Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black Review

First Thoughts on the Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade under my belt, I’ve seen a lot of bipods. From flimsy, range-only models to bombproof, over-engineered behemoths, I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t in the field. The Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black piqued my interest with its promise of stability and adaptability for AR-style rifles in a seated shooting position. It comes from Caldwell, a brand known for offering accessible shooting accessories.

I needed a bipod solution that would allow me to effectively engage targets from a seated or kneeling position while hunting varmints in open fields. The Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black seemed to offer the height and stability I was looking for. Initially, I was considering other options like the Harris S-BRM Bipod and the Atlas Bipod CAL, but the Caldwell‘s price point and advertised pan-and-cant features swayed me. The Harris is a solid choice, but lacked the pan/cant at this price, and the Atlas, while superb, is significantly more expensive.

Unboxing the Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black, my first impression was that it felt surprisingly lightweight. The aluminum construction seemed sturdy enough for the price, though I was a bit concerned about the plastic adjustment levers. Overall, the build quality appeared decent for a bipod in this price range. I was excited to see how the pan-and-cant features would perform in real-world shooting scenarios.

Real-World Testing: Putting Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black came during a prairie dog hunt in South Dakota. I was primarily shooting from a seated position using a shooting stool. The conditions were dry and dusty, with a moderate wind.

The bipod attached easily to the sling swivel stud of my AR-15. Adjusting the leg height to achieve a stable shooting platform was straightforward, although the leg extensions felt a little wobbly. The pan-and-cant feature proved invaluable for making quick adjustments on uneven terrain, allowing me to stay on target with minimal fuss. I was able to quickly acquire and engage multiple targets at varying distances. My accuracy improved noticeably compared to shooting offhand.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black has held up reasonably well. I have used it on multiple range trips and another varmint hunt in slightly wetter conditions. There are a few minor scratches on the finish, but nothing major.

The plastic leg adjustment levers are showing some signs of wear, and I suspect they may be the first point of failure. Cleaning the bipod after use is simple, requiring just a quick wipe down with a damp cloth. Compared to using a traditional fixed bipod, the Caldwell’s pan-and-cant offered a significant advantage in terms of speed and accuracy in dynamic shooting situations.

Breaking Down the Features of Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black

Specifications

• Description: Bipod. This defines its primary function.
• Lightweight aluminum design: Offers a balance between durability and portability. This helps keep the overall weight of your rifle manageable.
• Built-in swivel pan feature left or right 20 degrees combined with an 18 degree bi-directional cant: Allows for quick target acquisition and adjustment on uneven terrain. This provides greater versatility in various shooting scenarios.
• Stud for sling attachment: Preserves the ability to use a sling with the bipod installed. This is a valuable feature for carrying your rifle comfortably.
• Easily attachable and detachable from the front swivel stud: Provides quick and easy installation and removal. This makes it convenient to switch between using the bipod and shooting offhand.

Performance & Functionality

The Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black performs its primary function – providing a stable shooting platform – admirably. The pan-and-cant feature is genuinely useful, allowing for quick and accurate adjustments. However, the leg extensions could be more robust.

The bipod’s strengths lie in its versatility and ease of use. The weaknesses are the somewhat flimsy leg extensions and plastic adjustment levers. Overall, it meets expectations for a bipod in this price range, but don’t expect the rock-solid performance of a much pricier model.

Design & Ergonomics

The aluminum construction provides a good balance of weight and durability. The bipod is relatively lightweight and doesn’t add excessive bulk to the rifle. The leg extensions are easy to adjust, though they lack a truly secure feel.

The bipod attaches quickly and easily to a standard sling swivel stud, requiring no specialized tools. There is a slight learning curve to fully utilizing the pan-and-cant feature, but it’s intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black, should last for several years with proper care and use. The aluminum construction is resistant to corrosion, but the plastic components may be more susceptible to damage.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the moving parts. Replacing worn components may be difficult, as individual parts are not readily available.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black doesn’t come with any additional accessories. The primary customization option is adjusting the leg height to suit the shooter’s preferred shooting position and terrain.

The bipod is compatible with any AR-15 or other rifle equipped with a standard sling swivel stud. It does not offer any Picatinny rail mounting options, requiring the standard sling stud interface.

Pros and Cons of Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black

Who Should Buy Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black?

The Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black is perfect for varmint hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone looking for an affordable and versatile bipod solution for seated or kneeling shooting positions. It is a good choice for those who need to make quick adjustments on uneven terrain.

Those seeking a bombproof, ultra-durable bipod for demanding tactical applications should skip this product. They should invest in a higher-end model like the Atlas or a premium Harris bipod.

A must-have modification would be potentially replacing the plastic leg levers with aftermarket metal ones if they become available. Otherwise, there are no essential accessories required for basic functionality.

Conclusion on Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black

The Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black is a solid entry-level bipod that offers a good balance of features and affordability. The pan-and-cant feature is a definite plus, providing enhanced versatility compared to fixed bipods.

At $69.49, the price is justified considering the functionality and convenience it offers. While the plastic components raise some concerns about long-term durability, the Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black provides excellent value for the money.

I would personally recommend this bipod to anyone looking for an affordable and versatile solution for seated or kneeling shooting positions. If you’re looking for a bipod that won’t break the bank and offers a useful set of features, the Caldwell AR Sitting Bipod Black is worth considering. Go give it a shot and see if it improves your shooting!