have had a little big horn lounger for a long time and it is starting to really show some wear. After speaking with Tom over at Usahuntingear he has agreed to take on the task of rebuilding it for me to get it back to its original shape, in addition to some minor modifications to it that would make it more personal to me.
In addition Tom is going to get all the measurements off it and some other input to try and make a vest like this in the future for other folks....without a doubt the best vest ever made for the woods so looking forward to getting mine back to "brand new". Wish they didnt quit making them years ago and there is NONE to be found via the internet. If anyone else has one or is interested in one like it hit Tom up and see what he can do for you.
Will keep you up to date on the progress.....Thanks again Tom for working with me in all this.
I had one. I thought the shoulder straps and size of pockets needed some re-design but the rest was jam up.
Congrats. Bet you'll be happy to have her in tip top condition again.
yeah i asked him to redo the straps to add pads and some minor pocket work as wells add some 3-d material to the back where the decoys go (had an old pair of 3-d pants to use for material)
hey man thats great i love the fact that you are reuseing mateiral and getting a vest rebuilt
PLEASE let us know how it comes out i might have to git rid of one of my vests just to justiffy getting one for myself
Howw much?????
I dont think he wants to answer so I will anser for him. he was the first to respond when I was asking for some measurments of this old vest/chair. I didnt get alot from the pics and we want to start making them. So I offered to rebuild it all so I could get the design for free. So, I will be posting pics as we progress.
I did get the new magets in, metal called neodymium, they are 8 times stronger then a houshold magnet and are only 1/2 inch in diameter and 1/16 inch thick. The problem is, its back to the drawing board, they chaged me 7.00 shipping for something that is half the size of a roll of dimes and the instructions say, Do not get by a pacemaker, they will mess it up, do not burn-they give off toxic fumes(what the heck they are steel?). SO Im thinking of not using them, they dont tell you that when ordering:)) And something that weighs 1/2 ouce for thqat kind of shipping, thast is one of my pet peeves on shipping. soooo.....other then that, just waiting for it to get here.
A friend of mine has one and loves it. He talked me into buying one, but by then, they had gone out of business. I looked at some at Bass Pro based on the same principal, but they all looked Mickey Mouse to me. The main drawback of the Big Horn is the weight, but I bought a Gobbler Lounger this year, so if I carry that, I'll have the additional weight anyway.
I think there is definitely a market for this type of vest, and am guessing there were more problems other than lack of sales which caused the company to fail.
Sweet! I can't wait to see how this turns out.
Quote from: stinkpickle on January 09, 2012, 01:21:06 PM
Sweet! I can't wait to see how this turns out.
me niether sounds like it'll be a great vest if it is i'll sell the two i have to get one
Tom, it left UPS this morning so you should have it shortly......take care of my baby lol
(is it bad that i felt like i was sending one of my kids off when i left the UPS store hahahah)
Good luck.. look forward to seeing it!
Eastman makes even one better than little big horn
Quote from: agturkey on January 09, 2012, 10:07:25 PM
Eastman makes even one better than little big horn
same concept but not a fan of the pocket system or the kick stand type frame. I have sat on one of these and they are nice yes but definitly need some work to them.
the stand design is decent but the bar will sink pretty easy in sand or soft dirt and as stated i am really not a fan of how they designed the pockets for it.
Okay, the vest arrived yesterday, we decided after we fix up this one for reynolds, we are going to make them. There can be some changes made to make this much better! Mr. reynolds paid an arm and leg to ship it to me becuase of the frame. We will definately be making the frame in 2 pieces so it can store away flat. Another thing we are doing is getting rid of alot of those nasty zippers, we figured out how to incorporate our striker pouch, when your sitting there it shpuld just about unroll itdelf, take out a striker and roll it back up or leave it open while sitting. We are getting rid of the pocets on the inside of the belt, the few hunters we have spoken to do not like them and neither do I, they are in a bad place. Let me ask this for those of you that own one, what do you use that zippered pocket that runs down the back of the chair, it has an orange flag sewn in it???? Is this something important to most of you? Were going to start on it today
Quote from: customgunsocks on January 12, 2012, 05:11:46 AM
...We will definately be making the frame in 2 pieces so it can store away flat....
I like that idea.
Quote from: customgunsocks on January 12, 2012, 05:11:46 AM
...Let me ask this for those of you that own one, what do you use that zippered pocket that runs down the back of the chair, it has an orange flag sewn in it???? Is this something important to most of you?...
I only use it after I get a bird. I stuff my feather flex decoy into it, while the bird rides in the pouch. The openings are a little too large on the pouch. It's easy to get things in and out of it, BUT it's also easy for things to accidentally fall out.
yeah i use the slot for my stakes which i make from arrow shafts for easy carry, i dont like 2 piece decoy stakes.
i personally like the big back to carry my stuff but it can be an issue with stuff falling out if you are huffing it somewhere. i keep all kinds of stuff back there so my decs never fall out but have lost a pair of binos and some water bottles in it, however it does make it easier to get stuff in and out without taking the vest off.
the 2 piece frame is definitely a need if you are shipping them that much i know but if going that route it needs to be a very snug fit so it doesnt disconnect by mistake while trying to sit or move.
also the water proof material on the bottom of the vest and seat are fantastic options.
also i am not sure of each states rules but i thought some states required the orange material on public land or something so the slot is a great easy spot to hide that orange flag if your not using it.
Your right, I put it on and tried reaching back to snap the chair up in place, cant do it unless your a cat or Gumby. Changing that!!
Quote from: reynolds243 on January 12, 2012, 11:30:53 AM
also i am not sure of each states rules but i thought some states required the orange material on public land or something so the slot is a great easy spot to hide that orange flag if your not using it.
It is in PA and always willbe, thats why we put a 12 x15 in our decoy bags and back packs.
Quote from: stinkpickle on January 12, 2012, 11:24:30 AM
Quote from: customgunsocks on January 12, 2012, 05:11:46 AM
...Let me ask this for those of you that own one, what do you use that zippered pocket that runs down the back of the chair, it has an orange flag sewn in it???? Is this something important to most of you?...
I only use it after I get a bird. I stuff my feather flex decoy into it, while the bird rides in the pouch. The openings are a little too large on the pouch. It's easy to get things in and out of it, BUT it's also easy for things to accidentally fall out.
I was looking at that, I might close them up just a bit. cpl inches maybe.
Quote from: customgunsocks on January 12, 2012, 12:54:22 PM
Your right, I put it on and tried reaching back to snap the chair up in place, cant do it unless your a cat or Gumby. Changing that!!
hahah, you get use to it and it gets pretty easy...then again i am 6'3 and have pretty long arms.
This thing sounds cool, I wish somebody had pics up. Sounds like what Cabelas maybe modeled my tac tat'r 2 with backrest after??? This thing must have been the original.
Quote from: reynolds243 on January 12, 2012, 01:35:24 PM
Quote from: customgunsocks on January 12, 2012, 12:54:22 PM
Your right, I put it on and tried reaching back to snap the chair up in place, cant do it unless your a cat or Gumby. Changing that!!
hahah, you get use to it and it gets pretty easy...then again i am 6'3 and have pretty long arms.
Yeah, I had to reach back and clip the left side...then switch my gun to the other shoulder...and then clip the right side...and finally switch my gun back.
yeah i always just left 1 undone, made it easier when i was trying to sit down fast.
Can you still get these. I have an older one I LOVED but my dog chewed the strap in half. I would either like to repair this one or get a new one
The only thing I don't like about mine is the box call pocket. It's just too small for a normal box call. I usually just stick mine thru the elastic loop on the outside of the box call pocket.
post the pics when done
Quote from: RBC on January 13, 2012, 02:38:41 PM
The only thing I don't like about mine is the box call pocket. It's just too small for a normal box call. I usually just stick mine thru the elastic loop on the outside of the box call pocket.
We have already redesigbed the box call holder, we didnt like it either.
Quote from: Tomfoolery on January 12, 2012, 08:34:11 PM
Can you still get these. I have an older one I LOVED but my dog chewed the strap in half. I would either like to repair this one or get a new one
Were working on a new version now. Frame is done, will be putting some of it together today.
I just ordered a little fabric of the leaves on fabric that they make ghillie suits from. Would anyone like to see a little of this stuff here and there on this chair????? I will try and post a few pics tonight of the frame and whatever.
Also, I have 2 inch high quality foam in stock, the old version was 2 inch foam for the seat(dont think it is high quality), I have decided this morning to order 3 inch high quality, that should make everyones butt happy, If that doesnt do it, we could design some straps so you can carry your living room recliner:)
Quote from: customgunsocks on January 14, 2012, 05:23:27 AM
I just ordered a little fabric of the leaves on fabric that they make ghillie suits from. Would anyone like to see a little of this stuff here and there on this chair????? I will try and post a few pics tonight of the frame and whatever.
Also, I have 2 inch high quality foam in stock, the old version was 2 inch foam for the seat(dont think it is high quality), I have decided this morning to order 3 inch high quality, that should make everyones butt happy, If that doesnt do it, we could design some straps so you can carry your living room recliner:)
yup, i love the idea of 3-d material on the very back for anything coming that direction by chance as well as on the straps.
Since you're essentially building from scratch, might want to look at using some Claw straps for shoulder straps.
Gman
Im not sure what claw straps are,? we made our harness part yesterday, identical to the old but with shoulder pads attached with furniture foam.
While Im writing, I am thinking on putting a drainage grommett on the floor of the storage pouch in the back, I can only picture the old version half filling up with water if its raining. My 3 inch foam is on its way
We also noticed the old one is just bare fabric, its all wore out on the tubing and some pockets. We are going to line the back rest with our rip stop nylon, more water proof and the tubing will be rubbing on it and not directly on the finished camo fabric. Main large pockets will be lined with this also and all pocket covers will be lined underneath. Also, we are lining the seat foam,the foam will be all incased in this rip stop nylon, then the cover will go over this.
I personally put a lot more foam in the seat and in the back. But i often wondered if you could put a gell mat in the seat. I wouls aldo like to see before and after pictures.
Anything made out there in hunting accessories is made out of a 2 inch cheap foam. We are not only going to 3 inches, we use a high quality memory foam, 3 inches is plenty thick. gel pads would puncture eventually, and in the weather, they get hard, stiff and cold. Not counting the price woul be something out of this world. Were trying our best to upgrade this version to the baest materials possible but at the same time have to keep the price down or they wont sell. 3 inches of furniture foam is equal to like 6 inches of that cheap foam the big box store uses.
Tom i am chomping at the bit here to see what you got and get my hands on this lol sounds like you are going to have a very sweet product!
how long you think till i might have a big christmas present at my door :) :)
im trying. why the first one takes alot longer is i have to have a general improvents plan in mind, then make templates of all the pockets, lengths on strapping, of everything,ect. The next one we build all this is done, just cut it all out and put it together.I will post pics of the frame tonight and the harness, today im working on the big pockets and attaching things to the outside of the big zippered pockets. There isnt a whole lot I can do with yours but put on some padded shoulder straps, make a few new pockets for the ones that are full of holes, I cant take yours apart, it will ruin it or whats left of it, so we have to sew with it on its frame. The pockets that the zippers work and have no holes we are leaving alone.
NOTICE: Now would be a good time to post this, cause I know whats going to happen on down the road, so this should resolve any concerns on behalf of Real Tree.:......
This Real Tree fabric was given to us. This chair /vest we are making is our prototype and is being given away for free!! When thesse actually go on our website for sale, they will be made from, M2D, Vanish, or Real Oak patterned camo whichis not affliated with Real Tree Corp. This prototype that we are giving away is for pictures only, not for resale. This goes for any and all pictures posted here tonight and from now on. We are not affliated with Real Tree nor use their camo fabrics and that goes for Mossy oak fabrics also. The camos we use, we have permission and are privatley owned. ONCE again, we will not be making our gear from any Real Tree registered camo fabrics!Tom
Quote from: customgunsocks on January 15, 2012, 09:46:30 AM
im trying. why the first one takes alot longer is i have to have a general improvents plan in mind, then make templates of all the pockets, lengths on strapping, of everything,ect. The next one we build all this is done, just cut it all out and put it together.I will post pics of the frame tonight and the harness, today im working on the big pockets and attaching things to the outside of the big zippered pockets. There isnt a whole lot I can do with yours but put on some padded shoulder straps, make a few new pockets for the ones that are full of holes, I cant take yours apart, it will ruin it or whats left of it, so we have to sew with it on its frame. The pockets that the zippers work and have no holes we are leaving alone.
Gotcha no worries just excited to see how it all comes together and feels! As far as my old one that is understandable and perfectly fine.
I didnt know this post was here, just sent you a pm. Just drove 120 miles over this frame and it was a waste. threw a bunch of brand new fabric away today, i think Im going to walk away from it for a cpl hours.LOL.
REYNOLDS243...here is a pic of your old vest, we put a cap on the top of the backrest where the pipe had torn through the fabric, in the background is our new frame,,,a tad higher-a tad wider.
(http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee430/customgunsocks1/img_1421.jpg)(http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee430/customgunsocks1/img_1422.jpg)
Okay, here is the vest part of the new version, same large zippered pockets behind all the pockets on the surface
(http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee430/customgunsocks1/img_1424.jpg)
Okay reynokds, here is foam shoulder pads we put on your old one and this is about the best we could do cutting your old leafy pants up to put on the back.The leaves still need sewn down in pic,
(http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee430/customgunsocks1/img_1427a.jpg)(http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee430/customgunsocks1/img_1428a.jpg)
l :z-guntootsmiley:
Post a video to what we did to the old vest, now we can concentrate on making our new one. Reynolds243- watch to see what we did to yours.
http://s1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee430/customgunsocks1/?action=view¤t=201201211209071.mp4
Very nice!!! :you_rock:
Oh Thanks! I think this new one is going to be a little better, got my new foam in and my fabric with leaves. DOing a little welding on the frame, then its all going together hopefully by tomorrow night.
I didnt say but I think Im also going to make a cut down version of this too, The Run n Gun v est, going to be exactly like this withou the chair frame, will have a seat cushion attached.
I have decided before I put on the fabric chair backing to add a cpl band of 2 inch nylon strapping, help keep the fabric from stretching out and maybe a little more comfort and support.
(http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee430/customgunsocks1/IMG_1434-1.gif)
Quote from: reynolds243 on January 08, 2012, 01:27:42 PM
have had a little big horn lounger for a long time and it is starting to really show some wear. After speaking with Tom over at Usahuntingear he has agreed to take on the task of rebuilding it for me to get it back to its original shape, in addition to some minor modifications to it that would make it more personal to me.
In addition Tom is going to get all the measurements off it and some other input to try and make a vest like this in the future for other folks....without a doubt the best vest ever made for the woods so looking forward to getting mine back to "brand new". Wish they didnt quit making them years ago and there is NONE to be found via the internet. If anyone else has one or is interested in one like it hit Tom up and see what he can do for you.
Will keep you up to date on the progress.....Thanks again Tom for working with me in all this.
Video link and another pic posted at the end of this topic.More pics will be added throught out Sunday, check back
Here is the vest part of our new Sittin Bull vest/chair
(http://i1227.photobucket.com/albums/ee430/customgunsocks1/IMG_1436-1.jpg)
Im digging the 4" seat cushion. I think you guys have brought that old vest back to life.
Thank you, we did our best without ripping it completely apart, then it would have been junk for sure.
I'd definitely be interested in a Run n Gun version for the folks that like to go as streamlined and lightweight as possible. I even like the idea of just the harness with the two front pouches. For example, I know alot of hunters like a seat cushion but there are those that don't. They want to keep weight at a minimum. Would it be possible with the Run n Gun version to make things on it that are detachable? For example, a detachable seat cushion, detachable rear decoy/bird bag,etc...... a version that can customized to the individuals needs. A add on take away type vest. I'm not sure if anyone else is doing that? Mostly, I see other vest that do have detachable seats but that's about it. Thanks, David.
Actually you pretty much hit it on the head. We will be using our striker roll up, our trifold mouth call holder and so on, and we already make a single and double decoy bag. As soon as I get this one vest/chair done, right now I have over 120 hours into this, hopefully finish it up tomorrow. I dont know if you have ever looked at our site, but take a look at our roll up for example, those will be on the belt.Thanks for writing...Tom
Http://www.usahuntingear.com
I just browsed the website, cool stuff ! Really like the striker/trumpet roll. Can't wait to see the results of the ' Run n Gun' vest. Please keep us tuned in on the development of this vest. Tom, thanks for listening to us. :icon_thumright:...The Cohutta Strutter.
Tom thanks again for all the hard work you have put into this, i cannot tell you how much i appreciate it! I cannot wait to check out my old vest when i get it back but actually surprising to me i am more excited to check out the new version of it you are creating.
You have gone above and beyond what most in todays world would have done! god bless you and the work you do for us hunters.
Tom: I've been using one of these vests since they first came out ... I bought it as it premiered at the AMO Show. They are the best and have used it exclusivily since I brought it home. One of the criticisms is: when I get up to move after sitting it is tough to hook the seat up again. Sometimes I get lucky but most of the time I have to take it off, hook the seat up and put the vest back on. Maybe a different fastener or hook system would solve that problem. I am glad you are reviving and improving this fantastic vest. I have 2 of these vest: 1 for turkey hunting and one for predator hunting. I never have to look for a tree to sit against. Doug
tom, i think you have a winner ..... great job
We will Finally be finishing up this vest tomorrow,Friday, at the same time we are consructing the Runnin n Gunnin Vest-Belt-Harness, Im likeing it much beter then the chair in the back. I cant wait to post pics of that also, it will be identical to the chair vest in the front but all your call pockets will be removable, same 2 large zippered pockets also. Cushion will be attached to the back and will also be removable.
:icon_thumright: Tom, just curious about the size of the pot call pockets. What size diameter of pot call will they accomadate? Reason I ask is, I have one pot call that is right at 4" diameter. Thanks, David.