Best Shooting Sticks For Elk Hunting
Our Top 9 Choices At Three Approachable Price Points
Welcome to our in-depth guide, covering the best shooting sticks for elk hunting. We hope this helps you find the best shooting stick for you. Because finding the suitable monopod, bipod, or tripod to steady your shot could mean the difference between bagging or missing your prey, this is an extremely important decision.
To help you make a sound decision, we’ve given our best advice based on personal field tests and trial runs. We’ve also examined reviews from experts in the field and put together a list of the nine best hunting sticks for elk hunting available in 2022.
The selections in this guide alternate between monopods, tripods, and bipods, with options that will fit all budgets in the respective categories.
The Three Sticks: Monopods, Bipods, and Tripods
Hunting in general requires extreme control that is so easily lost when a big game animal comes into range. Owning a quality shooting stick that is always at the ready will greatly increase the chances of a steady, ethical shot on an elk.
The 3 styles to bore in mind when you’re planning your next hunting adventure are tripods, monopods, and bipods. Each has its own pros and cons so it’s worth understanding them before making a purchase.
Monopods
The monopod makes it easy to find the perfect balance between stability and mobility. For hunters and sportsmen, this is a great device that’s lightweight yet can still provide stable shots while roaming the hillside.
Monopods only have one point of contact with the ground which can cause them to sway side to side and back and forth. That makes them a less stable option than tripods, but they are still the easiest to quickly set up and take aim with.
Monopods are perfect for shooting in a tree stand or other unstable setting as well.
Bipods
While a monopod isn’t overly unstable, adding a bipod to your collection is a great idea for added stability.
Bipods are often preferred because they offer an easier shooting setup, especially when stationed in one area for a prolonged time.
A quality bipod will last years and is useful in many hunting applications, not just elk hunting.
Tripods
It’s simple, tripods offer the best solution for eliminating all movement of the rifle when its time to take the shot
However, one downside of tripods is that they can be bulky and difficult to set up, so keep that in mind if you are a mobile hunter.
Tripods are particularly valuable for insuring the most stable shot when pursuing big game like elk, moose, etc.
Best Monopod Shooting Sticks
Monopods are lightweight and portable, which is perfect for elk hunters who need to move quickly. The Vanguard is the most affordable option on our list, while the Bog monopods discussed below offer a heavier-duty option, at a higher price point.
Tier 1: Vanguard Scout M62 ($)
This Vanguard Scout M62 is one of the cheapest monopod rifle shooting sticks on the market but that doesn’t mean it is cheaply 
made. This monopod is made from aluminum materials that can withstand a lot without breaking.
This Vanguard model also has a few valuable features that you will be bound to be in need of. For instance, if you are well set up for a shot, you can clamp down the leg locks, and get the most stability out of this monopod. Note, this takes a little longer to set up than some other common monopods.
This monopod is straightforward and practical, and a great option if you are just dipping your toes into the monopod hunting world. This stick will cut ounces from your load (weighing just over a half pound) as well as save you a few bucks. Some may call that a win-win.
Tier 2: Primos Trigger Stick GEN 3 ($)
With a price point of only $43, Primos did a rockstar job at providing a very quality shooting stick at an approachable price. This is the third rendition done by primos, previously 
releasing the GEN 1 and GEN 2 versions that weren’t quite as advanced.
Every Primos shooting aid that we have tested has stood up exceptionally well to some of our more rugged hunting experiences. Unlike the Vanguard previously discussed, this Primos stick has a trigger system that quickly releases the telescoping arm to your desired height, allowing for a quicker shot setup.
From our testing, this GEN 3 Primos stick went above and beyond our expectations. However, some monopod diehards are disappointed that the GEN 3 no longer includes a treestand adapter.
Tier 3: Bog Adrenaline ($$)
The BOG Adrenaline monopod is the top-of-the-line choice for most avid elk hunters, and for good reason. Firstly, its durable design makes it sturdy enough to double as a walking stick, and the ergonomic handle makes it easy for 
backcountry life. The V-shaped shooting yoke provides grippy and secure shooting support on the go.
This lightweight 3-section aluminum pole is highly durable and will be an excellent companion when you’re pursuing big game. In addition, BOG provides an alternative head for mounting spotting scopes or cameras.
For the fast-moving hunter who is after elk or pesky whitetails that are always on the run, this quality rifle monopod will be perfect for you.
Best Bipod Shooting Sticks
Bipods excel in hunting scenarios where you have ample time to set up for the shot before it’s time to perform. Bipods are slightly less mobile than monopods, but are more sturdy and are our preferred stick setup when going after elk or any game that requires stalking.
Tier 1: Bog Havoc ($)
The BOG Havoc is perfect for finding a steady shot while seated and has a rotational head so you can quickly pivot to lock in on the target. BOG did an exceptional job at 
distributing the weight evenly throughout this stick, making it simple to set up and make a great shot.
The Havoc is heavier than the lightweight BOG monopod discussed previously, but it is also much sturdier and more durable. This HAVOC model also boasts twist locks on the feet that allow for faster setup than clip-lock systems.
We have had the opportunity to test the Havoc on multiple elk hunting trips, and it has never let us down. With an approachable price and quality product, this is a fantastic bipod shooting stick.
Tier 2: Primos Trigger Stick GEN3 ($$)
Although BOG is often in the spotlight for creating the highest quality shooting sticks in the game, Primos is right there with them in our opinion, and in the opinion of many popular hunting influencers. The Hunting Public, a popular 
YouTube channel that hunts a variety of game on public lands, uses a variety of Primos models.
Primos has been in the field for a long time now. Their GEN3 line of bipods are ideal for those who want something tough enough to use as a walking stick, quick enough to deploy, and with such versatility that it can be carried along on any backcountry trip. The take-down design paired with their level of durability is unmatched.
While a bit more pricey, we find great value in the products Primos sells. Not only are they high quality, but they’re backed by Bushnell – a company that always stands behind their products. If you’re looking for gear, Primos is the company.
Tier 3: Accu-Shot BT46 ($$)
Using a low-profile bipod mount that is attached directly to your rifle makes you a much more mobile hunter. In the correct situations when hunting elk or other big game, you may find yourself laying prone. This bipod allows you to get in that position, which improves stability immensely.
This is hands down one of the top bipods for AR-15s on the market for the money. Its folding legs allow for portability and are easily deployed when needed. These bipods are heavy-duty and are a very durable solution to stabilizing your tactical AR-style rifle.
The Accu-Shot Bipod was designed for AR-15s, but is mountable to nearly any big game rifle. This bipod boasts folding legs that are spring-loaded, which makes it portable and easy to deploy when needed.
This bipod can also be used when standing up, but an elevated platform would need to be used to get the most stability. If you see yourself doing a lot of stand-up or sitting-down shots, then consider one of the other quality bipods listed above.
Best Tripod Shooting Sticks
If you are going to be hunting elk or any other big game, you really need the best of the best to ensure you’re the most prepared for every situation. Tripods are by far the most stable and most durable out of all three shooting stick options.
We have tried and tested the following three sticks and are blown away by their quality.
Tier 1: Vanguard Quest T62U ($$)
Introducing one of our favorites: The Quest T62U rifle tripod – a budget-friendly tripod from Vanguard that isn’t inferior to more expensive brands. This tripod boasts high-
quality components and easy usability – all at a very approachable price.
This Vanguard model includes its signature 360-degree rotating head, which helps with framing and settling in on the target. It also features quick-release leg locks that we have found to be easy to use, even when you must set up for a quick shot.
Weighing in at only 2.2 pounds, this tripod is hardly noticeable on long hikes, and can also be carried for great distances in your hand if need be.
A downside to its light weight is that is does give a little in the way of durability. It is not uncommon to incur a few dings and scratches even after just a few uses out on the hunt.
Hunters who are on the move for long periods of time will benefit heavily from the portability of this rifle tripod from Vanguard. The stability helps provide a reliable shooting position to make sure you don’t miss your target.
Tier 2: Primos Trigger Stick GEN3 ($$$)
Primos again makes our top pick list, as they did in our monopod and tripod categories. It’s simple, this company 
makes extremely high-quality products that fit almost every need.
The Primos Trigger Stick GEN3 tripod is preferred over a bipod or monopod for its unmatched stability. This tripod provides a high-quality, mobile platform for your accurate shots, no matter where you are: in the field, in the blind, or getting some target practice in at the range.
As you have seen, we are huge fans of the Primos shooting sticks, and we know that you will be as well. They are lightweight, durable, and compact. In the hunting world, that is an A+
Tier 3: BOG Deathgrip ($$$)
These heavy-duty BOG DeathGrip shooting sticks are one of the best-rated and most popular tripods around. You can rely on their stability, and they come with a mix of handy features to help you out.
BOG did not hold back on its design, as the BOG DeathGrip weighs in at 8.5 lbs and has strong aluminum legs that slide in and out quickly. BOG also included a swivel head design that allows for 45-degree rotations – perfect for staying on a target without having to move.
Speaking from experience, this thing will never break…you wouldn’t believe what mine has been through. Although it is extremely reliable and beefy, this may not be the best choice if you are a run-and-gun elk hunter. It is much more useful in more stationary hunts where you won’t have to carry it a far distance.
That being said, some guys won’t hit the trail without it. If you are a mobile hunter who can afford to add some more weight to your pack, check out the BOG DeathGrip.
Which Shooting Stick is Best for you?
As we have hopefully made apparent in this article, there are a variety of different situations that you will be presented with when hunting, and it can be challenging to pick the appropriate gear accordingly.
If you are debating between one of the monopods, bipods, or tripods discussed in our guide here’s a quick summary to help find the best one for you.
Monopods:
Monopods are extremely lightweight and mobile and are often the first choice for hunters just starting to get into hunting
Due to the single point of contact that they offer, monopods tend to provide the least sturdy shot out of the three models, but can still be used to effectively take down game
Our recommendations for this style of stick are the Vanguard Scout M62, Primos Trigger Stick GEN 3, and the BOG Adrenaline Switcheroo.
Bipods:
Bipods provide that added bit of stability sought after by many hunters while maintaining a very portable and easy-to-use profile
Generally, bipods are more durable and include more high-quality features when compared to some of monopods. One of the most beneficial features is the rotational mounts that allow you to move your aim with the prey.
Our top recommendations for Bipods are the BOG Havoc, Primos Trigger Stick GEN3, and the Accu-Shot BT46-LW17 PSR.
Tripods:
Tripods are by far the most reliable, durable, and sturdy option among all shooting sticks, which is essential when pursuing elk in rough conditions.
Tripods are slightly less maneuverable due to the added weight, but in some cases are easy to carry, such as the Vanguard Quest T62U.
Our recommendations for tripods are the Vanguard Quest T62U, the Primos Trigger Stick GEN3, and the BOG DeathGrip.
We want to hear from you!
