Retractable gun stand

A method of using a retractable stand having a base, two ribbons each having a coiled portion positioned in the base and an uncoiled portion extending from the base wherein the uncoiled portions of the ribbons have a curved cross-sectional shape and are positioned in opposing relation to each other, and a locking mechanism mounted on the base, the method comprising:

• moving a free end of the uncoiled portions of the ribbons away from the base to thereby uncoil a portion of the ribbons, wherein the free end includes a foot brace, and wherein moving the free end includes placing a user's foot on the foot brace;
• supporting the free end on a supporting surface below the base;
• substantially inhibiting movement of the free end toward the base using the locking mechanism;
• holding the base above the supporting surface;
• and
• positioning a device on the base.

A retractable stand comprising:

• a base adapted to support a device;
• first and second ribbons, each having a coiled portion and an uncoiled portion, wherein the uncoiled portions of the ribbons have a curved cross-sectional shape and are positioned in opposing relation to each other;
• and
• a locking mechanism mounted on the base and movable between an unlocked position where the first ribbon is substantially permitted to move relative to the base and a locked position engaging the first ribbon to substantially inhibited the first ribbon from moving relative to the base in at least one direction.