Pole Cat Steady-Stix Sitting 15-40 Inches Review

First Thoughts on the Pole Cat Steady-Stix Sitting 15-40 Inches

The Pole Cat Steady-Stix Sitting 15-40 Inches are a simple, yet potentially crucial piece of kit for any hunter or shooter looking for added stability in the field. Manufactured by Pole Cat, these bipods promise to offer a lightweight and compact solution for steadying your aim. For years, I’ve relied on shooting sticks of varying designs, so I was eager to see how this particular model stacked up against my experiences.

I’ve always struggled finding a truly lightweight and easily packable shooting support system that also provided a stable shooting platform when seated. Too often, I’ve found myself hunched over, struggling to get a solid rest, costing precious time and potentially missed opportunities. The promise of a compact, adjustable bipod designed for sitting positions immediately caught my attention.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was how light the Pole Cat Steady-Stix were. The tempered aluminum legs felt sturdy enough, but I had concerns about the long-term durability of the Posi-Lock adjustment mechanisms. Compared to my heavier, non-collapsible Primos Trigger Stick, the Pole Cat Steady-Stix felt almost flimsy, though far more packable than the single stick. I chose these over a heavier, more elaborate tripod system due to my need for lightweight portability on mountain hunts.

My initial excitement was tempered by a bit of skepticism. The lightweight design and relatively low price point made me wonder if these sticks could truly deliver the stability and durability I needed in the field. Only real-world testing would tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting Pole Cat Steady-Stix Sitting 15-40 Inches to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Pole Cat Steady-Stix Sitting 15-40 Inches at my local shooting range, setting up targets at varying distances. It was a relatively calm, sunny day, providing ideal conditions for sighting in a new rifle. The sticks were easy to deploy, and the Posi-Lock adjustment system allowed me to quickly dial in the desired height for a comfortable seated shooting position.

The initial shots were surprisingly steady, considering how lightweight the sticks felt. I found that spreading the legs out fully provided the most stable platform. However, the Posi-Lock mechanisms slipped slightly after several uses, requiring re-adjustment to maintain consistent height, especially after firing heavier calibers.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including a few backcountry scouting trips, the Pole Cat Steady-Stix have held up reasonably well. While the aluminum legs haven’t shown any significant signs of wear, the Posi-Lock mechanisms are definitely the weak point. They require frequent tightening and cleaning to prevent slippage, especially after exposure to dust and dirt.

Cleaning is relatively simple, involving wiping down the legs with a damp cloth and applying a small amount of lubricant to the Posi-Lock joints. The shock-corded sections make disassembly and reassembly easy for thorough cleaning. Compared to my previous experience with more complex tripod systems, the Pole Cat Steady-Stix are significantly easier to maintain. They don’t outperform higher-end shooting sticks in stability, but they are much more packable.

Breaking Down the Features of Pole Cat Steady-Stix Sitting 15-40 Inches

Specifications

The Pole Cat Steady-Stix Sitting 15-40 Inches boast several key specifications:

• Three-piece, sturdy tempered aluminum legs: These provide a lightweight yet reasonably durable frame.
• Posi-Lock adjustment: This allows for quick and easy height adjustments within the specified range.
• Ultra light design: Weighing in at just a few ounces, these sticks are easy to carry for extended periods.
• Shock-corded sections: These allow for quick assembly and compact storage.
• Compacts down to 15 inches for carrying: This compact size makes them ideal for packing in a backpack.
• Overall height 40 inches: This maximum height is designed for comfortable seated shooting positions.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the portability, ease of use, and stability of the shooting sticks. The lightweight design makes them ideal for hunters and shooters who prioritize packability, while the Posi-Lock adjustment allows for quick adaptation to varying terrain.

Performance & Functionality

The Pole Cat Steady-Stix Sitting 15-40 Inches perform adequately for their intended purpose. They provide a noticeable improvement in stability compared to shooting unsupported. The height adjustment is quick and easy to use, but the slippage in the Posi-Lock mechanisms is a recurring issue.

The strengths of these sticks lie in their lightweight design and compact packability. Their primary weakness is the durability and reliability of the Posi-Lock adjustment system. They generally meet expectations for a budget-friendly bipod, but they fall short of higher-end options in terms of overall stability and ruggedness.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Pole Cat Steady-Stix is simple and functional. The aluminum legs are lightweight and comfortable to handle. The shock-corded sections make assembly and disassembly quick and intuitive.

The Posi-Lock mechanisms are easy to operate, but their plastic construction feels somewhat cheap and prone to wear. The overall build quality is acceptable for the price point, but it doesn’t inspire confidence in long-term durability under heavy use. There is a slight learning curve in finding the optimal leg spread for maximum stability.

Durability & Maintenance

The longevity of the Pole Cat Steady-Stix is a concern, primarily due to the Posi-Lock mechanisms. Regular cleaning and lubrication can help to extend their lifespan, but they are likely to be the first components to fail. The aluminum legs themselves should withstand moderate use, but they are susceptible to dents and scratches.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. Repairing the Posi-Lock mechanisms would likely require replacing the entire leg section, as individual parts are not readily available.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Pole Cat Steady-Stix Sitting 15-40 Inches come with no included accessories. Customization options are limited, but you could potentially add aftermarket rubber feet for improved grip on slick surfaces. The sticks are generally compatible with most rifle rests designed for bipods, but their lightweight design may not be suitable for supporting heavier rifles.

Pros and Cons of Pole Cat Steady-Stix Sitting 15-40 Inches

Who Should Buy Pole Cat Steady-Stix Sitting 15-40 Inches?

The Pole Cat Steady-Stix Sitting 15-40 Inches are perfect for budget-minded hunters and shooters who prioritize lightweight portability over ultimate stability and durability. They are particularly well-suited for still hunters who move frequently and need a quick and easy shooting support system. These are great for varmint hunters who may take dozens of shots from a seated position.

Hunters and shooters who require maximum stability and ruggedness should skip this product and invest in a higher-end tripod or shooting stick system. Anyone primarily hunting in rocky or uneven terrain should also consider alternatives. A must-have modification would be applying a non-slip coating to the feet.

Conclusion on Pole Cat Steady-Stix Sitting 15-40 Inches

The Pole Cat Steady-Stix Sitting 15-40 Inches offer a reasonable value proposition for hunters and shooters seeking a lightweight and affordable bipod solution. While the Posi-Lock mechanisms are a potential point of concern, the sticks generally perform adequately for their intended purpose. For $27.49, they provide a noticeable improvement in stability compared to shooting unsupported, making them a worthwhile investment for budget-conscious users.

I would personally recommend these sticks to anyone who values packability and ease of use above all else. However, I would also advise potential buyers to be aware of the limitations of the Posi-Lock adjustment system and to consider investing in a more robust option if maximum stability and durability are paramount. If you’re looking for a lightweight and packable shooting support system that won’t break the bank, give the Pole Cat Steady-Stix a try!