Ridgeline Gunslinga 35L Hydro Back Pack

I recently tested a few packs from Ridgeline of New Zealand all available in their Buffalo ‘Hide & Seek’ camo. This time it’s the turn of the Gunslinga 35L with Hydro Back Pack. The name indicates it’s facility to carry liquids in an optional, 2L bladder that slips into an internal pouch with a drinking tube that attaches to the shoulder harness. Like all the gear in the range, it’s manufactured from Ridgeline’s own Quiet-Tex material with a PVC lining.

The result - a tough, waterproof and hard wearing product that also offers the benefit of being silent. It measures 20 x 12 x 6” and as the name suggests offers the ability to carry a long gun (muzzle-up), directly on the rear of the pack body. No muzzle cover is supplied, but there is a butt holder permanently attached to the pack, which is an essential part of the design.

Strap On

On the rear of the pack is a large cover flap, secured by twin, adjustable, Q/D buckles. Opening this reveals a set of vertical, Velcro straps, which wrap around the rifle’s action. The outer flap is doubtless there to add some stability and also protect the scope. But depending on the size of the optic I’d recommend some form of cover too; so the objective and eyepiece bells are also protected.

First slide the butt into the holder so you can set the correct mounting height to suit your needs. Then secure the Velcro straps around the action/scope and finally clip the cover into place and cinch it down. In terms of rifles, I had no problems fitting anything into the Gunslinger system. Obviously length and weight are telling factors and if you have never used anything like this before the mass and balance of the rifle might come as a surprise. Here the main shoulder and sternum straps and waist belt need to be tight for stability. Finally; this is not a quick-draw solution either but a long term transportation option! However, the ability to have your rifle on you, yet out of the way, is certainly useful if you are carrying gear or game in and out of the field.

Same for Same

The Gunslinger is near the same as the Ridgeline 30L DayPack. Fully adjustable, the shoulder straps are well padded and there’s a sternum strap and wide waist band with QD buckles and zippered side pockets and a grab handle. The Pack offers a high level of wearer comfort and stowage, its semi-rigid back is contoured, well-padded and mesh-lined. On the sides are elasticated, open-topped pockets to stow ready-use gear. There are also compression straps to secure the internal load; overall a good design even without the rifle carry system. The concept is clever but will probably only appeal to a small market, but build, features and price make this one of the better buys around.

PRICE: £49.99 Optional Extra 2L Hydration Bladder £11.99
FOR - A different approach to long term rifle carriage on the move
AGAINST - Not for everyone
VERDICT - A well made and practical design at good money