What do you guys use for adapting your binoculars to your tripod? Do you buy a special adapter or just rig something up? I keep reading about how much better you can glass while using a tripod and figure I need to start doing that.
Bino adapter for tripod?
- Thread starter NDHunter
- Start date
Bitterroot Bulls
Veteran member
I LOVE glassing with my binocular on a tripod. My preference is for one of the type that has a stud that you can leave on your binocular.
The most refined is the Outdoorsmans system, but it is quite expensive.
I had good luck with the Vortex Unidapter.
Lately though, I have been using the simple, inexpensive Field Optics Research Rapid-Release tripod adapter:
http://www.fieldopticsresearch.com/shop/Tripods--Accessories.htm/shop/RapidRelease/p/RapidRelease-Binocular-Tripod-Adapter-sku-A001.htm
Of course, this requires a 1/4 threaded socket on the binocular which not all models have.
The most refined is the Outdoorsmans system, but it is quite expensive.
I had good luck with the Vortex Unidapter.
Lately though, I have been using the simple, inexpensive Field Optics Research Rapid-Release tripod adapter:
http://www.fieldopticsresearch.com/shop/Tripods--Accessories.htm/shop/RapidRelease/p/RapidRelease-Binocular-Tripod-Adapter-sku-A001.htm
Of course, this requires a 1/4 threaded socket on the binocular which not all models have.
jcharette08
New Member
I like the Outdoorsmans model. While yes, it is a bit pricey, I think they've thought out all the pieces of "tripodding" binoculars. When off the tripod, the only thing still connected to your binos is a small stud, meaning they can go back into your bino carrier, on your chest, pretty much anywhere without having to deal with a big pointy lug or base. But in the end, it's all about your application and what you want.
I have the Vortex uni-daptor system on my Minox bino's. What I found was it took a bit to get it to stay level, so if you get one, make sure to have the bino adjusted for your eye width, then do the final tightening of the unit on your bino's. Once I got that, it works fine.
hoshour
Veteran member
I made one myself out of a short piece of galvanized angle iron I cut to shape, a screw, a wing nut and a couple lock washers. The reason was that I set my binocular barrels pretty close together and only a small arm will fit between.
The screw goes into the threaded hole between the barrels and holds one arm of the angle iron to the binoculars. The wing nut fastens the other arm to the tripod head screw.
I had an extra quick release plate for my tripod head so I just change it out. I keep the angle iron on the quick release plate, not on the binoculars, so I have to screw it to the binoculars when I want to use it on my tripod. Doesn't take long.
It's pretty redneck, but I prefer the word, "custom." No duct tape is involved. You can't get any cheaper and it works fine for me.
The screw goes into the threaded hole between the barrels and holds one arm of the angle iron to the binoculars. The wing nut fastens the other arm to the tripod head screw.
I had an extra quick release plate for my tripod head so I just change it out. I keep the angle iron on the quick release plate, not on the binoculars, so I have to screw it to the binoculars when I want to use it on my tripod. Doesn't take long.
It's pretty redneck, but I prefer the word, "custom." No duct tape is involved. You can't get any cheaper and it works fine for me.
WapitiBob
Veteran member
Jim White from Coueswhitetail dot com. My 12x50's fit fine in a KUIU harness so I leave the adapter plate on them all the time.
hoshour
Veteran member
hoshour
Veteran member
Bitterroot Bulls
Veteran member
I like the Jim White/Vortex Unidapter also, but the part you leave on your binocular is still much larger than the stud used on the Field Optics model I linked above.
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I looked at the link, that appears very slick and looks like it locks on too. If I had seen that version, I'd have bought it and it says the base fits manfrotto tripods. I may just get one because of the tripod fit without a base plate.
packer58
Very Active Member
NDHunter, like others have said there are several choices out there at different price points. I use the standard vortex myself and love it although I have to take off the adaptor to put my bino's back in the case. Whichever direction you decide to go, it will absolutely take your glassing to a new level !!!
BB,
I played with this a little at the Portland show. It seems like it would be a real bitch with cold hands. What have you experienced with this holder in cold temps?
Bitterroot Bulls
Veteran member
I haven't had any problems with it in any kind of weather. I am not sure what you are referring to.
The guy at the show couldn't hardly get the binos off of it. It looked like the spring tab would be a pain. Sounds like it was just him. I should have grabbed one.
Bitterroot Bulls
Veteran member
My guess is it was operator error on his part.
It has been pretty easy for me, gloves or not.
Thanks guys! Now I've got some options to look at. Looking forward to getting this taken care of.
WapitiBob
Veteran member
BigSurArcher
Very Active Member
Here's a writeup I did a couple weeks ago on the Outdoorsmans Adapter. If you jump to the end, you'll see there's a slight discount offered.
http://hunt.kuiu.com/?p=279
http://hunt.kuiu.com/?p=279
tim
Veteran member
I have started using my walking stick. when seated collapse the stick to the correct height and put under the binoculars. Not as steady as a tripod, but does a pretty good job. really handy if you are not packing your spotting scope.