For groundhog hunting? I've noticed these slings at Cabela's and they seem like they'd be good for lugging a heavy-barreled varmint rifle with a bipod around, and good for quick shots. (The rifle is suspended under your arm, parallel to the ground.)
Also, are tripods much bulkier or harder to use on uneven ground than shooting sticks? Thanks.

I discovered the Safari Sling this year. After trying it, I can't imagine using anything else. It distributes the weight of the gun across the shoulder and part of the back and simply raising the gun frees it from any sling interference so you can make a quick shot if necessary.

The only drawback that I can see is that it may not be as useful in a situation where a sling might be used to wrap around the arm and body to steady or support the rifle for a shooting position.

But as a device for carrying a rifle or shotgun, I think it is great. I have two. One black and one camo.

For me, tripods are too heavy and take too much time to set up. Currently, I use Stoney Point Steady Stix II Shooting Sticks. They're made of aluminum, they break down to 14" and work well enough for lightweight rifles. If you have a heavy rifle you may need something else. I don't hump around heavy gear.

Check out WalMart. I just picked up a monopod for about 10 bucks. It's a telescoping aluminum pole that will adjust for prown to sitting to standing and everything in between. Very short when closed and opens and locks very quickley. I think it's hard t beat for a lightweight field monopod.

You can modify/make a plate to fit the 1/4-20 thread of a camera tripod and use it. It's a great "cheater" (as they're called in the Corps).

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