How to carry a bow on a horse?

DEER_DOG · May 2, 2007

We use horses to get to our base camp and we hike from there. I am wondering what people use to haul their bows with. I have seen a few scabbards, but i am really short(5'5") and i think my leg wouldn't hang past it. I've looked into a few backpacks, but the bows look like they hang down too far. Any info would be great. thanks

canhunter · May 2, 2007

We use hard cases to pack in and then just sling them over our shoulders. We use the same quick detach sling, but loosen it up a little so we can put our head through. Just make sure it is slung on the correct side or you will hit the horse in the belly/flank as you step into the saddle. Pull it to your side in trees or it will get all hung up and want to jerk you off the back.

a3dhunter · May 3, 2007

Many guys use slings so they know exactly where the bow is. I would probably find a daypack that it would fit into and haul it there myself.

Califelkslayer · May 3, 2007

I've seen a scabbard in "Outfitter's Supply" that looks like it rides behind your stirrups, on the horses flank. Would have to try it to see if it rubbed/jabbed the horse.

I use a detachable limb sling, over my head against my left leg. I usually have my left hand on it most of the time. Doesn't interfer with mounting/dismounting. The bow is out where it can get hit by limbs or other things. For packing in I'd take my arrows out of the quiver and but them in something hard, even 4"PVC will do. I leave my arrows in the quiver but thats probably not the best.

Bambistew · May 4, 2007

I just hold it in my hand, or rest it across my lap. The sling thing sounds like a good idea, but I'd be afraid of it getting hunt up on the saddle horn or tree's etc. If something happens it would be pretty tough to get rid of it I would think.

When we're packing in, I lash it to the top of a load, its easy to get to, and really pretty safe there. All the scabards I've seen look like they are a wreck waiting to happen. To much flopping and big chunk of leather/cordura what ever to spook the chit out of a horse once it got flopping around.