6 Best Bow Slings For Hands Free Hiking For Mountain Hunts

Navigating steep, uneven terrain while carrying a compound bow is a test of patience that can quickly turn a productive mountain hunt into a physical liability. Freeing up both hands for climbing, glassing, or maneuvering through dense brush is essential for safety and efficiency. Choosing the right sling transforms a cumbersome piece of gear into a balanced, manageable load.

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Kifaru Gun Bearer: The Ultimate Hands-Free Carry

The Kifaru Gun Bearer stands apart because it functions more like an external frame support than a traditional sling. By mounting directly to the waist belt and shoulder strap of a pack, it distributes the weight of the bow across the frame rather than hanging it off one shoulder. This system keeps the bow locked into a vertical or diagonal position that remains stable even during high-stepping maneuvers.

This is the premier choice for the hunter who spends days on the mountain and needs their bow ready at a moment’s notice without sacrificing balance. Because it keeps the center of gravity close to the body, it prevents the bow from catching on branches or shifting while scrambling over shale. It is an investment, but for long-term reliability in the backcountry, the build quality justifies the price.

If the goal is maximum efficiency on multi-day treks, the Kifaru system is effectively the gold standard. It is not designed for a “grab-and-go” minimalist approach, but for those committed to a high-end pack setup, it is indispensable. Opt for this if the priority is total stability and long-distance comfort.

FHF Gear Bow Sling: Best for Quick, Quiet Access

The FHF Gear Bow Sling utilizes a simple, minimalist design that prioritizes silence and rapid deployment. It covers the cams and the string, protecting critical components from brush and debris while keeping the bow ready to be grabbed in a second. Because it lacks bulky straps or complex buckles, it remains remarkably quiet during movement.

This sling is best suited for the hunter who prefers to carry the bow in their hand but needs a solution for when both hands are needed for a climb. It doesn’t require a dedicated pack connection, making it highly versatile for those who switch between different packs throughout the season. It is a no-nonsense tool that eliminates the fumbling often associated with more rigid, frame-mounted systems.

Do not look for bells and whistles here; look for raw functionality. If the hunting style involves short, intermittent hikes between stands or glassing points, this is the most efficient choice available. It is a specialized, lightweight piece of kit that excels at its singular purpose.

Sitka Bow Sling: Top-Tier Weather Protection

Sitka’s offering excels in harsh, wet, or freezing conditions where gear longevity becomes an issue. Its construction utilizes highly durable, weather-resistant fabrics that shed moisture and prevent the bow’s cables and cams from icing over or snagging on thorns. The design is sleek, minimizing the silhouette so it doesn’t snag on thick timber.

This product is designed for the serious mountain hunter who faces unpredictable alpine weather. If the hunt involves navigating dense, wet forest or exposed ridges where equipment is constantly battered by the elements, the Sitka sling provides peace of mind that a simple nylon strap cannot. It essentially acts as a protective shield for the bow’s most vulnerable parts.

While it carries a premium price point, the durability and weather-sealing capabilities make it a worthwhile addition for high-altitude hunting. It is not for the casual, fair-weather user, but rather for those who require gear that performs when conditions turn south. Choose this if longevity and weather resistance are at the top of the priority list.

Stone Glacier Quick Release: Lightest & Fastest

The Stone Glacier system is engineered for the ultralight hunter who counts every ounce. Its primary feature is the magnetic quick-release attachment, which allows the user to snap the bow onto the pack and release it with one swift motion. The lack of heavy webbing or bulky hardware makes it nearly imperceptible until needed.

This is the definitive choice for the mountain athlete who moves fast and needs to transition between climbing and shooting in seconds. By keeping the weight of the bow integrated into the backpack’s suspension, it mimics the carry experience of a rifle, leaving the arms fatigue-free. It is highly specific to the Stone Glacier ecosystem, so verify compatibility with current gear before purchasing.

For those who already utilize their packs, this is the most streamlined method available. It avoids the awkward “slung over the back” feeling of traditional slings, instead keeping the bow tight against the spine. If speed and weight reduction are the primary drivers of the setup, look no further.

Primos Neoprene Sling: The Best Budget Option

The Primos Neoprene Sling offers a straightforward, functional solution for hunters who don’t want to invest in complex mounting hardware. Its stretchable neoprene material provides a comfortable, cushioned fit that absorbs some of the shock while walking. It effectively covers the cams, which is the most important feature for preventing string wear and tear.

This is ideal for the hobbyist or the part-time hunter who wants a simple, reliable way to keep their hands free without overcomplicating their setup. It is inexpensive, easy to adjust, and fits almost any compound bow on the market. While it lacks the high-speed release mechanisms of frame-mounted systems, it provides a solid foundation for basic terrain navigation.

Do not expect the same level of stability as an integrated pack system, but appreciate it for its simplicity and ease of use. It is a “set it and forget it” tool that performs exactly as advertised. If the budget is tight and the terrain is moderate, this is the most practical choice.

Outdoor Vision Rix Rax: Best Pack Attachment

The Outdoor Vision Rix Rax is a modular system that excels for hunters who carry a heavy loadout and need their bow securely lashed to the pack. It keeps the bow centered, preventing the lopsided weight distribution that often causes back fatigue during long miles. The heavy-duty straps ensure that even in heavy wind or dense brush, the bow remains firmly in place.

This system is perfect for those who carry significant weight and need to ensure their bow isn’t shifting during strenuous climbs. It is essentially a high-performance harness for the bow that prevents it from vibrating or rattling against the pack frame. The construction is rugged, designed to withstand the abuse of heavy-duty mountain hunting.

If the pack currently lacks a dedicated way to carry a bow, this is the best aftermarket upgrade. It is robust, reliable, and keeps the bow secure regardless of how rough the terrain becomes. Buy this if stability is the primary concern above all else.

Choosing a Sling: Pack vs. Standalone Systems

Selecting a sling requires a honest assessment of how the pack and bow interface during a hunt. Pack-integrated systems, like those from Kifaru or Stone Glacier, offer superior weight distribution and stability, but they limit the user to specific gear ecosystems. Standalone slings, like the Primos or FHF options, offer versatility and can be moved from bow to bow without worrying about mounting hardware.

Consider the terrain first. In steep, rocky, or heavily forested areas, having the bow locked tight against the back via a pack-mount is safer and prevents snags. On flatter, more open terrain, a standalone sling might be more than sufficient and significantly easier to manage during short transitions.

Always check for compatibility before committing to a system. Some packs have built-in loops or attachment points that make certain slings much easier to install. Avoid the temptation to force a system to work if it wasn’t designed for that specific pack geometry.

How to Secure Your Bow for Rugged Terrain

When navigating shale slopes or dense thickets, the bow must be secured so that it does not rotate or bounce. Utilize secondary compression straps on the pack to further immobilize the riser, ensuring that the bow stays flush against the back. Even the best sling can fail if the load is not balanced properly on the pack frame.

Always keep the cams protected if the terrain is particularly rocky. A dinged cam can lead to catastrophic string failure, which is the last thing anyone wants miles from the truck. Use a protective cam cover if the chosen sling doesn’t offer full coverage.

Finally, ensure that the sight and rest are not catching on the pack’s webbing. A bow that is too tight against the pack can cause the arrow rest to snag, leading to unwanted noise or mechanical damage. Take the time to adjust the mounting position at home before heading out to ensure a clean release.

Practice Drawing Your Bow From the Sling

Possessing a high-end sling is useless if the user cannot draw the bow quickly when the moment of truth arrives. Spend time practicing the deployment motion in the backyard or the garage under low-stress conditions. Muscle memory is the only thing that will allow for a silent, fluid draw when a target is within range.

Focus on the transition from “carrying” to “shooting” until it takes less than three seconds. Practice with the same gloves or layers intended for the actual hunt, as heavy clothing can significantly change how the bow is grasped or unclipped. If the system feels too slow, reconsider the mounting position or the sling type.

The goal is to make the deployment process entirely subconscious. By practicing consistently, the sling becomes an extension of the gear rather than an obstacle. When the shot counts, the last thing the hunter should be thinking about is how to get the bow off their back.

Sling Materials: Neoprene, Nylon, or Leather?

Material selection dictates the weight, weather resistance, and silence of the sling. Neoprene is soft and stretchy, offering excellent comfort, but it can soak up moisture and lose its shape over time. It is a fantastic budget-friendly material but lacks the long-term durability of synthetic fabrics.

Nylon and cordura-style fabrics are the standard for high-end mountain gear because they are incredibly abrasion-resistant and lightweight. These materials shed water well and stand up to the sharp edges of rock and brush without fraying. While they may be stiffer than neoprene, the tradeoff in durability and protection is well worth it for serious mountain work.

Leather is traditional and durable, but it is rarely the best choice for modern, technical hunting. Leather can become heavy when wet, is slow to dry, and often requires more maintenance than high-tech synthetics. Stick to modern, weather-resistant materials for the best performance in the field, as they offer the most reliable protection for high-value optics and archery equipment.

Investing in a quality bow sling is one of the most practical upgrades a hunter can make for backcountry efficiency. By matching the system to the terrain and the existing pack setup, the physical burden of the hunt is reduced, allowing for greater focus on the task at hand. Properly chosen gear makes the difference between an exhausting trip and a successful, rewarding experience in the mountains.