Arguably, one of the most important pieces of gear you can have for a hunt out west is your glass. Any high-end binocular is going to be an investment, and protecting that investment while out in the field is crucial. This need has led to a variety of bino harness options on the market, and over the years, I’ve purchased and tested several of the leading brands, each serving their purpose well. So, when I had the chance to try the Gen 3.1 bino harness from T & K Hunting Gear, I jumped at the opportunity.
T&K Gen 3.1 Bino Harness
Before diving into the products, I want to highlight a few things that set T & K Hunting Gear apart. This company is 100% privately owned by the Kath family out of South Dakota. They take pride in supporting numerous U.S.-based raw material manufacturers, and every product is made right here in the United States. As someone who works in the construction industry and navigates domestic requirements for large-scale infrastructure projects, I know firsthand how challenging this commitment can be. My respect for T & K was already high even before I strapped on their harness.
First Impression
As soon as I opened the package, I was immediately impressed with the quality of the products. Holding the Gen 3.1 harness, rangefinder pouch, and admin pouch in my hands, I could tell that serious craftsmanship went into each piece. Starting with the bino harness, made of 1000D Cordura, it felt virtually bulletproof. The harness features a large, supportive back panel that makes it comfortable to wear all day.
Sizing
I run the Maven B2 11×45 Binoculars with a Sig Kilo 2200 Range Finder. Tyler at T & K recommended going with the Large in the Bino Harness and a Medium in the Range Finder Pouch. Initially, I was little worried that the bino pouch was going to be too big and bulky for my liking. However, that worry was quickly squashed and that thought never crossed my mind again. The bino and rangefinder pouch housed them perfectly without the bulk.
Lid and Pockets
The forward-opening lid has a metal-to-magnet connection on the bottom to hold it open and a magnet-to-magnet on top to keep it securely closed. Skirts on the sides of the lid help prevent debris from entering the main compartment, which is a great touch, especially when you are crawling around in the field. A rear zippered pouch provides a handy spot for tags or spare mouth calls, while the B52 Squadron laser-cut PALS webbing offers plenty of attachment points for accessories like the rangefinder and admin pouches. Finally, the auto-lock buckles prevent strap slippage, ensuring the harness stays securely in place.
T&K Rangefinder Pouch
The rangefinder pouch is simple yet designed for a snug, noise-free fit. Like the main harness, it features a magnetic open/close lid that allows you to open it quietly as you close the distance, making it easy to grab your rangefinder with one hand. Made from the same 1000D Cordura, it’s nearly indestructible.
T&K Admin Pouch
The admin pouch is the perfect addition to the harness. Like the rest of the setup, it’s built from tough 1000D Cordura but is fully zippered for added security. Inside, Cordura nylon webbing creates three sections to keep items organized. I use it to store my wind checker, bino/tripod adapter, and either a small knife or an extra powder charge and bullet for my muzzleloader.
Field Testing
I was able to get a lot of time in the field this fall with the set up. From late summer scouting trips to some November deer hunts and everything in between. Utilizing the PALS webbing on the bottom of the harness, I connected my muzzleloader ramrod (CVA design) and it rode there nicely for the duration of my hunt.
I also found that there is enough rigidity in the harness pouch that it can double as a shooting rest. On a final stalk, I mistakenly left my bipod in my pack as I slipped in on a bedded whitetail, and when I realized it, it was too late to turn around. I removed my binos from the pouch to watch the deer, laid my muzzleloader across the top, and made a double lung shot. As we progressed into the later season and temps dropped, wearing the harness over layers or a puffy coat was straightforward and didn’t cause any restrictions. I also never noticed any uncomfortable areas when wearing it under a day pack or a pack loaded with meat (tested with four heavy pack outs).
Conclusion
After spending several weeks in the field, I can honestly say I couldn’t find a single flaw or anything I didn’t like about the T&K Gen 3.1 Bino Harness. Everything about this company and its products embodies what makes writing reviews enjoyable and rewarding. Since then, I’ve purchased additional items from T&K, including the ammo wallet, and I plan to add more to my collection in the future. T&K has earned a permanent place in my hunting gear lineup.
*Please note that these products contain strong rare earth magnets. Do not use if you have a heart pacemaker or similar medical device. Navigational devices and magnets have been known to interact. Always use navigation devices at least one arm’s length away from product containing magnets.
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