That is my thinking since a backpack would equal a short bipod and a longer bipod seems more solid than sticks, but I don't have enough experience in every phase to be an authority.
That is exactly what I replaced them with but they breakdown quickly too (one season). They do grip nicely. I went back to wearing Rangers and dealing with the extra weight.
Wow you are eating a serious crap sandwich! Try to keep it positive. FWIW - that model Lowa doesn't last worth a darn. I wore the soles off mine in 3 weeks of scouting...took them back to REI.