Best Accessories for Bow and Rifle Carry: Secure Your Weapon on the Trail

You're glassing a ridge 400 yards away when a mature bull elk steps into a small opening. Perfect shot opportunity if you can get there quickly and quietly.

You grab your rifle from... where exactly?

If it's strapped to your backpack, you're fumbling with bungee cords and buckles. If it's loose across the handlebars, it's banging against the frame with every bump, creating noise and potentially damaging the scope. If it's in a soft case in your pannier, you're digging through gear while that bull walks into thick timber.

The wrong carrying system costs you opportunities. The right system keeps your weapon secure, protected, instantly accessible, and doesn't interfere with riding.

This guide compares the top weapon-carrying accessories for hunting eBikes, explains handlebar-mount vs. rear-rack systems, covers critical safety and legal considerations, and provides the decision framework for choosing the setup that matches your hunting style.

The Three Mounting Philosophies

Before examining specific products, understand the three fundamental approaches to weapon carry:

System #1: Handlebar-Mounted Grips

Concept: Weapon secured to handlebars in front of the rider

Advantages:

• Weapon in direct line of sight
• Instant access without stopping
• Can quickly remove weapons when approaching the game
• Doesn't interfere with rear cargo capacity

Disadvantages:

• Reduces handlebar space for lights, GPS, etc.
• Can obstruct the view on technical terrain
• Weapon exposed to more brush contact
• Less stable on extremely rough trails

Best for: Bow hunters, rifle hunters who frequently dismount, stalking-focused hunting

System #2: Rear Rack/Scabbard Mount

Concept: Weapon secured vertically or horizontally behind the rider

Advantages:

• Keeps handlebars clear and unobstructed
• More stable platform for rifles with scopes
• Better protection from brush and impacts
• Traditional hunting vehicle mounting position

Disadvantages:

• Requires rear rack (adds weight and cost)
• The less accessible   must stop and dismount to retrieve
• Can interfere with panniers or cargo
• Weapon positioned near motor (heat/vibration concerns)

Best for: Rifle hunters accessing stand locations, hunters hauling additional gear, long-distance travel to hunting areas

System #3: Soft Case/Backpack Carry

Concept: Weapon in a padded case attached to the frame or in a backpack

Advantages:

• Maximum protection from elements and impacts
• Works with any eBike (no mounting required)
• Can remove the case and carry separately
• Conceals weapon (important in some jurisdictions)

Disadvantages:

Slowest access time (unzip, remove weapon, ready to fire)

Takes up pannier or backpack space

The weapon is not quickly available for snapshots

Can shift during riding

Best for: Transporting weapons to/from hunting area, hunters in areas requiring cased transport, maximum protection priority

Top Handlebar-Mount Systems: Detailed Comparison

Kolpin Rhino Grip XLR (Industry Standard)

Design: Two expandable rubber grips with heavy-duty retention straps

Key features:

Tool-free quick-release system (pull strap, insert weapon, release)

360-degree rotation on base mount

160-degree tilt adjustment in 40-degree increments

Rubber-coated jaws with alternating fin design

Heavy-duty nylon construction with steel core

What it carries:

• Rifles (up to 15 lbs)
• Shotguns
• Compound bows
• Crossbows
• Traditional bows

Mounting options:

• Handlebars (5/8" to 2" diameter)
• Flat surfaces (drillable mount)
• Square or round tubing

Strengths:

• Industry-proven design used by thousands of hunters
• Quick weapon insertion/removal (critical for stalking)
• Versatile positioning (rotate and tilt for optimal placement)
• Accommodates various weapon sizes automatically

Limitations:

• Requires adequate handlebar space (not ideal for bikes with narrow bars)
• Retention strap must be properly secured (loose strap = lost weapon)
• Grips can loosen over time on rough terrain (periodic tightening needed)

Best use case: Bow hunters and rifle hunters who frequently dismount for stalking

PSG (Pull-Set-Grip) Quick-Release Mount

Design: Spring-loaded clamp system with single-hand operation

Key features:

• Pull the strap to open the jaw
• Insert weapon
• The release strap   jaw automatically grips
• Self-adjusting grip width
• Powder-coated steel construction

What it carries:

• Rifles
• Shotguns
• Bows (compound and traditional)

Mounting options:

• Handlebar clamp system
• Universal fit for most eBike handlebars

Strengths:

• Fastest insertion/removal system available
• One-handed operation possible
• Self-adjusting means no manual width adjustment is needed
• Robust steel construction handles abuse

Limitations:

• Heavier than polymer alternatives
• The spring mechanism can fail in extreme cold (below 0°F)
• Requires two grips for stable rifle carry (one grip is insufficient)

Best use case: Hunters prioritizing speed of access, frequent weapon mounting/unmounting

GatorGrip Adjustable Mount

Design: Scissor-action expandable jaw with automatic tension

Key features:

• Slide the weapon into the grip   jaws expand and grip automatically
• No straps or buckles required
• Quick-release lever for removal
• Padded rubber contact points

Mounting options:

• Handlebar mount
• Frame tube mount
• Custom mounting positions

Strengths:

• Absolute fastest insertion (no straps to manipulate)
• Fool-proof operation (cannot forget to secure the strap)
• Gentle grip prevents stock/limb damage
• Lightweight design

Limitations:

• Less adjustable than strap-based systems
• Maximum grip width limited (very large rifles may not fit)
• Automatic tension can loosen over extended rough riding

Best use case: Hunters who value simplicity, weapons within standard size ranges

Rear Rack Mount Systems: Detailed Comparison

Traditional Gun Scabbard (Vertical Mount)

Design: Fabric or leather scabbard attaches to rear rack, weapon slides in vertically

Key features:

• Full-length coverage protects the weapon
• Adjustable retention straps
• Weather-resistant materials
• Mounts to standard rear racks

What it carries:

• Rifles (standard and scoped)
• Shotguns

Strengths:

• Maximum protection from weather and brush
• Familiar design for hunters (same as horse/ATV scabbards)
• Weapon is completely secured and stable
• Can accommodate weapons with large scopes

Limitations:

• Slowest access time (must stop, dismount, unstrap, draw weapon)
• Requires a compatible rear rack
• Adds significant vertical profile (clearance issues on low branches)
• Can interfere with seat bags or rear panniers

Best use case: Hunters traveling to stand locations, maximum protection priority, infrequent weapon access needed

Horizontal Rear Rack Mount (Rhino Grip on Rack)

Design: Rhino Grip system mounted horizontally on rear rack

Key features:

• Same Rhino Grip quick-release system
• Mounted to the rear rack instead of the handlebars
• Weapon positioned horizontally behind the rider
• Lower profile than vertical scabbard

Strengths:

• Better clearance than vertical mount
• Quick access (faster than scabbard)
• Familiar Rhino Grip operation
• Can mount multiple grips for rifle + bow

Limitations:

• Weapon more exposed than the scabbard
• Requires a rear rack with sufficient mounting points
• Horizontal position can catch on vegetation in tight trails
• Less stable than a vertical scabbard in extreme terrain

Best use case: Hunters wanting rear carry with faster access than a scabbard

Bow-Specific Considerations

Bows require different mounting approaches than rifles due to:

• Wider profile (limbs extend beyond the centerline)
• Delicate components (strings, cables, cams)
• Balance point (usually mid-riser, not like rifle stock)

Compound Bow Mounting

Handlebar mount (recommended):

• Mount one Rhino Grip at the riser balance point
• An optional second grip at the lower limb for extreme terrain
• Ensure cables/strings don't contact moving parts
• Protect sight and rest from impacts

Best practice: Remove arrows before riding (quiver on bike, separate from bow)

Critical: Test grip position before hunt   bow should not twist or rotate during riding

Traditional Bow/Recurve Mounting

Handlebar mount works well:

• Single grip at handle/riser
• Narrower profile than compounds (easier fit)
• Less delicate (no cams or cables to protect)

Alternative: Soft case on rear rack (traditional bows are less affected by case carry than compounds)

Crossbow Mounting

Rear rack mount preferred:

• Heavy weight (8-12 lbs) makes handlebar mounting awkward
• A wide profile interferes with handlebar operation
• Scope requires protection (scabbard or hard case)

Handlebar mounting is possible but not recommended: Weight distribution affects steering, wide profile reduces visibility.

Critical Safety and Legal Considerations

Weapon Transport Laws Vary by State

Before mounting any weapon to your eBike, verify your state's laws:

Unloaded requirement: Most states require firearms transported on motorized vehicles to be unloaded Cased requirement: Some states require firearms in cases (open carry on eBike handlebars may violate this) eBike classification: Some jurisdictions classify eBikes as motor vehicles (firearm transport laws apply), others as bicycles (different rules) Public land regulations: National Forests, BLM land, and state lands may have specific rules

Action item: Contact your state's fish and wildlife agency or consult a hunting attorney before your first hunt

Universal Safety Rules for Weapon Carry

Regardless of the mounting system:

1. ALWAYS carry weapons unloaded during transport

• Chamber empty
• Magazine removed (or empty)
• Safety engaged
• Bow undrawn

2. Muzzle awareness

• Rifle: Muzzle pointing up (handlebar mount) or back (rear mount), never toward rider
• Bow: Positioned so the arrow nock points away from the rider

3. Secure retention

• Test the mounting system before every ride
• Check retention straps/grips every 30 minutes on rough terrain
• Use backup retention (secondary strap) on extreme terrain

4. Immediate unloading upon arrival

• When you reach the hunting location, dismount completely
• Load weapon only after eBike is secured and you're ready to hunt
• Never hunt from the bike

5. Crash awareness

• In a crash, a weapon becomes a projectile
• This is why the weapon MUST be unloaded during all transport
• Mount weapons securely enough to stay attached during a fall

Scope and Sight Protection

Rifles with scopes:

• Scope covers recommended (neoprene or hard caps)
• Verify zero after every rough ride
• Consider a rear-mount scabbard for expensive optics (better protection)

Bows with sights:

• Sight guards or covers protect pins
• Multi-pin sights are especially vulnerable to impacts
• Check sight alignment before hunting

Red dots and holographic sights:

• Less vulnerable than traditional scopes
• Still benefit from lens covers
• Verify the battery hasn't shaken loose

Accessory Combinations and Complete Systems

Most hunters use multiple carrying solutions depending on the situation:

The Complete Setup (Serious Backcountry Hunter)

Handlebar: Rhino Grip XLR (primary weapon - rifle OR bow)
Rear rack: Scabbard (backup rifle) OR soft bow case (if rifle on handlebars)
Panniers: Ammunition, calls, additional gear
Frame bag: Emergency supplies, tools

Philosophy: Primary weapon instantly accessible on handlebars, backup weapon protected on rear rack

The Minimalist Setup (Day Hunter)

Handlebar: Single weapon mount (bow or rifle)
Small frame bag: Essentials only
No rear rack: Weight savings, maneuverability priority

Philosophy: One weapon, light and fast, maximum stealth

The Stand Hunter Setup

Rear rack scabbard: Rifle (protected during travel)
Rear rack or panniers: Climbing sticks, stand, gear
No handlebar mount: Clear handlebars for easier riding

Philosophy: Traveling to a known location, the weapon stays secured until arrival

Installation Tips and Common Mistakes

Proper Handlebar Mount Installation

Step 1: Position selection

• Test ride position without the weapon first
• Ensure grip doesn't interfere with brake levers, shifters, or display
• Leave space for hands in all riding positions
• Account for weapon width (bows are wider than rifles)

Step 2: Mounting

• Clean handlebar surface (remove dirt/oil)
• Position the mount where the handlebar diameter is consistent
• Tighten mounting bolts to manufacturer spec (usually 8-12 Nm)
• Use thread locker on bolts (vibration resistance)

Step 3: Testing

• Insert weapon and secure
• Ride 100 yards on rough terrain
• Check for movement, rattling, or loosening
• Re-tighten if necessary
• Test weapon removal and re-insertion

Common mistake #1: Mounting too close to the stem (weapon hits display or interferes with steering)
Common mistake #2: Under-tightening bolts (mount rotates during riding)
Common mistake #3: Not testing with an actual weapon before a hunt (discovers fit issues in the field)

Rear Rack Mount Installation

Compatibility check:

• Verify the rack can support weapon weight (15+ lbs for rifles)
• Ensure mounting points don't interfere with the rear wheel or motor
• Check clearance with pannier bags if using both

Mounting:

• Position for best weight distribution (centered over axle)
• Allow the weapon to clear the seat when dismounting
• Test riding position (weapon shouldn't hit rider)

Common mistake: Mounting scabbard so weapon extends beyond wheel (catches on terrain, unbalances bike)

Maintenance and Long-Term Care

Mount Maintenance

After every hunt:

• Clean mud and debris from the grip jaws
• Check retention strap condition (fraying, stretching)
• Verify mounting bolts haven't loosened
• Lubricate moving parts (rotation/tilt mechanisms)

Monthly:

• Remove the mount and inspect the mounting surface
• Check for frame paint damage under the mount
• Apply anti-seize to bolt threads
• Replace worn retention straps

Weapon Inspection After eBike Transport

Rifles:

• Verify scope zero (shoot confirmation group)
• Check scope mounting screws (can loosen from vibration)
• Inspect stock for cracks (vibration damage)
• Clean the bore if riding in dusty conditions

Bows:

• Inspect strings and cables (vibration can cause fraying)
• Check cam timing (can shift from impacts)
• Verify sight pins (can move from vibration)
• Test draw weight (cable stretch possible)

The Bottom Line: Matching System to Hunting Style

Your ideal carrying system depends on:

Hunting style:

• Stalking/still-hunting → Handlebar mount (quick access)
• Stand hunting → Rear rack/scabbard (maximum protection)
• Mixed approach → Handlebar + rear rack combination

Weapon type:

• Rifle (scoped) → Rear scabbard or careful handlebar mounting
• Rifle (iron sights) → Either system works well
• Compound bow → Handlebar mount preferred
• Crossbow → Rear rack only
• Traditional bow → Handlebar mount ideal

Terrain:

• Technical trails → Rear mount (lower snag risk) OR minimalist handlebar
• Open terrain → Either system works
• Dense brush → Rear scabbard (maximum protection)

Legal requirements:

• Cased transport required → Soft case or scabbard mandatory
• Open carry permitted → Handlebar or rear rack
• Verify local laws

The right weapon-carrying system transforms your hunting eBike from transportation into a complete hunting platform. It keeps your weapon secure during rough riding, protected from the elements, instantly accessible when opportunities appear, and compliant with all safety and legal requirements.

Whether you choose handlebar grips for stalking, a rear scabbard for stand hunting, or a combination system for versatility, proper weapon carry is the final piece that makes eBike hunting practical, safe, and successful.

This accessory guide completes your hunting eBike setup. For comprehensive information on motors, batteries, regulations, tires, stealth techniques, quartering, repair kits, cleaning, and all aspects of backcountry hunting electric bikes, check out our complete resource.

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