First Thoughts on the Big Sky Horizontal One Gun Mounting System
As someone who’s spent over a decade immersed in the world of tactical and outdoor gear, I’ve seen countless solutions for weapon storage. The Big Sky Horizontal One Gun Mounting System immediately caught my eye with its promise of a secure and easily accessible in-vehicle gun rack. The Sky Bar series, manufactured by Big Sky Racks, offers a telescoping design to fit most vehicles, combined with non-abrasive padding and robust nylon straps.
My need for this product stemmed from a desire to securely transport my shotgun during hunting trips. I wanted something more reliable than simply laying it across the back seat, and faster to access than a locked case in the bed of my truck. The advertised adjustability and ease of installation sold me on giving it a shot.
Unboxing revealed a simple, yet sturdy design. The square-tube steel construction felt robust, and the padding appeared thick enough to protect my firearm. Initially, I was cautiously optimistic, but the overall quality seemed better than some competing racks I’d handled.
I considered a few other options, including individual seat-back racks and complete overhead console units. Ultimately, the Big Sky system seemed to offer the best balance of security, accessibility, and affordability. I chose this over others primarily because of the universal adjustability advertised for nearly all vehicles.
My first impression was a mix of excitement and slight skepticism. Could this relatively simple system truly hold up to the rigors of off-road travel? Time would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Big Sky Horizontal One Gun Mounting System to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Big Sky Horizontal One Gun Mounting System during a weekend hunting trip in the rugged terrain of the Texas Hill Country. The mounting system was put through its paces on bumpy dirt roads and steep inclines. I mounted it in my F-150 pickup.
The performance in dry conditions was excellent. The shotgun remained firmly in place, even during some fairly aggressive driving. Getting the weapon in and out of the rack was surprisingly easy, requiring only a quick release of the nylon straps.
Ease of use was a definite plus. The initial installation took about an hour. After that, securing the weapon was a breeze. My only minor issue was adjusting the bracket assemblies to properly fit the shotgun’s dimensions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Big Sky Horizontal One Gun Mounting System has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the steel frame or the padding. The nylon straps still retain their grip.
Durability is a major strength of this system. Even after constant exposure to sunlight and occasional dust, it continues to perform flawlessly. The only maintenance I’ve performed is wiping down the frame with a damp cloth every few weeks.
Compared to previous solutions, such as unsecured transport or bulky cases, the Big Sky system is a vast improvement. It offers significantly greater convenience without sacrificing security or protection. It exceeded my expectations by providing quick access to the weapon.
Breaking Down the Features of Big Sky Horizontal One Gun Mounting System
Specifications
- Type: Gun Rack. This clearly defines the intended purpose.
- Color: Black. A standard color ensures it blends with most vehicle interiors.
- Material: Steel. Steel construction guarantees durability and strength.
- Model: Sky Bar. Identifies the specific product line within the Big Sky Racks catalog.
- Mount Type: Overhead Mount. Overhead mounting maximizes space and keeps the firearm out of sight.
- Shell Count: None. It is designed to hold the firearm, not ammunition.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the rack’s strength, ease of use, and compatibility with different vehicles. The steel construction and overhead mount are particularly crucial for ensuring a secure and discreet setup.
Performance & Functionality
The Big Sky Horizontal One Gun Mounting System excels at its primary job: securely holding a firearm within a vehicle. The adjustable brackets ensure a snug fit. The nylon straps with hook and loop fasteners provide additional security.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and robust design. The only potential weakness is the initial installation, which might require some fine-tuning to achieve optimal fit. Overall, this system meets and often exceeds expectations for in-vehicle weapon storage.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid. The steel frame feels substantial, and the padding is thick enough to prevent scratches or damage to the firearm. The design is straightforward and functional, prioritizing security and ease of access.
The system is surprisingly user-friendly. Once installed, securing and releasing the firearm is quick and intuitive. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction ensures that the Big Sky Horizontal One Gun Mounting System is built to last. Even with regular use and exposure to various environmental conditions, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving occasional cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The system itself doesn’t come with a wide array of accessories. However, the adjustable bracket assemblies allow for some customization. They can be positioned to accommodate different firearm types and sizes.
Because it is a mounting system rather than a firearm accessory, there are no readily available third-party parts or alternatives to replace components. But the system is compatible with most shotguns, rifles, or similar long guns.
Pros and Cons of Big Sky Horizontal One Gun Mounting System
Pros
- Secure Weapon Storage: The system provides a stable and secure way to transport a firearm within a vehicle.
- Universal Fit: The telescoping design and adjustable brackets accommodate most vehicle types and firearm sizes.
- Easy Accessibility: The nylon straps allow for quick and easy access to the firearm when needed.
- Durable Construction: The steel frame and high-quality materials ensure long-lasting performance.
- Discreet Mounting: The overhead mount keeps the firearm out of sight, reducing the risk of theft and maintaining a low profile.
Cons
- Initial Installation: The initial setup can be somewhat time-consuming and may require some adjustments.
- Limited Customization: There are minimal options for further customization beyond adjusting the bracket positions.
Who Should Buy Big Sky Horizontal One Gun Mounting System?
The Big Sky Horizontal One Gun Mounting System is perfect for hunters, ranchers, and law enforcement professionals who need to transport firearms securely and accessibly in their vehicles. It’s also well-suited for anyone who prioritizes safety and security when transporting firearms.
This product might not be ideal for individuals with smaller vehicles or those who prefer more elaborate, custom-fitted gun racks. Additionally, those who require quick access while in heavy traffic may want to consider alternatives.
A must-have accessory is a good quality set of tools for the initial installation. Also, consider adding extra padding or wraps to specific firearms where needed.
Conclusion on Big Sky Horizontal One Gun Mounting System
The Big Sky Horizontal One Gun Mounting System offers a robust and reliable solution for in-vehicle firearm storage. Its universal fit and ease of use make it a compelling choice for a wide range of users. At a price of $133.49, the value proposition is solid, especially considering the quality of materials and construction.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone seeking a secure, accessible, and discreet way to transport firearms in their vehicle. If you’re tired of worrying about your firearm sliding around or being easily visible, the Big Sky Horizontal One Gun Mounting System is definitely worth considering. Invest in peace of mind and secure your firearm today!