RE: Shooting stick, good or bad
I use a bi-pod and am very happy with it. I used to use a Harris bi-pod which attaches to the gun, but could never get comfortable in a prone possition. I keep my bipod extended to the height I will use (kneeling), and keep it there while in the field. The legs can be set narrow or spread to give you some adjustment in height. I don't have any problem carrying it in one hand and the rifle slung on my shoulder or cradleing it. I think the bipod may be a quicker set-up for a shot than the Harris was.
If you can't borrow one to try it out, you can make one by tying two long sticks together(1/2" dowel,1/2 roundmoulding, couple of fishing poles) just to get a feel for shooting off of sticks.