| Use the word Catquiver in the archery world and everyone knows what
you are referring to. Rancho Safari, the inventor of the Catquiver,
has redefined the "backpack quiver". Offering at least eight different
models of quivers there is one to cover any archer's needs. All models
begin with the same solid quiver structure and builds upon your needs with
a varying pack size. That is except the new Mini, which offers the
same quality but in an over the shoulder model.
Catquiver Mini
The Mini is designed to be used in conjunction with a fanny and/or small
day packs. Simply sling it over your shoulder and you are ready to
go. Accessing an arrow, like all Catquivers, is accomplished by reaching
behind, grasping an arrow just above the broadhead base, lifting up and
removing.
Initial Inspection
 The
Mini is constructed with an ABS hood designed to keep your fletching dry
and safe no matter what the weather or terrain. The large hood should
have no problem concealing any brightly colored fletching from wary eyes.
This is a plus for me because I utilize three 4" white vanes. The
hood is connected to a broadhead base by an adjustable aluminum slide bar.
The slide bar is the secret to adjusting and securing arrows. It
utilizes pressure to hold any length arrow firmly in place. The broadhead
base is open on the sides so arrows can be quickly accessed, especially
important if a quick follow-up shot is necessary.
The entire quiver is covered in Mossy Oak Breakup fleece. This
aids in camouflaging the quiver as well as quieting any noise while stalking
through brush. The 2.5" X 24" adjustable felt wool strap is also
camoed.
Set-up
To initially set up the Mini loosen the two, lock screws located on
the back of the ABS hood. Adjust the slide bar open so that an arrow
easily fits between the hood and the broadhead base. There are several
holes within the bar to evenly space the two bolts along the slide within
the hood. I recommend spacing then far enough apart for rigidity
but not too far to effect the sliding action. Once the arrow is in
position slide the hood down over the fletching until the foam within is
snug against the nock. Tighten the two locking nuts and now the quiver
is ready to be loaded with up to eight arrows.
Thoughts
The Mini is a great compact quiver especially if you do not like attaching
a quiver to your bow. The simple design is effective and makes it
easy to use in the field. For right handed archers, like me, the
Mini is strapped over your left shoulder. The sling strap is equipped with
a quick adjustable pull-tab to adjust from the lightweight clothes of early
season to the heavyweights of winter. With this design I can comfortably
reach behind me and retrieve an arrow. After practicing I had no
problem in one fluid motion readying an arrow on the rest. The low
profile of the quiver against your back makes it ideal for getting through
tight places in the brush. If you prefer a center back quiver a harness
system is available from Rancho Safari to update your Mini.
Concerns
The Mini is designed for arrows of similar length. Arrows of different
lengths such as an extended broadhead and field points will create a problem.
Design 4 of 5 - The features of the large ABS head are a plus.
It secures the vanes and keeps them protected from harsh weather.
The locking washers on the hood could be converted to wing nuts for ease
of use in the field.
Quality 4 of 5 - The materials used should last many hunting seasons.
The riveted broadhead base is the only place I maybe see a weakness.
For archers who prefer a backpack quiver there is no other name than
Catquiver.
For information on these and other Rancho
Safari products contact:
Rancho Saafari
P.O. Box 691
Ramona, CA 92065-0691
Phone: 760-789-2094
Fax: 760-789-1506
Toll Free: 800-240-2094
Email: email@ranchosafari.com
Web: www.ranchosafari.com |
