First Thoughts on the Allen Bozeman 6-9″ Bipod Black Aluminum
The Allen Bozeman 6-9″ Bipod Black Aluminum enters a crowded market of bipods, promising a simple and effective solution for stabilizing rifles. Offered by Allen, a company known for its budget-friendly outdoor accessories, this bipod piqued my interest as a potentially affordable option for new shooters or those looking for a backup. It boasts a sling swivel mount and easily adjustable legs, which sounded appealing.
I was looking for a lightweight and easily adjustable bipod for my varmint rifle. The goal was to improve stability for longer shots in the field without adding significant weight or complexity to the rifle. I needed something that could be quickly deployed and adjusted for varying terrain.
Upon unboxing, the bipod felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The aluminum construction seemed reasonably durable, and the black finish gave it a clean, functional look. While it didn’t exude premium quality, it also didn’t feel flimsy or cheap.
Compared to some more expensive bipods I’ve used, like the Harris S-BRM Bipod or a Magpul Bipod, the Allen Bozeman clearly lacks the refinement and robust features of those models. However, it is also significantly less expensive. The UTG Tactical OP Bipod is a closer competitor in terms of price, but I chose the Allen Bozeman due to its simpler design and more streamlined mounting system.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It seemed like a functional and affordable option that could potentially fill a specific niche. The real test would be how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Bozeman 6-9″ Bipod Black Aluminum to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Allen Bozeman 6-9″ Bipod Black Aluminum was at a local shooting range. I was sighting in a new scope on my .223 bolt-action rifle. The range provided a relatively controlled environment to assess the bipod’s ease of use and basic stability.
The bipod attached easily to the rifle’s sling swivel stud without any tools. Adjusting the leg height was straightforward, and I was able to quickly achieve a stable shooting platform on the flat range surface. However, I did notice that the legs felt a bit wobbly when fully extended.
There weren’t any significant issues during the first range session. The bipod did its job of providing a more stable shooting position. The light recoil of the .223 wasn’t a challenge for the bipod’s construction.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including a couple of varmint hunting trips, the Allen Bozeman 6-9″ Bipod Black Aluminum has held up surprisingly well. It has seen use in both dry and slightly damp conditions. The basic aluminum construction has shown no significant signs of corrosion or wear beyond minor scratches.
The durability seems acceptable for the price, but it’s not on par with higher-end models. The leg extension mechanism still functions smoothly, although the wobble I noticed initially hasn’t improved. It’s something I’ve learned to live with, but it’s a noticeable compromise.
Maintenance is simple; I just wipe it down with a cloth after each use. No special cleaning or lubrication has been necessary. Compared to my more robust bipods, the Allen Bozeman doesn’t offer the same level of rock-solid stability. However, it remains a useful and lightweight option for situations where weight is a concern.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Bozeman 6-9″ Bipod Black Aluminum
Specifications
The Allen Bozeman 6-9″ Bipod Black Aluminum offers a straightforward design focused on simplicity and affordability. Its key specifications include:
- Height Adjustment: The legs adjust from 6 inches to 9 inches, providing a range of elevation to accommodate different shooting positions and terrain. This is a common and useful height range for prone and bench shooting.
- Mounting System: It utilizes a sling swivel stud mount, allowing for quick and easy attachment to most rifles without the need for tools. This is a simple and universal mounting solution, but it may not be as secure as more advanced mounting systems.
- Material: The bipod is constructed from aluminum, offering a balance between weight and durability. While not as strong as steel or carbon fiber, aluminum is sufficient for most light to medium-recoil rifles.
- Color: It features a black finish, providing a low-profile and non-reflective appearance. This is a practical choice for hunting and tactical applications.
- Weight: The bipod’s lightweight design makes it easy to carry and doesn’t add significant weight to the rifle. Exact weight is not specified, but it is noticeably lighter than many other bipods on the market.
These specifications highlight the Allen Bozeman’s focus on affordability and ease of use. It’s designed to be a simple and functional accessory that can be quickly deployed in the field.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Bozeman 6-9″ Bipod Black Aluminum performs its primary function adequately. It provides a noticeable improvement in stability compared to shooting unsupported. The height adjustment allows for some flexibility in different terrains.
However, the inherent limitations of its design become apparent under closer scrutiny. The wobble in the legs can be distracting, and the sling swivel mount doesn’t offer the most secure attachment. It’s best suited for lighter recoiling rifles.
It meets basic expectations for a bipod in its price range, but it doesn’t exceed them. For serious long-range shooters or those demanding the utmost stability, a more robust and expensive option is recommended.
Design & Ergonomics
The Allen Bozeman’s design is simple and functional. The aluminum construction is lightweight and easy to handle. The black finish is understated and practical.
However, the ergonomics are somewhat lacking. The leg adjustment mechanism could be smoother. The sling swivel mount can sometimes feel loose. There’s a slight learning curve involved in finding the optimal tension for the swivel to balance stability and freedom of movement.
Durability & Maintenance
For its price point, the durability of the Allen Bozeman 6-9″ Bipod Black Aluminum is acceptable. It should last for several years with proper care, especially with light to medium use. The aluminum is susceptible to scratching, but it’s reasonably resistant to corrosion.
Maintenance is minimal. Wiping it down with a cloth after use is usually sufficient. Occasional lubrication of the leg joints can help maintain smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Bozeman 6-9″ Bipod Black Aluminum is designed to be a standalone accessory. It doesn’t offer any specific customization options or compatibility with aftermarket accessories.
The sling swivel stud mount is a universal design, so it can be used with various slings and sling attachments. However, the bipod itself is not designed to be modified or upgraded.
Pros and Cons of Allen Bozeman 6-9″ Bipod Black Aluminum
Pros
- Affordable price makes it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Lightweight design doesn’t add significant weight to the rifle.
- Easy to attach and detach via the sling swivel stud mount.
- Adjustable leg height provides flexibility for different shooting positions.
- Simple and functional design requires minimal maintenance.
Cons
- Leg wobble can affect stability, especially at full extension.
- Sling swivel mount may not be as secure as other mounting systems.
- Aluminum construction is less durable than steel or carbon fiber.
Who Should Buy Allen Bozeman 6-9″ Bipod Black Aluminum?
The Allen Bozeman 6-9″ Bipod Black Aluminum is perfect for:
- New shooters looking for an affordable way to improve rifle stability.
- Hunters who prioritize lightweight gear and don’t require extreme precision.
- Casual range shooters who want a simple and functional bipod.
Who should skip this product?
- Serious long-range shooters demanding maximum stability.
- Tactical shooters requiring a rugged and reliable bipod for demanding environments.
- Hunters who frequently shoot in rough or uneven terrain.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality sling to properly utilize the sling swivel stud.
Conclusion on Allen Bozeman 6-9″ Bipod Black Aluminum
The Allen Bozeman 6-9″ Bipod Black Aluminum offers a good value proposition for shooters on a budget. It provides a noticeable improvement in stability at a fraction of the cost of higher-end bipods. While it has some limitations in terms of stability and durability, it’s a functional and lightweight option for casual shooting and hunting.
For $29.49, the price is definitely justified. It provides basic functionality at a low cost, making it a worthwhile investment for those who need a simple bipod solution.
I would recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and lightweight bipod for light to medium-recoil rifles. Don’t expect match-grade precision, but it will provide a solid improvement over shooting unsupported. Consider the Allen Bozeman and elevate your shooting game.