I made it!
Just working with a new prototype (for F-Class use) this week.
Some photos here...
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=598191220208302&set=pcb.598191720208252&type=1&theater
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=598191323541625&set=pcb.598191720208252&type=1&theater
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=598191416874949&set=pcb.598191720208252&type=1&theater
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=598192590208165&set=pcb.598192806874810&type=1&theater
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=598192763541481&set=pcb.598192806874810&type=1&theater
I'll try to take more photos tomorrow.
Weight & rigidity is my main concern this time. This one, without lever screws, weighs just under 20 ounces. (I think the lightest I could make with "all metal" material). The bipod can accept my whole weight (145 lbs) with minimum flex. With 3 lever screws to lock the legs & the cant feature it should weight 20.5 to 21 oz max.
The one shown in the photos is equipped with symmetry legs. I have another one with longer leg on the left, the idea is to resist/counteract the rifle torque better, assuming that most barrels today are right hand twist. The legs & feet are compatible.
Legs: knock-down 1" diameter alum pipe (can be epoxy glued to the coaxial unit for stronger construction), about 19" wide apart, constant width.
Feet: polyacetal/delrin, or alum "half ball" 1.5" diameter + spike (not shown in the photos). Optional rubber feet maybe needed too.
Top with Anschutz rail (European style). Other rails are optional.
Height adjustment from +/- 6" to 10"
It has cant feature (14 degree) in the coaxial unit, my new finding i.e. a "built-in" cant feature inside the coax unit.
Yes it also has built-in uplift to accept F-Class gun, joystick motion is very smooth.
Can be used either up for up, or up for down.
Let me know your thought about this model gentlemen.
The coaxial unit is already perfect to me. The cant feature also works great.
I also have many designs but this one is the lightest one.... I'm just not quite sure if the "look" & the legs are already good or not?
High polish or anodize?
All metal or with carbon fiber legs/construction?
I'll make more units next week then send them to some friends for testing & feedback.
So any input will be much appreciated!
I also need to learn how to anodize alumunium (class III type if possible), if you have the knowledge or source to get the chemicals & equipments please let me know - I'll pay for good $$$ for it. Or I can give you a production unit, or a rest, for a trade/barter.
Thanks,
seb.