The market doesn't "need" another harness. That won't stop me from making one that has a few features that I want. After testing, we'll probably release some version of it. I am curious what sorts of features or mix of features you wish you could find.
I see lots of other guys trying to find "the perfect" harness, like lots of other gear. Makes me curious where the opportunities for improvements and simplifications are.
What sort of features are missing from the harness you are using?
What is the mix of features you want?
I just switched to a Numbat chest rig vs. bino harness. Reasons why:
- Most bino harnesses are too bulky. They have too much padding which is not necessary for most binos as they are armored anyway. The padding adds bulk and not much protection for any kind of significant drop either. Sure, put some (light) padding on the base so when the pack down on a rock upright it is there, but there is no need to swaddle the entire bino in padding. I'd even argue the padding on the bottom is not needed unless you are incredibly careless with your gear, in which case the 1/4" of padding most harnesses have again is not going to help you.
- Many bino harnesses have too many molle/pals/webbing all over them for attachment pockets. The pockets again add bulk with fabric and clips to hold them. They flop around when moving. They waste space vs using a single larger compartment. The webbing is mostly unused so again needless weight. Also noisy in the bush when twigs rub against it.
- Most harnesses are optimized for holding binos of course, but I'd argue most guys are putting in binos, some ammo, a phone, PLB, radio, optics cleaner, knife, etc. This gets back again to a wider flatter pouch like a chest rig to hold all the bits in one larger pocket vs. small compartments strapped all over. Again don't waste space with smaller pockets all over. Just a larger simple single compartment with some smaller pockets internal for holding things.
- Many harneses are made with heavy cordura fabric vs. lighter versions. This is complete overkill and again adds weight where not needed. Bino harnesses are not being dragged on the ground so no need for the heaviest materials.
- Bino harneses often have pockets out front bringing the centre of gravity away from the chest. This makes them again bounce a lot when moving. It also makes them feel heavier putting the weight away from your torso. Finally they often protrude too much so when moving on your belly or getting into a shot position they are in the way. Keep the weight near the torso and flatter/wider.
- Bino pouches are often too bulky again for using a bow well. They interfere with the anchor with possibility of string strike. Again, flatter and wider is better.
I just got the Numbat because it is lighter materials, is one bigger pocket with removable separator, and lies a lot flatter than bino harnesses. I will be using it for hunting and so far it checks a lot of boxes I'd like to see in dedicated bino harnesses.