FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head Review

First Impressions of FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head

The FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head promises to be a game-changer in stability and accuracy for shooters. FatBoy Tripods claims its innovative tension concept and versatile mounting options will revolutionize the shooting experience. I was eager to see if this product lived up to the hype, given my decade-plus experience in outdoor and tactical gear, and the frustration I’ve often encountered with leveling solutions in the field.

I was particularly drawn to the Levitate Level Head because of its advertised compatibility with both Picatinny and Arca systems. My existing setup often requires cumbersome adapters, leading to wasted time and potential instability. A universal mounting solution like this would be a welcome change.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel of the Levitate Level Head. The OD Green finish gives it a tactical aesthetic. The build quality felt robust and inspires confidence, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Compared to my existing ball head from Manfrotto and a cheaper leveling base from Amazon, the Levitate seemed significantly more substantial. I chose the Levitate because of its promise of seamless integration with my firearms and the single-handed operation it offered.

I was excited, yet cautious. The price point is definitely higher than many alternatives, so the performance would need to justify the investment. My initial thought was, “Could this be the end of frustrating leveling adjustments?”


Real-World Testing: Putting FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head during a recent coyote hunting trip in the flatlands of West Texas. The terrain is mostly open fields, requiring stable shooting platforms for long-range accuracy. I encountered varying conditions, from a dry and dusty morning to a brief rain shower in the afternoon.

The Levitate Level Head proved remarkably easy to use. The 5-inch handle allowed for quick and precise tension adjustments, even with gloved hands. The quick-release lever system made attaching and detaching my rifle effortless. I did not need any time to adjust to the Level Head since it was very easy to manage, even in low light conditions.

The only initial issue I had was over-tightening the tension knob. This made fine adjustments slightly jerky. A quick adjustment and it was smooth as butter.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head has held up admirably. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The OD Green finish has proven to be quite durable, resisting scratches and abrasions from handling and transport.

Maintenance has been minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a dry cloth to remove dust and debris. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper leveling bases, the Levitate offers a superior level of stability and ease of use. It makes achieving a level shooting platform significantly faster and less frustrating.

Breaking Down the Features of FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head

Specifications

The FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:

  • Manufacturer: FatBoy Tripods. A company known for its high-quality shooting accessories.
  • Color: OD Green. Provides a tactical look and helps to blend in with natural surroundings.
  • Attachment Type: Picatinny and Arca. This dual compatibility is a major selling point, allowing seamless integration with a wide range of firearms and accessories.
  • Length: 65mm. Keeps the profile relatively compact and lightweight.
  • Mount Type: Picatinny. Ensures a secure and stable connection to the firearm.
  • Motion: 15 degrees of motion in any direction. Provides ample maneuverability for achieving level shots on uneven terrain.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the stability, versatility, and ease of use of the leveling head. The dual Picatinny/Arca compatibility eliminates the need for adapters, while the adjustable tensioning stem provides a customized level of resistance for smooth and controlled adjustments.

Performance & Functionality

The FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head excels at its primary job: providing a stable and level platform for shooting. The adjustable tensioning stem allows for precise control over the ball head’s movement. This makes it easy to fine-tune the level and maintain a steady aim.

The quick-release lever system is exceptionally functional. It enables rapid attachment and detachment of the firearm, saving valuable time in the field. The 15 degrees of motion provide enough flexibility to compensate for most uneven terrain.

A minor weakness is the lack of a bubble level. While the smooth movement makes leveling intuitive, a visual aid would further enhance accuracy. Overall, the Levitate Level Head significantly exceeds my expectations in terms of stability, ease of use, and functionality.

Design & Ergonomics

The FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head features a well-thought-out design and excellent ergonomics. The materials used, including the thick and grippy rubber knob, feel durable and high-quality. The OD Green finish is aesthetically pleasing and provides a low-profile appearance.

The 5-inch handle offers a comfortable and secure grip, allowing for precise adjustments. The weight is well-balanced. It adds stability without being overly cumbersome. There is virtually no learning curve. The Levitate Level Head is immediately intuitive to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head is built to last. The robust materials and solid construction suggest a long lifespan, even with frequent use in demanding environments. So far it has held up admirably to all elements, even when the rain starts to come down.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a dry cloth is sufficient to keep the leveling head in good working order. The FatBoy Tripods lifetime warranty provides added peace of mind.

Accessories and Customization Options

The FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head comes with a stowaway tension wrench for fine-tuning the tensioning stem. The top plate’s compatibility with both Picatinny and Arca systems provides a wide range of accessory options. It allows users to attach various firearms, optics, and other shooting accessories directly to the leveling head.

The Levitate Level Head is compatible with all 70mm bowls, making it easy to integrate with most standard tripods. This compatibility enhances its versatility and allows users to customize their setup according to their specific needs.

Pros and Cons of FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head

Pros

  • Exceptional Stability: Provides a rock-solid platform for accurate shooting, even on uneven terrain.
  • Versatile Mounting Options: Compatible with both Picatinny and Arca systems, eliminating the need for adapters.
  • Smooth and Precise Adjustments: The adjustable tensioning stem allows for fine-tuned leveling.
  • Quick-Release Lever System: Enables rapid attachment and detachment of the firearm.
  • Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, with a lifetime warranty for added peace of mind.

Cons

  • Price: The Levitate Level Head is more expensive than some alternatives.
  • Lacks Bubble Level: A built-in bubble level would further enhance accuracy.


Who Should Buy FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head?

The FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head is perfect for serious hunters, competitive shooters, and tactical professionals who demand a stable and reliable shooting platform. It is ideal for anyone who frequently shoots in uneven terrain and values quick and precise adjustments.

This product might be overkill for casual shooters or those who primarily shoot from fixed positions on level ground.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality tripod with a 70mm bowl.

Conclusion on FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head

The FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head is an outstanding piece of equipment that delivers on its promise of enhanced stability and accuracy. While the price point is higher than some alternatives, the exceptional performance, versatile mounting options, and durable construction justify the investment. The Levitate Level Head has made my shooting experience more efficient and enjoyable.

I would highly recommend the FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head to anyone seeking a top-tier leveling solution for their shooting setup. It is a valuable tool that will undoubtedly improve your accuracy and confidence in the field. It’s time to ditch those frustrating leveling adjustments and elevate your shooting skills with the FatBoy Tripods Levitate Level Head.

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