BOG DeathGrip Tripod Review: Stable but Heavy Verdict
It’s rare to see a hunting tripod pull an average 4.8-star rating across platforms, but the BOG DeathGrip Aluminum Tripod with Ball Head and Quick-Release Mount manages exactly that—though the praise comes with caveats from seasoned shooters. Scored at 8.5/10, it shines in stability and versatility but leaves some hunters upgrading the head almost immediately.
Quick Verdict: Conditional — excellent for static hunting inside 300 yards, less so for smooth tracking or long-range precision.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely stable shooting platform | Heavy and clunky for mobile hunts |
| Secure clamp for hands-free operation | Stock head lacks smooth pan/cant control |
| Durable aluminum frame | Grippy clamp less secure than Arca mounts |
| Versatile height & leg angle adjustment | Steel spikes too short for firm ground grip |
| Easy to set up with quick-release mounts | Entry-level feel compared to premium tripods |
| Strong performance for youth shooters | Many users replace head almost immediately |
| Good value when found on sale | Not ideal for PRS or advanced competition |
Claims vs Reality
The manufacturer’s big claim is that the DeathGrip is “the most stable precision tripod on the market.” On paper, its aluminum legs, patented clamp, and wide stance promise unmatched durability and rigidity. However, Reddit user feedback tempers that statement. One hunter put it bluntly: “They’re ok at best. They get the job done but once you shoot off a nicer tripod this will sit in the corner forgotten about.”
A second claim is its ability to handle “any weapon” hands-free, freeing hunters to glass or call. Verified buyers back up this convenience for static hunting. A Walmart customer noted: “Set the crossbow in it for my 12-year-old boy and instantly felt completely stable… he shot his first buck the next day.” But advanced shooters argue the clamp isn’t as secure as Arca rails, limiting fast repositioning in dynamic or competitive scenarios.
Finally, BOG touts “360-degree pan with tension adjustment.” While technically true, this motion comes entirely from the ball head, which some find restrictive. Reddit user Locky*** said, “There needs to be a separate pan feature… makes a huge difference being able to lock your rifle in and still freely rotate it side to side.”
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Buyers across Amazon, Trustpilot, and Walmart celebrate the DeathGrip’s stability. The clamping system is especially valued for training young shooters and accommodating heavy rifles. One Trustpilot reviewer shared: “Strong enough to hold my MRAD… easily holds a SCAR 17 or AR10.”
Ground blind hunters find it fits their style perfectly. A Reddit poster explained: “It will feel a little heavy and cumbersome until you sit in a blind with it… then it’s all worth it.” Weather resistance and rugged build also earn mention—several carbon fiber owners say they don’t worry about scratches or bumps when trekking on an ATV or snow machine.
The quick-change system on the Infinite series allows shooters to swap between optics plate and clamp rapidly. This versatility is praised by both predator hunters and target shooters; one Trustpilot user highlighted, “It’s very portable and fits in my ground blind… very sturdy shooting platform.”
Common Complaints
Weight is the most cited drawback. At 8.5 lbs, it’s fine for stationary setups but tiring for long carries. “It’s heavy, the head isn’t smooth, the grippy thing… is clunky as hell,” one Redditor complained. Leg extension and retraction can also be less fluid than premium models, slowing deployment.
The factory head draws criticism for limited articulation. Many buyers replace it with aftermarket ball heads to gain smoother motion and better compatibility with Arca-Swiss rails. This upgrade transforms performance, according to multiple Reddit threads. “Converted it over to a ball head and it’s 100 times better,” wrote one user who machined his own parts.
Foot spikes also divide opinion. While included for stability on soft ground, they’re too short to bite into hard surfaces. As one Reddit user put it: “The spikes don’t stick out far enough to get any purchase on dry earth or pavement.”
Divisive Features
The clamp itself polarizes shooters. Beginners and youth trainers love its secure hold and ability to lock down almost any forend. Experienced marksmen frequently dismiss it as inferior to direct mounts. Redditor locky*** summarized: “The whole saddle system sucks… Arca all the way—less slack and better control.”
Portability is another split point. Users in tree stands or blinds see the bulk as a non-issue, while spot-and-stalk hunters call it cumbersome. The versatility in leg angle adjustment (20°, 45°, and 85°) earns respect, but the speed of change lags behind trigger-stick monopods for quick shots at unexpected angles.
Trust & Reliability
Durability earns strong marks across reports. Many hunters log multiple seasons without structural issues, and customer service steps in when parts fail. One Redditor recounted: “Within two weeks the bolt stripped… messaged their service and they sent me a new one.”
Long-term owners note that aluminum models withstand rough handling but won’t match the refined finish or ultra-light pack weight of carbon or premium alloy tripods. Posts six months into ownership often center on continued field use for blinds, with occasional frustration about smoothness rather than outright failures.
Alternatives
Several competitors crop up in discussions. Higher-end picks like Really Right Stuff (RRS) and Two Vets tripods provide superior pan/cant control and lighter builds—but at significantly higher cost. Spartan Precision also gets nods for mobile hunters.
On a budget, some users favor the Primos Trigger Stick for its quick adjustment, especially in dynamic field shooting. Redditor G*** advised: “If you want a tripod, I can recommend the Primos… steady/sturdy and light enough I can move it quickly.”
Price & Value
Retail for the aluminum model sits around $199–$219, with frequent sales as low as $115–$130 at Cabela’s or Bass Pro. eBay’s used market shows resale near $140, with values holding well for units in good condition. Community buying tips include snagging it on sale and budgeting $10–$50 for a head upgrade. As one Reddit thread concluded: “For $130 plus a new head, still cheaper than fancy bipods and has more uses.”
FAQ
Q: Is the clamp secure enough for heavy rifles?
A: Yes, many report it holding 12+ lb rifles like Galils without issue, though high-end clamps contour better to stock shapes.
Q: Does the head allow smooth tracking?
A: Out of the box, tracking is limited—most smooth motion comes from the ball head. Many replace it for better pan control.
Q: Is it too heavy for mobile hunts?
A: At 8.5 lbs, extended carry is tiring. Best suited for blinds, static setups, or short walks to position.
Q: Can it be converted to Arca?
A: Yes, several users detail low-cost DIY swaps using spacers, bolts, or aftermarket ball heads for Arca rail compatibility.
Q: Is carbon fiber worth the extra cost?
A: For long treks and reduced weight, carbon fiber offers advantages. Aluminum models are preferred for durability and price.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re a static hunter working inside 300 yards, training youth shooters, or needing a versatile stand for rifles and optics in blinds. Avoid if you require smooth panning for PRS or plan long-distance, mobile hunts. Pro tip from community: grab it on sale and budget for a head upgrade to unlock its full potential.
