worth the cost. If you’re on a budget or don’t plan to take your tripod on long treks, choose aluminum.

Most tripods are adjustable, but the extent to which they can be adjusted depends on the model you select. Ideally, it’s best to match the tripod to your height, as well as how you shoot. Shorter tripods that stand roughly 18 to 38 inches tall are great for the fit sitting and kneeling shooting positions. Taller tripods that measure around 62 inches tall, or more, are ideal for the standing position. A lot of the adjustable tripods can cover a wide range of heights, but it’s best to check them before purchasing, as they aren’t guaranteed to cover every height.

Most rifle tripods either use a clamping head or an ARCA mount to attach to your rifle. A clamping head, like the one on the BOG DeathGrip, grips your stock without extra parts. An ARCA mount connects to a rail on your stock or chassis, and they only work with ARCA mounts. So, if you have an M-LOK handguard on your rifle, you’ll want to also purchase an adapter like the Magpul M-LOK ARCA adapter to use your tripod.