Best Jon Boat Gun Rack Options for Safe, Secure Transport on the Water
Find the right jon boat gun rack to keep your gear secure, accessible, and rust-free while out on the water. This guide highlights five reliable gun racks tailored for boating needs, from ATV-inspired racks to wall-mount and UTV-compatible designs. Each option suits different boaters: some prefer compact, lightweight racks for limited deck space, others need heavy-duty holders for rugged trips with rifles, bows, or shotguns. The following selections emphasize fit for standard bars, corrosion resistance, and quick-access mounting.
| Product | Best Use Case | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Graspur Double ATV Gun & Bow Rack – ATV2 | Boaters needing flexible, inline storage for two items | Soft rubber cushioning with secure grip on tubular bars |
| Allen Company Molded Truck Gun Rack | Vehicles and boats needing adjustable, rear-window style mounting | Tool-free, adjustable length for multiple firearms or tools |
| Graspur Single ATV Gun & Bow Rack – ATV1 | Single-item focused cargo space optimization | Offset holder to maximize rack space |
| All Rite Products Pack Rack – PR1 | Rotating, adjustable racks for versatile loads | Internal steel cores, aluminum blocks, 360-degree rotation |
| StarknightMT UTV Gun Holder | UTV/ATV with large roll bars | Four rubber inserts fit 1–2 inch bars for stability |
Graspur Double ATV Gun & Bow Rack – ATV2
Best for: boaters who routinely carry two items and want a flexible mounting option on tubular bars. This model uses a nylon core wrapped in soft rubber, providing cushioned grip while accommodating bars 5/8” to 1” in diameter. It’s a strong, lightweight choice for ATV-style racks on boats with railings or tubular supports.
Why selected: The dual-holder design makes it possible to secure two gear items simultaneously, saving deck space. The soft rubber spurs cushion items to minimize damage, and the universal bar fit makes it adaptable to common jon boat rail systems. This is ideal for anglers carrying a rifle or bow and a secondary tool such as a flashlight or small tackle rack.
Limitations: It may require careful positioning to avoid interference with paddling or movement on choppy water. Mounting to non-standard rails could need adapters or additional hardware not included in the basic kit.
Allen Company Molded Truck Gun Rack for Rear Window
Best for: boaters who want a rugged, adjustable, rear-window style rack that can hold multiple firearms or tools. This unit adjusts from 9.5″ to 16.5″ and can secure two rifles, shotguns, bows, or hunting tools, making it suitable for longer gear carried on boats or trailers.
Why selected: Durable polymer construction resists weather exposure and heavy use, offering long-lasting storage. Tool-free installation via window gaskets allows quick setup without drilling, which is helpful for rental boats or temporary installations. The design supports secure transport of larger items without protruding too far into the cockpit.
Limitations: The fit depends on the vehicle’s window system; boats with curved or deeply recessed windows may require an alternative mounting approach or a different rack type.
Graspur Single ATV Gun & Bow Rack – ATV1
Best for: boaters seeking space-efficient, single-item mounting with flexible positioning. The rack features a nylon core wrapped in soft rubber and fits standard bars 5/8” to 1” in diameter, enabling easy placement on handlebars or rails used on many jon boats.
Why selected: The offset design helps maximize available deck space for other gear. It provides strong yet gentle securing for rifles, bows, or other gear, which is particularly useful on boats where space is at a premium and quick access is important.
Caution: Ensure the offset holder does not collide with seating or oar handling zones; misalignment could hinder movement or access during transit.
All Rite Products Pack Rack – PR1
Best for: boaters who need a versatile, rotating rack capable of handling different sized items through a simple twist. This original ATV handlebar gun & bow rack offers a 360-degree rotation for customizable fit, making it suitable for varied gear on a jon boat.
Why selected: Internal steel cores and aluminum mounting blocks provide durability and stability in rough water. The true 360-degree rotation allows precise positioning of gear, which helps with quick access during quick stops or while navigating around obstructions.
Limitations: The rotating mechanism adds a bit of complexity; ensure the wing nut is tightened securely after each adjustment to prevent drift during travel.
StarknightMT UTV Gun Holder
Best for: boaters with larger roll bars on UTVs or ATVs used for lake access or shoreline trips who need a robust, universal fit. The design includes four rubber inserts to handle a range of 1″ to 2″ roll bar diameters, with a sturdy alloy steel frame and protective foam to minimize scratches.
Why selected: The wide compatibility and protective foam guards against vibrations and impact, supporting long-gear stability on rough water or during transport between shore access points. It’s a strong, durable option when you need dependable performance across varied bar sizes.
Limitation: This model assumes presence of compatible roll bars; if your jon boat setup uses non-standard supports, check fitment before purchase to avoid mounting issues.
Buying Guide
What should I consider before buying a jon boat gun rack?
Fit to your bar size: Check diameters (commonly 5/8″, 1″, 1.5″, or 2″) and ensure the rack accommodates your rails or tubing.
Weight and security: Look for cushioned grips or soft padding to protect gear from scratches. Consider racks with locking features or secure mounting to prevent movement in choppy water.
Rotation and adjustability: If you carry different items, a rotating base can maximize space and allow quick access. Adjustable lengths help fit guns, bows, and tools of varying sizes.
Durability and weather resistance: Choose racks with weatherproof materials (polymer, stainless steel, or aluminum) to handle sun, rain, and salt exposure near water.
Installation considerations: Tool-free mounting is convenient for temporary setups on rentals or shared boats. Ensure mounting method won’t damage the boat’s surfaces or violate rental terms.
How do I compare these racks quickly?
- Best for two items: Graspur Double ATV Gun & Bow Rack – ATV2
- Best for adjustable, rear-window style mounting: Allen Company Molded Truck Gun Rack
- Best for maximizing space with a single item: Graspur Single ATV Gun & Bow Rack – ATV1
- Best for versatile, rotating storage: All Rite Pack Rack – PR1
- Best for large roll bars and heavy-duty use: StarknightMT UTV Gun Holder
FAQ
- Q: Are these racks suitable for water exposure?
- A: Most are designed for outdoor use with durable materials, but always check for weather resistance and rust protection for marine environments.
- Q: Can these mounts be used on jon boats without rails?
- A: Some models require tubular bars or window gaskets; if your boat lacks rails, consider the rear-window or wall-mount designs accordingly.
- Q: Will a rotating rack interfere with fishing gear?
- A: Choose a model with a compact footprint and rotate-and-lock capability to avoid interference with lines and reels.
- Q: How secure are these racks on rough waters?
- A: Look for racks with soft padding and robust mounting blocks; verify bar compatibility and tighten periodically during use.