Eberlestock Gunslinger 2 Review

April 24th, 2019

4:18 runtime

In this Eberlestock Gunslinger 2 review, author Clay Martin shows us the features and usefulness of the new adventuring backpack. This tactical pack offers an excellent way for people to carry a serious rifle and other survival gear over harsh terrain and in all environments. Enjoy his evaluation of this gear. The pack was provided to the author for testing in this article.

A man lies in a prone shooting position using the Eberlestock Gunslinger 2 backpack as an improvised rifle rest. The Eberlestock Gunslinger 2 review highlights real-world field applications beyond standard rifle transport. Tactical packs serve shooters in multiple roles. The Gunslinger 2 functions as both a load-carrying system and a field shooting aid. Prone shooting requires a stable platform for accuracy. The SOCOM 16 rifle pairs naturally with purpose-built tactical packs. Riflemen value gear that adapts to demanding environments. The Gunslinger II demonstrates practical versatility during field evaluation. A well-designed rifle pack supports the shooter even after the rifle leaves the scabbard. — The Eberlestock Gunslinger 2 does more than carry your rifle; it works as a shooting platform when you need it. Not every pack pulls double duty as this one does in the field. Image: Eberlestock

When it comes to winter weather adventures, my gear choices get very specific, very fast. The rifle changes. The loadout changes. And most importantly, how I carry everything changes. That is exactly why the Gunslinger 2 Eberlestock has become such a critical part of my cold weather setup. When snow starts falling and elevation starts climbing, this pack is the system I trust to carry my rifle and everything I need to stay out longer and move comfortably.

Why I Switch to the M1A in Winter

The first thing I do when winter really sets in is switch over to one of my M1A variants. Lately, that has been my Springfield Armory M1A SOCOM 16. I like it because it is rooted in a design that proved itself decades ago. It is reliable, rugged, and built to function in harsh conditions. When I am dealing with snow, moisture, and cold temperatures, reliability is non-negotiable.

The author stands in a snowy winter landscape holding his Springfield Armory M1A SOCOM 16 rifle during a field review. The Eberlestock Gunslinger 2 review takes place in genuine cold weather conditions rather than a controlled environment. Winter terrain demands reliable firearms and durable load-carrying systems. The Springfield M1A platform has proven itself in harsh operating conditions for decades. Tactical packs for the SOCOM 16 rifle must perform in snow, moisture, and freezing temperatures. Cold weather exposes weaknesses in both firearms and gear systems quickly. The M1A SOCOM 16 is valued for its ruggedness and dependability in extreme environments. Serious hunters and riflemen choose proven designs when conditions turn unforgiving. A purpose-built rifle pack and a battle-tested carbine form a complete winter field system. — Winter conditions demand gear that performs without excuses, and the Springfield Armory M1A SOCOM 16 is exactly that kind of rifle.

If I am just stepping out for a short walk, carrying the rifle traditionally works fine. Sling it up and head out. But once the terrain gets more demanding, especially if I am snowshoeing or skiing, that method starts to feel inefficient. Add elevation changes and real cardio, and it becomes uncomfortable fast.

That is where the right pack system makes all the difference.

First Impressions of the Eberlestock Gunslinger 2

The Gunslinger 2 from Eberlestock immediately stood out to me because it is not just a backpack that happens to carry a rifle. It is a backpack built specifically around carrying a rifle.

The author stands in a snowy outdoor setting demonstrating the key features of the Eberlestock Gunslinger 2 tactical pack. The Eberlestock Gunslinger 2 review covers the pack's integrated rifle scabbard, aluminum frame, and laser-cut MOLLE system. Tactical packs built for rifle carry require thoughtful construction to perform in harsh environments. The Gunslinger II features laser-cut Kevlar-reinforced MOLLE for strength without added bulk. An aluminum frame distributes weight efficiently across the back and hips during long carry distances. The SOCOM 16 rifle fits securely in the rear scabbard with minimal movement over uneven terrain. Ventilated back panels reduce heat buildup even during cold weather exertion. Exterior cinch straps allow snowshoes and additional gear to be secured outside the main compartment. A purpose-built tactical rifle pack integrates carrying, organization, and field utility into one cohesive system. — From the laser-cut MOLLE to the integrated rifle scabbard, the Gunslinger II is built with purpose rather than marketing in mind. Cold weather is a good place to find out what a tactical pack is actually made of.

I have experience with earlier versions of this design. I even ran an older model overseas years ago, and it held up extremely well. That experience gave me confidence going into this updated version.

The core feature is the integrated rifle scabbard. My M1A fits perfectly into the rear scabbard, and once secured, it rides tight and stable. There is no excessive movement and no awkward shifting as I move over uneven terrain. That alone makes a huge difference when climbing or covering distance in snow.

Built for Comfort Over Distance

One of the biggest improvements over older models is the aluminum frame. That addition changes the entire feel of the pack. It distributes weight far more efficiently and keeps the load stable against my back.

The author demonstrates the padded shoulder straps and hip belt of the Eberlestock Gunslinger 2 tactical backpack in a snowy outdoor setting. The Eberlestock Gunslinger 2 review highlights the improved carry system as a key upgrade over previous generations. Padded shoulder straps reduce pressure points during long distance movement through demanding terrain. A rigid waist belt transfers pack weight from the shoulders to the hips effectively. Tactical packs for the SOCOM 16 rifle must distribute heavy loads comfortably across elevation changes and uneven ground. The aluminum frame works alongside the strap system to stabilize the load against the carrier's back. Proper weight distribution reduces fatigue and extends the amount of time a rifleman can stay in the field. Cold weather adventurers carrying survival gear and firearms require a harness system built for sustained effort. A well-engineered carry system is as important as any other feature on a purpose-built rifle backpack. — The strap system on the Eberlestock Gunslinger 2 is one of those features you do not fully appreciate until you are a few hundred feet into a climb. Good padding and a rigid waist belt change everything.

Ventilation has also been improved. There is a padded airflow channel built into the back panel, which I appreciate even in winter. When you are moving uphill in snow, you still generate serious heat. Proper airflow helps prevent sweat buildup, which is critical when temperatures drop.

The Gunslinger 2 is also noticeably lighter. It comes in about 0.6 pounds lighter than the original Gunslinger. That may not sound like much on paper, but when you are climbing five or six hundred feet in elevation, every ounce matters.

Modern Materials in the Gunslinger II Pack

One feature that really impressed me is the laser-cut Kevlar-reinforced MOLLE on the front. Some people look at laser-cut MOLLE and assume it is weaker because it appears thinner than traditional webbing. That has not been my experience. It is incredibly strong and nearly impossible to tear out under normal use.

The micro MOLLE on the sides of the Gunslinger II keeps the profile slim while still giving you real attachment options in the field. Small detail, big difference when you need to add gear without adding bulk.

The benefit is weight savings and a slimmer profile. On the sides, there is micro MOLLE for attaching additional gear. It gives me flexibility without adding unnecessary bulk.

The tie-down cinch straps around the exterior are another feature I rely on heavily. At a lower elevation, I might only have a couple of inches of snow on the ground. Snowshoes would be overkill. But as I climb another five or six hundred feet, snow pack can increase significantly. Instead of hand carrying snowshoes, I strap them securely to the outside of the pack. That keeps my hands free and my movement efficient.

Real World Load Carrying Capability

The rifle scabbard is just one part of the system. The main compartment has enough space to carry serious gear. If the weather turns bad or I decide to stay out longer than planned, I can pack survival essentials without issue.

The author secures his Springfield Armory M1A SOCOM 16 rifle into the integrated rear scabbard of the Eberlestock Gunslinger 2 pack at the base of a snow covered mountain. The Eberlestock Gunslinger 2 review demonstrates how the rear scabbard system secures a full sized battle rifle for backcountry travel. The integrated rifle scabbard holds the SOCOM 16 tight against the pack body with minimal movement during climbing. Tactical packs built around rifle carry eliminate the need to hand carry firearms over demanding winter terrain. The Gunslinger II scabbard accommodates the M1A platform securely without requiring additional strapping or modification. Snow covered mountain terrain demands a hands free rifle carrying solution for safe and efficient movement. A properly secured rifle in a purpose built scabbard allows the shooter to focus on footing and navigation. The Gunslinger 2 Eberlestock was designed with the rifle as the central component of the entire pack system. Winter backcountry riflemen rely on integrated carry solutions to move farther and stay out longer in harsh conditions. — The integrated scabbard on the Eberlestock Gunslinger 2 was built for exactly this moment: loading up at the trailhead before heading into serious elevation and snow. Everything locks down tight and stays that way.

I have used this space for cold weather layers, food, cook stoves, and shelter components. The layout makes it easy to organize everything without interfering with access to the rifle.

The updated waist strap also deserves attention. It is more rigid than older models, and that rigidity makes a difference under load. I can mount additional items on the belt if needed, including a pistol or canteens. It transfers weight to the hips effectively, reducing fatigue over long distances.

Tactical Pack Purpose Built Winter System

Winter conditions demand more from your gear. Cold weather exposes weaknesses quickly. Zippers freeze. Straps stiffen. Weight feels heavier. The Gunslinger 2 Eberlestock addresses those challenges with thoughtful upgrades rather than gimmicks.

The Eberlestock Gunslinger 2 pack is shown fully loaded with a rifle in the scabbard, snowshoes strapped to the exterior, and survival gear packed inside for a winter mountain hike. The Eberlestock Gunslinger 2 review tests the pack as a complete integrated system rather than evaluating individual features in isolation. Exterior cinch straps secure snowshoes firmly to the outside of the pack without interfering with rifle access or balance. Tactical packs for the SOCOM 16 rifle must accommodate additional winter equipment beyond the firearm itself. The main compartment organizes cold weather layers, food, shelter components, and cook gear without compromising the overall load balance. A fully loaded winter pack system reveals how well the aluminum frame and hip belt manage combined weight over elevation. Hands free carry of both rifle and snowshoes allows the backcountry rifleman to move efficiently through deep snow terrain. The Gunslinger II transforms from a rifle carrier into a complete winter survival and mobility platform when fully configured. Purpose built tactical backpacks earn their reputation by performing as a unified system rather than a collection of separate features. — Loading up the Gunslinger II for a serious mountain hike means trusting the pack to carry everything you need and nothing you don’t. That balance between capacity and efficiency is exactly where this tactical pack lives.

For me, the biggest advantage is integration. My M1A rides securely in the rear scabbard. My snowshoes strap to the outside. My survival equipment sits organized in the main compartment. All of it rides on a comfortable, framed platform that allows me to move efficiently through snow and elevation.

Instead of juggling a rifle in my hands and a backpack on my shoulders, I have a single cohesive system. That efficiency matters when the environment turns harsh.

I chose to spend my time in the mountains rather than at an industry show this year. Out here, gear either works or it does not. The Gunslinger 2 Eberlestock works. It carries everything I need in winter conditions in one comfortable, durable, and well-designed package.

When I head uphill into deeper snow with my M1A secured on my back and my snowshoes strapped tight, I know I am set up to move farther and stay out longer. That confidence is exactly what I look for in a winter rifle pack.

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Springfield Armory® recommends you seek qualified and competent training from a certified instructor prior to handling any firearm and be sure to read your owner’s manual. These articles and videos are considered to be suggestions and not recommendations from Springfield Armory. The views and opinions expressed on this website are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Springfield Armory.

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Clay Martin

Clay Martin is a former USMC Infantryman, Reconnaissance Marine, and Scout/Sniper. Cross decking to the US Army in 2003, he retired as a Special Forces Intelligence Sergeant from 3rd SFG (A). Clay has been a competitive shooter in USPSA, 3 Gun, and PRS disciplines, as well as a contract instructor for marksmanship and Close Quarters Battle. Aside from being a gunslinger, Clay is the author of Last Son of the War God, and the soon to be published Sword of the Caliphate series. He currently lives in the Pacific Northwest with his wife, sons, and pack of feral dogs.