The lightweight and versatile Vortex Switchback tripod system supports everything from a spotter to a rifle.
Vortex needs no introduction because we’re all familiar with its range of quality optics, but it also has a fine range of tripods and accessories that are well made and well-priced. The Pro Rifle Clamp Tripod Mount has recently been added to the line-up. It attaches to most Vortex tripods for a precise, stable platform when shooting.
Extremely lightweight in comparison to others I’ve tested, the Pro Rifle Clamp means backpack hunters who carry a carbon-fibre tripod can further reduce their load and still make a well-supported long-range shot.
Other very lightweight fittings are available to accommodate a spotting scope, binoculars or camera — ideal for field or range use. All this is achieved via an ARCA-Swiss quick-release plate, allowing you to swap fittings as required.
The ARCA plates, which retail for $32, attach to accessories with a ¼-20 tread, but in my case my Vortex spotting scope is ARCA-ready so it slides straight into the ARCA clamp without having to screw a separate plate to it.
Vortex has six tripods in its range: four carbon-fibre models and two aluminium ones. I’d suggest getting a carbon-fibre model for the new Pro clamp, as these offer a bit more height and stability. Each tripod features a different head design, but they are all ARCA-Swiss compatible.
The $950 Ridgeview carbon tripod is ideal for backpack hunters, with standard two-way pan head, but my choice for the review was the $1170 Switchback carbon model for its exceptional stability with even heavy style rifles.
It is slightly heavier but still light at 2.08kg and is capable of supporting up to 20kg. Its locking ball head provides better movement when glassing or shooting.
Its twist-lock legs are super smooth and quick to operate, with three angle locks to splay the legs, for a minimum height of just 15cm and maximum of 165cm. You can lie completely flat on the ground to take a shot, sit or stand completely upright. Four screw-in spiked feet are included for use in rocky terrain and it comes in a well-made, zip-up carry case for storage and transporting.
The new $290 Pro Rifle Clamp Tripod Mount is relatively small and made of magnesium, so it is very light at 406 grams. A knurled knob allows you to adjust the jaws from approximately 3.3cm to 8.2cm, so most rifle stocks will easily fit. The inside of the clamp features soft Durometer rubber inlays providing a secure hold while also helping to absorb recoil.
To fit the rifle clamp, simply slide it into the tripod’s ARCA mount. The base also has a ⅜-16 thread for other compatible tripods that aren’t ARCA compatible, but then you’d not benefit from the speed and versatility this system offers.
To complement this set up, Vortex gives you the choice of its Pro or Sport binocular ARCA adapters. Both are simple to fit to your binoculars. The difference between them is the how they mount to the tripod. The $44 Sport adaptor has two primary components, its lower section screwing onto the tripod with a ¼-20 thread; you can of course screw it to an ARCA plate. The upper part of the post stays screws to the binoculars, and rests in the lower part when you’re using the tripod.
The $130 Pro adapter was my choice, however, as its single post is quickly separated from the binoculars, only a small stud remaining visible on your binoculars and you hardly know it’s there until you need to clip it to the post again. The bottom of the post screws to the tripod or to an ARCA plate. I find the Pro Binocular Adapter is a lot more streamlined, particularly if you keep your binoculars in a bino harness. Either way it’s a personal choice, as they will both work.
When attaching a spotting scope to the tripod, if it’s not already ARCA compatible like my Vortex spotter, simply screw the threaded quick-release plate to the base of your spotter and you’re ready to go.
The great thing about the whole Vortex tripod accessories set-up is the fact you can mix and match all your optics as well as your firearm on the one tripod, very quickly and simply. And weight is not a problem. Find out more at your local gun shop or visit the ExtraVision website.
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