First Thoughts on the Rugged Gear Floor Mount Gun Rack Removable
The Rugged Gear Floor Mount Gun Rack Removable promises to be a game-changer for anyone struggling to secure their firearms in a vehicle. Made by Rugged Gear, this compact, adjustable rack is designed to fit seamlessly into UTVs, golf carts, pickups, and SUVs, offering a versatile solution for transporting rifles and shotguns. The ability to reconfigure the rack for front-to-rear or side-to-side removal is a major selling point.
My need for this product stemmed from a constant juggling act during hunting season. Between hauling gear in my UTV and trying to safely transport my rifle, space was always a premium, and safety was paramount. Other options I considered included securing the rifle in a soft case across the seat, which took up valuable passenger space and wasn’t very secure, and a roof-mounted rack, which raised the center of gravity of the vehicle and exposed the rifle to the elements. I chose the Rugged Gear Floor Mount Gun Rack Removable due to its promise of a secure, compact, and adaptable solution.
Unboxing the rack, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel of the metal components. The black finish looked durable, and the pieces felt substantial, not flimsy. My first thought was, “This isn’t some cheap plastic thing that’s going to break after a few uses.”
Initially, I was excited by the potential of a clutter-free and secure UTV cab. It felt like I could finally have a dedicated space for my firearms without sacrificing passenger or cargo space. If it lives up to its claims, this rack will be an indispensable piece of gear for all my outdoor adventures.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rugged Gear Floor Mount Gun Rack Removable to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Rugged Gear Floor Mount Gun Rack Removable during a week-long hunting trip in the rugged terrain of West Texas. The primary testing ground was my trusty UTV, navigating rocky trails and uneven ground. I experienced everything from dry, dusty conditions to a surprising afternoon thunderstorm that left everything soaked.
The installation, with the adjustability of the product, went smoothly, and I had it configured for side-to-side rifle removal. Even on extremely bumpy terrain, the rack held my rifles securely in place. There was absolutely no rattling or shifting, which was a welcome change from previous makeshift solutions. I also tested the removal process a number of times and found it easy to handle, even with gloved hands. The adjustability of the product is certainly a convenient feature allowing for several different rifles to fit.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Rugged Gear Floor Mount Gun Rack Removable has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. The powder-coated finish has held up surprisingly well, showing minimal signs of wear despite constant exposure to mud, dust, and the occasional brush with branches. The mounting hardware has remained secure, with no loosening or need for retightening.
The rack cleans easily with a quick wipe-down, and the larger butt-stock rest has shown no signs of cracking or deformation. Compared to my previous attempts at firearm storage in my UTV, this rack is a night-and-day difference. It is far more secure, convenient, and durable than anything else I’ve tried.
Breaking Down the Features of Rugged Gear Floor Mount Gun Rack Removable
Specifications
The Rugged Gear Floor Mount Gun Rack Removable is constructed of durable metal with a black powder-coated finish. Its universal size is designed to accommodate two rifles or shotguns. It utilizes a floor mount design, requiring only 6″ x 6″ of floor space.
The rack boasts an adjustable angle, allowing for up to 120 degrees of movement to fit within various vehicle configurations. It can be assembled for either side-to-side or front-to-rear gun removal. The current model weighs 1.7 lbs less than previous iterations, aiming for enhanced strength and reduced weight.
Performance & Functionality
The rack performs its primary function exceptionally well: securely holding firearms in a vehicle. The adjustability is a key strength, allowing for a customized fit in different vehicles and accommodating various firearm sizes. The ability to switch between side-to-side and front-to-rear removal adds to its versatility.
One potential area for improvement would be adding some form of padding or rubber coating to the firearm rests to prevent any potential scratching or marring of the rifle’s finish. Overall, the rack meets and exceeds expectations for a compact and versatile firearm mounting solution. The quality of the rack including the mounting hardware is very good.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rugged Gear Floor Mount Gun Rack Removable features a simple and functional design. The black powder-coated finish provides a clean and professional look while also offering some level of corrosion resistance. The weight is manageable, making installation relatively easy.
The design is user-friendly, with no complicated mechanisms or confusing instructions. The adjustability of the product is convenient and allows for several different rifles to fit. While the bare metal construction is durable, adding padding to contact points would improve the overall user experience by protecting firearm finishes.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the metal construction and powder-coated finish, this rack should last for many years with proper care. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and grime. The simple design minimizes potential points of failure, contributing to its long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rugged Gear Floor Mount Gun Rack Removable does not come with many accessories, focusing on the core functionality of firearm storage. However, its universal design allows it to be paired with aftermarket quick-release mounts for even faster firearm access. Some users might consider adding custom padding or wraps to the firearm rests for added protection.
Pros and Cons of Rugged Gear Floor Mount Gun Rack Removable
Pros
- Highly adjustable: Fits in a variety of vehicles and firearm sizes.
- Durable construction: Metal build with a powder-coated finish ensures longevity.
- Compact design: Requires minimal floor space, maximizing space in the vehicle.
- Secure firearm storage: Prevents rattling and shifting, keeping firearms safe during transport.
- Easy to install and use: Straightforward design with no complicated mechanisms.
Cons
- Bare metal contact points: Could potentially scratch firearm finishes without added padding.
- Price point: Slightly higher than some competing options, although the quality justifies it.
Who Should Buy Rugged Gear Floor Mount Gun Rack Removable?
The Rugged Gear Floor Mount Gun Rack Removable is perfect for hunters, ranchers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a secure and convenient way to transport their firearms in UTVs, trucks, or SUVs. Anyone who prioritizes firearm safety and organization in their vehicle will benefit from this product. This is a quality built item that will withstand plenty of use and keeps your firearms secure.
Those who might want to skip this product are individuals who only occasionally transport firearms and are content with using soft cases or other less secure methods. Also, if someone is operating on an extremely tight budget, there may be cheaper (though less reliable) alternatives.
A must-have modification is to add some sort of padding to the contact points. Closed cell foam or gun socks would be beneficial to prevent any marring of the firearm’s finish.
Conclusion on Rugged Gear Floor Mount Gun Rack Removable
The Rugged Gear Floor Mount Gun Rack Removable is a well-designed and durable solution for securing firearms in a variety of vehicles. The adjustability, compact size, and robust construction make it a standout product in its category. The price of $133.49 is justified by the quality and versatility of the rack.
I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone looking for a reliable and convenient way to transport their firearms. It offers peace of mind knowing that your firearms are secure and protected. Invest in the Rugged Gear Floor Mount Gun Rack Removable and experience the difference a well-designed gun rack can make.