I've been looking for an easier way to haul around my Marlin on the trails, and I recently picked up an open-top leather scabbard designed for use on horses. Turns out it works extremely well hooked to a backpack. It's much easier to carry, and I can still whip it out quickly by reaching over my shoulder and grabbing the stock.
You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly.
You should upgrade or use an alternative browser.
You should upgrade or use an alternative browser.
Backpack Scabbard Experiment
- Thread starter Cosmoline
- Start date
Not meant as criticism,
but weight is always a consideration for backpackers. When I was young enough to do it myself, we tried to limit ourselves to 25% of our body weight. Typically, like an infantryman, we carried more than that (but not the 70 lbs legionnaire Miles Decimus carried or any of his successors like Tommy Aitkens or GI Joe). Heavy leather offers protection against scratches, but I wonder if a lighter codura scabbard (if one indeed is made) can serve the same function? BTW, we carried our long guns in our hands, but I can see where you'll need both hands at times.
but weight is always a consideration for backpackers. When I was young enough to do it myself, we tried to limit ourselves to 25% of our body weight. Typically, like an infantryman, we carried more than that (but not the 70 lbs legionnaire Miles Decimus carried or any of his successors like Tommy Aitkens or GI Joe). Heavy leather offers protection against scratches, but I wonder if a lighter codura scabbard (if one indeed is made) can serve the same function? BTW, we carried our long guns in our hands, but I can see where you'll need both hands at times.
I experimented with some soft sheaths before, but it was much more difficult to get the weapon in and out without having to take the backpack off. The sights kept snagging on the sides and the devil's club would grab at it. Uncle Mikes might make a stiff scabbard out of lighter material, but I suspect any poly or cloth scabbard will be prone to snags. It would also wear out, whereas leather wears *in*. The leather scabbard only weighs a few pounds, anyway.
Have you considered having a scabbard made from kydex?There are several custom knife sheath makers working with it and it can be formed to nearly any shape.It`s impervious to most chemicals and weather and is light weight.One downside might be that it could cause wear to the finish of your rifle but that may not be much of a concern on a trail gun.