The Takeaway:

1. Our Pick: Primos Trigger Stick, Jim Shockey Edition 65807

2. Runner-Up: Hammers Shooting SP3

3. For Hunting Optics: Bushnell Advanced Tripod 784030

In this review, we’re going to take a look at the different types of tripods that are used in hunting, reviewing some of the best of each type. In this way, we hope to give you a good idea of what makes the best hunting tripod, so when you go looking for new additions to your gear you know exactly what features to look for. Generally, there are two types of hunting tripods: one that functions as a shooting stick, the other is to support a spotting scope or binoculars. Our top pick is the Jim Shockey Edition of the Primos Trigger Stick, as we’ll explain right away.

Our Pick: Primos Trigger Stick, Jim Shockey Edition 65807

This highly versatile tripod can effectively function as either a shooting stick or a spotting scope tripod. It features an innovative method for one-handed height adjustment: simply pull the trigger and flip the trigger lock switch with your finger for a quick and easy setup. No need to fiddle with the legs or twist locks like with most tripods. It offers a range of height from 24 inches at the minimum and 64 inches at the maximum.

Strong and lightweight, Fluid handle & leg adjustment, Jim Shockey 65807
Primos Trigger Stick, Jim Shockey Edition 65807

This allows this hunting tripod to be used from virtually any position and even on a bench when sighting in your gun before season starts. It folds down to 41 inches and has a wrist strap for easier carrying, thought the rubber grip allows it to be used as a walking stick. The V yoke rotates 90 degrees and is removable to accommodate a spotting scope, binoculars, or even a camera. It weighs less than three pounds.

Runner-Up: Hammers Shooting SP3

Considered one of the best tripods for hunting, the SP3 is a full-size shooting tripod with telescopic legs with an adjustable height of a minimum of 25 inches to a maximum of 68 inches. This makes results in a great performing tripod for hunting while either sitting, kneeling, or standing.

It’s made of a durable yet lightweight aluminum alloy and features a carbide spike tip on the end of each leg to provide better traction on rock hard surfaces. There is a rubber foot that fits over the wear-resistant spike tip, as well.

Each leg is made of three sections with twist locks that are used to adjust the individual length, useful on uneven terrain. The V yoke has a rubber insert to prevent damage to your gun and it also pivots to allow for more accurate aiming.

There are EVA foam grips on each of the legs and there is a Velcro tie down strap to secure it before placing in the included nylon carrying case. This tripod weighs just over 2 pounds and folds down to 32 inches.

Best Tripods for Hunting Optics

Bushnell Advanced Tripod 784030

This is a full-sized tripod for hunting optics. As it is designed by Bushnell, one of the leading manufacturers of hunting optics, you can bet that this tripod has the durability and performance needed out in the field.

The aluminum legs offer lightweight strength and can be individually adjusted to just the right height for that uneven mountainous terrain via two wingnuts per each leg. It adjusts between a minimum height of 18.3 inches and a maximum height of 61 inches.

best-tripods-for-hunting-bushnell-advanced-tripod-consumer-files
Bushnell Advanced 784030

This hunting tripod can support up to eleven pounds, allowing for stable performance with even that monster spotting scope you save for long distance sighting.

While the heavier weight doesn’t lend itself well to long distance transport, with that weight comes the stability needed in order to steadily hold that large spotting scope. It has a three way pant/tilt head, folds down to 26 inches, and weighs 5.5 pounds.

Brunton Aluminum Tripod F-TPOD240-ALPR

Heavier weight and sturdy performance make this one of the best tripods for hunting. It can easily support that heavy spotting scope that threatens to tip over with the slightest breeze on other tripods.

The anodized aluminum legs can be individually adjusted to provide stable viewing on uneven terrain. It features a built-in bubble level to ensure an even platform and a removable three-way pan head. This hunting tripod can adjust from a minimum of 28.5 inches to a maximum of 70.5 inches, providing plenty of height for even tall individuals.

This tripod also features a foam grip “leg warmer” on two of the legs for increased comfort when holding the tripod against your shoulder when carrying it -a useful feature for birders and nature observers. It folds down to 26.5 inches and weighs 7 pounds. It comes with an adjustment key and a carrying case.

What Is The Best Hunting Tripod?

As you can see, there is a lot of variation when it comes to finding the best hunting tripod. Some tripods function solely as a trigger stick, allowing you more stable and hands-free shooting while standing. Other tripods can only be used to support your hunting optics, such as a spotting scope, binoculars, laser sight, or even a camera. But then, there are a few hunting tripods that understand the needs of a hunter and offer versatility, because the last thing you need is more gear to carry in to the wilderness and back out with you.

For this reason, the Jim Shockey Edition of the Primos Trigger Stick was an easy pick for one of the best hunting tripods out there, with the easiest set up you can find and the ability to be used as a trigger stick or a full-sized yet lightweight, camouflage tripod for your spotting scope.


Sources and Official Brand Websites:

 Bushnell Primos  |  Hammers  |  Brunton

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *