bipod

A bipod is a two-legged stand used to stabilize a device, most commonly a firearm or camera, by providing a steady platform for aiming or imaging. On firearms, a fore-end bipod attaches to the underside of the stock or fore-end and supports the weapon in a prone, kneeling, or bench-supported position. The two legs can be extended and spread independently, and they may fold for compact transport. Many bipods use quick-release or locking mechanisms to secure leg length and spread, while some offer cant or tilt adjustments to compensate for uneven ground. Materials include aluminum, steel, and carbon fiber, chosen to balance strength and weight. Feet vary with surface: rubber caps for hard ground, spikes for soft or loose soil, and replaceable options for moss, mud, or ice.

Bipods are available in folding or fixed designs. They can mount to a dedicated fore-end stud, a Picatinny or RIS rail, or a clamp near the muzzle, depending on the platform. Some firearm bipods are integrated into a modular system that allows rapid removal or transfer between weapons. In photography and optics, bipods function similarly as dual-legged supports for stability, often on tripods or feet with adjustable height, and are used to reduce shake in handheld shooting and long-exposure work.

Benefits include improved accuracy, faster target reacquisition in prone or bench setups, and better control of recoil. Limitations include added weight, bulk, potential interference with manipulation or magazine changes, and reduced clearance over rough terrain. Terrain, weapon geometry, and shooting stance all influence bipod choice.