Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder Review

First Impressions of Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder

The Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder promises to be the hunter’s indispensable companion in the field. Marketed by Summit as a reliable and efficient tool crafted from the best components, it aims to secure your rifle during hunts, freeing up your hands for other tasks. I was intrigued by the prospect of a lightweight, hands-free rifle carrying solution, especially given my frequent solo hunts in dense terrain where juggling gear and maintaining situational awareness can be challenging.

For years, I’ve wrestled with slings that slip, makeshift supports that collapse, and the constant worry of damaging my rifle. The Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder seemed like a potential solution to these issues. I had previously considered the Allen Company Rifle Sling and the Primos Trigger Stick, but opted for this Summit offering due to its streamlined design and promise of superior reliability. My initial reaction upon unboxing was a mix of cautious optimism and slight skepticism, wondering if something so lightweight could genuinely provide the stability and security I needed in the field.


Real-World Testing: Putting Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder to the Test

First Use Experience

I field-tested the Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder during a week-long deer hunt in the rugged terrain of the Appalachian Mountains. The diverse environment, ranging from dense forests to steep inclines, provided an ideal setting to evaluate its performance under demanding conditions. Setting up the holder initially felt a bit awkward, requiring some adjustments to find the optimal positioning on the tree. Once secured, however, it provided a surprisingly stable platform for my rifle, even on slightly uneven surfaces.

The holder proved invaluable when I needed both hands free to glass the area or navigate tricky sections of the trail. While the provided length initially seemed adequate, I found that adjusting it for different tree diameters required some practice. After the first day, I found that using a carabiner to shorten the loop helped significantly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder has proven itself to be a valuable addition to my hunting gear. Despite its lightweight design, the materials have shown no signs of significant wear or tear. Cleaning is simple, usually only requiring a quick wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dirt or moisture.

Compared to my previous experiences with traditional slings, the Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder offers a superior level of convenience and hands-free operation. I found it easier to remain in a ready position while keeping my hands free for calling or using my rangefinder. The confidence in its ability to safely secure my rifle has significantly enhanced my overall hunting experience.

Breaking Down the Features of Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder

Specifications

  • The Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder is manufactured by Summit. It’s designed to securely hold your rifle while you’re in your stand, freeing up your hands.
  • It includes no additional features beyond its primary function as a rifle holder. Its simplicity is part of its appeal.
  • The strap has a Length of 9 feet, offering ample reach for various tree sizes. This is sufficient for most scenarios, but larger trees might require creative adjustments.
  • It has a Height of 2 inches, referring to the strap width. This ensures a secure grip on the rifle stock.
  • The Width is 5.5 inches, which likely pertains to the rifle holding portion of the system. This measurement could determine the largest stock that the system can hold securely.
  • The Weight is a mere 1.5 oz, making it incredibly lightweight and easy to pack. This is a huge advantage for hunters who prioritize minimizing their gear weight.

These specifications are critical because they determine the holder’s compatibility, portability, and overall functionality in the field. The 9-foot length ensures versatility in different hunting environments, while the minimal weight makes it a convenient addition to any hunter’s gear.

Performance & Functionality

The Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder performs its primary function remarkably well: securely holding a rifle in a treestand. Its simple design makes it easy to use, requiring minimal setup and adjustment. The strap is strong and reliable, providing a stable platform for the rifle.

However, the lack of adjustability in the rifle holding portion of the strap may be a limitation for some users. Rifles with larger stocks might not fit as securely. The design meets my expectations for a lightweight and portable rifle holder, but could benefit from a few design tweaks to improve its versatility.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is minimalist, focusing on functionality over aesthetics. The materials are durable and weather-resistant, ensuring longevity in harsh hunting conditions. The lightweight nature of the holder makes it easy to carry and set up, contributing to a positive user experience.

The simplicity of the design means there’s virtually no learning curve; it’s intuitive to use right out of the box. A few ergonomic enhancements, such as padding or a more adjustable rifle cradle, could further improve user comfort.

Durability & Maintenance

The construction appears robust enough to withstand years of use, although only time will tell. The materials are resistant to moisture and abrasion, making it suitable for various hunting environments. Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving cleaning off any dirt or debris after each use.

The Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder should provide several seasons of reliable service with proper care. Its simple design also reduces the likelihood of any major components failing.

Accessories and Customization Options

The product includes no additional accessories beyond the strap itself. Customization options are limited due to the simplicity of the design. Compatibility with aftermarket accessories is primarily limited to adding carabiners or other clips for adjusting the strap length.

While the lack of customization might be a drawback for some, the simplicity of the Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder is also one of its strengths. It’s a no-frills solution that focuses on delivering reliable performance without unnecessary complications.

Pros and Cons of Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder

Pros

  • Extremely Lightweight: At only 1.5 oz, it adds virtually no weight to your hunting gear.
  • Simple and Easy to Use: Requires minimal setup and is intuitive to operate.
  • Hands-Free Convenience: Securely holds your rifle, freeing up your hands for other tasks.
  • Durable Materials: Built to withstand harsh hunting conditions.
  • Affordable Price: At $35.99, it’s a cost-effective solution for hands-free rifle carrying.

Cons

  • Lack of Adjustability: Limited options for adjusting the rifle cradle to fit different stock sizes.
  • Basic Design: Offers no additional features or customization options.


Who Should Buy Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder?

The Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder is perfect for tree stand hunters who prioritize minimizing weight and maximizing convenience. It’s also ideal for hunters who appreciate a simple and reliable solution without unnecessary frills. It would also be great for anyone new to hunting.

This product may not be suitable for hunters who require a highly adjustable or feature-rich rifle holding system. If you have a rifle with a very large stock, it may not fit securely.

A must-have accessory would be a small carabiner to quickly adjust the strap length for different tree diameters.

Conclusion on Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder

The Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder is a surprisingly effective and affordable solution for hands-free rifle carrying in a treestand. Its lightweight design, ease of use, and durable construction make it a valuable addition to any hunter’s gear. While it lacks some of the advanced features and adjustability of more expensive systems, its simplicity is also its strength.

At $35.99, the price is certainly justified for the convenience and reliability it offers. I would personally recommend the Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder to any hunter looking for a lightweight and no-fuss way to secure their rifle in a treestand. Free up your hands, focus on the hunt, and let the Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder take care of your firearm!

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