I made a bed mounted gun rack because I couldn't fine an aftermarket bed mounted gun rack for the Rhino. I also couldn't fine a single gun roof mounted gun rack that kept the gun very accessable so I built one of those also.
Just thought I would see what you guys think about my idea.

TB

Looks like it might work! I've been thinking about doing something similar but haven't gotten around to it. My concerns would be making sure that the fit is very snug since any movement would cause noise and damage. In your setup I don't see anything to prevent the rifle from moving from side to side and it looks like the barrel end might rattle around. Can't tell but how did you fasten the straps...with snaps?

Good work though and I'm interested in hearing how it works. I'd like something mounted up there so I could access it quickly (prob your reasoning also?) for that sneaky varmint that doesn't want to hold still.

Keep us posted!!

Regards,
Scott

Scott, it's hard to tell in the pictures but the hooks are covered with a clear rubber hose I got at Home Depot. The rubber grabs the synthetic stock very well and there is no side-to-side movement. I bent the hooks so they grab that particular rifle (22 Mag, my varmint gun) very well. The straps are connected with snaps at the end of the hooks and pop rivits on the other end. The Rhino is my huntmobile and I don't drive it lika a madman so I think the rifle will stay put. If it doesn't I will come up with a better way to strap it in securely.

TB

Well, the verdict is in, I used my roof mounted gun rack all last week at the deer lease and my gun rack worked great for both my 243 and my 22mag. Neither gun moved a bit even on the rough rocky terrain of our lease. The clear rubber covering the hooks held the rifles very securely and there was virtually no bounce, even with the heavy deer rifle, while climbing over rocks, logs and dips in the road/ground.
Do you think I should apply for a patent?

TB

The only thing I could see that might need an improvement, its only an opinion, is to make sure you have something where it mounts up to absorb any vibrations. I see you have the rubber for grip, but nothing to absorb or dampen the vibrations at the mount point.

Oh and sorry, it looks great and good luck with the patent.

I get your drift krs_2007 but I don't see how it would have any more vibration then the aftermarket mounts I have seen on the WEB that mount to the top/back of the rollcage, the floorboard or the bed. Besides, it's my huntmobile and I don't drive it like a maniac.

TB

I hear ya, I was just thinking of what I have my 4 wheeler and the rubber part that touches the gun has fins to absorb the shock, that was really the only thing I could see.
I havent really looked at the UTV mounts, but I assume they would have some rubber washers or something, maybe not.

Anyway, it looks good.

I wouldn't apply for a patent, but I'd license it and attempt to sell it to larger companies. I've been down the patent road..it cost 10's of thousands of dollars.

I have personal bad experience with the clam shell type of mounts like that on my 4 wheelers. They shook too hard and constantly knocked my gun outta sight. But perhaps you're setup holds the gun tighter. I would recommend pushing forward with your idea though! It looks nice.

That looks like it would work for that gun.
Have you seen the Vertical Racks for the front of the Rhino made by Gun Grabber?