In SureFire Field Notes 71, Sean Murphy of Nightforce Optics discusses several ways to utilize a tripod in precision rifle shooting. You can view the video below.
Murphy explains that the tripod is one of his favorite pieces of kit when shooting his precision rifle. The tripod has proliferated in the PRS world, graduating from sturdy support for accessories such as spotting scopes and rangefinders to an essential tool for the precision rifle itself, and it has gained popularity with PRS competitors and snipers alike. The equipment itself has evolved as well. While many precision shooters still mount their rifle to a tripod with a hog saddle or other clamp-style device, some precision rifle chassis now incorporate an ARCA rail. Originally developed and favored by professional photographers, the ARCA is a quick-release system that allows the shooter to quickly mount and dismount a rifle from the tripod. It’s also useful when the gun must be held stationary for long periods of time.
In the video, Murphy describes the various ways to support the gun with a tripod. These include the aforementioned ARCA rail, using a shooting bag, and incorporating the bag with a plate. He also discusses optimal tripod leg positioning to help solve the majority of problems faced by precision rifle shooters. Overall, SureFire Field Notes 71 provides interesting info from a top-level marksman whose accomplishments include earning Grand Master in USPSA Production, several state titles, representing the United States in international F-Class competition, and numerous wins in USPSA, 2-Gun, Run and Gun (RnG), carbine and precision rifle events.
If you’re into precision rifle shooting, you might also want to check out SureFire Field Notes 40 where Michael Baccellieri discusses how to properly mount a precision rifle in the prone position.
ABOUT SEAN MURPHY
Sean Murphy is the Training Manager for Nightforce Optics and a highly successful competitive shooter. Starting with an interest in firearms from a young age, Sean has been shooting competitively since 2006 and has worked in the firearms industry since 2011. He has experience with pistols, carbines, and rifles, competing and training in many different shooting sports across the United States. For more information on Nightforce, visit nightforceoptics.com.
ABOUT SUREFIRE
Located in Fountain Valley, California, SureFire, LLC is the leading manufacturer of suppressors, high-performance flashlights, weapon-mounted lights, and other tactical equipment for those who go in harm’s way or anyone who demands the ultimate in quality, innovation, and performance. SureFire illumination tools are used by more SWAT teams and elite special operations forces than any other brand. SureFire is an ISO 9001:2015-certified company. For more information on SureFire’s complete line of tactical illumination tools and equipment, visit SUREFIRE.COM.
To view more episodes of SureFire Field Notes, visit the SUREFIRE CHANNEL on YouTube.
