First Thoughts on the Rugged Gear Double Gun Rack w/Suction Cup
The Rugged Gear Double Gun Rack w/Suction Cup promises a simple, portable solution for transporting firearms or bows in vehicles. Rugged Gear aims to deliver convenience and accessibility with this suction cup-based rack. Its universal fit and easy repositioning are key selling points. I was initially intrigued by the concept of a non-permanent mounting option that wouldn’t require drilling or damaging my vehicle’s interior.
My need for this product arose from the increasing frequency of transporting firearms to and from the range. I often found myself awkwardly placing rifles across the backseat or in the trunk, which was neither secure nor convenient. I was searching for a quick and easy way to keep my firearms readily accessible and secure during transport.
Upon unboxing the Rugged Gear Double Gun Rack w/Suction Cup, the initial impression was one of sturdy simplicity. The metal construction seemed robust, and the suction cups appeared substantial. The rack felt surprisingly lightweight, which raised a slight concern about its ability to hold heavier firearms securely.
Compared to other gun rack options, such as permanent in-vehicle racks or soft cases, the Rugged Gear solution stood out for its portability and ease of installation. I considered magnetic gun mounts, but worried about potential scratches on my firearms. The Rugged Gear‘s suction cup design offered a non-marring alternative.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The design was practical, but I had reservations about the suction cups’ long-term holding power, especially under varying weather conditions. I was eager to test the rack’s performance in a real-world setting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rugged Gear Double Gun Rack w/Suction Cup to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Rugged Gear Double Gun Rack w/Suction Cup during a trip to my local shooting range. I mounted the rack on the rear window of my SUV, ensuring the glass surface was clean and dry. I placed two rifles, a .22LR and an AR-15, in the double hooks.
The ride to the range involved a mix of smooth highway and bumpy rural roads. The Rugged Gear held the firearms surprisingly well, with only minimal swaying. However, I constantly checked the suction cups for any signs of slippage.
Installation was straightforward and took only a few minutes. The repositioning feature was particularly helpful, allowing me to adjust the rack’s placement for optimal firearm security. I was initially impressed, but remained skeptical about its long-term reliability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Rugged Gear Double Gun Rack w/Suction Cup has proven to be reasonably reliable, though not without caveats. The suction cups occasionally lose their grip, especially in extreme temperatures or when the window surface is not perfectly clean. This requires periodic reattachment to ensure the firearms remain secure.
The metal construction has held up well, with no signs of bending or damage. However, the black finish is prone to scratching, particularly from the friction of the firearms rubbing against the rack. Regular cleaning is essential to remove dust and debris that can compromise the suction cups’ grip.
Compared to my previous method of simply laying firearms across the backseat, the Rugged Gear offers a significant improvement in organization and accessibility. While it doesn’t provide the same level of security as a dedicated, bolted-in gun safe, it serves as a convenient and relatively secure option for short trips to the range or hunting grounds. Its performance is adequate, but requires vigilance.
Breaking Down the Features of Rugged Gear Double Gun Rack w/Suction Cup
Specifications
The Rugged Gear Double Gun Rack w/Suction Cup is designed to attach to vehicle windows or other smooth, hard surfaces using suction cups. It features a double hook design capable of holding two firearms or bows simultaneously. The Material is listed as metal, finished in black, and is described as having a universal size, fitting most firearms.
The use of metal ensures durability, while the suction cup design provides a non-permanent mounting solution. The double hook configuration allows for the convenient transport of multiple firearms. The universal size aims to accommodate a wide range of firearm types, though larger or heavier firearms may present challenges.
Performance & Functionality
The Rugged Gear Double Gun Rack w/Suction Cup performs adequately in securing firearms during transport. It prevents them from sliding around or falling onto the floor of the vehicle. However, its reliability is heavily dependent on the integrity of the suction cups and the cleanliness of the mounting surface.
The strength lies in its ease of installation and portability. The weakness is its inconsistent holding power, especially in adverse conditions or with heavier firearms. It meets basic expectations for a temporary gun rack solution, but does not exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rugged Gear Double Gun Rack w/Suction Cup features a simple and functional design. The metal construction provides a reasonable level of durability, and the black finish offers a discreet appearance. The rack is lightweight, making it easy to handle and reposition.
The lack of padding on the hooks can lead to scratches on the firearms’ finish. The learning curve is minimal, as the installation process is intuitive and straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
The metal construction suggests reasonable durability, but the black finish is prone to scratching. The longevity of the suction cups is a concern, as they may degrade over time due to exposure to sunlight and temperature fluctuations.
Maintenance involves regular cleaning of the suction cups and the mounting surface. Replacement suction cups may be required periodically to maintain optimal performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rugged Gear Double Gun Rack w/Suction Cup does not come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited, as the design is fairly basic. Some users may choose to add padding to the hooks to protect their firearms’ finish.
The rack is generally compatible with a wide range of firearms, but its performance may vary depending on the size and weight of the firearm. It is not specifically designed to accommodate any particular accessories from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Rugged Gear Double Gun Rack w/Suction Cup
Pros
- Easy to install and remove, requiring no permanent modifications to the vehicle.
- Portable and lightweight, making it convenient to transport and store.
- Provides a basic level of security and organization for firearms during transport.
- Universal fit, accommodating a wide range of firearm types.
- Affordable price point compared to more elaborate gun rack solutions.
Cons
- Suction cups can lose their grip, especially in extreme temperatures or on uneven surfaces.
- Black finish is prone to scratching.
- Lacks padding on the hooks, potentially damaging firearms’ finish.
Who Should Buy Rugged Gear Double Gun Rack w/Suction Cup?
The Rugged Gear Double Gun Rack w/Suction Cup is perfect for casual shooters or hunters who need a temporary and easily removable gun rack for occasional use. It is well-suited for individuals who do not want to permanently modify their vehicles. It also benefits users who prioritize portability and ease of installation.
This product is not recommended for individuals who require a high level of security for their firearms, or who frequently transport firearms in rough terrain or extreme weather conditions. Those needing a robust, permanently mounted solution should explore other options.
A must-have modification would be adding padding to the hooks to prevent scratches on firearms. Consider also carrying replacement suction cups for longer trips.
Conclusion on Rugged Gear Double Gun Rack w/Suction Cup
The Rugged Gear Double Gun Rack w/Suction Cup offers a convenient and affordable solution for transporting firearms in a vehicle. While it has limitations in terms of security and reliability, its ease of use and portability make it a viable option for casual users. The rack is an adequate product, but not exceptional.
At $62.99, the price is justified for the level of convenience and organization it provides. However, potential buyers should be aware of the limitations and potential for suction cup failure. It is not a substitute for a proper gun safe.
I would recommend the Rugged Gear Double Gun Rack w/Suction Cup with reservations. It serves its purpose, but requires vigilance and is best suited for light-duty use. If you need a temporary and portable gun rack solution, this could be a decent choice, but be prepared to monitor the suction cups and handle with care.