Right now I have a slik CF and a Promaster CF tripod. Manfrotto 700RC fluid head with a Triclawps. I’m not a fan. I plan on upgrading to an arca rail on my rifle rather than the triclawps. I don’t plan on changing the tripod. I would love advice on the tripod head and attachment system, however. The tripod head needs to be less than about a pound.
Both of those tripods would be in the rickety category but they can still be used. Just know you’re never going to get close to prone stability out of them. I would concentrate on techniques that use some rear support. Personally I’d avoid anything that requires trekking poles in the back as that’s just more adjustment needed, when it already takes long enough to get a tripod setup.
As you found out clamps suck. They are old tech in the world of tripods. There’s quite a few options for arca rails out there, depending on your stock. I like one on the front of the foreend, and prefer 5+” so I don’t have to drop my bipod if I want to clip into it. My bipods also attach to arca. If I were buying one right now out of what Iv had is buy another from sawtooth rifles, they are pretty think, and have some good options.
https://www.sawtoothrifles.com/product/dovetail-rail-stock-plates/
As far as heads go, really a ball head is about the only ideal option for shooting, with a pan head it’s just too difficult to get level and where you want to be. I am a fan of the rrs anvil but it’s not the best glassing head.
Another option you have is to buy a lightweight “table” that attaches to your head and utilize a bag on top of it. Or just slap a bigger bag right on top of the head. If you’re stuck with a pan head I’d buy a schmedium or pint sized gamechanger with git lite fill and use it up there. I prefer to shoot this way when applicable. But like the clamp it’s more stuff.
Hunting, I can carry my tripod and my shooting bag in one hand, rifle in the other and be ready for about any scenario.
That same bag I mentioned above can also be used as a rear bag prone or a front bag on a rock, log, stump, whatever. Mine stays attached to the outside of my pack all the time.
Practice a lot, and don’t be afraid of some ugly groups.
This is one place I feel a 22lr shines, learning to build a decent position with minimal wobble.
Natural point of aim is king. If it feels like you’re forcing it, it’s going to affect your shot. Practice building positions you’re comfortable in.