Help Choosing a Tripod Setup

[OftenOutdoors]

I’m looking at tripods to use while hunting whitetail from a blind. This is for my kid right now but I’m sure I’ll find more uses for it.

Weight is not a big factor. Probably hiking in a mile or so.

I do not want to spend the money on RRS but I want something that is quality.

This will be used for a hunting rifle in a McMillan Edge stock. Weight of the rifle is around 8 pounds. I plan on attaching a Pig Saddle to the tripod.

I am looking at Leofoto LS-364C X Version Ranger tripod.

I’ve done some research and it looks pretty good. I also see the Fatboy 2 section tripod also looks good but is a bit more. I’m willing to spend the cash on the Fatboy if it is worth it.

What ball head would make sense?

Is the Leofoto LH-55LR Ball Head with LR-70 Lever Release Clamp sufficient?

This is my first time using a tripod/saddle and appreciate any thoughts.

Thanks!

 

[Shortschaf]

in my opinion the leofoto ma30L is the best shooting head for price and rigidity. Can be found on ebay only. I just have not found any other ball head design to be near as stable. Does require a pic rail or arca rail to be installed on the stock.

For tripod legs, "inverted legs" are the best, period. I use and recommend the Tricer HK for a lightweight tripod (sub 3lbs)
Leofoto makes a couple different inverted style tripods too.

If weight is no object, the heavier the tripod, the more stable it will be

 

[OftenOutdoors]

in my opinion the leofoto ma30L is the best shooting head for price and rigidity. Can be found on ebay only. I just have not found any other ball head design to be near as stable. Does require a pic rail or arca rail to be installed on the stock.

For tripod legs, "inverted legs" are the best, period. I use and recommend the Tricer HK for a lightweight tripod (sub 3lbs)
Leofoto makes a couple different inverted style tripods too.

If weight is no object, the heavier the tripod, the more stable it will be

I appreciate the response. I’m not looking to add a rail to the rifle at this time so I’ll make do with a saddle.

I’ll check out some of the other Leofoto offerings as well.

I’ve read up some more on the Fatboy this morning and that may make sense.

Any other suggestions are appreciated.

 

[SloppyJ]

I went with the Leofoto with the leveling head built in and put the MA-30 on it. It's been perfect for everything I've needed. I use my binos off of it and can shoot right off of it with any rifle that has a rail which all of mine do now. I'm really happy with the built in leveling base and it allows you to simplify the attachments and provide an alternate means of leveling an attachment rather than getting the feet just right. Highly recommend.

For the kids, I use a bog death grip. The SOB is heavy but it has that clamp on top which works with any gun as I don't kit out my kids' rifles with rails on them. I can stash my leofoto in my bag and can strap the bog on the outside for the hike in. It's been an absolute game changer and I highly recommend it. I use my leofoto every time I hunt out of a blind. It's too easy not to and provides a MUCH better support. You're on the right track here. For the kids, they can quietly sneak up behind the rifle as long as you have it set at the right height.

If you have any specific questions, let me know but I think you have it figured out. I was able to get my tripod off of ebay and save over a 100 bucks too.

 

[ZeroFoxGiven]

For sitting use we usually recommend a 3 section tripod. Inverted is the way to go but 2 section tripods are a little tall for use when sitting. Usually have to end up spreading the legs out a bit to get the height right. They will absolutely work, 3 section just does a little better in that application in our experience. 3 section inverted would be a great solution. The Warrior Tripod would work well.

Fatboy makes great tripods as well. Leofoto has some great options, there are just a LOT of them to choose from.

The LH-55 is a great ball head, we stock the non lever version.

As far as saddles go, The Hero is the best we have used. 4 way ARCA on the bottom, tapered jaws, and one pivoting jaw helps it fit any stock contour and hold securely.

 

[JDBAK]

I have a Leufoto Ranger LS-284c with LH-36 head that works well. But at 4 lbs is heavier than I want to carry around. So next got a Tricer AD, but it’s too long for my use (bust through brush to get to alpine).

I also hunt areas where shooting standing from a tripod might be required.

Does anyone make something 3 lbs that is collapses compact (4 sections?), light, and gets up to 55” or so?

 

[hereinaz]

For sitting use we usually recommend a 3 section tripod. Inverted is the way to go but 2 section tripods are a little tall for use when sitting. Usually have to end up spreading the legs out a bit to get the height right. They will absolutely work, 3 section just does a little better in that application in our experience. 3 section inverted would be a great solution. The Warrior Tripod would work well.

Fatboy makes great tripods as well. Leofoto has some great options, there are just a LOT of them to choose from.

The LH-55 is a great ball head, we stock the non lever version.

As far as saddles go, The Hero is the best we have used. 4 way ARCA on the bottom, tapered jaws, and one pivoting jaw helps it fit any stock contour and hold securely.

The short Leofoto inverted tripod is great for seated heights.

I prefer the MH35, motorcycle handle head by Leofoto.

If you are not clipping in, our ultralight plate and bag is a solid support that is easy for kids to shoot off of. Using the head to adjust aim can be far too complex in the moment for kids. And, moving for follow up shots is slower.

Here is the kit I use frequently with those three, except the tripod is standard height.

 

[BlakeF925]

Leofoto’s have been rock solid for me. My favorite for shooting and glassing is probably the 364C with MA-40 ball head.

 

[OftenOutdoors]

For sitting use we usually recommend a 3 section tripod. Inverted is the way to go but 2 section tripods are a little tall for use when sitting. Usually have to end up spreading the legs out a bit to get the height right. They will absolutely work, 3 section just does a little better in that application in our experience. 3 section inverted would be a great solution. The Warrior Tripod would work well.

Fatboy makes great tripods as well. Leofoto has some great options, there are just a LOT of them to choose from.

The LH-55 is a great ball head, we stock the non lever version.

As far as saddles go, The Hero is the best we have used. 4 way ARCA on the bottom, tapered jaws, and one pivoting jaw helps it fit any stock contour and hold securely.

I wound up going with Fat Boy and quickly discovered that the 3 section was better for sitting. So now I have one of each. I may put the 2 section tripod in the classifieds. Or maybe I’ll just keep it. Either way I appreciate all of the help.