Fwiw I just use available terrain (tree, rock, etc.), pack or walking stick as available or as time permits. But my longest shot in 40 years of western hunting has been inside of 400 yards. I'm more of the philosophy of know where your rifle shoots to moderate range and be confident and well practiced within that range. I feel I've seen more missed opportunities hunting with others in getting a range, setting up their rifle, and dialing their scope than in blowing an opportunity trying to get closer to the animal and being able to get a relevatively quick shot off accurately from a variety of positions (including off-hand). No reason you can't be good at both though if longer shots are important to you! I like the simplicity of less "stuff" , but everyone's sweet spot on that is different as well. Good luck!
