Ultimate Reloader: MDT GRND-Pod Review

Gavin of Ultimate Reloader has been my guide for a number of years. Not that I've ever met him or even exchanged emails, but his videos on topics like reloading tips, how different reloading tools work, gunsmithing, and more have been helpful to me. He is one of the few voices I turn to when I'm considering a project or purchase, especially when I need an unbiased, technical review that provides quantitative data rather than subjective opinions. He's genuinely one of the best when it comes to this. As MDT celebrates the anniversary of the MDT GRND-POD, it's worth reflecting on Gavin's insights and opinions in his review of the product.

THE REVIEW

Gavin begins by highlighting the clear differences in MDT's bipod lineup and explaining why the GRND-POD is important. After years of using MDT's high-end CKYE-POD systems—bipods that excel in PRS and NRL-style shooting but cost over $600 and are on their third generation—the focus shifts to a very different option: a compact, under-$200 bipod designed to meet most shooting needs without the high price.

In Gavin's shop, where he begins each video with a tabletop discussion and overview, the GRND-POD clearly demonstrates its purpose. Here, he reviews all the technical aspects of the bipod's construction and materials, offering his analysis.

THE GRND-POD

The tripod is sleek and compact, featuring a green-anodized aluminum core, with carbon fiber legs and rubber feet that seem intentionally designed rather than minimalist. It can be adjusted from about 4.5 to 9 inches using one hand, thanks to quick-deploy legs, multiple angle settings, and a 40-degree cant that can be set to either a loose or locked position, depending on the shot. Its mounting options are flexible—ARCA, Picatinny, or ARMS 17, M-LOK, and Sling Swivel Stud—making it easy to attach to various rifles.

FIELD TESTING

The real test happens on the ridgeline. After confirming zero at 100 yards, the GRND-POD is pushed into rough terrain, uneven slopes, and targets out to 336 yards. Full leg extension, mixed rear-bag support, and quick cant adjustments keep the rifle steady even when the ground drops away. Steel targets are rung, with one target hit hard enough to knock it clean off the chain, and repositioning for closer shots is quick and intuitive.

By the end, the GRND-POD lands exactly where it's supposed to: not as a replacement for extreme, triple-pull CKYE-POD setups, but as a lightweight, flexible solution that handles most field shooting, hunting, and practical work without compromise.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The GRND-POD is meant to be the everyday shooter's bipod. It's sturdy, versatile, and able to handle various shooting positions and environmental conditions. As Gavin demonstrates, it's a bipod that everyone could find useful.

For more insightful videos, reloading demonstrations, and gunsmithing overviews, check out the Ultimate Reloader YouTube Channel.