For any dedicated hunter or outdoor enthusiast, the quest for the perfect gear is never-ending. Each season brings the opportunity to refine our equipment, seeking out items that enhance our experience and stand up to the rigors of the field. Like many, I am always evaluating new gear, searching for that next piece that will earn a permanent place in my kit. While much gear is tested and discarded, the truly exceptional items become trusted companions on every hunt.
Reflecting on past experiences, I recall purchasing a two-piece rifle cover from Kifaru around two decades ago. This simple sleeve system, with separate components for the barrel and buttstock, effectively shielded my rifle from moisture. Its lightweight design and reliable performance were appreciated for many years. However, its limitations became apparent with longer rifles or larger scopes, and removal could be cumbersome with both covers in place. After Kifaru discontinued this model and my original cover wore out, I spent several years without a dedicated rifle cover.
Later, a friend introduced me to the Solo HNTR rifle cover, which proved to be a solid solution. It accompanied me across numerous Western hunts, providing satisfactory protection. Yet, the pursuit of improvement is inherent in a gear-focused mindset. This curiosity led me to acquire and test several different gun covers during spring bear hunts. For this evaluation, I decided to compare four models: two lightweight options and two heavier-duty alternatives. In the lightweight category, I selected the Solo HNTR Mountain Lite Rifle Cover and the KUIU Rifle Cover. For heavier protection, I chose the Caribou Gear WX Rifle Shield and the Solo HNTR Rugged Rifle Cover.
My primary hunting rifle is a .300 Ultra Mag, featuring a 26″ barrel plus a muzzle brake, resulting in an overall length of 48″. It is equipped with a Nightforce NXS 5.5×22 scope with scope caps, adding another 16.25″ to the total length. This rifle served as the standard for testing all gun covers. Additionally, I assessed the fit using a youth rifle with a Leupold scope, totaling 37″ in length, for covers designed for smaller firearms. To ensure accuracy, I weighed each gun cover myself, rather than relying on manufacturer-provided weights.
Lightweight Gun Cover Comparison
Solo HNTR Mountain Lite Rifle Cover
- Weight: 6oz
- Rifle Length Fit: 36-56″
- MSRP: $39.99
The Solo HNTR Mountain Lite Rifle Cover, originally launched in 2006, was my go-to cover for years after my Kifaru wore out. It offered an excellent fit for my rifle and scope. Among all the covers tested, this model stood out for its ease and speed of application and removal. Its adjustability is noteworthy, accommodating rifles as short as 37″, like the youth model I tested. The barrel area is generously sized, easily accommodating most rifle suppressors.
KUIU Rifle Cover
- Weight: 6.2 oz
- Rifle Length Fit: 42-52″
- MSRP: $49
KUIU’s Rifle Cover, a more recent addition to the market, reflects the brand’s reputation for quality construction. It provided a good fit for my rifle, although the scope area was slightly snug over my Nightforce scope. However, it did manage to fit without issue. A particularly useful feature of the KUIU cover is the inclusion of two small Velcro tabs. One is positioned near the trigger, and the other is closer to the bipod attachment. These tabs allow for a tighter closure, effectively preventing dust and debris from reaching the rifle.
Heavier Weight Gun Cover Comparison
Solo HNTR Rugged Rifle Cover
- Weight: 9.8 oz
- Rifle Length Fit: 36-56″
- MSRP: $69.99
The Solo HNTR Rugged Rifle Cover mirrors the fit of the Mountain Lite version. The key distinction lies in its construction, utilizing a more robust fabric and reinforced barrel and butt ends. The scope area also features a double-layered fabric, providing enhanced protection. Like the Mountain Lite, the barrel area is spacious enough for most rifle suppressors. However, this cover proved to be slightly too large for the 37″ youth rifle, indicating it is better suited for standard to longer length rifles.
Caribou Gear WX Rifle Shield
- Weight: 8.7 oz
- Rifle Length Fit: 36-56″
- MSRP: $75.99
The Caribou Gear WX Rifle Shield, another recent entrant, impressed with its adjustability. This cover offered the most customizable fit, thanks to an internal pull cord that allows users to tailor the length precisely. A Velcro tab in front of the trigger guard further aids in securing the cover. Additionally, it includes two straps for even tighter attachment to the rifle. The WX Rifle Shield fit the 37″ youth rifle exceptionally well, demonstrating its versatility. The primary drawback is the narrower barrel area, which may not accommodate rifles with suppressors.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Gun Cover for Your Needs
All the rifle covers evaluated performed admirably and represent worthwhile investments for rifle protection. Each is constructed from high-quality, water-resistant materials, effectively safeguarding rifles from the elements. For hunters anticipating more severe weather conditions, the heavier weight gun covers would be the preferred choice, offering increased durability and protection.
Ultimately, any serious western hunter should consider using a gun cover. They are a relatively inexpensive safeguard for protecting valuable rifles. Given that many modern hunting rifles represent a significant financial investment, often exceeding the cost of a first car, acquiring a gun cover is a prudent decision. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind and the longevity of your essential hunting equipment.
