Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun Review

First Thoughts on the Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun

The Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun promises a secure and convenient way to store firearms in vehicles or overhead spaces. This rack, designed by Big Sky Racks, caters to those seeking a vertical or horizontal mounting solution without sacrificing ease of access. Its simple design and reported easy installation piqued my interest, especially given my years of experience organizing and securing gear in various tactical and hunting vehicles.

I was in the market for a discreet and safe way to transport hunting rifles in my truck. Existing solutions either took up too much space or didn’t provide enough security. I considered standalone floor-mounted safes and traditional horizontal racks, but the Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun’s overhead mounting offered a space-saving alternative.

Upon unboxing, the Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun appears robust. The steel construction feels solid, hinting at durability, and the thick padding on the mounts gives reassurance against scratching or damaging firearm finishes. The hook-and-loop strap looks sturdy enough to hold the firearms securely.

Compared to some universal in-vehicle racks I’ve used in the past, the Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun has a more purpose-built feel. Those other racks felt flimsy, relying on thin bungee cords for retention. I chose this rack over others because of its seemingly heavy-duty build and potential for a cleaner, more secure installation. My initial impression is cautiously optimistic. While the design is straightforward, the quality of materials will dictate its true value.

Real-World Testing: Putting Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun in the cab of my pickup truck. The installation was indeed easy, requiring only basic tools and taking about 30 minutes. I initially tested it with two unloaded hunting rifles, a .30-06 and a .270.

The rack performed adequately during a short test drive on paved roads. The rifles stayed securely in place, with minimal movement. The padding protected the rifle finishes as expected. The ease of access was also a plus, allowing quick retrieval of the firearms if needed.

However, on a moderately bumpy dirt road, I noticed some shifting. The hook-and-loop strap, while strong, allowed a degree of lateral movement. This wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it highlighted the importance of properly securing the firearms.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun during hunting season, some issues became more apparent. The durability of the padding is questionable. After repeated use, the padding began to compress and show wear marks from the rifle stocks.

The steel construction, however, has held up admirably. There is no sign of rust or bending despite exposure to moisture and temperature fluctuations. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a damp cloth to wipe away dust and debris.

Compared to a previous universal rack I used, the Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun offers superior security and stability on smooth roads. However, the performance difference diminishes on rough terrain. The universal rack used bungee cords that allowed much more movement, whereas the Sky Bar Gun Rack kept the firearms more stable overall. The long-term durability of the padding remains a concern.

Breaking Down the Features of Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun

Specifications

• Type: Gun Rack. This signifies its primary function: secure firearm storage.
• Color: Black. A neutral color that blends well with most vehicle interiors.
• Material: Steel. Steel construction ensures strength and resistance to bending or breakage.
• Model: Sky Bar. This is the specific product line designation.
• Mount Type: Overhead Mount. Overhead Mounting frees up valuable floor and seating space.
• Shell Count: None. This refers to shell-carrying capacity, which is not applicable to this rack design.

These specifications highlight the rack’s focus on durability and space-saving design. The steel material is crucial for secure firearm retention, and the overhead mount optimizes vehicle space.

Performance & Functionality

The Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun performs its primary job of holding firearms adequately, with some reservations. On smooth roads, it provides a secure and accessible storage solution. However, the hook-and-loop strap design could be improved to minimize movement on rough terrain.

A major strength is its ease of installation and access. Conversely, the long-term durability of the padding is a weakness. It meets basic expectations but falls short of excelling in all conditions.

Design & Ergonomics

The Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun design is straightforward and functional. The steel construction is robust, lending confidence in its ability to withstand regular use. The rack’s weight is manageable, making installation easier.

The user-friendliness is a definite plus; there’s no real learning curve. However, the hook-and-loop strap design is a potential weak point in terms of ergonomics. A more robust retention mechanism would enhance its usability.

Durability & Maintenance

The steel frame is expected to last for years with proper care. However, the padding is likely to require replacement or repair sooner rather than later. Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving cleaning with a damp cloth.

The steel frame is likely to outlast the padding. This means the rack will remain functional, but the protection for the firearms might diminish over time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun includes only the basic mounting hardware and hook-and-loop straps. No additional accessories are included. Customization options are limited to potentially replacing the padding with aftermarket alternatives.

The rack’s compatibility with third-party accessories is limited. It’s unlikely that you can significantly alter its functionality without major modifications. This limits the user’s ability to personalize the rack to specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun

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Who Should Buy Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun?

The Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun is perfect for hunters, ranchers, or law enforcement personnel who need a simple and accessible way to transport firearms in their vehicles, primarily on paved roads. It is also suitable for those with limited space in their vehicle who want an overhead storage solution.

Those who frequently drive on rough terrain or prioritize maximum security should skip this product. Also, those who require extensive customization options should consider alternatives. A must-have modification would be replacing the hook-and-loop straps with a more secure retention system, such as ratcheting straps or a locking mechanism.

Conclusion on Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun

The Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun offers a functional and space-saving solution for firearm storage in vehicles. Its ease of installation and durable steel construction are definite advantages. However, the limited durability of the padding and movement on rough terrain are drawbacks that should be considered.

At $181.49, the price is somewhat justified given the steel construction and space-saving design, but the need for potential padding replacement detracts from the overall value. I would recommend it with reservations. The Big Sky Racks Sky Bar Gun Rack Double Gun is a decent option for specific needs, but potential buyers should be aware of its limitations. Secure your firearms responsibly; consider all options before purchasing.

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