Rifle mounting on ATV

[Otter9099]

I plan on using my ATV to hunt. What have you found to be the best method for carrying your rifle that is secure and allows removing quickly to pursue an animal?

[kmssd]

I have seen to U shaped brackets that attach to the front rack (on a utility quad) with little fingers that hold it snug but are still able to release when needed.

Like this,

[Otter9099]

Thank you for your suggestion kmssd. That looks like a pretty good option.

[Terry Stormer]

I strap a padded rifle case to the front of the ATV. I have a side case that mounts to the ATV, but it rattles and moves too much. Tried other brands and had the same problem. 

[Mwozjr87]

Ive used the Kolpin gun mounts for a few years now. Still going strong. Mounted right up to the front rack on my foreman. The little rubber straps fall off when you in lip them but I’m just careful to be aware of it and I haven’t lost them 

[lazypengu1n]

I’ve thought about this many times and for me pointed down towards the ground is best.

[pilsboy]

are you guys using those for big game or small games hunts?? i can understand a closed case for big game but when going for small game .. think u need to have faster acces then that.. well from my experience last year.. thats why i am , too , looking for the best option

[Brent]

You need to check your state hunting regs to see what is legal.  In Colorado, your rifle needs to be fully cased and unloaded when carried on an OHV.

[degosh]

On 10/24/2021 at 9:13 AM, Terry Stormer said:

I strap a padded rifle case to the front of the ATV. I have a side case that mounts to the ATV, but it rattles and moves too much. Tried other brands and had the same problem. 

I was thinking about a gun boot for my ATV but that ratteling would drive me crazy and probably mess up the zero. 

[Squily]

I've always wondered about what the bouncing will do to the scope, but I guess most quads have softer/better suspension than trucks

 

[Ulfthednar]

My CF is fairly decent.

It's not really designed for flying, but I've gotten some air time on it and barely noticed the landing.

My 74 RC however, leaves a mark when it hits and the earthworms curse my passing.

[Batman]

On 10/24/2021 at 12:13 PM, Terry Stormer said:

I strap a padded rifle case to the front of the ATV. I have a side case that mounts to the ATV, but it rattles and moves too much. Tried other brands and had the same problem. 

I would do this. At least a nicely padded rifle case is made for cushioning your gun/scope. It is quick and easy.

As an alternative, you could possibly rig up something to bolt/latch a hard sided padded case to the rack?

[Dngrs1]

Handlebar or rack mounted rifle mounts are fine for smaller, open sighted rifles.

[Ulfthednar]

yes they are.

I Usually hunt with muzzleloaders myself, but one of them is a bit long and definitely not a CVA

I'll have to experiment with heat molded made to fit cases for them.

the one hard boot Ive seen just aint gonna fit right.

[Oldbear]

I've used a Kolpin like the picture in the first reply minus the nubs for 7-8 years and its held up and does the trick.    I hunt with a T/C 50 cal muzzleloader for deer and in Iowa I have to leave it in a case until I get to where I'm going.  It can be loaded minus the cap.  Its in a thick case and has a red dot sight on it.  It fills up the two forks pretty much but has worked very well and held up for me.  I also put my  gas ice auger in it for ice fishing and as heavy as that is it hasn't broken.

[Doublewidekings]

I normally just strap to my back and roll with it.

[Seashift]

On 9/20/2021 at 5:29 PM, kmssd said:

I have seen to U shaped brackets that attach to the front rack (on a utility quad) with little fingers that hold it snug but are still able to release when needed.

Like this,

I would second this mount. ive used them and the great thing is they hold rifles or bows very secure.

[Gwbarm]

I agree also those mounts are very rigid when mounted.

[USRaider]

On 10/3/2022 at 9:16 PM, Squily said:

I've always wondered about what the bouncing will do to the scope, but I guess most quads have softer/better suspension than trucks

 

A properly mounted scope from a reputable company should be durable enough in a padded case to remain true.  If you tend to use cheap import optics that are "good enough" you may see some issues.  Whenever possible I recommend a one-piece mount appropriate for your rifle, and a quality optic.  Take as many variables out of the equation as possible.

[Ulfthednar]

4 hours ago, USRaider said:

A properly mounted scope from a reputable company should be durable enough in a padded case to remain true.  If you tend to use cheap import optics that are "good enough" you may see some issues.  Whenever possible I recommend a one-piece mount appropriate for your rifle, and a quality optic.  Take as many variables out of the equation as possible.

My scopes usually do all right but I had to send one my of camera lenses in one time for recalibration. I usually just have a "truck gun" without a scope with me when generally just riding. 

[jojo12]

you can use mule tape or use a ratcheting tie down to tie it down to your seat

[jen]

I have a large padded "air travel " rifle case.  I think I can easily strap it to the front rack.  It is ridged and supports the scope. Also it is water resistant.   I have some camoflage netting I used duck hunting.  I think that would be a nice cover for the Foreman.  Its not water proof.

[WeeBee]

That should work out well for you! They do make those Water Resistant as well.

[jen]

The camo cover is available rainproof?  that would be nice to have.  I hate to get the controls wet.

[LCP92]

I've always used the traditional U-shaped holders on the front rack.  As long as they are strong and securely hold your rifle to the bike without rattling around, you should have no problem with a decent quality scope holding zero.  It also allows for quick access if your hunting requires it.

[Brent2009]

On 9/20/2021 at 8:29 PM, kmssd said:

I have seen to U shaped brackets that attach to the front rack (on a utility quad) with little fingers that hold it snug but are still able to release when needed.

Like this,

I really like these

[gunn308]

I have a Gator Gripp it came with my Sportsman when bought. 

[johniii]

In Michigan, you must transport rifles and shotguns on an ATV (ORV) unloaded and enclosed in a case. It is unlawful to carry a loaded, uncased firearm on an ATV, regardless of whether you are hunting.

[Gwbarm]

In my state it doesnt have to be in a case but unloaded, no loaded guns allowed while operating ATV,  you can hunt from ATV if you have a handicapped license but not while operating it.

[Ulfthednar]

Here we dont have such laws. Ive got holders, but I was hoping someone made a case tht didnt scream "im a rifle, steal me" . . .