Let’s agree on something: your Can-Am Traxter is a workhorse built for the wild. But when you’re deep in the backcountry, the last thing you want is your rifle bouncing around the cab, a scope getting knocked off-zero, or gear scattered everywhere. An unsecured firearm isn’t just inconvenient—it’s a serious safety risk and an expensive accident waiting to happen.
I promise this guide will solve that problem for good. We’re going to walk you through everything you need to know about outfitting your rig with the best Can-Am Traxter gun racks and hunting accessories. This isn’t just a list of parts; it’s a field-tested blueprint for making your machine safer, more organized, and ultimately, more effective for your hunt.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the different types of gun racks, how to choose and install them, essential accessories that go beyond the rack, and a care guide to make sure your investment lasts for seasons to come. Let’s get your Traxter dialed in.
Why Your Traxter Needs Specialized Hunting Gear
Outfitting your UTV is about more than just convenience. It’s about transforming a capable machine into a purpose-built tool for the hunt. The right setup enhances safety, protects your valuable gear, and makes you more efficient when every second counts.
Safety First: Securing Your Firearm
This is non-negotiable. A firearm sliding around the cab or bed is a recipe for disaster. A proper gun rack ensures your rifle or shotgun is held securely, with the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times. It prevents accidental discharge and keeps the firearm out of the way while you navigate rough terrain, protecting both you and your passengers.
Protecting Your Investment: Scopes, Stocks, and Finish
High-quality firearms and optics are significant investments. Bouncing around in a UTV can wreak havoc on a rifle’s zero, scratch a custom stock, or damage the finish. A good rack with padded grips absorbs vibrations and holds the firearm steady, preserving your gear’s condition and accuracy. This is one of the key benefits of Can-Am Traxter gun racks and hunting accessories—peace of mind.
Efficiency in the Field: Quick, Quiet Access
When you spot your game, fumbling for your rifle is not an option. The best racks offer a balance of security and accessibility. They allow you to retrieve your firearm quickly and quietly, without clanging metal or wrestling with complicated straps. This stealth and speed can be the difference between a filled tag and a missed opportunity.
A Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Can-Am Traxter Gun Racks and Hunting Accessories
With so many options on the market, picking the right gear can feel overwhelming. This Can-Am Traxter gun racks and hunting accessories guide breaks down the critical factors to consider, helping you make an informed choice for your specific needs.
Types of Gun Racks: Know Your Options
Where you mount your rack impacts accessibility, protection, and cab space. Each style has its own pros and cons.
- Overhead Racks: These mount to the roll cage inside the cab. They keep firearms up and out of the way, protecting them from mud, rain, and trail debris. They are a great choice for keeping your gear clean and secure, but can sometimes be slower to access.
- Bed-Mounted Racks: Mounted to the sides or front of the cargo bed, these offer very easy access. They’re perfect for hunters who need to grab their firearm quickly. The downside is exposure to the elements and potential for dust and mud contamination.
- In-Cab/Vertical Racks: These racks often sit on the floor or against the back of the cab, holding firearms vertically. They offer excellent security and protection but take up valuable passenger or gear space.
Material Matters: Steel vs. Aluminum vs. Plastic
The construction of the rack determines its durability and longevity.
- Steel: Extremely strong and durable, but heavier and can be prone to rust if the coating gets scratched. Look for powder-coated finishes.
- Aircraft-Grade Aluminum: Offers a great balance of strength and light weight. It’s naturally corrosion-resistant, making it a fantastic choice for wet environments.
- High-Impact Plastic/Polymer: Lightweight and will never rust. Modern polymers are incredibly tough, but may not have the rigid feel of metal. They are often more forgiving on your firearm’s finish.
Holding Power: Grips, Cradles, and Cases
How the rack holds your gun is crucial. Look for deep, soft rubber grips or forks that can be adjusted to fit your specific firearm. Some systems, like the Kolpin Stronghold, use a full hard-sided boot that offers the ultimate protection from dust and impact. Always check that the grips are large enough for your stock and forearm, especially if you use a chassis-style rifle.
Compatibility Check: The LinQ System and Aftermarket Solutions
Can-Am’s proprietary LinQ system is a game-changer. It allows for quick, tool-less installation and removal of accessories. If you want maximum convenience, look for racks that are LinQ-compatible. However, many excellent aftermarket brands offer universal mounting systems that clamp onto the Traxter’s roll cage or bolt into the bed.
How to Install Can-Am Traxter Gun Racks and Hunting Accessories Like a Pro
Proper installation is key to performance and safety. While you should always follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions, here are some universal tips and Can-Am Traxter gun racks and hunting accessories best practices to ensure a rock-solid setup.
Tools You’ll Need
Most installations are straightforward. Before you start, gather a few basic tools:
- Socket and ratchet set (metric and/or standard)
- Set of combination wrenches
- Allen/hex key set
- Torque wrench (highly recommended)
- Blue thread locker (like Loctite 242)
Step-by-Step Installation for a Bed-Mounted Rack
This is a common and popular style. Here’s a general overview of how to Can-Am Traxter gun racks and hunting accessories get installed in the bed.
- Clean Your Mounting Surface: Thoroughly clean the area of the bed or roll cage where the rack will be mounted. A clean surface ensures a better fit and prevents debris from getting trapped.
- Assemble the Mounts Loosely: Following the instructions, loosely assemble the mounting brackets. Don’t tighten anything down completely yet. This gives you room for adjustment.
- Position the Rack: Place the assembled rack in your desired location. Sit in the driver’s seat and have a friend hold it in place. Make sure it doesn’t interfere with your line of sight, dump bed function, or other accessories.
- Test Fit Your Firearm: Carefully place your unloaded firearm into the rack. Check for clearance. Does the bolt handle hit anything? Is the scope clear of any metal parts? Adjust the position as needed for a perfect fit.
- Tighten All Hardware: Once you’re happy with the position, tighten all bolts and nuts systematically. Apply a drop of blue thread locker to each bolt before tightening. This prevents vibration from loosening them on the trail. Use a torque wrench to tighten to the manufacturer’s specified values to avoid stripping bolts or crushing tubing.
Pro Tip: Check and Re-Check
After your first ride, go back and check every single bolt for tightness. Vibrations can cause things to settle and loosen. Making this check a part of your routine will prevent problems down the road.
Common Problems with Can-Am Traxter Gun Racks and Hunting Accessories
Even the best gear can have issues. Here’s a quick troubleshooting guide for some common problems with Can-Am Traxter gun racks and hunting accessories.
Problem: Rattling and Vibration
A noisy rack is annoying and can spook game. If your rack is rattling, check that all mounting hardware is tight. Ensure the rubber straps or grips are cinched down securely. For persistent rattles, you can add a small piece of rubber or dense foam between metal-on-metal contact points.
Problem: Gun Slippage or Poor Fit
If your firearm is moving around in the grips, first ensure you have the correct size rack for your gun. Most quality racks have adjustable grips. Tighten them so they firmly hold the stock and barrel without being overly compressed. If the rubber is old and hardened, it may be time to replace the grips.
Problem: Rust and Corrosion
Steel racks can rust if the powder coating is chipped or scratched. After each season, inspect your rack for any damage. Use a small wire brush to remove any surface rust and apply a coat of rust-inhibiting touch-up paint, like a satin black Rust-Oleum, to seal the metal.
The Can-Am Traxter Gun Racks and Hunting Accessories Care Guide
Proper maintenance ensures your gear will be ready when you are. Following a simple care routine extends the life of your accessories and protects your firearms.
Post-Hunt Cleaning Routine
Don’t let mud and dirt sit on your racks. After a hunt, use a mild soap and water solution to wash away grime. Pay special attention to the rubber grips, as embedded dirt can be abrasive to your firearm’s finish. Let it dry completely before storing.
Inspecting for Wear and Tear
Before each season, give your racks a thorough inspection. Check all rubber components (grips, straps) for cracks or signs of dry rot. Inspect all welds for stress fractures and ensure all hardware is present and tight. Replacing a $5 rubber strap is much cheaper than replacing a damaged rifle.
Sustainable Can-Am Traxter Gun Racks and Hunting Accessories: Making Gear Last
Being an eco-friendly off-roader isn’t just about trail etiquette; it’s also about durability. Investing in a high-quality, well-made rack from a reputable brand is the first step. Instead of buying cheap and replacing it often, buy once and maintain it. This reduces waste and is more sustainable in the long run. Repairing a scratch with touch-up paint or replacing a worn strap is a core tenet of a sustainable mindset.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can-Am Traxter Gun Racks and Hunting Accessories
Are Can-Am OEM gun racks better than aftermarket ones?
Not necessarily. OEM racks, especially those using the LinQ system, offer perfect fitment and easy installation. However, brands like Kolpin, Great Day, and Seizmik are specialists in this area and often provide more innovative designs or heavy-duty options that might better suit your specific needs.
Can I legally transport a loaded firearm in a gun rack on my Traxter?
This is a critical question that depends entirely on your local, state, and provincial laws. You must check your local regulations. In most jurisdictions, it is illegal to transport a loaded firearm in or on any vehicle. Safety best practice is to always transport firearms unloaded with the action open.
What’s the best gun rack for protecting my scope?
For maximum scope protection, an overhead rack that keeps the gun inside the cab is a great choice. Alternatively, a hard-sided gun scabbard or boot, like the Kolpin Stronghold, fully encases the firearm and provides the best possible protection from impact, dust, and weather.
How do I prevent my gun rack from scratching my Traxter’s roll cage?
Most quality roll cage-mounted racks come with rubber inserts or liners to prevent scratching. If yours doesn’t, you can place a thin piece of rubber (like from an old inner tube) between the clamp and the cage before tightening. Ensure the area is clean before installation to avoid grinding dirt into the paint.
Outfitting your Can-Am Traxter for the hunt is one of the most practical and rewarding upgrades you can make. By choosing the right gear, installing it correctly, and performing regular maintenance, you create a safer and more efficient hunting platform. Now you can focus less on your gear and more on the thrill of the chase. Get those tools out, get your rig dialed in, and stay safe out there!
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