ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod Review

The ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod: First Use to Final Thoughts

The ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod promises to bring stability and accuracy to the venerable SKS rifle, a platform known more for its historical significance and rugged reliability than its pinpoint precision. ATI Outdoors aims to offer an affordable solution to improve the SKS’s accuracy without requiring permanent modifications. The bipod mounts to the bayonet lug, a clever design promising ease of installation and compatibility with most SKS variants.

I’ve always been intrigued by the SKS rifle, a piece of Cold War history that’s surprisingly fun to shoot. However, achieving consistent accuracy with the SKS’s standard iron sights and its somewhat heavy trigger pull can be challenging. I wanted a stable shooting platform to tighten my groupings without resorting to expensive aftermarket stocks or permanent modifications to the rifle.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod’s light weight, a mere 6 ounces. The black, glass-filled nylon construction felt robust enough for light to medium use, but certainly not heavy-duty. The “snap-n-lock” folding mechanism felt a bit plasticky, raising questions about its long-term durability, but the adjustable legs moved smoothly.

Compared to other bipod options, such as clamp-on barrel mounts or chassis systems, the ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod offered a unique advantage: simplicity and ease of installation. Options from Caldwell or Harris would either require more involved mounting or were designed for other rifle platforms entirely. This bipod promised to be a straightforward solution.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod seemed like a clever and affordable way to improve the SKS’s accuracy. I was eager to see how it would perform at the range.

Real-World Testing: Putting ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod at my local shooting range on a bright, sunny day with mild wind. I set up targets at 50 and 100 yards to gauge its effectiveness at different distances. The range offered a mix of benchrest and prone shooting positions, allowing me to evaluate the bipod in various scenarios.

The bipod performed reasonably well in dry conditions on a stable bench. The rubber feet provided adequate grip, and the adjustable legs allowed for easy leveling on uneven surfaces. However, I immediately noticed that the polymer material felt a little flimsy when supporting the weight of the SKS, especially during prone shooting on softer ground.

The bipod was straightforward to use, requiring no specialized knowledge or tools beyond what was included. The “snap-n-lock” mechanism was intuitive, and leg extension was relatively quick, although the thumbnut adjustment felt a bit cheap. After a few magazines, I noticed that the bipod could shift slightly under recoil, requiring occasional adjustments to maintain a stable shooting position.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range trips spanning a few months, the ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod has shown some signs of wear and tear, primarily in the form of minor scuff marks on the polymer legs. The “snap-n-lock” mechanism still functions, but it feels slightly looser than when new, raising concerns about its long-term reliability. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth.

The bipod’s durability seems adequate for casual range use and light hunting situations, but I wouldn’t trust it in harsh environments or for rigorous tactical applications. After using more robust bipods from Magpul and Atlas on other rifles, the ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod definitely feels like a budget option. It served its purpose, but I don’t expect it to last for decades.

Breaking Down the Features of ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod

Specifications

• Mounting System: The ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod mounts directly to the SKS rifle’s bayonet lug, offering a simple, non-permanent attachment solution. This ensures compatibility with most SKS variants and avoids the need for gunsmithing or aftermarket stocks.

• Material: Constructed from black, glass-filled nylon, the bipod weighs a mere 6 oz. The lightweight polymer material helps to minimize added weight to the front of the rifle, but it may sacrifice some durability compared to metal alternatives.

• Adjustable Height: The legs extend from 9″ to 13″, providing a range of height adjustment to accommodate different shooting positions and terrain. This allows the user to maintain a stable shooting platform on uneven surfaces.

• Folding Mechanism: The “snap-n-lock” button allows the legs to fold forward, down, or rearward for convenient storage and transport. The folding mechanism offers versatility and keeps the bipod out of the way when not in use.

• Leg Extension: A thumbnut screw allows for rapid leg extension and retraction, theoretically in “ONE SECOND”. This provides quick adjustments in the field.

• Feet: The bipod includes non-slip rubber feet to enhance stability on various surfaces. These provide a secure grip and prevent slippage during shooting.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod’s suitability for different uses. The mounting system affects ease of installation, the material influences weight and durability, and the adjustable height determines versatility in various shooting scenarios. The functionality of the folding mechanism and leg extension determines how easy the bipod is to use in dynamic scenarios.

Performance & Functionality

The ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod provides noticeable improvement in stability compared to shooting the SKS offhand or resting it on improvised supports. It reduces muzzle wobble and allows for more consistent shot placement, particularly at longer ranges. While it doesn’t transform the SKS into a precision rifle, it certainly tightens groupings and enhances the shooting experience.

The ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod‘s main strength lies in its simplicity and affordability. It’s easy to install, lightweight, and provides a decent level of stability for casual shooting. Its primary weakness is its construction; the polymer material feels somewhat flimsy, and the folding mechanism raises concerns about long-term durability.

The ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod met my basic expectations for an affordable SKS bipod. It provides a noticeable improvement in stability, is easy to install, and doesn’t break the bank.

Design & Ergonomics

The ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod’s design is simple and functional, prioritizing ease of use and minimal weight. The glass-filled nylon construction feels reasonably sturdy for its weight class, but the overall build quality is not on par with higher-end bipods. It is fairly comfortable to manipulate but the plastic does not impart a high quality feel.

The bipod is relatively user-friendly, with a straightforward “snap-n-lock” folding mechanism and easy leg extension. The bayonet lug mount is intuitive and requires no specialized tools.

Durability & Maintenance

With careful use, the ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod should last for several years of casual shooting. The glass-filled nylon is reasonably resistant to scratches and impacts, but the folding mechanism is a potential point of failure. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod doesn’t require any additional accessories for basic functionality. It is specifically designed to mount directly to the SKS rifle’s bayonet lug. While there are no direct customization options for the bipod itself, it is compatible with any SKS rifle that has a functional bayonet lug.

Pros and Cons of ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod

Who Should Buy ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod?

• Perfect for: Casual SKS shooters looking to improve accuracy at the range, hunters who need a lightweight and portable bipod for field use, and budget-conscious enthusiasts who want an affordable upgrade for their SKS rifle.
• Who should skip this product? Shooters who demand maximum durability and stability for tactical applications or harsh environments.
• Must-have accessories or modifications? None required for basic functionality; however, a quality sling can improve overall handling and carry comfort.

Conclusion on ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod

The ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod offers a noticeable improvement in stability and accuracy for the SKS rifle at an incredibly affordable price. While its polymer construction and simple design may not appeal to serious tactical users or those seeking maximum durability, it provides excellent value for casual shooters and hunters.

The price is definitely justified given the functionality and ease of use. It transforms the SKS shooting experience for a minimal investment.

I would recommend it to anyone looking for a quick and easy way to improve their SKS accuracy without breaking the bank. If you’re looking to tighten your groups and make your SKS more enjoyable to shoot, give the ATI Outdoors SKS Bipod a try!