What's the Trick to a Monopod?

[Cosmoline]

I tried out a walking stick with a "Y" monopod attachment at the range this weekend with the big, heavy M-91 Mosin. It did help reduce fatigue, but I found the thing had an annoying tendency to veer off just as I was about to shoot. It would get unstable without warning, even when I tried adjusting the angle and so on.

Any tricks to getting it to work, or do I have to use regular "X" shooting sticks?

 

[Zak Smith]

We have good luck with the Stoney Point sticks

............... Larger version of above photo.

 

[DnPRK]

Put the monopod near the point of balance (just in front of the magazine), not way out near the muzzle. The monopod is there to take the weight, but you still have to hold it steady. I'm right handed, so I grab the the monopod and stock with my left hand, right hand on the grip to work the trigger and feet spread in a boxers stance (feet 18 " apart with left foot slightly forward).

 

[Cosmoline]

Ah, that makes sense! I had it way out towards the end, so everytime I shifted the rifle veered. I'll try putting it behind my off hand next time.

 

[Ed Ames]

I don't know much about monopods for guns, but in photography monopods are famous for veering and the best technique is to stand as though you are shooting a rifle/shotgun (with a leading and trailing foot) and brace the monopod against the pocket of your trailing foot. The shaft angles forward towards your forward hand and allows you to brace your body and pull the camera in towards yourself. That works very well for me and I bet the technique would adapt to shooting. Angle the monopod from back foot to forend. Never tried it though.

 

[stubbicatt]

I too have a monopod. I don't use it anymore. I use stoney point shooting sticks. They are light, easy to carry, and far more stable than the monopod.

 

[Mike 56]

I use these homemaide shooting sticks / monopod http://www.varmintal.com/abifu.htm

Mike

 

[Shawnee]

Anyone care to recommend a good brand of monopod and where to buy ?

Thanks All !