Whether you’re new to the hunting world, or a veteran looking to increase your shot accuracy on game, consider stable shooting sticks.
Like many folks, I grew up hunting, but when I started making my living in the outdoors–especially hosting TV shows–I quickly learned a lot and ultimately became a better hunter. There were seasons where I was going on upwards of 60 big game hunts a year around the world, and you can’t help but learn with so much practical experience.
Filming dozens of hunts a year, time was tight, and valuable. I had to be in good shape and know a great deal about the behavior of the animals I hunted. I also couldn’t afford to miss any shots.
At first, 18 years ago, I tried a monopod but didn’t like it due to it’s instability. I switched to a bipod and it worked okay, but it was flimsy and I felt there was something better; this was especially true when hunting the rugged terrain out West, where most of my hunting is done. I tried various tripods but found nothing I liked, other than one made of sticks I used in Africa…then the Bog Pod came along. The first time Bog Pod sent me a Red Legged Devil model to try out, I was hooked, and have been using them ever since, for over a decade, now.
Bog Pod’s Red Legged Devil is my favorite shooting stick; I also like many of the Bog Pod shooting sticks due to their sturdy design. The three legs of a tripod offer ultimate stability, thus accuracy, and can be carried on any hunt. When I first began using the Bog Pod, I connected on 54 consecutive shots on big game. The gun, scope, bullets and shooting sticks I use all play a part in accurate shot placement.
I never shoot hoping to connect. If there is any doubt, I don’t shoot. When filming hunts, I can’t afford to miss as it costs everyone time and money; that’s just the nature of the job. But it’s this pressure that forced me to become the best shot I can be.
The Bog Pod tripod can also be collapsed and used as a walking stick. I like the firm, sturdy legs as they offer great support when walking and shooting. I like the screw-style, telescoping legs of the Bog Pod Red Legged Devil, as they don’t slip, are quiet when on the hunt and don’t get hung on grass and brush, which can happen with models that have flipper adjustments.
As with all new gear, use a tripod as much as possible before going on a hunt. Know how to quickly adjust the height of each leg and anticipate what that height should be given the terrain you’re in and the position of the animal you’re hunting. Be sure to practice shooting off your tripod from multiple positions: standing, kneeling, sitting. By the time the hunt comes, operating your shooting sticks should be second nature, allowing you to focus on the target animal, not worrying about your gear and how it works.
Learn more about these shooting sticks at www.boggear.com