By Lars Drecker ·

Vortex Switchback Carbon Tripod

Last updated: April 22, 2026 · Originally published: July 13, 2023

Vortex Switchback Carbon TripodDeveloped for hunters who need a compact- yet-stable platform for precision shooting and backcountry glassing, the Vortex Switchback Carbon Tripod delivers a superior strength-to-weight ratio to support heavy rifles, large binoculars and spotting scopes. Weighing in at just 4.6 pounds, with a folded length of 29 inches and 44-pound maximum load, the Switchback Carbon Tripod is designed with no center column for better adjustability—it goes from a minimum height of 5.8 inches to maximum height of 65 inches. Legs extend via three twist-lock sections. A thoughtfully placed counterweight hook allows one to hang extra weight to deaden vibration, while detachable rubber and spiked feet for gripping any type of ground. Rugged carbon-fiber legs, a lockable ball head and an Arca-Swiss standard quick-release mount systems means hunts can transition from glassing to shooting mode in seconds.

For more information, visit vortexoptics.com. MSRP: $799.99

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Key reference

Homestead reference charts

Three field guides worth bookmarking — canning times, cellar storage, and safe cooking temps.

Home canning
FoodPressurePint
Green beans10 lb20m
Corn10 lb55m
Tomatoeswater bath35m

USDA/NCHFP processing times & pressures for common foods.

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Produce storage
ItemStoreKeeps
Onionscool, dry9 mo
Potatoescellar4–6 mo
Applescellar6 mo

How long fruit & veg keep in the cellar, fridge and freezer.

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Meat doneness
DonenessTarget
Rare125–130°F
Medium-rare130–135°F
Well-done160°F+

Safe pull temps for steak & burgers, from Popular BBQ.

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Lars Drecker
A humble homesteader based in an undisclosed location, Lars Drecker splits his time between tending his little slice of self-sustaining heaven, and bothering his neighbors to do his work for him. This is mainly the fault of a debilitating predilection for fishing, hunting, camping and all other things outdoors. When not engaged in any of the above activities, you can normally find him broken down on the side of the road, in some piece of junk he just “fixed-up.”
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