Shooting tripods are nothing new, being much loved by our colonial cousins and often hyped up in movies and the media. They’re frequently associated with snipers providing overwatch from lofty rooftops for fellow troops or politicians in passing motorcades.

There are several popular models, including the BOG Deathgrip and the hugely popular Rekon tripod, which features Hog and Pig saddles for a secure rifle interface. The new Manfrotto tripod, like the Rekon, employs a ball-head mechanism that allows effortless cant and tilt adjustments, along with a 360° arc of fire when needed.

Although no tripod system matches the long-range accuracy of quad sticks, they excel as ambush tools, where speed and flexibility are more important than pinpoint accuracy.

Now, entering the fray is a new contender from Manfrotto, a giant in the photographic world. Manfrotto has brought its renowned tripod-building expertise to the shooting world, offering options in aluminum (under review) and carbon. Variations in leg thickness, weight, and maximum height account for different price points, but all models share the same basic design.

Build and Functionality

As expected, the engineering on the tripod is impressive, showcasing decades of expertise in build quality, particularly in the latches and leg adjustment mechanisms. It’s simple to deploy and rock-solid once in position. However, the real innovation lies above the legs.

The adjustable central pillar is topped by a ball-head featuring a friction-trigger mechanism. This includes a standard quick-release (QR) plate that attaches to the clamp, securely holding the rifle in place. Opting for a standard QR plate is an inspired idea, allowing seamless swaps between a rifle clamp, spotting scope, or even a camera in seconds.

The friction trigger includes a tension adjuster, enabling users to fine-tune the grip or friction level, making it capable of securely handling heavier rigs. However, this system holds the rifle rather than locking it firmly in place. If tilted or canted beyond a certain angle, the weight of a heavier setup may cause the head to slip and possibly unbalance the tripod.

One of the standout features of any tripod system is its "set and forget" functionality. With the Manfrotto, you can mount the rifle, point it in the expected direction, and remain hands-free for spotting until it’s time for action. While this is still possible, it isn’t as secure as traditional lockable ball-head designs.

However, the trigger system allows instantaneous adjustments in direction, angle, and cant, which makes it a winner over traditional locking setups. While not perfect—the saddle clamp occasionally needed greasing to prevent it from sticking to the forend—the flexibility and speed of the Manfrotto more than compensate. Additionally, the QR plate allows users to detach the rifle with the clamp, making it easy to switch to a bipod and go prone for longer shots.

For me, the versatility of the Manfrotto makes it a clear winner. It’s just as effective as a support for a large spotting scope as it is for a rifle, proving its value in the field.