18.09.2025 • Hunt & Hunter

Backbone Test Story

Whether you have a large or small backpack, with or without a rifle holster, the Blaser Ultimate Backbone carrying system adapts flexibly to the needs of its wearer and is very comfortable, according to gear tester Robin Maas

Why a new system?

I hardly ever use a classic hunting backpack. The little equipment I need usually fits easily into my camera backpack. However, since I've been hunting more from a climbing seat, my requirements have completely changed. On the one hand, I have less space "on me" due to the safety harness, and on the other hand, photography and filming are not my main focus with this type of hunting. It is much more important that I can pull my rifle and equipment up on my rope, stowed as compactly and securely as possible. So I set out to find a backpack with a rifle holster. The well-known models were too focused on quick rifle drawing – I don't need that. I finally found what I was looking for at Blaser, who have introduced a new solution with the Ultimate Backbone System. That's exactly what this is all about.

The Blaser Ultimate Backbone system

The modular design on a sturdy base frame has already proven itself with various manufacturers – Blaser has taken this approach and implemented it consistently in the Ultimate Backbone system with many well thought-out details. The centerpiece is the back plate: padded, with internal aluminum rods, ergonomically shaped shoulder straps, a wide hip belt, and a chest strap including a signal whistle. Everything can be individually adjusted and ensures high wearing comfort, even during longer missions. On the back are sturdy MOLLE loops that can be used to expand the system with a rifle holster and either a backpack in size S (30L) or M (45L). You can use just the holster, just a backpack, or a combination of both. The entire system is available in brown or HunTec Camo.

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My configuration in practice

I opted for the rifle holster and the smaller 30L backpack – and was immediately impressed when the package arrived. The holster is attached to the top of the back panel with sturdy clips and additionally secured to the side of the backpack. This creates a stable, compact unit. The backpack itself is attached to the holster. A particularly practical feature is that the backpack's compression straps are attached directly to the back panel, allowing the entire assembly to be pulled close to the body. What really won me over was that the rifle holster can be removed in just a few simple steps. This means that when I don't need to transport my rifle, I have a normal hunting backpack in no time at all – a real advantage over conventional rifle backpacks, where you always have to carry the compartment with you. I can also use the system without the backpack – just with the holster. And if I ever need more storage space, I can simply buy the larger backpack. This flexibility makes the price relative for me, because basically you're comparing two backpacks: one with and one without a rifle compartment. A nice detail: the holster can be folded inside so that it doesn't hang down under the backpack when the rifle is removed. This means it hardly adds any bulk.

Storage space and features

The backpack has a spacious main compartment that is loaded from the top. Inside, there are mesh pockets on the front and back for organizing equipment. The lid has cartridge loops for quick access to spare cartridges. The backpack has various pockets on the outside: one on the front and one on each side, the latter with additional mesh compartments. An orange rain cover is integrated into the bottom and can be easily pulled out. In addition to the side compression straps, there are loops on the front for attaching additional equipment. There are additional straps at the bottom – for a jacket or seat pad, for example. At the top, an elastic band ensures that light items can be quickly stowed away.

Conclusion

The Blaser Ultimate Backbone system is the perfect solution for my climbing seat hunting needs. It is well thought out down to the last detail, flexibly adjustable, and offers me exactly the combination of rifle and equipment transport I was looking for. Added to this is solid workmanship, high wearing comfort, and the option to expand the system at any time. For me, it's a real game changer in everyday hunting.

Robin Maas