QDT V2 LS Inverted Tripod Review: Perfect for Heavy Rifles

in For Rifles, Gear Reviews, Mitchell Graf

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

My experience with the QDT V2 LS Inverted tripod from Two Vets Tripods has been impressive throughout this review. Whether on thermal night runs chasing wild pigs or glassing terrain with a spotting scope, this tripod has consistently provided exceptional stability. Its longer legs, featuring just one adjustable section, allow for quick and hassle-free deployment, while the sturdy 42mm carbon fiber construction offers significantly greater rigidity compared to many smaller, more compact tripod options.

QDT V2 LS Inverted tripod  in front of white truck in field

Recon V2 LS Inverted Tripod Specifications

  • Weight: 5 lbs 3 oz
  • Leg Sections: 2 / 1 Twist Locks
  • Main Tube Diameter: 42mm
  • Collapsed Height: 39 inches
  • Deployed Height: 65.5 inches
  • Leg Adjustment Tabs: Spring-loaded ratcheting ears
  • Max Weight Rating: 100 lbs
  • Included: Tripod & spiked feet

Legs

The two-section leg design of the QDT V2 LS Inverted tripod enables a quick and efficient setup, collapsing down to 39 inches and extending to a maximum height of 65.5 inches. With 42mm carbon fiber tubes, it offers an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, providing a stable platform even under the recoil of heavier rifles. I’ve used it with a 20lb rifle setup, and it handles the weight effortlessly.

However, despite the vented leg tubes, there is some noticeable air resistance when deploying or collapsing the legs quickly. It feels akin to the sensation of using an air pump to inflate a football or basketball, though with much less pressure buildup. Additionally, the vented air can be somewhat noisy when moving the legs quickly, but you can easily make slow, quiet adjustments when stealth is required during hunts.

Camo painted gun and tripod on stone path
The fully collapsed tripod remains less compact, yet quicker to fully deploy. Sitting next to my Seekins Precision Havak HIT Pro topped with a Vortex Razor 6-36 and Impact 4000 ballistics calculator

Adjusting The Recon

Each leg is equipped with 1/4 turn twist locks, offering a quick and reliable way to adjust the leg height. These twist locks are made from rubber, providing excellent grip even in wet or cold conditions. I particularly appreciate the large-diameter rubber rings compared to slicker options on previous models. Although it may seem like a small detail, these twist locks are one of the most frequently used parts of the tripod, and their improved grip makes a significant difference.

Rubber twist locks on Recon tripod
Rubber twist locks feature texturing to aid quick adjustments in the field

The QDT V2 LS Inverted also incorporates a leg-stopper design that prevents the legs from crossing during collapse, making setup and breakdown much more streamlined.

Small gears on high-end shooting tripod
No leg can bend backward, they all hit a stopper when positioned straight down

Additionally, the tripod features spring-loaded angled adjustment tabs for secure leg angle adjustments. With four angle settings available, these tabs lock the legs into place with a satisfying click, offering solid stability across a range of shooting positions.

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Four angles for legs on shooting tripod
The angle adjustment tab is set to each of the different positions

Recon Head Compatibility

Designed with flexibility in mind, the tripod accommodates multiple head options, from the 55MM Dual Tension Arca to the Anvil 30 Conversion Bowl. The 75mm center section allows for compatibility with a wide range of heads or ball heads. This makes it easy to swap out depending on your specific needs. It also features a set screw with non-marring material to prevent heads from loosening during use. With other tripods, I have had heads work loose so this thoughtful upgrade is much appreciated! Listed below are some of the available head options from Two Vets Tripods:

For the duration of this review, I ran the Two Vets 55MM Dual Tension head with the Area 419 QD Clamp. This larger ball head worked great, and I love the QD clamp. 

Head on QDT V2 LS Inverted tripod
On the left is the Area 419 QD clamp, and on the right is the Area 419 Arcalock Clamp
Camo rifle on black tripod
Shown is the Two Vets 55mm Dual Tension ball head

Versatility and Practical Features

The tripod comes with 1/4-inch threaded inserts on the leg collars. This allows for easily attaching accessories such as rifle rests, camera mounts, or even lights. Additionally, an attachment hook located at the bottom of the tripod offers the option to add weight for increased stability in windy conditions, which can be particularly useful during predator hunts or windy range days.

Leg brackets on QDT tripod
The side of the leg bracket, and the top of the center section feature threaded attachment points

The QDT V2 LS Inverted tripod features removable feet, offering users flexibility based on their terrain. It comes pre-installed with rubber feet, which I typically prefer for most situations. However, it also includes three metal spikes for those who need extra grip on tougher surfaces. You can easily swap the feet, allowing you to adapt the tripod to different environments. Whether you’re shooting on soft ground or rocky terrain, the ability to switch between rubber and spiked feet ensures a solid, stable foundation, enhancing its overall utility in the field.

Rubber feet on shooting tripod
Users can attach different feet to the tripod, but the rubber and spiked feet are included

Performance

Whether competing in a precision rifle match or hunting hogs in rugged terrain, the QDT V2 LS Inverted tripod excels in providing both stability and ease of use. The CNC-machined parts ensure exceptional structural integrity. With a 100-pound max weight rating, it can handle even the heaviest setups. To include rifles fully outfitted with scopes, clip-on night vision or thermal devices, and other gear.

As mentioned earlier, this tripod had no trouble supporting my nearly 20-pound bolt-action rifle setup during a night hunt. The combination of a solid ball head and the rigid 42mm legs made for a smooth and stable shooting experience.

Tripod and rifle in field with hunting truck
A wild night out pig hunting with my buddies at Black Sheep Outdoors. While this was a group effort, I used a Seekins Precision Havak HIT Pro Topped with a Pulsar Thermion 2 LRF XP50 Pro resting on the Two Vets QDT LS Inverted tripod for ultra-stable shooting.

This tripod is great for hunting and works exceptionally well with a spotting scope. It provides steady long-range observation for scouting or spotting while a buddy is shooting. I’ve even used it to watch a partial solar eclipse. One interesting thing about mounting a scope on the tripod is seeing how quickly the moon moves around the Earth. Depending on the magnification, I have to adjust the scope every 60 seconds to keep the moon centered.

Moon through Vortex spotting scope mounted to QDT tripod
Observing the moon with a Vortex Razor HD 27-60 spotting scope

Results

Throughout my testing, the tripod proved to be reliable and robust. Its quick-deploying legs, large rubber twist locks, and compatibility with a variety of heads make it adaptable to a range of shooting preferences and styles. For those looking to add a personal touch, Two Vets offers a custom laser engraving service. This allows you to have your name or nickname etched onto the leg collars for a $15 fee.

READ MORE: SIG Sauer ECHO SV50 LRF : A Game-Changer in Thermal Optics

Angles for shooting tripod
Using the angle adjustments, the tripod can be deployed wide and low

Summary

Blending thoughtful design with rugged performance, the QDT V2 LS Inverted tripod checked all the boxes for my needs as a hunter. Priced at an MSRP of $615, it’s a crucial tool that contributes significantly to my success in spot-and-stalk pig hunting. Whether you’re shooting long-range in a PRS match or stalking predators at night, this tripod delivers. If you’re seeking a stable, durable, and versatile platform, the QDT V2 LS Inverted should be on your shortlist.

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About the author: Mitchell Graf is passionate about hunting and competition shooting. During college he was the shooting instructor for Oklahoma State’s Practical Shooting Team, and these days he spends as much time as he can chasing after pigs and coyotes with night vision and thermals. You can follow Mitchell’s adventures over at his Instagram @That_Gun_Guy_

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  • Godfrey Daniel October 7, 2024, 10:59 am

    $600+ for a tripod? For $600+ it should have the ballistics calculator built in, plus a seat, plus a sunshade. And what’s the “inverted” part?

  • James Helmick October 7, 2024, 10:00 am

    Folks: a “inverted tripod” would be a “V” , not much use to any rifle.

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