The TenPoint SteddyEddy Made a Bold First Impression
The TenPoint SteddyEddy arrives promising stability and precision to crossbow hunters, a crucial element often compromised by awkward shooting positions in the field. Manufactured by TenPoint, this monopod is designed to eliminate motion, whether you’re perched in a treestand, concealed in a ground blind, or even standing and bracing against your body. Its rapid-pivot tube and snap-on connection for quick attachment to your crossbow intrigued me, along with the promise of easy length adjustment and convenient storage.
My hunting experiences have been plagued by missed opportunities due to shaky aim, especially when shooting from elevated or confined positions. I was searching for a simple, reliable solution to combat this issue, a stabilizer that wouldn’t add significant weight or complexity to my setup. The TenPoint SteddyEddy seemed to tick those boxes.
Unboxing the SteddyEddy, I was immediately struck by its lightweight construction and seemingly robust build. The telescoping sections felt secure, and the pivot tube gave me confidence. Compared to bipods or tripods, the SteddyEddy‘s simplicity was appealing; I wasn’t looking for a full-fledged shooting platform, just a steadying hand. The SteddyEddy certainly looked to be more compact and lighter than the Primos Trigger Stick Gen 3 monopod which I briefly considered. This was a key factor for my style of hunting. I also contemplated fabricating something myself, but the integrated mounting system of the SteddyEddy, designed specifically for TenPoint crossbows, offered a level of refinement and convenience I couldn’t easily replicate.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism, hoping that its ease of use would translate to improved accuracy in the field. While I wasn’t blown away by its appearance (it’s a monopod, after all), the potential for a more stable shot was definitely exciting.
Real-World Testing: Putting TenPoint SteddyEddy to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the TenPoint SteddyEddy during a whitetail hunt in the Appalachian foothills of Pennsylvania, primarily shooting from a treestand. The weather was damp and cold, typical for late-season hunting. Getting accustomed to the SteddyEddy took little time. Its length adjustment mechanism was intuitive, allowing me to quickly find the right height while seated.
Attaching the crossbow to the rapid-pivot tube was a breeze, and the pivot action was surprisingly smooth, allowing for easy target acquisition. The initial shots were noticeably more stable compared to freehand, especially at longer distances. There were no functional issues, though the cold made me appreciate the ease of adjustment with gloved hands.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the TenPoint SteddyEddy has proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my hunting setup. It has held up well to the rigors of being packed in and out of the woods, showing no significant signs of wear and tear. Cleaning is minimal; a quick wipe-down after each hunt is all it needs.
Compared to my previous attempts at stabilizing my crossbow (resting it on branches or using a hastily constructed rest), the SteddyEddy is a vast improvement. It consistently delivers a more stable and accurate shooting platform. It outperforms anything I’ve rigged myself.
Breaking Down the Features of TenPoint SteddyEddy
Specifications
- The TenPoint SteddyEddy is a telescoping two-section monopod. This allows for adjustable length to suit various shooting positions.
- It features a 360-degree rapid-pivot tube equipped with a snap-on connection, ensuring smooth and quick target acquisition. This feature adds speed to follow moving game.
- It clamps conveniently under the stock when not in use, keeping it out of the way while moving. This feature is a great space saving design.
- The SteddyEddy is designed for all TenPoint crossbows built after 1999, ensuring compatibility. This offers a broad platform for older crossbow models.
These specifications are important because they contribute to the overall stability, ease of use, and convenience of the SteddyEddy. The telescoping design allows for adaptable height, while the rapid-pivot tube facilitates smooth target acquisition.
Performance & Functionality
The TenPoint SteddyEddy performs its job admirably, providing a noticeable increase in stability and accuracy, especially at longer ranges. Its primary strength lies in its simplicity and ease of use; it’s quick to deploy and adjust, making it ideal for hunting situations where time is of the essence. However, it only stabilizes vertically, offering no horizontal support.
The SteddyEddy meets my expectations for a simple, lightweight stabilizer.
Design & Ergonomics
The SteddyEddy is constructed from lightweight yet durable materials. Its weight is negligible, adding minimal bulk to the crossbow. The clamping mechanism is well-designed and keeps the monopod securely in place when not in use.
There’s virtually no learning curve; even a novice hunter can quickly master its use.
Durability & Maintenance
The TenPoint SteddyEddy appears to be built to last, although extended use will ultimately determine its long-term durability. Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe-down after each use is sufficient. There are no moving parts that require lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TenPoint SteddyEddy comes as a complete unit, with no additional accessories required for its primary function. It’s designed specifically for TenPoint crossbows, and I am unaware of any customization options beyond that. Compatibility is primarily limited to TenPoint models.
Pros and Cons of TenPoint SteddyEddy
Pros
- Significantly enhances stability for improved accuracy.
- Lightweight and compact design adds minimal bulk to your crossbow.
- Quick and easy to deploy and adjust, even with gloves on.
- Smooth 360-degree pivot allows for easy target acquisition.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Only provides vertical stabilization; no horizontal support.
- Limited to TenPoint crossbows built after 1999.
Who Should Buy TenPoint SteddyEddy?
The TenPoint SteddyEddy is perfect for crossbow hunters who prioritize stability and accuracy, especially when shooting from treestands or ground blinds. It’s also ideal for hunters who value lightweight and compact gear. Those who should skip this product are hunters using crossbows from other manufacturers, or those seeking a more comprehensive shooting platform with both vertical and horizontal stabilization.
A must-have modification would be some adhesive camo wrap to better conceal the unit in the field.
Conclusion on TenPoint SteddyEddy
The TenPoint SteddyEddy is a simple yet effective accessory that significantly improves stability and accuracy for crossbow hunters. Its lightweight design, ease of use, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to enhance their shooting performance. The price of $101.49 is justified by the added confidence and precision it provides.
I would personally recommend the TenPoint SteddyEddy to any TenPoint crossbow owner seeking a reliable and convenient stabilization solution. Don’t let shaky aim cost you a trophy; invest in the SteddyEddy and experience the difference it can make.