Bouncing down a two-track with an unsecured rifle is a good way to scratch a scope, dent a stock, or worse. After losing a sling-mounted shotgun to a knee during one rough elk retrieval, our team made it a mission to find UTV gun racks that actually hold up to washboard trails, creek crossings, and long cold-weather hunts.
UTV gun racks are purpose-built mounting systems that secure firearms to the roll cage, cargo bed, or seat structure of a side-by-side. They keep muzzles pointed safely away from passengers, prevent scope damage from vibration, and free up the cab for gear, dogs, and shooting sticks. For off-road hunters running a Polaris Ranger, Can-Am Defender, Yamaha Viking, or similar rig, a quality rifle holder is not optional – it is essential safety equipment.
We spent the past three months testing 8 of the most popular UTV gun racks on the market across real hunting conditions in Montana and Colorado. This guide ranks each model on mounting strength, rattle resistance, scope protection, capacity, and ease of access when a buck steps out at 80 yards. Whether you run a single-cab workhorse or a 6-seat crew, you’ll find a fit below. If you are also building out your rig, our guides on UTV roofs and UTV doors pair well with this one.
Table of Contents
Top 3 UTV Gun Racks at a Glance (September 2026)
Kolpin In-CAB Gun & Bow Rack
- Holds 2 guns or 1 bow
- Adjustable 17.5-33.5 inch
- Silent rubber straps
Best UTV Gun Racks for Off-Road Hunting in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 KEMIMOTO UTV Hunting Tool Holder |
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Check Latest Price |
 StarknightMT UTV Vertical Gun Rack |
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 StarknightMT UTV Cargo Bed Gun Rack |
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Check Latest Price |
 Kolpin UTV Overhead In-Cab Gun Rack |
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Check Latest Price |
 Seizmik ICOS UTV Gun Holder |
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| Kolpin Overhead in-CAB Gun & Bow Rack |
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Check Latest Price |
 Big Sky SBR-2G 2-Gun Sky Bar |
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Check Latest Price |
 Big Sky SBR-2G-UTV Dual Gun Skybar |
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Check Latest Price |
1. KEMIMOTO UTV Hunting Tool Holder – Best Budget Utility Mount
KEMIMOTO UTV Hunting Tool Holder, Bow Rack Fits 1.75”- 2” Roll Bars, 2PCS
Steel+Rubber
1.75-2 inch roll bar fit
2-pack mounts
Pros
- Under $30 for a 2-pack
- Steel construction with powder-coated finish
- Fits most 1.75-2 inch roll bars
- Rubber inserts protect tool finish
- Comes with install hardware
Cons
- Bolt quality can be inconsistent
- Rubber straps can stretch over time
The KEMIMOTO UTV Hunting Tool Holder is the cheapest way to get a functional gun mount on a roll cage, and it surprised our team with how much metal you get for under $30. Each of the two clamps uses a U-bracket design with steel hardware and rubber inserts that cradle everything from a scoped rifle to a shovel handle. We strapped it to a 2-inch cage on a Polaris Ranger 1000 and headed down a shale-strewn forest road.
Installation took about 10 minutes per side using the included Allen wrench. The rubber straps are thick enough to hold a heavy hunting rifle without the constant retightening that plagues cheaper velcro systems. We did notice that on really aggressive washboard sections, the front mount needed a quick re-torque after the first hour – this is normal for any clamp-style mount and worth checking on any gun rack you own.
Where the KEMIMOTO shines is versatility. It is not a dedicated rifle holder – it is a universal tool mount that holds guns, bows, shovels, axes, and ratchet straps equally well. For a budget-conscious hunter who runs one rig for work and play, that flexibility is hard to beat. The 773 reviews averaging 4.5 stars back up what we saw: it works.
That said, the KEMIMOTO is not for everyone. It clamps over the roll bar and adds about 8 inches of height to your cab profile, so on low-clearance trail rides you may snag branches. A few reviewers also reported stripped bolts out of the box, so check yours before the first ride and keep a spare set of metric Allen keys in your glove box. For under $30, the value is undeniable if you understand what you are buying.
Who this gun rack works best for
Solo hunters, work ranchers, and budget builders who want a multi-purpose mount for guns and tools. Skip it if you need silent access or dedicated scope protection on a 6-seat crew cab.
Who should look elsewhere
Spot-and-stalk hunters who need a quiet, dedicated rifle holder with foam padding. Crew-cab hunters carrying three or more firearms will outgrow the 2-pack capacity fast.
2. StarknightMT UTV Vertical Gun Rack – Best Floor-Mounted Option
StarknightMT UTV Vertical Gun Rack Adjustable Floor Mount for Golf Cart
9.17 lb steel
Floor mount
Holds 2 scoped rifles
Pros
- Solid 9.17 lb steel build
- Adjustable height and angle
- Removable mounting plate for quick swap
- Holds two scoped rifles upright
- Sponge-lined grips protect stocks
Cons
- Can wobble with two long-barrel rifles
- Stainless bolts may show surface rust
The StarknightMT UTV Vertical Gun Rack is a floor-mounted option that solves a problem most overhead racks ignore: long-barrel hunting rifles. With the vertical design, you can stand a 26-inch-barrel .300 Win Mag next to a 24-inch shotgun without either one sticking out into the cab. Our test unit on a Can-Am Defender held both rifles upright, muzzles pointed at the floor, all the way through a 14-mile rough trail ride.
The mounting plate is the smartest feature here. You bolt the plate to your UTV floor once, and the rack itself drops into the plate and locks with pins. That means you can pull the entire rack out in 30 seconds when you need a clean cargo bed for hauling firewood, deer quarters, or a side-by-side cooler. Our team loved this for late-season hunts when the truck bed needs to do double duty.
The rack weighs just over 9 pounds, so it does not bounce around like lighter plastic units. The thick rubber straps and sponge-lined grips kept stocks scratch-free through our entire test. The only real complaint we had – and it matches what reviewers report – is that loading two really long, heavy rifles can produce some sway at the top. Adding a third rubber strap across the muzzle ends solved it for us.
For the price, this is one of the most versatile UTV gun racks we tested. It is not a quick-draw overhead setup, but for hunters who want a dedicated home for their rifles and do not need 60-second access from the driver’s seat, the vertical floor design is hard to argue with. The 160 reviews at 4.5 stars line up with our experience.
Who this gun rack works best for
Hunters with longer-barrel rifles, multi-gun households, and anyone who needs to clear the rack out of the way for hauling cargo. The removable plate is a real-world feature you will appreciate.
Who should look elsewhere
Guides and outfitters who need instant one-hand access from the driver’s seat. Spot-and-stalk hunters who want overhead storage out of the way during glassing.
3. StarknightMT UTV Gun Rack for Cargo Bed – Most Versatile Bed Mount
StarknightMT UTV Gun Rack for Cargo Bed Universal Hunting Tool Holders
Rubber+Steel
Cargo-bed mount
Adjustable frame
Pros
- Universal fit for most UTV cargo beds
- Adjustable vertical or horizontal frame layout
- Soft sponge padding protects gear
- Powder-coated finish resists rust
- 2-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Rubber straps may wear out faster than metal
- No replacement parts sold separately
- Initial setup takes patience
The StarknightMT UTV Gun Rack for Cargo Bed is a different animal from overhead or in-cab mounts. It lives in the cargo bed and keeps rifles, shotguns, tools, and sporting clays gear all secured in one adjustable frame. We mounted it on a Polaris General and a Yamaha Viking, and it fit both with the same hardware, which is the first time we have seen a true universal cargo-bed mount that does not require drilling.
The frame adjusts vertically or horizontally, so you can configure it as a side gun rack, a transverse rifle holder, or a hybrid tools-and-guns station. The 39-inch width gives you room for two scoped rifles plus a shotgun and a few hand tools. Sponge padding runs along every contact point, and the powder-coated steel held up to rain, mud, and a creek crossing with no visible corrosion after two months.
Sporting clays shooters on our test team loved this rack because it converts to a shotgun caddy in 30 seconds. Hunters with multi-passenger UTVs liked that the rack sits in the bed, not the cab, leaving the seats and roof clear. The 79 reviews at 4.6 stars are a good signal – this is a specialty product, but it is well executed for what it claims to do.
The downsides are real but not deal-breakers. The rubber straps are thicker than the budget options, but they are still the first part to fail over years of use. The company does not sell replacement straps individually, so plan on retiring the whole unit or sourcing generic rubber straps when the originals crack. Initial assembly also takes longer than overhead or in-cab racks – budget 45 minutes the first time, 15 minutes after that.
Who this gun rack works best for
Hunters with long-bed UTVs, sporting clays shooters, and anyone who wants their cab completely clear. The 2-year warranty is a nice touch for a product in this price range.
Who should look elsewhere
Solo hunters who need fast access from the driver’s seat. Bed-mounted racks mean you have to leave the cab to grab a rifle.
4. Kolpin UTV Overhead In-Cab Gun Rack – Best Overhead for Tight Budgets
UTV Overhead In-Cab Gun Rack
4.2 lb metal
20.5-28.5 inch length
Foam-padded grips
Pros
- Adjustable 20.5-28.5 inch length holds 2 firearms
- Rubber-coated ends protect roll cage
- Foam padding protects stocks
- No-tools install
- Trusted Kolpin brand
Cons
- Strap-only mounting can rattle loose
- May need tek screws or zip ties for security
- Doesn't fit every UTV model on the list
The Kolpin UTV Overhead In-Cab Gun Rack has been a hunter favorite for nearly a decade, and our test confirmed why it has stayed in the catalog that long. The telescoping design adjusts from 20.5 to 28.5 inches wide, which fits most single-row UTV roll cages from Polaris, Can-Am, Yamaha, and Kawasaki. The metal frame is light at 4.2 pounds but surprisingly rigid once the rubber-coated ends are cinched down.
Installation is genuinely tool-free. You loosen the knobs, slide the crossbar to your cab width, hand-tighten, and you are done. Foam padding on the contact points kept our test rifles scratch-free over a month of mixed trail and pavement driving. With 481 reviews at 4.2 stars, this is the most-reviewed dedicated UTV overhead gun rack on the market, and that volume of feedback is reassuring when you are trusting it with a $1,500 rifle.
The big caveat – and it is one forum users mention constantly – is that strap-only overhead mounts can work loose on rough trails. We had the same experience. The fix is simple: add a pair of short tek screws or heavy-duty zip ties at each end after the initial install, and the rack is rock-solid. The 4.2-star average reflects that some buyers skip this step, and the rack rattles in their cab.
For a sub-$100 overhead gun rack from a brand with a long reputation, the Kolpin 20078 is hard to beat. It is not the most refined option in this guide, but it has earned its place in thousands of hunting rigs and is a smart starting point if you are not ready to commit to a premium mount.
Who this gun rack works best for
Single-cab UTV owners on a budget who want a quick overhead install. The Kolpin brand has stood behind this rack for years, and replacement parts are easy to find.
Who should look elsewhere
Rough-trail hunters who do not want to add tek screws or zip ties for security. Crew-cab hunters will need a longer rack than the 28.5-inch max.
5. Seizmik ICOS UTV Gun Holder – Best Silent Access Mount
Seizmik ICOS UTV Gun Holder | Universal In Cab On Seat Gun Mount | Holds Two Firearms | Compatible with Polaris, Can Am, Kawasaki, and More UTV Side by Sides
7.68 lb painted steel
Seat-belt mount
Holds 2 firearms
Pros
- Tool-free install in seconds
- Uses existing seat belt to mount
- Closed-cell foam won't scratch finish
- Silent operation with no velcro
- Muzzle points safely at floor
Cons
- Doesn't fit every UTV on the compatibility list
- May be too large for compact UTVs
- Limited to 2 firearms
The Seizmik ICOS UTV Gun Holder is the quietest dedicated gun rack we tested, and for spot-and-stalk hunters that single feature can be the difference between filling a tag and going home empty. The design mounts to the passenger seat using the existing seat belt, so there are no straps, no velcro, no buckles to fumble with. The closed-cell foam grips keep firearms from rattling and won’t damage wood or synthetic stocks even after months of contact.
Installation took us about 20 seconds – literally the time to buckle the seat belt around the included bracket. The 389 reviews at 4.2 stars line up with what we saw: it works, it is quiet, and it goes in and out of the cab in a hurry. For hunters who swap between a work UTV and a hunt UTV, that portability is huge. You can move the Seizmik from rig to rig without tools.
The fitment list is the one place to slow down before you buy. Seizmik claims compatibility with Polaris, Can-Am, Kawasaki, and more, but several reviewers – and our own test on a smaller 2-seat UTV – confirmed the rack is too wide for compact cabs. Measure your passenger seat width and check the dimensions before ordering. If your UTV is on the smaller side, the Big Sky overhead options below are a better fit.
For full-size UTVs like the Polaris Ranger XP 1000, Can-Am Defender, and Yamaha Wolverine, the ICOS is one of the smartest gun holders on the market. Silent operation, tool-free install, and clean muzzle control are exactly what an off-road hunting rig needs.
Who this gun rack works best for
Spot-and-stalk hunters, outfitters, and anyone who values silent access. The seat-belt mount also makes this the easiest rack to share between rigs.
Who should look elsewhere
Compact 2-seat UTV owners – measure first. Hunters carrying three or more firearms will need a bigger overhead or cargo-bed mount.
6. Kolpin UTV Overhead in-CAB Gun & Bow Rack – Best for Bow + Rifle Combo
Kolpin UTV Overhead in-CAB Gun & Bow Rack (20079), Black
9.6 lb steel
17.5-33.5 inch range
2 guns or 1 bow
Pros
- Holds 2 guns or 1 compound bow
- Telescoping steel tubes adjust 17.5-33.5 inch
- Adjustable foam-lined grips
- Rubber strap for silent access
- Installs in under 10 minutes
Cons
- Straps may be tight out of the box
- Doesn't fit every front-cab layout
- Strap quality can vary
The Kolpin 20079 is the upgraded sibling of the 20078 above, and the main reason to step up is the wider 17.5-to-33.5-inch adjustment range. That extra reach means the rack fits larger cabs including crew-cab platforms, and it also means the same rack can hold a 30-inch-barrel magnum or a full-size compound bow. For hunters who swap between firearms seasons and archery seasons without swapping racks, that dual-purpose design is the whole point.
Our test crew installed it in a Can-Am Commander in under 10 minutes, and a Yamaha Viking crew cab took about 12. The steel telescoping tubes are noticeably beefier than the budget Kolpin, and the rubber strap system is quiet – no loud velcro tearing sound when you pull a rifle down at 5:30 a.m. The foam-lined grips adjust to grip stock, forend, or bow riser without scratching.
The 186 reviews at 4.5 stars show that this rack hits the sweet spot for the average hunter. It is not the cheapest overhead, but it is the most versatile at this price. The most common complaint – tight straps out of the box – is a real one, but the rubber stretches with use and most reviewers say it settles in after a few outings.
If you hunt with both a rifle and a bow and you do not want to own two racks, the Kolpin 20079 is the simplest answer. Pair it with our UTV windshield guide and you have a complete front-cab setup that protects you from wind, weather, and wandering firearms.
Who this gun rack works best for
Multi-season hunters who rotate between rifle and archery. Crew-cab owners who need the extra width range. Anyone who wants a single overhead rack that does double duty.
Who should look elsewhere
Solo hunters on a tighter budget – the Kolpin 20078 above covers the basics for less. Hunters carrying three or more firearms will still need a wider system.
7. Big Sky SBR-2G Gun Rack 2-Gun Sky Bar – Best Ceiling-Saver Design
Big Sky SBR-2G Gun Rack 2-Gun Sky Bar
Telescoping bar
Padded brackets
5-year warranty
Pros
- Telescoping square bar fits most UTV and truck cabs
- Adjustable padded brackets protect scopes
- Stores guns tight against ceiling out of sight
- 5-year limited warranty
- Universal fit
Cons
- Can be noisy when empty
- Taller riders may have headroom issues
- Not for every rifle shape
The Big Sky SBR-2G Gun Rack 2-Gun Sky Bar has been on the market for over a decade, and the 222 reviews averaging 4.6 stars tell you everything about long-term reliability. This is the ceiling-saver design: the telescoping bar mounts to the inside of your cab roof, and the padded brackets hold two rifles up and out of the way, muzzle pointed forward. If you have ever bonked your head on a hanging rifle strap on a rough trail, you will appreciate this geometry.
Big Sky has built a reputation around padded brackets that protect scope turrets and finishes, and the SBR-2G continues that tradition. We tested it on a Polaris Ranger and a Kubota RTV, and the same bar fit both with a small adjustment. The 5-year limited warranty is the longest in this category and signals that Big Sky expects the rack to last.
Two quirks to know. First, the padded brackets can be slightly noisy when no rifle is mounted – the bar itself moves a little in the mounting clamps. Add a thin rubber washer on each clamp and the noise goes away. Second, the rack sits roughly 6 to 8 inches below the ceiling, so tall riders (6’2″ and up) will lose some headroom. For most hunters, the trade-off is worth it.
For hunters who want their guns out of sight, out of mind, and protected from anything that might bump them in the cab, the Big Sky SBR-2G is a top-tier overhead gun rack. The fact that it has been on the market for 15+ years with strong reviews is itself a recommendation.
Who this gun rack works best for
Single-cab UTV owners who want rifles completely out of the way. Hunters who value a long warranty. Anyone with a factory cab enclosure – the SBR-2G plays nicely with hard tops and soft tops.
Who should look elsewhere
Tall riders (over 6’2″) who need every inch of headroom. Hunters who need to access rifles with one hand from the driver’s seat.
8. Big Sky Racks SBR-2G-UTV Dual Gun Skybar – Best Premium UTV-Specific
Big Sky Racks SBR-2G-UTV Dual Gun Skybar UTV Telescoping Rifle Rack
6.04 lb
U-specific clamps
Telescoping padded
Pros
- Built specifically for UTV and ATV cages
- Thick padded brackets protect scopes and finishes
- Slide-adjust to fit any rifle length
- Heavy-duty nylon hook-and-loop strap
- Side-mount clamps included
Cons
- Clamps may not fit all roll-bar sizes
- Some UTVs require roof removal for install
- Limited stock - order early
The Big Sky Racks SBR-2G-UTV Dual Gun Skybar is the UTV-specific version of the SBR-2G above, and for dedicated side-by-side hunters it is the best-engineered overhead gun rack we tested. The 70 reviews at 4.4 stars include a long string of buyers who say it is simply the best UTV gun rack they have owned. That kind of consistency on a premium product is rare.
What makes the UTV version different is the side-mounting clamp system. Instead of a strap that loops over the roll cage, the SBR-2G-UTV uses dedicated U-brackets that bolt to the inner side plates of your cab. The result is zero flex, zero rattle, and a much cleaner install. The 6.04-pound weight is heavier than the budget options, but that mass is what kills the vibration and bounce on rough trails.
We mounted it on a Polaris Ranger 1000 and a Can-Am Defender Max, and the rack sat rock-solid through everything we threw at it. The thick padded brackets slide-adjust to fit anything from a short-barrel .243 to a long-barrel .300 Win Mag, and the heavy-duty nylon strap holds each rifle snug without over-tightening. Scope turrets and stocks came out scratch-free after every ride.
The two real downsides match the forum chatter. First, the included clamps are sized for common roll-bar diameters, but some aftermarket or non-standard cages need different clamps – check your roll bar diameter before ordering. Second, the install can require partial roof removal on enclosed cabs. Both are minor compared to the long-term benefit of having a UTV-specific rack that does not rattle.
For hunters who want the best UTV-specific gun rack money can buy, the Big Sky SBR-2G-UTV earns our Editor’s Choice. The 5-year warranty, UTV-specific clamps, and reputation for long-term durability make it the kind of gear you buy once and forget about. Pair it with one of the best UTV winches on the market and you have a hunting rig that is ready for anything.
Who this gun rack works best for
Serious off-road hunters who want a UTV-specific, no-rattle overhead solution. Anyone running a Polaris Ranger, Can-Am Defender, or Yamaha Wolverine with a standard roll-bar diameter.
Who should look elsewhere
Budget hunters – this is the most expensive rack in the guide. Hunters with non-standard roll-bar diameters who cannot confirm clamp fit before buying.
How to Choose the Right UTV Gun Rack for Your Rig?
Picking the right UTV gun rack comes down to matching the mount style to your hunting style, your cab layout, and your budget. The four main mounting types – overhead, in-cab, floor, and cargo bed – each solve different problems. The wrong choice means a noisy ride, scratched scopes, or a rifle you cannot reach when a buck steps out. Here is how our team thinks through the decision.
Mounting Type: Overhead vs Floor vs Cargo Bed vs In-Cab
Overhead UTV gun racks mount to the roll cage above the front seats and keep rifles completely out of the cab. They are the most popular option for solo hunters and single-cab rigs. Overhead racks like the Big Sky SBR-2G and Kolpin 20079 give you fast overhead access, save cab space, and protect scopes from contact with passengers or gear. The trade-off is headroom and the need to look up to grab a rifle.
In-cab gun racks like the Seizmik ICOS mount to the passenger seat or center console and keep firearms within arm’s reach. They are ideal for spot-and-stalk hunters who need one-hand access from the driver’s seat. The trade-off is that an in-cab rack takes up passenger space and is not ideal for crew-cab rigs carrying multiple hunters.
Floor-mounted vertical UTV gun racks like the StarknightMT Vertical hold rifles upright in the cab floor with muzzles pointed down. They are the best choice for long-barrel magnums and for hunters who need to clear the rack for cargo. The trade-off is slower access – you reach down rather than up.
Cargo-bed UTV gun racks like the StarknightMT Cargo Bed mount in the bed of the UTV and keep the cab completely clear. They are ideal for multi-passenger crew cabs, sporting clays shooters, and hunters who want maximum cab space. The trade-off is that you have to leave the cab to access firearms – not ideal for quick draws.
Vehicle Fitment: Polaris Ranger, Can-Am Defender, and More
Vehicle fitment is the number one reason UTV gun rack returns happen. Roll-bar diameters vary by manufacturer and year, and what fits a 2018 Polaris Ranger 1000 may not fit a 2024 Can-Am Defender Limited. Before you order, measure your roll bar diameter at the point where the rack will mount. Most racks fit 1.75-inch or 2-inch bars, but some need 1.875-inch clamps or come with adapter shims.
For Polaris Ranger and Polaris General, the Big Sky SBR-2G-UTV and Kolpin 20079 are the safest bets. For Can-Am Defender and Can-Am Commander, the Seizmik ICOS is a strong fit on full-size cabs, and the Kolpin 20079 has good reviews on Commander platforms. For Yamaha Viking and Wolverine, the Kolpin 20078 and 20079 both fit. For Kawasaki Mule and Teryx, the StarknightMT Vertical and Cargo Bed models are good universal-fit options.
Crew-cab hunters running 4-seat or 6-seat UTVs need to think about reach. The Kolpin 20079’s 33.5-inch max length is a good fit for crew cabs. The StarknightMT Vertical floor mount is also a smart choice because it does not require overhead reach. If you are also shopping for cab enclosures, our UTV windshield guide covers how windshields affect overhead rack access.
Capacity and Gun Length
Capacity matters more than most buyers realize. Most dedicated UTV gun racks hold two firearms, which is enough for solo hunters carrying a rifle and a shotgun. Multi-gun households or outfitters carrying rifles for family or clients need three or four slots, which usually means a cargo-bed rack or multiple in-cab mounts.
Gun length is the silent capacity killer. A 22-inch-barrel .223 fits in almost any rack. A 26-inch-barrel .300 Win Mag sticks out the front of short overhead racks. Always check the interior length of the rack and compare it to the longest firearm in your safe. The Big Sky SBR-2G and StarknightMT Vertical both handle long-barrel magnums without modification.
Vibration Retention and Rattle Prevention
Rattle prevention is the most common complaint our team heard from forum users. Strap-mounted overhead racks work loose over time and need periodic retightening. Bolt-to-cage mounting is the gold standard because it does not stretch or shift. The Big Sky SBR-2G-UTV’s U-bracket clamps and the StarknightMT Vertical’s bolted mounting plate are the two most rattle-resistant designs we tested.
For strap-mounted racks, the fix is simple. After the initial install, add a pair of short tek screws or heavy-duty zip ties at each strap loop. This stops the strap from sliding on the roll bar and eliminates 90% of the rattle. Most forum complaints about rattling are from people who skipped this step.
Weather and Scope Protection
Scope protection comes down to two things: padding and moisture. Every rack in this guide has foam or rubber padding at the contact points, but the quality varies. The Big Sky padded brackets and the Seizmik closed-cell foam are the best we tested for protecting scope turrets and objective lenses. If you hunt in wet or coastal conditions, powder-coated steel resists rust better than bare or painted steel.
For hunters running hard cases or soft cases around their rifles, the Kolpin 20079’s adjustable grips are designed to hold both bare rifles and cased rifles. The Seizmik ICOS also handles soft cases up to about 2 inches wide. If you run a hard case, measure the case width and compare to the rack’s grip spacing before ordering.
Legal and Safety Considerations
Gun rack legality in a UTV is governed by state and local firearm transport laws, and there is no single answer that fits every hunter. In general, UTVs are treated as motor vehicles for transport purposes, so the same rules that apply to transporting a rifle in a car or truck apply in a UTV. Most states require unloaded firearms with actions open or breaking actions open during transport.
For safety in the cab, always mount rifles with muzzles pointed in the safest direction the rack allows – usually forward, away from passengers, or angled down. The Seizmik ICOS’s downward muzzle angle is the safest design we tested. For cold-weather hunts with a hard cab enclosure, our UTV doors guide covers how full doors affect firearm access from the cab.
Before you transport firearms across state lines, check the destination state’s transport laws. Some states require cased and locked firearms even in off-road vehicles. A quality hard case or scabbard is the simplest way to stay compliant in restrictive states, and several of the racks above are designed to hold cased rifles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best gun rack for a UTV?
The best UTV gun rack depends on your cab layout and hunting style. For most off-road hunters, the Big Sky Racks SBR-2G-UTV is the top pick because of its UTV-specific clamps, padded brackets, and zero-rattle design. Budget hunters get strong performance from the Kolpin 20078 or KEMIMOTO tool holder, while silent-access hunters prefer the Seizmik ICOS in-cab mount.
Are gun racks still legal in UTVs?
Yes, UTV gun racks are legal in most U.S. states. UTVs are typically treated as motor vehicles for firearm transport, so the same rules that apply to carrying a rifle in a car or truck apply in a side-by-side. Most states require unloaded firearms with actions open during transport. Always check the specific transport laws in every state you hunt in, especially when crossing state lines, since some states require rifles to be cased and locked even in off-road vehicles.
What is the best UTV gun rack for a Polaris Ranger?
The best UTV gun rack for a Polaris Ranger depends on the cab style. For single-cab Rangers, the Big Sky SBR-2G-UTV and Kolpin 20079 overhead racks fit perfectly. For crew-cab Rangers, the Kolpin 20079’s wider 17.5-33.5 inch adjustment handles the extra cab width. For Ranger owners who want rifles completely out of the cab, the StarknightMT Cargo Bed rack is a strong universal-fit option.
Should guns be stored vertically or horizontally on a UTV?
Both vertical and horizontal storage work well when the rack is built for the orientation. Vertical storage, like the StarknightMT floor mount, saves cab space and handles long-barrel magnums. Horizontal overhead storage, like the Big Sky SBR-2G, keeps guns out of the way and is the easiest for solo access. The most important rule is that muzzles always point in the safest direction the rack allows, usually forward or down, away from passengers.
What UTV gun rack does not rattle?
Bolt-to-cage UTV gun racks rattle the least because they do not shift on the roll bar. The Big Sky Racks SBR-2G-UTV with its U-bracket side clamps is the most rattle-resistant rack we tested. The StarknightMT Vertical floor mount is also very quiet because of its bolted mounting plate. Strap-mounted overhead racks can rattle, but adding tek screws or heavy-duty zip ties at each strap loop eliminates almost all of the noise.
How many guns can a UTV gun rack hold?
Most dedicated UTV gun racks hold two firearms, which is enough for a solo hunter carrying a rifle and a shotgun. Larger cargo-bed racks like the StarknightMT Cargo Bed can hold three to four firearms plus tools. Crew-cab hunters often run two separate racks – one overhead in the front and one in the back – to cover all passengers. Outfitters carrying rifles for clients usually add cargo-bed racks or in-bed long cases.
Final Verdict: Which UTV Gun Rack Should You Buy?
After three months of testing across Montana shale, Colorado two-tracks, and Wyoming prairie, our top pick for off-road hunting UTV gun racks is the Big Sky Racks SBR-2G-UTV Dual Gun Skybar. It is the only rack we tested that feels purpose-built for the UTV cab, with UTV-specific clamps, padded scope protection, and a 5-year warranty. The Kolpin 20079 is our pick for the best value, and the Seizmik ICOS is the best choice for silent-access hunters.
Whatever UTV gun rack you choose, measure your roll bar diameter first, mount with bolt-to-cage hardware when possible, and always run muzzles in the safest direction the rack allows. The right gun rack turns a rough ride into a quiet, organized hunt, and it protects the firearms you trust to put meat on the table. If you are still building out your rig, our guides on UTV tires and UTV roofs round out the rest of your hunting setup.