First Impressions of Tricer BC Tripod
The Tricer BC Tripod promises to be a game-changer for backcountry hunters and shooters prioritizing minimal weight and maximum stability. Tricer, a brand gaining traction in the lightweight gear space, designed this tripod for those who spend more time glassing and shooting from a standing or kneeling position rather than prone. My interest was piqued because I needed a stable shooting platform that wouldn’t add significant weight to my already overloaded pack during elk hunts in the rugged Montana wilderness.
Unboxing the Tricer BC Tripod, my initial reaction was one of surprise at how incredibly light it felt. The carbon fiber construction is immediately apparent, and the inverted leg design, with its larger diameter sections closer to the ground, appears robust. The build quality seems excellent, with smooth leg extensions and secure locking mechanisms.
Compared to my older aluminum photography tripod and a heavier, more tactical tripod I use for precision rifle shooting, the Tricer BC Tripod strikes a compelling balance. I initially considered a similar tripod from a competing brand known for its ultralight backpacking gear. Ultimately, I chose the Tricer BC Tripod due to the advertised strength of its inverted leg design and the positive early reviews regarding its stability. I was immediately excited and hopeful this tripod would replace two existing tripods, streamlining my gear closet and lightening my load.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tricer BC Tripod to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Tricer BC Tripod came during a scouting trip for the upcoming deer season in the high desert of Nevada. I primarily used it with my spotting scope to glass distant hillsides for game sign. Setting it up was straightforward, requiring minimal time to extend the legs and lock them into position.
The tripod performed admirably in the moderately windy conditions we encountered, providing a stable platform for my spotting scope. I had no issues with the legs slipping, even on uneven terrain. My only minor concern was that the black carbon fiber became quite hot to the touch in the midday sun, requiring me to wear gloves when adjusting it.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple hunting trips and range sessions, the Tricer BC Tripod has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the leg locks continue to function smoothly. I hose it down after muddy hunts, and the carbon fiber cleans easily.
Compared to my previous experiences with lightweight tripods, the Tricer BC Tripod significantly outperforms them in terms of stability and ease of use. Its ability to handle the weight of my spotting scope and, more importantly, provide a stable rifle rest in field conditions is impressive. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of providing a stable and lightweight platform.
Breaking Down the Features of Tricer BC Tripod
Specifications
The Tricer BC Tripod boasts a range of specifications tailored for the backcountry hunter and shooter:
- Manufacturer: Tricer
- Height Range: 40 inches
- Tripod Closed Length: 17 inches
- Height: 40 inches
- Fabric/Material: Carbon Fiber
- Weight: 2.17 lbs (27 oz)
- Color: Black
- Max Weight Capacity: 26.4 lbs
- Closed Length: 17 inches
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The lightweight carbon fiber construction and compact closed length are essential for minimizing weight and bulk in a backpack. The 40-inch height is ideal for glassing and shooting from a kneeling or standing position, while the 26.4 lbs weight capacity provides ample support for even heavier optics and rifles.
Performance & Functionality
The Tricer BC Tripod excels at providing a stable and lightweight shooting platform. The inverted leg design, with the larger diameter sections at the bottom, significantly enhances stability compared to traditional tripods. Its primary strength is its ability to provide a solid rifle rest in challenging field conditions.
While the Tricer BC Tripod is not designed for prone shooting, it does excel at its intended purpose. I would like to see a slightly smoother panning motion in the head unit. Overall, it meets and often exceeds my expectations for a lightweight backcountry tripod.
Design & Ergonomics
The Tricer BC Tripod features a well-thought-out design with an emphasis on simplicity and functionality. The carbon fiber construction keeps the weight down while providing impressive rigidity. Its diameter, roughly the size of a Nalgene bottle when closed, makes it easy to pack.
The tripod is remarkably user-friendly, with intuitive leg locks and a smooth-operating head unit. There is virtually no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The Tricer BC Tripod’s carbon fiber legs appear very durable, withstanding scrapes and bumps without showing signs of damage. The leg locks are constructed from high-quality materials and feel robust. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to maintain the tripod.
With proper care, the Tricer BC Tripod should provide years of reliable service. The simple design minimizes the potential for mechanical failures.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tricer BC Tripod is primarily designed as a standalone unit. While it does not come with a vast array of accessories, it is compatible with most standard tripod heads. I use it with a ball head for my spotting scope and a simple V-yoke for my rifles, both of which attach easily to the standard mounting screw.
The tripod is compatible with various aftermarket accessories, such as quick-release plates and different types of tripod heads. My Javelin bipod, which utilizes a magnetic attachment system on my rifles and spotting scopes, integrates seamlessly with the tripod via an aftermarket adapter.
Pros and Cons of Tricer BC TripodPros
- Ultralight weight: At only 27 oz, it’s incredibly easy to pack.
- Exceptional stability: The inverted leg design provides a solid shooting platform.
- Durable carbon fiber construction: Built to withstand the rigors of backcountry hunting.
- Compact and packable: Folds down to a manageable 17 inches.
- Versatile height range: Suitable for glassing and shooting from kneeling or standing positions.
Cons
- Black carbon fiber heats up in direct sunlight.
- The included head unit could have smoother panning.
Who Should Buy Tricer BC Tripod?
Pros
- Ultralight weight: At only 27 oz, it’s incredibly easy to pack.
- Exceptional stability: The inverted leg design provides a solid shooting platform.
- Durable carbon fiber construction: Built to withstand the rigors of backcountry hunting.
- Compact and packable: Folds down to a manageable 17 inches.
- Versatile height range: Suitable for glassing and shooting from kneeling or standing positions.
Cons
- Black carbon fiber heats up in direct sunlight.
- The included head unit could have smoother panning.
The Tricer BC Tripod is perfect for backcountry hunters, backpackers, and anyone who prioritizes minimal weight and maximum stability in their shooting support system. It is ideal for those who primarily glass and shoot from a kneeling or standing position. The Tricer BC Tripod is an excellent choice for hunters using a Javelin bipod system with an appropriate adapter.
Those who primarily shoot from the prone position should seek a taller tripod. Someone needing ultra-smooth fluid panning for video work should also consider a different tripod with a specialized head.
A quality tripod head (ball head or pan/tilt head) is a must-have accessory for maximizing the Tricer BC Tripod’s versatility. A rifle rest (V-yoke or similar) is also essential for using it as a shooting platform.
Conclusion on Tricer BC Tripod
The Tricer BC Tripod is an outstanding piece of gear that delivers on its promise of providing a lightweight and stable shooting platform for backcountry adventures. Its carbon fiber construction, inverted leg design, and compact size make it an ideal companion for hunters, backpackers, and shooters who value minimizing weight and maximizing performance.
At $369.00, the Tricer BC Tripod represents a solid value proposition for those seeking a premium lightweight tripod. While not the cheapest option on the market, its exceptional stability, durability, and compact design justify the price.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Tricer BC Tripod to anyone looking for a high-quality, lightweight tripod for backcountry hunting, shooting, or glassing. If you need a stable and packable shooting platform, look no further; the Tricer BC Tripod will not disappoint. Take the leap and shed those extra ounces from your pack, your back will thank you.
