When it comes to choosing the right bipod for your rifle, the Harris bipod often comes up as a popular choice. However, my experience with this product was far from ideal. In this detailed review, I’ll cover the various issues I encountered, challenge the manufacturer to address these problems, and share a personal hunting story from the Eastern Cape of South Africa where the bipod let me down.
Initial Impressions
At first glance, the Harris bipod appeared well-built and sturdy. Its reputation for durability and reliability initially convinced me to invest in it. Unfortunately, the reality fell short of expectations as I started using it regularly.
Mounting Problems
The first issue I faced was with the mounting system. Despite Harris’s claims of a secure fit on various rifle stocks, the attachment was anything but stable. The bipod frequently came loose, even with minimal use. This instability not only compromised accuracy but also raised safety concerns. Tightening the screws repeatedly became a tedious and frustrating task, detracting from the overall shooting experience.
Bulky Design
Another significant drawback of the Harris bipod is its bulky design. The bipod’s weight and size make it cumbersome to carry, especially during long hunting trips. This added bulk not only makes the rifle harder to maneuver but also affects the overall balance of the gun. During field tests, the heavy and unwieldy nature of the bipod became a consistent issue, reducing my agility and responsiveness in dynamic hunting situations.
Poor Adjustability
Adjustability is another critical aspect of a bipod, and the Harris bipod’s performance here was disappointing. Extending and retracting the legs required excessive force, making quick adjustments nearly impossible. Additionally, the swivel function, which should provide smooth movement, was jerky and inconsistent. Achieving the desired shooting position became a challenge, affecting the overall efficiency during hunting and target practice.
Durability Concerns
Durability is paramount for shooting accessories, and the Harris bipod fell short in this area as well. After just a few weeks of moderate use, noticeable wear and tear began to show. The rubber feet, designed to provide a stable base, started to deteriorate rapidly, diminishing their effectiveness. The overall construction felt flimsy, and I constantly worried about potential breakage during critical moments.
A Hunting Story of Bipod Failure in Eastern Cape, South Africa
During a recent hunting trip in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, I had a chance to put the Harris bipod to the test. I had lined up the perfect shot at a buck from about 200 yards. As I prepared to fire, the bipod suddenly gave way, causing my aim to shift drastically. The instability resulted in a missed shot, and the buck bolted away. This experience was not only frustrating but also highlighted the bipod’s unreliability in real-world conditions. A stable, dependable bipod is essential for hunting, and the Harris bipod failed miserably when it mattered most.
Conclusion: Harris Bipod Not Recommended
In conclusion, my experience with the Harris bipod has been overwhelmingly negative. The mounting problems, bulky design, poor adjustability, and durability issues make it difficult to recommend this product to fellow shooters. While the Harris bipod has a strong market reputation, it appears that quality control has significantly declined. I challenge the manufacturer to address these issues and send me a new product to review. I am willing to give the Harris bipod another chance if these problems are resolved.
For those currently in the market for a bipod, consider exploring other options with consistently positive reviews. Save yourself the frustration and potential disappointment by investing in a more reliable and durable product.
Stay tuned to our blog for more reviews and comparisons on shooting accessories. Your feedback and experiences are welcome, so feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.
Ultimately Harris Bipod is entry level. You get what you pay for.
