I have always been fascinated by gear companies’ product improvements. The Flash Optics Harness is Sitka’s updated version of the Mountain Optics Harness. When asked if I wanted to try it out, I gladly accepted and was interested in how it would compare to the Mountain Harness.
Flash Optics Harness Overview
Starting at the harness’s front, there is the binocular case. The case can carry binoculars that are 8x or 10x up to 6 ¾ inches tall. I had no issue with storing my Vortex 10×42 Crossfires. Sitka also has PALS panels on the harness sides, flanking the bino case, and on the bottom to add extra accessories like a hand warmer. There are mesh pockets on the sides of the case and at the back.
“We set out to engineer a modular harness that functioned seamlessly with the kits of whitetail hunters who set up shop in the canopy.” ~ sitkagear.com
Sitka only has a rangefinder pouch beside the bino case to make the Flash Optics Harness more modular and lightweight. However, the pouch and rangefinder tether are ambidextrous, so I can switch them from one side to another. The harness consists of left and right attachment points and a back panel for securing the harness while wearing it. The back panel has mesh to help improve airflow and regulate body heat.
Flash Optics Harness’s Performance
During my latest hunting trip, I used the Flash Optics Harness, which performed well without any issues. Due to Sitka’s decision to have only one rangefinder pouch and other streamlined changes, the harness was lightweight when stalking deer. I also appreciated the harness’s vest-like design. It is quick to put on when getting ready for a stalk, and it’s easy and quiet to take off when I need to take layers off. Like the Mountain Optics Harness, I can open the rangefinder pouch and the bino case one-handed.
“This customizable binocular and rangefinder harness fits like a vest and can be taken on and off in a flash while wearing a tree-stand harness, a hood, or while hunting from a saddle.” ~ sitkagear.com
Comparison between the Flash Optics and Mountain Optics
There are differences between the Mountain Optics Harness and the Flash Optics Harness. The first difference is with the harness style. As I’ve mentioned, the Flash Optics Harness has a back panel, making it like a vest instead of the Mountain’s X-harness. The second difference is with the number of pouches. The Flash Harness comes with only the bino pouch and the rangefinder pouch. The Mountain Harness has a bino pouch and two general-purpose pouches. The last difference I want to point out is that to help cut down weight, the Flash Harness has one binocular retainer strap, which can be switched from one buckle to another. In contrast, the Mountain Harness has two retainer straps.
Flash Optics Harness Features & Specifications courtesy of sitkagear.com
- Easy on-off single attachment point allows for one-hand operation
- Structured back panel for vest-like fit
- Laser-cut holes bonded to airmesh create optimal breathability throughout the harness
- Designed for 8x and 10x binos up to 6.75in tall
- Includes ambidextrous rangefinder pouch with coiled tether
- Magnetic top lid on bino case and rangefinder pouch for silent use and easy access to optics
- Hypalon MOLLE webbing for accessory attachments on both sides of optics case, as well as below harness
- One quick-release binocular tether, attachable to wearer’s left or right side
- Attachment point for Jetstream Insulated WS Muff under optics carrier
- Stretch mesh side and back pockets keep wind indicator and other tools close at hand
- Zippered back pocket
- Adjustable for optimum fit
- Patent-pending clips make bino case easily removable from harness
- Internal lense cloth
- Two Sizes: S-M-L, and XL-XXL-3XL
- Price: $169.00
Final Thoughts
Overall, I am pleased with the design of the Flash Optics Harness. The one thing that I wish was different is with the range finder pouch. I would have preferred that it was a little bit bigger to cover my range finder completely. However, I appreciated the harness design, so I did not have to fight my hood when putting it on. While the Flash Harness is primarily for bow hunting, it still works on stalk hunts. If you are looking for a new binocular harness, look at the Flash Optics Harness.
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