Picking the Right Javelin Bipod

The Spartans have been tremendously creative in designing different versions of our support systems to improve your stability, from the wide-open prairies to the rocky crags of a high elevation sheep hunt. While this versatility is intended to give you more options, we realize it can be tough to narrow down which Javelin bipod you need. We’re here to help with an explanation of features that are the same, the differences, then conclude with some recommendations. With so many similarities in construction, ethos, and design, let’s start with a quick side-by-side glance at the products in our Javelin range.

Both bipods share the same-sized Spartan MagnaSwitch attachment system, which enables them to be attached to the rifle stock/rail using one of our proprietary ranges of rifle adapters. Each Javelin comes with one Classic Rifle Adapter kit designed for traditional hunting rifles with conventional removable sling swivel studs. They are also compatible with the full range of Spartan adapters with options for Picatinny, Arca, M-Loc, Key Mod, and UIT.

All of the bipod bodies and cant blocks are CNC machined from 7075 aluminum billet, which is hard-anodized for corrosion resistance.

They feature a locking cant facility operated by a small lever on the front face of the bipod, which enables the rifle scope to be leveled 15° on uneven ground. To track moving game, we built the capability to traverse the rifle left and right 30°. If you don’t want any traverse movement, each Javelin can be fitted into their rifle adapter in the reverse position so they are fixed.

Our latest iterations all feature a common threaded leg design that allows complete leg units to be removed or exchanged for an alternative style of legs. (The original Javelin design had legs that were bonded into the head unit & were not removable). This allows you to use any of the long accessory legs, giving you the option to upgrade for seated or kneeling shots.

Sharp tungsten carbide tips protrude from the bipod feet and dig into hard or slick terrain for a solid footing. Sticky rubber boots are included and cover the carbide tips for use on softer surfaces.

The legs on the Javelin bipods do not fold up. When hunting, you will carry it more than use it. They are designed to be removed from the rifle until you need it, and only take a second to attach. We see that as a benefit for the following reasons:

• The low profile adapter allows you to carry your slung rifle more comfortably, and there is a chance for fewer snags in grass and brush.
   
• Our adapters cover a wide range of rifles, meaning one bipod can be moved between rifles, eliminating the need for multiple bipod purchases.
   
• Keeps the rifle stock clear for use with other support systems like tripods and shooting sticks.

Javelin Lite

The Javelin Lite is the featherweight of the Javelin family, with non-adjustable fixed ground clearance of 7 1/4”. For shooters that may want to use the bipod while seated or kneeling, they have the option to unscrew the supplied Lite Legs and use any of our accessory range of Pro Legs or even the Tac Legs. This bipod does not mechanically lock in the open position but features a simple and functional magnetic leg hold-open mechanism. The reduced complexity of this leg and locking system means that we can keep the weight down and offer it at a lower price point.

Javelin Pro Hunt Tac
The Javelin Pro Hunt Tac builds upon the lightweight hunting bipod concept by adding two features. The body of the bipod has a more advanced design that incorporates a mechanical leg hold-open system. We integrated this locking gate into the Javelin Pro Hunt Tac’s body based upon feedback from some serious mountain hunters in the United States who wanted the extra stability and security of that feature. 

Each Tac Leg has a two-part incrementally adjustable, spring-assisted mechanical locking design. They are operated by depressing the small lever on the lower leg. It’s spring-loaded, so by slightly unweighting one of the legs, the height can be quickly adjusted via a series of notches. The Tac Leg range is also used in our Valhalla bipods. 

We were able to add both of these features to the Pro Hunt Tac for only a 3-ounce weight penalty compared to the Javelin Lite. The Standard version gives you a ground clearance of 7”-9”, and the Long version yields 9”-12”. 

Recommendations

Choose the Javelin Lite when you want the absolute lightest weight and bombproof simplicity. If price is a limiting factor, this intentionally uncomplicated product is a great place to step into the Spartan world. We found it works best on flatter ground to rolling hills. Check out this blog we did about the surprisingly good roe deer hunting in Serbia, with beautiful pictures that accurately depict the ideal terrain we’re talking about.

Select the Javelin Pro Hunt Tac when you need maximum versatility to take advantage of any shot opportunity you might get. This is especially valuable in steep mountains with extreme shot angles because the legs lock open for extra security. The fast height adjustment lets you quickly create a level shooting base no matter how rugged the terrain. Our boss Rob Gearing describes why he chose one in this story about traveling to Greenland for a caribou hunt where the ground would be nasty and shots hard to come by. Some hunters who are extremely size-conscious want the Standard version because it’s slightly more compact. We like the Long version for dealing with tall vegetation height and adjusting the legs for different heights on boulder-strewn hillsides. If you can afford the higher purchase price and the extra couple of ounces, the Javelin Pro Hunt Tac dramatically increases your ability to make a solid shot from any angle. 

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to get in contact.