View Full Version : Rifle case for horse mounted movement
Destrier
05-03-2012, 18:45
Looking for suggestions for a rifle case for horse mounted movement. Have considered some of the soft cases, but not sure they will hold up as leather was the standard for so many centuries. The rifle skabbard / case would need to fit a .308, 18" OBR with Bushnell HDMR scope.
I think your best bet is likely going to be something that is custom made. Most of the commercially available leather rifle cases are, as you already know, made more for bolt-action long guns. A few of them claim to hold a scoped weapon, but depending upon the product, most reviewers have stated that it is a tight fit. The primary problem with most commercially available saddle-cases are that they don't accomodate a rifle with a pistol grip, a 10-30 round magazine and a scope. :confused:
However, Diamond D Custom Leather makers in Wasilla, AK makes a product that with a few modifications can likely fit the bill. It is listed as a "Lever Action Rifle Scabbard" and sells for $165. As I'm looking at it, I can see that it would work if you a.) allowed for the pistol grip to remain outside of the scabbard and b.) if you stowed the rifle without the mag in the well. That may be a problem if you need to engage quickly. Check out their product catalogue: http://www.diamonddcustomleather.com/Product_Catalog.html
One last point to make: I think you are going to have to consider how you will lash the case to the saddle. More than likely, you'll need to attach the saddle-case parallel, but just in front of your leg so you can draw the weapon easily. That means you'll need to consider how to lash the rifle case straps to the saddle horn and probably the stirrup. You may need to customize your saddle a bit too. I am assuming you're riding a western or Australian-type saddle and not the standard 1859 McClellan or an English saddle. And have a mount that won't spook easily if he gets the business end of a .308 tapping off his triceps occasionally. :eek:
Cheers,
Dale
Destrier
05-04-2012, 00:57
Thank you, I have an Amish leather worker / tact shop nearby but his custom stuff is a little rough around the edges, but sturdy. Mount is good to go, retired police mount, does real well with gunfire and is steady. Saddle is an Australian endurance style, no horn, but with about 8 attachment points. I'll look at your suggestion and see what I can work out.
Much appreciated.
Destrier
08-20-2012, 10:17
Found one online recently for any interested.
http://www.aussiesaddle.com/products/carbine_scabbard.html
sabasarge
08-28-2012, 12:49
Destrier, you may want to give Weaver Leather a look. They make quality stuff, and I rode with a scabbard of theirs for years, albeit for a lever gun.
I'm bett'n they can custom you up something for that scoped .308
http://www.ridethebrand.com/downloads/product-catalog/scabbards.pdf
Destrier
08-28-2012, 12:54
Appreciate the link. However, uust got home from my tact shop and saw your note. My scabbard is done, similar to the one above, will post a picture next time I have Nino all saddled up.
sabasarge
08-28-2012, 13:03
No problem. I hadn't noticed how old the thread was, and am glad you found something.
I also appreciate your link.....their stuff looks top-notch.
Destrier
08-28-2012, 13:38
Here are some pictures as I work on making tie downs. Will have a quick release center strap, and a stock strap. I noticed they also mentioned a rifle to saddle tie down. or to riders belt so if things got odd, do not loose rifle.
Destrier,
Looks like your Amish guy did a good job with his leatherwork. I especially like how uncomplicated the design is. Did your guy put grommets in the leather where the barrel is placed? Looks like it would hold water otherwise. Please post a few pictures of Nino under saddle with your new kit. I'm curious to know how he handles himself at a trot/canter with the weapon attached. Are you mainly using this setup for hunting? How much time are you spending in point to point movement?
I've never used an Aussie saddle, but I understand that most folks love the fit & comfort. Enjoy yourself!
Dale
Destrier
09-01-2012, 18:33
Ok, all set up, although this could be posted in that Open Carry thread, be interesting to get stopped when out for a ride.