The Primos Tripod 24″-62″ Made a Bold First Impression
The Primos Tripod 24″-62″ presents itself as a versatile shooting platform, promising rock-solid stability for hunters and marksmen in various terrains. As an outdoor gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless shooting sticks and rests come and go. I was looking for a tripod that could adapt quickly to uneven ground and provide a steady hold for both rifles and optics.
My journey towards the Primos Tripod 24″-62″ stemmed from a frustrating elk hunt last year. I missed what would have been a clean shot because I couldn’t get stable enough using just my pack. The unstable rest caused me to wound the elk, and I never found it. I needed a stable shooting platform that wasn’t cumbersome to carry. Unboxing the Primos Tripod 24″-62″, I immediately noticed its lightweight design and the Trigger Stick mechanism. The build appeared robust enough to handle the rigors of hunting, though the plastic yoke gave me pause.
Compared to similar tripods like the Bog DeathGrip or the Caldwell DeadShot Fieldpod, the Primos Tripod 24″-62″ stood out because of its one-handed adjustment and lighter overall weight. I appreciated the quick detach yoke system too. I was initially excited by the prospect of easy adjustments and transitioning between rifle and spotting scope, but I reserved judgment until field testing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Primos Tripod 24″-62″ to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at the local shooting range, simulating a backcountry hunting scenario. I wanted to assess its stability and ease of use with my .308 Winchester. The range was mostly dry, but there was a slight breeze.
The one-handed trigger adjustment proved incredibly useful when transitioning from a standing to kneeling position. However, as another user noted, the yoke exhibited noticeable play, especially with heavier rifles. This was concerning, and my initial groups were indeed wider than usual. I found it difficult to achieve the sub-MOA accuracy I typically expect from my rifle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Primos Tripod 24″-62″ on various hunts and scouting trips, my initial concerns were amplified. While the trigger adjustment mechanism remained reliable, the overall stability continued to be an issue. On one particularly windy day, even with a lighter rifle, the tripod vibrated excessively.
The plastic yoke showed some minor scratches, but the legs held up well, even after being subjected to mud and rocky terrain. Cleaning was relatively easy; a simple wipe-down was usually sufficient. However, the play in the yoke remained a persistent problem. I ended up tightening the yoke screw to increase stability, but this sacrificed some of the quick detach functionality. This tripod fell short of expectations as I was hoping that with its name, Primos would be better designed to be used in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of Primos Tripod 24″-62″
Specifications
- Height Adjustment: 24 inches to 62 inches. This range is versatile, accommodating various shooting positions.
- Weight: Approximately 3.5 pounds. Lightweight enough for extended carry, but potentially at the expense of ultimate stability.
- Leg Material: Aluminum alloy. Provides a decent balance of strength and weight.
- Yoke Material: Plastic with a rubber overmold. This is the primary point of concern regarding durability and stability.
- Trigger Mechanism: Allows for one-handed height adjustment. A convenient feature that enhances usability in the field.
- Quick Detach Yoke System: Allows for rapid swapping between firearms and optics. Adds flexibility for different hunting scenarios.
These specifications highlight the design philosophy of prioritizing versatility and ease of use. However, the plastic yoke and relatively light weight appear to compromise the tripod’s overall stability and suitability for precision shooting.
Performance & Functionality
The Primos Tripod 24″-62″ excels in ease of use and adaptability. The trigger adjustment is genuinely a game-changer, allowing for quick height modifications on uneven terrain. However, the wobble in the yoke is a significant drawback.
The tripod’s main strength lies in its speed and convenience; its primary weakness is the lack of rock-solid stability for long-range precision. It meets expectations for quick adjustments and lightweight portability but falls short on delivering unwavering stability.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is generally acceptable, although the plastic yoke feels like a weak link. The tripod is reasonably lightweight and easy to carry, making it comfortable for long hikes. The trigger mechanism is intuitive and requires minimal learning.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Primos Tripod 24″-62″ should last several seasons. The aluminum legs are relatively robust, but the plastic yoke is likely the first component to fail. Maintenance is simple; cleaning mud and debris is straightforward.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Primos Tripod 24″-62″ comes with a standard yoke designed to accommodate most rifles and some optics. Primos offers a variety of different yokes that can be purchased separately. These include yokes specifically designed for crossbows and spotting scopes. While third-party accessories are limited, the yoke system allows for some degree of customization.
Pros and Cons of Primos Tripod 24″-62″
Pros
- One-handed trigger adjustment allows for rapid height changes in the field.
- Lightweight design makes it easy to carry on long hunts.
- Quick detach yoke system facilitates rapid transitions between firearms and optics.
- Adjustable Leg Angles which gives you more stability on uneven terrain.
- Versatile height range (24″-62″) accommodates various shooting positions.
Cons
- Play in the plastic yoke significantly reduces stability, especially with heavier rifles.
- Questionable durability of the plastic yoke raises concerns about long-term reliability.
- Not ideal for precision long-range shooting due to stability issues.
Who Should Buy Primos Tripod 24″-62″?
The Primos Tripod 24″-62″ is perfect for hunters who prioritize speed and adaptability over ultimate stability, especially those hunting in terrain where quick adjustments are essential. It’s also suitable for hunters using lighter rifles or crossbows, where the yoke wobble is less pronounced.
This product should be skipped by precision shooters, long-range hunters, or anyone using heavy rifles requiring a completely stable platform.
A must-have modification would be to replace the plastic yoke with a more robust metal version, if one were available.
Conclusion on Primos Tripod 24″-62″
The Primos Tripod 24″-62″ offers a compelling combination of speed, versatility, and lightweight design, but its stability issues, stemming primarily from the plastic yoke, are a significant concern. At $149.99, the price is reasonable for the features offered, but the lack of stability makes it a questionable value for those seeking a precision shooting platform.
I would cautiously recommend it to hunters who understand its limitations and value its rapid adjustment capabilities. However, for serious long-range shooters, a more robust and stable tripod is a better investment. Consider carefully if its speed and convenience outweigh the potential for compromised accuracy.