TRG-22 Bibods
I use two different bipods with my TRG-22. The Sako model and the Harris model. Let's compare both.
The Sako TRG-22 bipod
This bipod is sold by Sako for the TRG, and only for the TRG.
It attaches to the TRG using a slot in the front of the forehand.
- The cradle design makes it very stable, even though the swivel cannot be locked, since the
rotation point is close to the barrel.
When folded, the feet can touch (and scratch) the barrel with minimum pressure.- When folded, the legs still swivel and cannot be locked in position.
- Folding / unfolding the legs is difficult. You have to pull on the legs quite hard.
- The feet are metal with teeth design. It is very efficient in the dirt but less so
on hard surfaces.
- Simple design.
- Simple to remove from the rifle.
- WAY TO EXPENSIVE!
- The legs can be folded forward or backwards:
The Harris bipod
- The Harris bipod I have is the swivel bench rest model (HBRM-S).
- The swivel can be locked.
- Can be attached to any rifle that has a sling swivel stud. Adapters allow it to be attached
to almost every existing rifle.
- To attach it to a TRG, the no. 6 adapter must be fitted in the forehand accessory rail.
- The feet are hard rubber, which is efficient on all surfaces.
- Complicated design with springs, and small parts to catch on in the woods.
- Folding /unfolding the legs is easy.
- The legs do not move at all when folded. They are locked in place by the spring.
- Difficult to remove from the rifle.
- Make sure the locking screw is tight. It has a tendency to loosen over time.
The Versa-Pod
I sold my Versa-Pod a number of years ago. The model I had was the Versa-Pod® Model 2 StandardProne Bipod with Rubber Feet. I realized that I do not even have pictures of it!
The reasons I sold it are:
- The rotation point is well below the rifle making it less stable than the other two designs.
- It attaches to a sling swivel stud using a large plastic adapter. It raises the rifle even more.
- Can be attached to any rifle that has a sling swivel stud.
- When folded, the legs wobble around and cannot be locked in place.
- The swivel cannot be locked.
Note that my Versa-Pod experience dates back 5 years. Newer models address some of the negative points I experienced.
Comparisons
| Criteria | Sako | Harris | Versa-Pod |
| Min. height | 6.5" | 6.5" | 9.5" * |
| Max. height | 8" | 10.5" | 12.5" * |
| Number of height increments | 7 | 5 | Unknown |
| Height increments | 3/4" | 3/4" | Unknown |
| Swivel | Yes | Yes (some models) | Yes |
| Locking swivel | No | Yes | No |
| Leg extension | Pull on the feet | Spring loaded, press the catch to extend to maximum | Press the catch |
| Folding direction | Forward or backward | Forward | Forward |
| Weight | 625 gr. (1.38 lbs) | 385 gr. (0.85 lbs) | 470 gr. (1.04 lbs) + adapter * |
| Price | ~600 $US | ~100 $US | ~80 $US |
*: manufacturer's data. All other is my data.
Note: the height is calculated from the center of the bore to the ground.
Final thoughts
From a pure stability stand point, the Sako is best. It is very close to a sand bag. The rifle tends to jump a bit more with the Harris. I noticed that my groups open a little when using it.
However if you factor in the price, Harris is - by far - the best overall choice.