First Thoughts on the Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum
The Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum enters a crowded market of rifle bipods, promising stability and ease of use at a budget-friendly price. From Allen, a company known for its accessible outdoor gear, this bipod aims to offer a solid platform for improved accuracy in the field. The advertised sling swivel mount and adjustable legs immediately caught my attention, hinting at practical design choices.
My quest for a reliable bipod began after missing a vital shot on a recent deer hunt. Frustration mounted as the uneven terrain and lack of a stable rest led to a heartbreaking miss. I needed a lightweight, adjustable solution that wouldn’t break the bank, which is why the Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum was a contender.
Unboxing the bipod, I was immediately struck by its lightweight feel. The aluminum construction seemed sturdy enough, though I admittedly harbored some initial concerns about long-term durability. The black finish was clean and unassuming, blending well with most rifle stocks.
Compared to pricier options like the Harris S-BRM or Magpul Bipod, the Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum is significantly lighter and more compact. However, it lacks the robust construction and finer adjustments of its more expensive counterparts. I chose it for its simplicity and promise of quick deployment in hunting scenarios.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The bipod felt adequately built for its price point, but I reserved full judgment until I could test it in the field. Its affordability and ease of attachment seemed promising, but performance in demanding conditions would ultimately determine its value.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on prone shooting with my Savage Axis .308. Attaching the bipod was a breeze; the sling swivel mount connected securely to the rifle’s front stud. The bipod provided a noticeable improvement in stability compared to shooting unsupported.
I tested the bipod in moderately windy conditions. The Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum held its ground surprisingly well, providing a stable platform even with slight gusts. Extending the legs was quick and easy, allowing for rapid adjustments to compensate for uneven ground.
Using the bipod was intuitive. The legs locked securely into place, and the rubber feet provided adequate grip on the range’s concrete surface. My groups immediately tightened up, suggesting that the Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum was indeed a significant aid to accuracy.
One initial surprise was the slight wobble in the legs when fully extended. While it didn’t dramatically affect stability, it was noticeable and raised some questions about long-term rigidity. Otherwise, the first range trip was a resounding success.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, primarily during hunting trips and occasional range sessions, the Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum has held up reasonably well. There are minor scratches on the finish from rubbing against brush and rocks, but nothing that impacts its functionality. It spends most of its time strapped to my pack.
So far, the durability of the bipod is acceptable, especially considering its price. The legs still lock securely, although the aforementioned wobble seems to have slightly increased over time. I’m a little concerned about the plastic components, but they have survived thus far.
Maintenance is minimal. I simply wipe down the bipod with a damp cloth after each use to remove dirt and debris. So far, I haven’t needed to lubricate any parts. The simple design makes cleaning straightforward.
Compared to my previous experience with a cheaper, no-name bipod, the Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum is a significant upgrade. It provides much better stability and feels more durable overall. It doesn’t match the premium feel of a Harris, but it’s significantly better than the bargain bin options.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum
Specifications
The Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum boasts a lightweight aluminum construction and a sleek black finish. It features a sling swivel mount that attaches easily to most rifles with a standard front sling stud. The adjustable legs extend from 9 to 13 inches, offering versatility in various shooting positions.
The bipod weighs approximately 10 ounces, making it a lightweight addition to any rifle. This low weight is crucial for hunters who prioritize mobility. The 9-13 inch height range provides a stable shooting platform for prone or kneeling positions in diverse terrains.
The aluminum material provides a good balance of strength and weight. However, the plastic leg locks may be a point of concern for some users regarding long-term durability. The sling swivel attachment maintains sling functionality, a significant advantage over bipods that obstruct sling use.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum performs its primary job adequately, providing a more stable shooting platform compared to shooting unsupported. It noticeably improves accuracy, especially at longer ranges. The quick leg adjustments allow for rapid adaptation to changing terrain.
The key strengths lie in its lightweight design, easy attachment, and adjustable height. The main weakness is the aforementioned leg wobble, particularly when fully extended. It lacks the rock-solid stability of more expensive bipods.
The bipod meets my basic expectations for a budget-friendly bipod. It’s not perfect, but it’s a noticeable improvement over shooting without any support. It provides adequate stability for hunting and casual range use.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for the price. The aluminum legs feel relatively sturdy, but the plastic leg locks feel somewhat cheap and potentially fragile. The overall weight is comfortable for carrying in the field.
The design is user-friendly. Attaching the bipod is simple, and adjusting the leg height is quick and easy. There’s no significant learning curve. It’s a straightforward and functional design.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum should last for several seasons of hunting and range use. However, the plastic leg locks are the most likely point of failure. Avoid exposing the bipod to excessive stress or impact.
Maintenance is simple. Clean the bipod after each use and lubricate the leg locks periodically. Replacement parts may be difficult to find, so treat it with care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum comes with no included accessories. It’s designed to be used as is. It is not meant to be customized
While there are no direct customization options, the standard sling swivel attachment point allows for the use of various aftermarket sling attachments. The bipod is compatible with most rifles that have a standard front sling stud.
Pros and Cons of Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry in the field.
- Simple and quick attachment to rifles with a sling stud.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Adjustable leg height allows for use in various shooting positions.
- Provides a noticeable improvement in stability compared to unsupported shooting.
Cons
- Plastic leg locks feel somewhat cheap and potentially fragile.
- Slight leg wobble, especially when fully extended.
Who Should Buy Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum?
The Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum is perfect for budget-conscious hunters and casual shooters looking for a simple and effective way to improve their accuracy. It’s ideal for those who prioritize lightweight gear and easy setup. It also works well on a Savage Axis, according to user feedback.
This product isn’t for precision shooters demanding maximum stability and adjustability. Anyone needing a bipod for heavy use or harsh environments may want to consider a more durable and expensive option. Competitive shooters might also benefit more from a more robust bipod.
A must-have modification (if possible) would be replacing the plastic leg locks with metal ones for increased durability. Otherwise, the bipod is ready to use out of the box.
Conclusion on Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum
The Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum offers a solid value proposition for its price point. It’s not the most durable or feature-rich bipod on the market, but it provides a noticeable improvement in stability and accuracy at an affordable cost. This makes it a great bipod for a first time buyer.
The price is definitely justified. The Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum offers a functional, if not exceptional, solution for shooters on a budget. It improves stability, it is lightweight, and it has a sling swivel mount.
I would personally recommend the Allen Bozeman Medium 9-13″ Bipod Black Aluminum to anyone looking for a budget-friendly bipod for hunting or casual range use. While there are better options available, they come at a significantly higher price. If you need a reliable and affordable bipod, this is a great starting point. Get yours today and improve your shooting accuracy!