The Summit Pro Safety Harness Large Made a Bold First Impression
The Summit Pro Safety Harness Large immediately grabbed my attention with its promise of blending tactical versatility with crucial safety for treestand hunters. Coming from years of experience in the outdoors and tactical gear, I’ve seen countless safety harnesses, but the Summit name is well-respected. The promise of a military-inspired MOLLE system on a safety harness was intriguing and potentially game-changing.
My quest for a better harness stemmed from a frustrating combination of discomfort and limited customization options in my older models. The shoulder straps would dig in during long sits and I never had a good way to carry small accessories. The Summit Pro Safety Harness Large appeared to address both of these issues head-on.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the robust construction and the feel of the materials. The harness felt incredibly durable, and the stitching was clean and reinforced in all the right places. The MOLLE webbing looked professionally integrated and ready to handle a variety of pouches and accessories.
Compared to my previous harnesses from Hunter Safety System and Muddy Outdoors, the Summit Pro Safety Harness Large appeared more streamlined and customizable. I chose this model over others due to its MOLLE system and the padded shoulder straps, hoping for a more comfortable and adaptable hunting experience. I was cautiously optimistic, eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Summit Pro Safety Harness Large to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the Summit Pro Safety Harness Large was during a week-long deer hunting trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The terrain was steep and the weather conditions varied, from crisp mornings to damp afternoons. The initial setup in my stand was straightforward, with the quick-lock buckles proving easy to use even with gloved hands.
The padded shoulder straps made a noticeable difference during the long hours spent in the stand. The harness distributed weight evenly, preventing the pressure points I had experienced with my old harness. No initial surprises – the harness felt secure and comfortable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use throughout the hunting season, the Summit Pro Safety Harness Large has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after repeated exposure to brush and inclement weather. The MOLLE webbing has held up well, even with attached pouches full of gear.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. Comparing this to my previous experiences, the Summit Pro Safety Harness Large outperforms my old harnesses in terms of comfort, customization, and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Summit Pro Safety Harness Large
Specifications
The Summit Pro Safety Harness Large is designed to provide secure fall protection while hunting from treestands. It features a military-inspired MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) attachment system, allowing for accessory customization. The harness includes padded shoulder straps for enhanced comfort and a performance tether for controlled movement.
It also incorporates quick-lock buckles for ease of use and a secure fit. These specifications are important because they directly impact the harness’s comfort, functionality, and safety. A secure fit is paramount for preventing serious injury in the event of a fall.
Performance & Functionality
The Summit Pro Safety Harness Large performs its primary function of fall protection exceptionally well. The harness feels secure and the tether allows for a reasonable range of movement without compromising safety. The MOLLE system is a standout feature, allowing hunters to customize their setup with pouches for rangefinders, calls, and other essential gear.
The quick-lock buckles are easy to operate, even with gloves, and the padded shoulder straps significantly improve comfort during extended sits. The only minor weakness is that the tether could be slightly longer for greater range of motion. Overall, the Summit Pro Safety Harness Large meets and exceeds expectations for a treestand safety harness.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Summit Pro Safety Harness Large is excellent. The materials used are durable and the stitching is robust. The harness is relatively lightweight considering its features, and the padded shoulder straps add to the overall comfort.
The design is user-friendly, and the quick-lock buckles are intuitive to use. There is a slight learning curve in setting up the MOLLE system to your specific needs, but the versatility it provides is well worth the effort.
Durability & Maintenance
The Summit Pro Safety Harness Large is built to last. The durable materials and reinforced stitching are designed to withstand the rigors of hunting. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is generally sufficient to maintain the harness.
It is recommended to inspect the harness regularly for any signs of wear and tear, particularly the webbing and buckles. With proper care, the Summit Pro Safety Harness Large should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Summit Pro Safety Harness Large does not come with any specific accessories beyond the standard tether and quick-lock buckles. The standout feature, however, is the MOLLE system, which allows for extensive customization. Hunters can attach a wide variety of MOLLE-compatible pouches and accessories from brands like Condor Outdoor, Voodoo Tactical, and 5.11 Tactical.
This compatibility significantly expands the functionality of the harness, allowing users to tailor their setup to their specific needs and preferences. This versatility sets the Summit Pro Safety Harness Large apart from many other treestand safety harnesses on the market.
Pros and Cons of Summit Pro Safety Harness Large
Pros
- The Summit Pro Safety Harness Large offers exceptional comfort due to its padded shoulder straps.
- The MOLLE system allows for extensive customization, making gear easily accessible.
- Quick-lock buckles are easy to use, even with gloves on.
- Durable construction ensures the harness will withstand years of use.
- Provides secure fall protection, giving hunters peace of mind.
Cons
- The tether could be slightly longer for a greater range of motion.
- The initial setup of the MOLLE system may require some time and experimentation.
Who Should Buy Summit Pro Safety Harness Large?
The Summit Pro Safety Harness Large is perfect for serious deer hunters who prioritize safety and comfort in the treestand. It’s also well-suited for anyone who appreciates the versatility of a MOLLE system for carrying essential gear. This harness is a great option for hunters who spend extended periods in their stands and want to minimize discomfort.
This product may not be necessary for casual hunters who only spend a few hours in the stand per season. Also, those on a very tight budget may find more affordable, albeit less feature-rich, options. A must-have accessory for this harness is a high-quality MOLLE-compatible rangefinder pouch.
Conclusion on Summit Pro Safety Harness Large
The Summit Pro Safety Harness Large is a well-designed and durable treestand safety harness that offers a unique blend of safety, comfort, and customization. The MOLLE system is a standout feature that sets this harness apart from the competition. While the price is slightly higher than some other options, the added features and durability justify the cost.
I would personally recommend the Summit Pro Safety Harness Large to any serious deer hunter looking for a reliable and versatile safety harness. It’s a valuable investment that will enhance your hunting experience and provide peace of mind in the treestand. Upgrade your safety and comfort – get the Summit Pro Safety Harness Large today!