The Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder Made a Bold First Impression
The Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder is a simple, yet potentially game-changing, accessory for the avid treestand hunter. Designed by Summit, a trusted name in hunting equipment, it promises to provide a secure and accessible way to keep your rifle at the ready. This small piece of gear aims to alleviate the age-old problem of balancing your rifle precariously or awkwardly holding it for extended periods while waiting for that perfect shot.
My hunting buddy, a notorious butterfingers, dropped his rifle from his treestand last season, nearly giving himself (and the deer) a heart attack. This close call got me thinking about rifle retention solutions for treestand hunting. Several options existed, from slings to elaborate mounting systems, but I sought something simple, lightweight, and easily integrated into my existing setup.
Upon unboxing, the Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder is surprisingly minimalist. It’s lightweight, constructed of what appears to be durable molded plastic, and feels solid in hand. The design is straightforward, with a simple hook shape and a choice of attachment methods.
I considered other rifle holders that clamped onto the treestand frame, but they seemed bulky and potentially prone to loosening over time. Others involved complicated strap systems that looked cumbersome. The Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder’s simplicity and direct compatibility with Summit’s FasTrack system immediately appealed to me.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The design is simple, which can be a good thing in hunting gear. If it performs as intended, this could be a valuable addition to my treestand setup, but only field testing would reveal its true worth.
Real-World Testing: Putting Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder was during a recent whitetail hunt in the Pennsylvania hardwoods. I attached it directly to the FasTrack rail on my Summit treestand. The process was incredibly simple: the holder slid easily into the rail opening and felt secure.
The holder performed well in the moderately cold and dry conditions. It kept my rifle securely in place and within easy reach. I found the hook design allowed for quick and quiet retrieval of my rifle when a buck appeared on the horizon.
One minor issue arose during my initial use: I had to experiment with the positioning of the holder on the FasTrack rail to find the optimal angle for my rifle. Once I found the sweet spot, it was smooth sailing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use throughout the hunting season, the Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. It shows no signs of wear and tear. Even after exposure to freezing temperatures and light rain, the plastic construction remained strong and resilient.
Maintenance is a breeze; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove any mud or dirt. Compared to my previous method of using a generic hook and bungee cord, the Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder provides significantly more security and peace of mind. It simply outperforms my previous cobbled-together solution in every way.
Breaking Down the Features of Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder
Specifications
- The Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder is designed for compatibility with Summit treestands that feature the FasTrack accessory rail system.
- It can also be attached to other treestands or surfaces using a gear tie (not included).
- The “Ultimate hook” design is intended for holding a rifle or other gear, such as binoculars or a rangefinder.
- The construction is durable molded plastic.
- The rifle holder is designed to be lightweight for easy portability.
These specifications are important because they dictate the Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder’s intended use and limitations. Compatibility with the FasTrack system is a key feature for Summit treestand owners, while the gear tie option broadens its applicability. The molded plastic construction aims to balance durability and weight.
Performance & Functionality
The Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder performs its primary function exceptionally well: securely holding a rifle in a treestand. The hook design cradles the rifle stock effectively, preventing accidental slips or falls. It allows the hunter to keep their hands free while remaining prepared for a quick shot.
The main strength of this product is its simplicity and ease of use. However, its limitations include the fixed angle of the hook and the potential need for adjustment on the FasTrack rail to find the perfect position. Overall, it meets expectations for a basic rifle holder, but it doesn’t offer any advanced features or adjustments.
Design & Ergonomics
The Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder’s design is minimalist and functional. The molded plastic construction is lightweight and durable. While the hook design effectively holds a rifle, it offers limited adjustability or customization.
There is no significant learning curve; the installation is straightforward. Finding the ideal position for your specific rifle and treestand setup might require some minor adjustments initially.
Durability & Maintenance
The molded plastic construction of the Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder suggests good durability for typical hunting conditions. After weeks of use, there are no signs of cracking or deformation. Maintenance is simple; cleaning requires only a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder does not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available directly for the holder itself. However, the use of gear ties allows for alternative attachment methods to various surfaces or treestands. The simple design also leaves room for DIY modification for the end user.
Pros and Cons of Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder
Pros
- Simple and easy to use: Installation and rifle retrieval are quick and intuitive.
- Secure rifle retention: The hook design effectively prevents accidental slips.
- Lightweight and durable: Molded plastic construction balances weight and durability.
- FasTrack compatibility: Seamless integration with Summit treestands.
- Affordable: An inexpensive solution for hands-free rifle holding.
Cons
- Limited adjustability: Fixed hook angle might not suit all rifles or treestand setups.
- Basic design: Lacks advanced features or customization options.
Who Should Buy Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder?
The Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder is perfect for hunters who own Summit treestands with the FasTrack system and seek a simple, affordable way to keep their rifle secure and accessible. It also suits hunters who prefer a minimalist approach to their gear.
Hunters who require highly adjustable or customizable rifle mounts should skip this product. Those who don’t own a Summit treestand with the FasTrack system might find other mounting solutions more convenient, unless they are comfortable using gear ties for attachment. A must-have accessory for this product is a high-quality gear tie for those not using a Summit treestand.
Conclusion on Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder
The Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder is a straightforward, effective, and affordable solution for hunters seeking to secure their rifle in a treestand. While its design is basic and lacks advanced features, its simplicity and reliability are its greatest strengths.
At $14.49, the price is more than justified for the convenience and peace of mind it provides. For Summit treestand owners with the FasTrack system, it’s a no-brainer. I would definitely recommend the Summit FasTrack Rifle Holder to any hunter looking for a simple, secure, and inexpensive way to keep their rifle at the ready in their treestand. Grab one today and enjoy a more relaxed and prepared hunting experience!