Truglo Solid Shot Tri-pod 22″-68″ Black W/neoprene Hndle Review

Field Test Review of the Truglo Solid Shot Tri-pod 22″-68″ Black W/neoprene Hndle

For anyone who engages with firearms, crossbows, or even airguns, maintaining a stable shooting platform is paramount. This is precisely where the Truglo Solid Shot Tri-pod 22″-68″ Black W/neoprene Hndle enters the picture, promising enhanced accuracy and ease of use. As a seasoned gear specialist with over a decade of putting equipment through its paces in varied environments, I’m always on the lookout for tools that genuinely enhance performance without breaking the bank. I recently found myself needing a versatile tripod that could handle everything from a .22lr rifle on the range to a larger muzzleloader during a hunting trip. After considering a few different options, including some considerably more expensive professional models, this Truglo unit caught my eye due to its advertised adjustability and features at a surprisingly accessible price point. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of cautious optimism; the construction felt robust enough for its intended purpose, and the neoprene grips immediately suggested practical comfort.

My search for a reliable tripod began after a particularly frustrating afternoon at the shooting range. Balancing a rifle on a wobbly sandbag while trying to make precise shots was proving to be more of a test of patience than marksmanship. I needed something that offered consistent stability across different shooting positions and terrains, and that could also accommodate various firearm types. My alternatives considered included simpler bipods, which lack the full range of adjustability, and more complex camera tripods, which often lack firearm-specific features and are much bulkier. The Truglo tripod, with its significant height range and specialized V-brace head, seemed like the most promising solution to my specific problem. Upon first handling it, the combination of lightweight aluminum and the promise of comfortable grips offered a sense of relief, suggesting a tool that would make my outings significantly more enjoyable.

Real-World Testing: Putting Truglo Solid Shot Tri-pod 22″-68″ Black W/neoprene Hndle to the Test

My testing began on a crisp autumn morning at my local outdoor shooting range. I set the Truglo tripod up on a paved firing line, adjusting its legs to accommodate a seated position with a rifle. The twist lock adjustable legs were a welcome feature, allowing for quick and secure height adjustments without the fiddly nature of some older clamp-style locks. I extended it to about waist height, which proved to be a stable and comfortable elevation for bench rest shooting. The rubberized V-brace head cradled the forend of my rifle securely, and the ability to rotate it easily without moving the legs simplified aiming between targets.

The true test came during a subsequent field excursion, where I encountered uneven, slightly muddy terrain. Here, the combination of the carbide tips and the included rubberized feet proved invaluable. I swapped out the carbide tips for the rubberized feet on softer ground to prevent excessive sinking, and they provided excellent traction. Even with a slight incline, the tripod remained remarkably stable. I also tested it with a shotgun and even a crossbow, confirming the product’s claim of versatility. The neoprene grips, while seemingly a minor detail, made a noticeable difference when handling the tripod with slightly damp hands after a brief shower; they offered a non-slip, comfortable hold that I appreciated.

After several weeks of use, including a couple of longer range sessions and a hunting trip where it served as a stable rest for spotting, the Truglo Solid Shot Tri-pod has held up commendably. There are no signs of cracking or structural weakness, despite being folded and unfolded numerous times and occasionally bumped against rocks or tree branches. The lightweight aluminum and composite construction has certainly contributed to its resilience without adding excessive bulk to my gear. Cleaning is straightforward: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap usually suffices, and the twist-lock mechanisms remain free of dust and debris with minimal effort. Compared to some of the flimsier, cheaper bipods I’ve used in the past, this unit offers a significant leap in stability and durability. It certainly outperforms generic options and holds its own against some mid-range professional tripods in terms of basic functionality and stability.

Breaking Down the Features of Truglo Solid Shot Tri-pod 22″-68″ Black W/neoprene Hndle

Let’s delve into the specifics of what makes this tripod a noteworthy piece of equipment. The Truglo Solid Shot Tri-pod 22″-68″ Black W/neoprene Hndle boasts a significant height range of 22″ to 68″. This considerable adjustability means it can be used effectively whether you’re prone on the ground, seated in a chair, or even standing. The rotating head design is a key functional element, allowing for smooth horizontal panning and vertical tilting with minimal disturbance to the tripod’s legs. This is incredibly useful when tracking moving targets or simply adjusting your aim without having to reposition the entire stand.

The core of the tripod’s stability comes from its construction. It utilizes a blend of lightweight aluminum and composite materials, which strikes a good balance between durability and portability. The neoprene grips on the legs are a thoughtful touch, providing a comfortable and secure hold, especially in cold or wet conditions where bare metal or plastic can become slick and uncomfortable. Another critical feature is the leg adjustment system; the twist lock adjustable legs are intuitive and provide a firm grip, ensuring that once set, the desired height is maintained. This is crucial for consistent shooting platforms.

For traction on various surfaces, the tripod comes equipped with both carbide tips and rubberized feet. The carbide tips dig into softer ground like soil or grass, offering superior grip, while the rubberized feet are ideal for hard, slippery surfaces such as concrete or pavement, preventing accidental slips. This dual-foot system significantly enhances its versatility across different environments. The rubberized V-brace head is designed to securely hold a variety of firearm types, including rifles, shotguns, crossbows, and airguns. The rubber coating provides a protective, non-marring surface and a snug fit for the firearm’s forend.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: TruGlo
• Height Range: 22 inches to 68 inches. This extensive height range is a standout specification, allowing for optimal positioning from prone to standing.
• Material: Aluminum and composite construction. This combination provides a good balance of strength and lightness, making it easy to carry without sacrificing durability.
• Grips: Neoprene grips. These are designed for comfort and improved handling, particularly in adverse weather conditions like cold or wet environments.
• Leg Locks: Twist Lock adjustable legs. This mechanism allows for quick and secure height adjustments, ensuring the tripod remains stable once set.
• Head Design: Rotating head with a rubberized V-brace. This allows for easy aiming adjustments and provides a secure, non-slip cradle for firearms.
• Traction: Includes both carbide tips and rubberized feet. This dual system ensures optimal grip on a variety of surfaces, from soft earth to hard concrete.
• Color: Black. A classic, understated color that fits well with most outdoor gear.
• Included Accessory: Carrying case with shoulder strap. This is a practical addition for easy transport and storage, protecting the tripod when not in use.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Truglo Solid Shot Tri-pod 22″-68″ Black W/neoprene Hndle is to provide a stable shooting platform, and in this regard, it performs admirably. The rotating head allows for smooth tracking of targets, a feature that proved particularly useful when I was trying to maintain sight alignment on a moving target at the range. The height adjustability is excellent; I could easily transition from a low, stable rest for my rifle to a higher position for my shotgun without needing to adjust seating or stance significantly. The twist lock legs hold their position securely, and I experienced no unexpected slippage during prolonged shooting sessions.

One notable strength is the tripod’s versatility. I tested it with a bolt-action rifle, a pump-action shotgun, and a crossbow, and the rubberized V-brace head accommodated all of them without issue. The combination of carbide tips and rubber feet meant I wasn’t worried about stability, whether I was on gravel, grass, or even a wooden deck. My only minor critique would be that while the rotation is smooth, extremely rapid panning with a very heavy rifle might introduce a slight wobble if the legs aren’t perfectly deployed on level ground. However, for most typical uses, its performance exceeds expectations, especially considering its price point.

Design & Ergonomics

From a design perspective, the Truglo tripod is functional and practical. The black finish is understated and blends well with most firearm aesthetics. The neoprene grips are well-placed and offer a comfortable, secure hold, preventing hands from slipping even when wearing gloves or in damp conditions. The rubberized V-brace head is appropriately shaped to cradle a firearm’s forend, offering good support without being overly restrictive. The overall feel of the materials suggests decent build quality for the cost; it doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy.

The twist lock mechanism on the legs is ergonomic and easy to operate, even with cold fingers. A simple twist is all that’s needed to loosen or tighten the legs, making height adjustments quick and efficient. The inclusion of both carbide tips and rubber feet, easily interchangeable, is a well-thought-out design choice that enhances usability across different terrains. The tripod folds down reasonably compactly, and the included carrying case with shoulder strap makes transport effortless, which is a significant ergonomic plus for hunters and field shooters who often cover considerable distances.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a key concern for any piece of gear that will see regular outdoor use, and the Truglo Solid Shot Tri-pod 22″-68″ Black W/neoprene Hndle appears to be built for the long haul. After several weeks of testing in various conditions, including some light rain and exposure to dust, the aluminum and composite construction shows no signs of degradation. The twist lock mechanisms remain firm and have not become loose or difficult to operate. I have not noticed any cracking, warping, or stiffness in the legs.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after use is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. For more thorough cleaning, a mild soap and water solution works well. It’s important to ensure the twist lock mechanisms are free of grit to maintain their smooth operation, but this is easily achieved with a soft brush. I would advise against submerging the entire unit in water, but for typical cleaning, it holds up very well. The rubberized feet and carbide tips are securely attached and show minimal wear, suggesting they will last for a considerable number of uses.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Truglo Solid Shot Tri-pod 22″-68″ Black W/neoprene Hndle comes with a few key accessories that enhance its utility. Most notable is the carrying case with shoulder strap, which is surprisingly robust and makes transporting the tripod to and from the range or field a breeze. This case protects the unit from scuffs and minor impacts during transit. The interchangeable carbide tips and rubberized feet are also crucial accessories, allowing the user to adapt the tripod’s traction to virtually any surface.

While this tripod is designed for broad compatibility with firearms, specific customization options directly from Truglo for this model are limited to the included accessories. The rotating head itself is not designed for interchangeable mounting plates like some camera tripods, meaning you are limited to the integrated V-brace. However, its design is versatile enough that for most common firearms, it performs its intended function well. For users who might want more specialized mounting solutions, it might be worth exploring other dedicated firearm rests, but for the average user, the included features are more than sufficient.

Pros and Cons of Truglo Solid Shot Tri-pod 22″-68″ Black W/neoprene Hndle

Who Should Buy Truglo Solid Shot Tri-pod 22″-68″ Black W/neoprene Hndle?

This tripod is an excellent choice for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts who require a stable shooting platform. Hunters will find the extensive height range and the ability to adapt to uneven terrain particularly beneficial. Recreational shooters who frequent outdoor ranges will appreciate the stability it offers for accurate shooting, especially at longer distances. It’s also a solid option for owners of airguns and crossbows who need a reliable rest.

Anyone looking for a cost-effective yet highly functional tripod that can accommodate multiple types of firearms should strongly consider this model. Individuals who prioritize comfort during extended use, especially in varied weather conditions, will also benefit from the neoprene grips. Those who need an ultra-lightweight, highly portable solution for extreme backpacking might want to look at more specialized, albeit pricier, options. However, for general field use and range days, the Truglo Solid Shot Tri-pod 22″-68″ Black W/neoprene Hndle strikes a great balance. A must-have complementary item would be a range bag that can easily accommodate the included carrying case, ensuring all your shooting essentials are together.

Conclusion on Truglo Solid Shot Tri-pod 22″-68″ Black W/neoprene Hndle

Overall, the Truglo Solid Shot Tri-pod 22″-68″ Black W/neoprene Hndle delivers an impressive performance for its price. It successfully bridges the gap between basic bipods and much more expensive professional equipment, offering a stable, versatile, and user-friendly shooting support. The aluminum and composite construction feels durable enough for regular use, and the thoughtful features like the neoprene grips and dual traction options significantly enhance its practicality. While the head isn’t customizable, its rotating design and secure V-brace are perfectly adequate for the vast majority of users and firearm types.

The value proposition here is exceptionally strong. For under $100, you get a tripod that can extend to nearly 6 feet, offering unparalleled flexibility for different shooting scenarios. It’s not just about the height; the stability it provides undeniably contributes to improved accuracy and a more enjoyable shooting experience. I would confidently recommend this tripod to any hunter, recreational shooter, or enthusiast looking for a reliable and affordable way to steady their aim. If you’re tired of wobbly rests and want a significant upgrade without a significant financial outlay, this Truglo tripod is a smart choice that will serve you well.