Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks Review

The Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks Made a Bold First Impression

The Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks promise stability and portability in a lightweight package. Offered by Allen, these shooting sticks are designed for hunters and shooters seeking a steady platform without the bulk of heavier bipods or tripods. At a price point of just $12.49, these sticks caught my attention as a potential solution for quickly acquiring a stable shooting position in varied terrain.

My years in the field have taught me the critical importance of a steady rest. A quick, stable platform can be the difference between a clean shot and a missed opportunity, or worse. I’ve previously used heavier, more elaborate shooting supports, but found myself often leaving them behind due to their weight and cumbersome nature. I was specifically looking for a lightweight and compact solution that I would actually carry.

Upon unboxing, the Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks felt surprisingly light. The matte black finish on the aluminum sectional staff gives them a low-profile, tactical appearance. Initial handling revealed a basic but functional design, focusing on simplicity and portability over premium materials or intricate features.

Compared to a carbon fiber tripod I sometimes use for long-range shooting, the Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks are significantly lighter and more compact, though obviously less stable. My old Harris bipod offers rock-solid stability when prone, but lacks the adjustability and speed of deployment offered by shooting sticks. I chose the Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks for their promise of a quick, lightweight, and portable solution suitable for various hunting scenarios.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The price point is certainly attractive, but the real test would be how they perform in the field. I was eager to see if these sticks could deliver on their promise of compact stability.

Real-World Testing: Putting Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks was during a coyote hunting trip in the rolling hills of eastern Colorado. I frequently traverse uneven terrain, and opportunities often present themselves quickly, demanding a rapid setup. I tested them while calling coyotes.

The conditions were dry and dusty, with a moderate wind. The Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks deployed reasonably quickly, though extending and locking the cam locks took a bit of practice. I was able to get a more stable shooting position than shooting offhand, especially when sitting or kneeling.

The biggest issue I encountered initially was the cam locks slipping slightly under pressure. This required readjustment, which was frustrating when trying to get on target quickly. Also, the lack of a dedicated rest at the top meant the rifle had to be balanced carefully on the foam grip.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks have proven to be adequate for their intended purpose, but not without limitations. The aluminum construction has held up well, showing only minor scratches and scuffs. The cam locks, however, continue to be a point of concern.

The cam locks seem to loosen over time and require periodic tightening. The foam grip has started to show signs of wear. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.

Compared to my previous experiences with more robust shooting supports, the Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks fall short in terms of stability and durability. However, their lightweight and compact design make them a convenient option for situations where weight is a primary concern. They are a considerable improvement over shooting offhand, but fall short of providing a rock-solid rest.

Breaking Down the Features of Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks

Specifications

• Aluminum Sectional Staff: The Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks utilize an aluminum construction to balance weight and durability. Aluminum provides a relatively strong and lightweight platform compared to steel, making them easy to carry.
• Cam Locks: These locks are used to adjust and secure the height of the shooting sticks. Cam locks allow for quick adjustments, but their reliability can be questionable, as experienced during testing.
• Padded Foam Grip: The foam grip provides a comfortable and non-slip surface for the user’s hand. This helps improve grip and control, particularly in wet or cold conditions.
• Matte Black Finish: The matte black finish reduces reflectivity, making them less visible in hunting situations. This adds a degree of stealth, which is important when trying to avoid spooking game.

These specifications highlight a design focused on portability and ease of use. The aluminum construction keeps the weight down, while the cam locks enable rapid height adjustments. The padded foam grip enhances comfort during use.

Performance & Functionality

The Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks provide a noticeable improvement in stability compared to shooting offhand. They are most effective when sitting or kneeling. The shooting sticks improve stability.

The primary weakness lies in the cam lock design, which tends to slip under pressure, requiring frequent readjustments. The lack of a dedicated rifle rest also makes it difficult to achieve a truly stable shooting platform. They need a dedicated rest to work better.

They meet expectations for a lightweight and portable shooting support in this price range. They don’t exceed them in any area.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is adequate, considering the low price point. The aluminum tubing is reasonably durable, but the plastic cam locks feel somewhat flimsy. The sticks’ weight is low, making them easy to carry for extended periods.

The Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks are simple to use, with a minimal learning curve. However, the cam lock slippage and lack of a proper rifle rest detract from the overall user experience. The grip could be improved.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks should last for several seasons of moderate use. The aluminum tubing is resistant to corrosion, but the plastic cam locks are the most vulnerable component. Maintenance involves occasional cleaning and tightening of the cam locks.

Repairing the cam locks could be challenging as replacement parts are not readily available. They need regular tightening and could break over time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks do not come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited due to their basic design. It would be hard to add accessories.

There is no compatibility with accessories beyond generic straps or clips for carrying. Due to their basic design, there isn’t much to change.

Pros and Cons of Allen 2164 Compact Shooting Sticks