Quivers: Hip Quiver vs. Back Quiver vs. Bow-Mounted Quiver (Arrow Access, Comfort, and Hunting Style)

Alright, fellow bowhunters, let’s talk about that crucial piece of gear that carries your lifeline – your arrows. It’s more than just a holder; it’s the difference between fumbling for a follow-up shot and having an arrow silently nocked and ready. I’ve spent three decades behind the counter of my hunting supply store, and the question of how to best carry arrows in the field is a constant discussion, one that intertwines deeply with a hunter's specific style, the terrain they navigate, and even the type of bow they shoot.

Traditional sling-over-the-shoulder carry might work for target practice, but in the dense woods or up a treestand, arrows can snag, rattle, or even fall out. Carrying them by hand is a recipe for disaster. Your quiver isn't just a container; it’s a critical link in your shooting sequence, dictating how quickly you can access your next arrow, how comfortably you can move through the brush, and how silently you can operate when game is near. Imagine that trophy buck steps out, and you fumble your second arrow, making enough noise to send him bolting. Or you’re trying to climb a tree, and your broadheads are constantly snagging on branches.

This brings us to a fundamental choice when selecting your arrow carry system: do you opt for the convenience of a hip quiver that keeps arrows at your side, the classic style of a back quiver that distributes weight evenly, or the integrated approach of a bow-mounted quiver that keeps arrows directly on your weapon? Each approach offers a distinct set of advantages, profoundly impacting your arrow access speed, your overall comfort during long hunts, and its suitability for various hunting styles. The choice isn't just about tradition or aesthetics; it’s a strategic decision that dictates your readiness, your stealth, and ultimately, your success at the moment of truth. So, let’s strap on our knowledge, delve into the nuances of hip quivers versus back quivers versus bow-mounted quivers, dissecting their strengths in arrow access, comfort, and how they best suit different hunting styles, helping you pick the perfect arrow guardian for your next bowhunting adventure.

The Archer's Ammo Carrier: Why Your Quiver is Paramount

Before we dive into the specific types, let's briefly touch on the universal qualities that define a great hunting quiver:

1. Arrow Access Speed: How quickly and smoothly you can draw an arrow for a follow-up shot or a first shot after spotting game.
   
   

2. Security & Retention: Keeps arrows (especially broadheads!) securely in place, preventing rattling, falling out, or damaging other gear. Broadhead covers/hoods are essential.
   
   

3. Quietness: Minimal noise from arrows rattling, fabric swishing, or broadheads clanking.
   
   

4. Comfort: Allows for comfortable carrying over long distances, through varying terrain, and in different hunting positions (standing, sitting, climbing).
   
   

5. Protection: Protects arrows and broadheads from damage, and protects the hunter from sharp broadheads.
   
   

6. Capacity: Carries enough arrows for a typical hunt (often 3-6 arrows for bowhunting, more for target/field).
   
   

7. Hunting Style Compatibility: Works seamlessly with your chosen bow (compound, recurve, crossbow) and hunting method (still-hunting, treestand, ground blind, spot & stalk).

With these core principles in mind, let's examine the three dominant types of hunting quivers.

Hip Quivers: The Sidekick for Accessibility and Storage

Hip quivers (or side quivers) attach to your belt, typically on your dominant side, allowing arrows to be carried vertically or angled slightly forward or backward. They are a popular choice for target archery but also find application in hunting.

Arrow Access: This is generally a strong suit for hip quivers. Arrows are conveniently located at your side, making for quick and relatively silent access. You can easily see the fletching of your arrows, allowing you to select the desired arrow (e.g., specific broadhead, practice arrow) by feel or sight. Drawing an arrow is a natural motion for most archers. Re-nocking is generally faster than with a back quiver as the arrow is readily visible.

Comfort: The comfort of a hip quiver varies.

• Good for Standing/Walking: For general walking and standing, a well-balanced hip quiver can be quite comfortable, distributing weight off your bow and back.

• Can Be Cumbersome: In dense brush, arrows can snag on branches. When bending, kneeling, or sitting (especially in a treestand or ground blind), the quiver can poke, swing, or get in the way. If worn on a belt with other gear (knife, rangefinder), it can feel bulky.

• Balance: If the quiver is heavily loaded or unbalanced, it can pull on your belt or shift while moving.

Hunting Style: Hip quivers are versatile but excel in certain hunting scenarios:

• Spot & Stalk (Moderate Brush): Good for carrying arrows where you need quick access.

• Treestand/Ground Blind (Removable): Many treestand hunters will take their hip quiver off once in the stand and hang it on a hook or set it on the ground for easy, silent access.

• Traditional Archery (some models): Many traditional bowhunters prefer hip quivers as they don't interfere with the bow itself.

• Target/3D Archery: Extremely popular for these disciplines due to easy access and large storage capacity.
  
  

Pros:

• Fast & Visible Arrow Access: Easy to see and draw arrows quickly.

• Versatile Storage: Many hip quivers have multiple pockets for accessories (rangefinder, calls, wax, release aid, etc.).

• Does Not Affect Bow Balance/Weight: Keeps arrows off the bow, maintaining its natural feel.

• Can Be Removed in Stand: Allows for silent access to arrows once positioned.

• Good for Different Arrow Types: Often has tubes to keep broadheads separate from field points or blunts.
  
  

Cons:

• Can Snag on Brush: Arrows can stick out and catch on vegetation in thick woods.

• Can Be Bulky/Noisy: May swing or clank against the leg or other gear, especially if not secured well.

• Uncomfortable When Bending/Sitting: Can poke or get in the way.

• Less Secure (for broadheads): Some cheaper models may not have adequate broadhead protection or retention.

• Can Get Dirty: Arrows may pick up dirt from thigh or brush.

Back Quivers: The Classic Silhouette for Traditionalists

The back quiver is the iconic image of the archer, carried over the shoulder with arrows protruding above. It's often associated with traditional archery, but its design offers unique advantages.

Arrow Access: This is where back quivers can be tricky, especially for beginners. Drawing an arrow requires reaching over your shoulder, sometimes by feel, and then pulling it out. With practice, experienced archers can make this motion surprisingly fluid and fast. However, it's generally slower than a bow-mounted or hip quiver for rapid follow-up shots. Re-inserting an arrow back into the quiver without looking can also be challenging and noisy.

Comfort: Back quivers offer excellent comfort for walking long distances, especially through moderately open terrain. The weight of the arrows is distributed across your back and shoulders, often feeling quite natural. They don't interfere with your legs or arms during the swing.

Hunting Style: Back quivers are a strong favorite among:

• Traditional Bowhunters: Who appreciate the classic aesthetic and intuitive feel, and often move through more open timber.

• Mobile Hunters (moderate cover): They keep arrows out of the way of your legs and do not interfere with bow balance.

• Recreational Shooting: Popular for range use where high arrow capacity is often desired.
  
  

Pros:

• Excellent for Walking/Hiking: Distributes weight well, minimal interference with legs.

• Classic Aesthetic: Appeals to traditional archers.

• High Arrow Capacity (often): Can hold a large number of arrows.

• Does Not Affect Bow Balance/Weight: Arrows are off the bow.

• Good for Less Dense Cover: Arrows generally stay clear of light brush.

• Easy to Get On/Off: Can be quickly slung on or off.
  
  

Cons:

• Slower Arrow Access: Drawing arrows requires reaching over the shoulder.

• Difficult to Re-insert Arrows: Can be noisy and awkward to put arrows back.

• Arrows Can Snag: Arrows protruding above the shoulder can catch on overhead branches.

• Broadhead Protection: Many traditional back quivers offer minimal broadhead protection, requiring specialized broadhead caps for safety.

• Can Be Noisy: Arrows can rattle or clank inside if not properly secured (e.g., with foam in the bottom).

• Not Ideal for Crawling/Bending: Arrows can fall out when bending over significantly.

Bow-Mounted Quivers: The Integrated Ready System

Bow-mounted quivers attach directly to the bow itself, typically via a bracket screwed into the riser for compound bows, or limb/riser straps for traditional bows. They hold arrows either parallel to the bow limbs or angled slightly.

Arrow Access: This is arguably the fastest and most convenient method of arrow access for a compound bowhunter. Arrows are right there, immediately at your fingertips. You can grab an arrow with minimal movement, load it, and take a follow-up shot quickly. Crossbow quivers also offer fast bolt access.

Comfort: The comfort of a bow-mounted quiver is highly subjective.

• Weight & Balance: Adding arrows to the side of your bow changes its balance and adds weight. Some hunters find this uncomfortable or affects their shot consistency. A good stabilizer can help offset this.

• Bulk: The quiver and arrows add width to the bow, which can make it more cumbersome to maneuver in dense brush, or in tight treestands and ground blinds. Arrows can hit your stand or blind walls when drawing.

• Noise: While modern bow-mounted quivers are designed to be very quiet, any mechanical attachment has the potential for noise (e.g., rattling arrows in grippers, loose attachment, broadheads clanking in the hood).

Hunting Style: Bow-mounted quivers are the most common choice for:

• Compound Bowhunters: Due to their integration with the bow's design and their fast access.
  
  

• Crossbow Hunters: Virtually all crossbows utilize a bow-mounted quiver system for bolts.
  
  

• Treestand/Ground Blind Hunting (often removed): Many hunters will remove their bow-mounted quiver once they are in the stand or blind and hang it on a hook for ultimate stealth, then reattach it before climbing down. This eliminates noise and bulk while shooting.
  
  

Pros:

• Fastest Arrow Access: Arrows are always right at hand.

• All-in-One System: Bow and arrows are a single unit, easy to grab and go.

• Excellent Broadhead Protection: Hood protects broadheads and hunter.

• Very Secure Arrow Retention: Grippers hold arrows firmly.

• Does Not Interfere with Legs/Arms: No snagging on body.
  
  

Cons:

• Affects Bow Balance & Weight: Adds weight to one side of the bow, potentially impacting shooting feel.

• Adds Bulk to Bow: Can be cumbersome in thick cover, treestands, or ground blinds.

• Potential for Noise: Can rattle if not high-quality or properly secured.

• Limited Capacity: Most hold 3-6 arrows (for hunting), sometimes up to 7-8.

• Must Be Removed for Ultimate Stealth: Many hunters prefer to shoot without it attached.

The Hunter's Arrow Management: Hip vs. Back vs. Bow-Mounted – Choosing Your Flow

So, which quiver is the best fit for your bowhunting adventure? It all depends on your hunting style, environment, and personal preferences for speed, comfort, and stealth.

• Choose a Hip Quiver if:
  

  • You want fast, visible arrow access at your side.

  • You need extra storage pockets for accessories.

  • You will be removing your quiver in the treestand or blind.

  • You're mostly walking in moderately open terrain.

  • You prefer a quiver that doesn't affect bow balance.
    
    
    

• Choose a Back Quiver if:

  • You are a traditional bowhunter or value the classic aesthetic.

  • You primarily do long walks through moderately open timber.

  • You want a quiver that doesn't interfere with your legs or bow swing.

  • You prioritize high arrow capacity and minimal interference with the bow itself.
    
    
    

• Choose a Bow-Mounted Quiver if:

  • You prioritize lightning-fast arrow access right on your bow.

  • You hunt with a compound bow or crossbow.

  • You are comfortable with adding weight/balance changes to your bow.

  • You hunt in treestands or ground blinds and plan to remove the quiver for the shot.

  • You need maximum broadhead protection and secure retention.

My Best Recommendation: The Adaptive Approach

For many serious bowhunters, the ideal solution involves an adaptive approach, often utilizing two systems:

1. A High-Quality, Detachable Bow-Mounted Quiver: This is your primary arrow carrier. It's on your bow for the hike in, for initial readiness. Once in your treestand or ground blind, you quickly detach it and hang it on a gear hook or set it on the ground within easy, silent reach. This gives you the fastest access for the shot while eliminating weight, bulk, and potential noise from your bow at the moment of truth.
   
   

2. A Hip Quiver (for Target/3D or as a Secondary): For dedicated practice, 3D shoots, or if you need to carry a very high volume of arrows. Some hunters might also use a compact hip quiver for basic field use if they strongly prefer not to have anything on their bow.

This combined approach ensures you have the optimal solution for both travel/setup and the actual shot. Practice drawing from whichever quiver system you choose until it becomes second nature. Because when that moment of truth arrives, the smooth, silent access to your next arrow can make all the difference.

Now, let's explore some of the real-world quivers that have earned their reputation for securely holding arrows and ensuring swift, silent access for bowhunters.

Product Reviews: My Top Quiver Picks

Here are seven excellent examples of real hunting quivers, covering bow-mounted, hip, and back quiver designs, from reputable manufacturers that deliver on arrow access, comfort, and hunting style compatibility.

1. TightSpot 5-Arrow Quiver (Bow-Mounted)

Price Range: $$130 - $$180

TightSpot Quivers are renowned for being one of the best bow-mounted quivers on the market, especially for compound bowhunters. Their key innovation is the adjustable tension and extremely tight fit to the bow, bringing arrows closer to the riser to minimize torque and improve balance. They are also designed to be incredibly quiet, with no arrow rattling. Available in 5 or 7-arrow capacities, they feature carbon rods, a durable hood, and tight grippers. While often preferred off the bow for the shot, their minimal impact on bow balance and exceptional quietness while attached makes them a top choice for serious bowhunters.

2. G5 Outdoors Head-Loc Quiver (Bow-Mounted)

Price Range: $$50 - $$60

The G5 Outdoors Head-Loc Quiver is a popular and well-regarded bow-mounted quiver known for its unique "Head-Loc" mounting system. This system is designed to provide a secure, vibration-dampening attachment to the bow, minimizing noise and hand shock after the shot. It holds 4 or 6 arrows securely with dual grippers and features a durable hood with a rubber liner that protects broadheads. For hunters seeking a reliable, quiet, and securely mounted bow quiver that offers excellent value, the G5 Head-Loc is a strong contender.

3. Trophy Ridge Hex Light Quiver (Bow-Mounted with Lights)

Price Range: $$80 - $$100

The Trophy Ridge Hex Light Quiver combines functionality with innovation, featuring integrated LED lights. It holds 5 arrows securely and includes both green LEDs on the hood (for visibility during travel or setup) and a downward-facing white LED inside the hood (to illuminate broadheads for silent nocking in low light). It features a quiet, soft-touch hood and adjustable grippers. While the lights are a unique feature, hunters appreciate its solid construction and quiet arrow removal. For hunters who value integrated lighting and a well-designed bow-mounted quiver, the Hex Light is a great choice.

4. Selway Archery Slide-On Bow Quiver (Traditional - Bow-Mounted)

Price Range: $$120 - $$180

For traditional recurve and longbow hunters, Selway Archery makes some of the most respected bow-mounted quivers. Their Slide-On Bow Quivers attach directly to the limbs of the bow (no tools needed for attachment/detachment) and are known for their secure arrow retention, quiet performance, and durable leather or synthetic construction. They come in various arrow capacities and are designed to complement the natural aesthetic of traditional bows while providing reliable broadhead protection. These quivers are a top choice for trad bowhunters who want a functional, quiet, and classic bow-mounted quiver.

5. Great Northern Quick Mount Quiver (Traditional - Bow-Mounted)

Price Range: $$100 - $$130

Great Northern Quivers are another highly regarded brand for traditional bowhunters, offering innovative and durable bow-mounted quivers. Their Quick Mount Professional Quiver utilizes a unique strapping system that allows it to be quickly and securely attached or removed from both recurves and longbows without tools. They are known for their quiet performance, lightweight design (often carbon rods), and excellent arrow retention. For traditional archers seeking a functional, quiet, and versatile bow-mounted quiver that is easy to put on and take off, Great Northern is a premier choice.

6. Eberlestock Nosegunner Bino Pack (Hybrid - Chest Carry with Side Quiver Slot)

Price Range: $$130 - $$160

While primarily a binocular chest harness, the Eberlestock Nosegunner Bino Pack deserves mention as a unique quiver-compatible carry system. It features a main compartment for binoculars and often a secondary compartment that can securely hold a single pistol or, crucially, integrate a small, slim side quiver (often sold separately) for a few arrows. This allows the hunter to carry binos, a handgun, and a handful of arrows in a compact, accessible chest rig, completely hands-free and off the bow. For minimalist spot-and-stalk hunters who need quick access to both optics and arrows, this is an incredibly versatile setup.

7. Easton Flipside 4-Tube Hip Quiver (Hip Quiver - Target/Field/Hunting)

Price Range: $$40 - $$60

The Easton Flipside 4-Tube Hip Quiver is a popular choice for its versatility, offering a good balance of arrow capacity and accessory storage. It features four arrow separation tubes to keep arrows organized and protect broadheads. It’s ambidextrous, allowing it to be worn on either side, and includes a belt. While primarily designed for target or 3D shooting, its ample accessory pockets (for rangefinder, release, etc.) and quick arrow access make it a viable option for hunting, especially if removed and hung in the stand. It provides good value for a multi-purpose hip quiver.

The Archer's Flow: From Quiver to Kill

Your quiver is more than just a holder; it's a critical component that dictates your arrow management, your stealth, and ultimately, your readiness when that shot opportunity arises. Don't let a rattling quiver or an awkward draw cost you your chance.

Whether you prefer the convenient side access and storage of a hip quiver, the classic carry and balance of a back quiver, or the integrated, ultra-fast access of a bow-mounted quiver, understand their distinct advantages. Choose a quiver that aligns perfectly with your bow type, your hunting style, and your specific needs for arrow access, comfort, and noise discipline. Invest in quality, practice drawing silently, and ensure your broadheads are securely protected. Because when that moment of truth arrives, the fluid, silent motion of nocking your next arrow can make all the difference. May your arrows be ready, and your aim be true!