First Thoughts on the Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum
The Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum promises stability and versatility for shooters of all kinds. Allen is a known brand, and the allure of a lightweight, adjustable monopod that doubles as a camera staff is compelling. I’ve spent years in the field, both hunting and in tactical training, and a reliable shooting support can be the difference between a hit and a miss.
I’ve struggled for years with finding the perfect support for my rifle in various hunting scenarios. Often, I found myself improvising with tree branches or uneven terrain, compromising my accuracy. I needed something lightweight, easily adjustable, and sturdy enough to handle various rifle weights and calibers. The advertised adjustability and dual-purpose nature of the Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing, the Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum feels surprisingly light due to its aluminum construction. The matte black finish gives it a subdued, tactical look, and the padded grip feels comfortable in hand. The telescoping sections extend and retract smoothly, and the locking mechanism seems secure at first glance.
I considered the Primos Trigger Stick Gen 3 and a few other bipod options but ultimately chose the Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum because of its compact size and monopod design. Bipods can be bulky and cumbersome, while the monopod offered a good balance of stability and portability at an affordable price. For $16.99, my expectations are realistic, but I’m hoping for solid performance nonetheless.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The light weight is a definite plus, but I’m eager to see how it performs under the weight of my heavier rifles and in challenging field conditions. The dual functionality as a camera staff is a nice bonus, potentially replacing a separate piece of gear I often carry on scouting trips.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum was at an outdoor shooting range. I used it with a .308 bolt-action rifle and a 6.5 Creedmoor AR-10. The range offered a variety of shooting distances, from 100 to 300 yards.
The staff performed adequately in dry conditions on relatively level ground. The padded grip provided a comfortable and secure hold, and the height adjustment was quick and easy. However, I noticed some wobble when using it with the heavier AR-10.
I didn’t encounter any major issues during the initial use. However, the stability wasn’t as rock-solid as I had hoped, especially at maximum extension. I also noticed that the rubber foot tended to slip slightly on the hard-packed dirt of the range.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum has shown some signs of wear and tear. The matte black finish has scratched easily from contact with rocks and vegetation. The locking mechanism, while still functional, feels slightly less secure than when it was new.
The durability is acceptable for the price point, but I wouldn’t expect it to withstand heavy abuse. Cleaning is simple; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. However, I’m concerned about the long-term reliability of the locking mechanism.
Compared to previous improvised shooting supports, the Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum offers a significant improvement in stability and adjustability. However, it doesn’t quite match the performance of more expensive, dedicated shooting sticks or bipods I’ve used in the past. It is definitely a step up from no support at all though.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum
Specifications
The Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum features an aluminum body with a matte black finish. It adjusts from 21.50 inches to 61 inches, providing a wide range of shooting heights. The padded grip surface ensures comfortable handling.
The monopod’s adjustability allows for use in various terrains and shooting positions. Its light weight (specific weight not provided by Allen) makes it easy to carry during long hikes or hunts. The aluminum construction strikes a balance between weight and durability, though not as durable as steel.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum is to provide a stable shooting platform. In this regard, it performs adequately, especially for lighter rifles and in relatively stable conditions. The height adjustment is easy to use, allowing for quick adaptation to different shooting scenarios.
The monopod’s strength lies in its portability and ease of use. Its weakness is its limited stability compared to bipods or tripods. It meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly shooting support.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional. The aluminum body is lightweight and easy to carry, while the matte black finish provides a non-reflective surface. The padded grip is comfortable, even during extended use.
The Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum is generally user-friendly. There is a slight learning curve to find the optimal shooting technique. Overall, the ergonomic design is well-suited for its intended purpose.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction is reasonably durable, but the finish scratches easily. The locking mechanism is a potential point of failure over time. With proper care and maintenance, the monopod should last for several seasons of moderate use.
Maintenance is straightforward. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after use and occasionally lubricate the locking mechanism. Replacement parts are unlikely to be readily available.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum does not come with many accessories. The only notable feature is its ability to function as a camera staff. There are no readily available customization options, such as different feet or mounting systems.
The standard ¼-20 thread on top should allow mounting of most cameras, spotting scopes, or even rifle cradles from other brands. Compatibility depends on the specific accessories chosen.
Pros and Cons of Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
- Adjustable height for various shooting positions.
- Comfortable padded grip.
- Affordable price point.
- Doubles as a camera staff.
Cons
- Limited stability, especially with heavier rifles.
- Finish scratches easily.
- Locking mechanism may not be highly durable.
Who Should Buy Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum?
The Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum is perfect for budget-conscious hunters and casual shooters who need a lightweight and portable shooting support. It’s also suitable for photographers or wildlife observers needing a monopod for their cameras or spotting scopes.
This product is not ideal for those who require maximum stability, such as long-range shooters or hunters using heavy rifles in challenging terrain. It is not a substitute for a quality bipod or tripod. A rifle cradle from a different brand may be a must-have to add stability for rifles.
Conclusion on Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum
The Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum is a decent entry-level shooting support that offers good value for its low price. While it’s not the most stable or durable option on the market, it provides a significant improvement over shooting unsupported. It is a good choice for those on a budget or who prioritize portability over ultimate stability.
At $16.99, the price is justified. It’s a useful tool to have in your gear bag.
I would recommend the Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum to anyone looking for an affordable and lightweight shooting support for casual use. If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly shooting monopod, give the Allen Deluxe Shooter’s Staff Monopod Matte Black 21.50-61″ Aluminum a try and experience its blend of portability and functionality.