It all depends on two factors: How much time you have to shoot, and if you are hunting by yourself.

If you have to carry your own sticks AND a rifle, unless you have lots of time to setup for the shot - they will be more of hinderance than help.

If you have a guide/buddy - then they should carry the sticks and throw them down while you get your rifle ready. In this scenario, "fixed" sticks are better where they have them all ready to go and simple throw them down for you and you setup and shoot quickly.

The PRIMOS trigger sticks aren't too bad if you have them yourself, because with one squeeze the legs drop. But it still takes time. Again, fixed sticks that double as a walking stick may be better.

If you will have lots of time for animals at a distance, then any type can work fine. In fact, even the Caldwell "Field Pod' can work and provide a holder for the rifle where you don't have to burn energy holding a rifle up for long periods. However, those don't have long legs are used from a sitting or prone position.

If you shots won't be standing, then Harris bipod attached to your rifle is the way to go.

As mentioned before: practice, practice, practice. I would also practice using any available natural rests - boulders, trees, backpacks, buddy's shoulder, etc.

When I went to Africa, this was the biggest obstacle I had - even though I practiced with sticks before I left. A good 3 out of 4 shots we took were from odd body positions and impromptu rests.

I used the primos monopod and two days into my hunt the "v" that you put your rifle into had unscrewed and I lost it. What I use now are collapsible shooting sticks that extend out like tent poles, they have an elastic cord inside of them. When not in use, you have a scabbard you put them in that fits on your belt. Very light weight and I have shot several deer off of them, the farthest was 375 yds. I just can't remember what brand they are, you can get them at Academy.

Like these? I have a couple of pair of them that I carry one in my Ranger and one in my backpack.

Thanks everyone. I have been hunting all my life, but usaly from a stand. Never been on a elk hunt.

Wouldn't recommend them for elk. Just improvise.

I much prefer a bipod fixed to my rifle with adjustible legs and that swivel. Can shoot prone or sitting - killed many an animal with one. I shoot better of them than a bench

As a guide for elk and mule deer I have really come to hate shooting sticks. Everyone thinks they need them and I've probably only had 2 out of 40 guys that were good with them. Can't count the number of times I watched animals walk off while guys screwed with shooting sticks for 10 or 20 seconds. Practice the old tried and true positions from prone, from a knee and off hand. If you can't be steady in any of those positions shooting sticks aren't going to help you any. For long range a fixed bi or tri pod is the way to go.