Main Discussion Area > Around the Campfire
Baby Carriers
aesedai:
I've had a ton of experience using different carriers for my boys so here's what advice I can share....
We got a backpack when my first son was born and to be honest I think we've only ever used it once. Generally speaking they are just too bulky and big to be convenient, and I don't really know of any that you would have enough movement wearing one to be able to shoot. The closest thing to a backback that I've heard rave reviews about would be the ergo carrier http://www.ergobabycarriers.com/babycarriers/category/carrier/ You can use that one on your front or back and I'm pretty sure you could carry even a newborn on your back in one although I'm not entirely sure about that as I've never actually used one myself.
I generally use slings for my kids. For shooting I prefer using a mei tai carrier, you can use that one on the front or back as well and I've even carried a newborn on my back before. The nice thing about these is that the weight is distributed evenly without any bulk so it makes for easy shooting, or working, or whatever you want to do. I've carried my nearly 3 year old in one of these as well, they are definately made to be used for a large age range. I made my own but there are a ton of places you can buy them. If you want something more custom made (lots of shops actually let you pick your own fabric) check out etsy.com and just search for mei tai's it should come up with tons of sellers.
Another decent option would be a ring sling, although they take a while to figure out. I've shot with my 10 month old on my back with one of these but he was starting to get to be a bit heavy with that sling by then. Same thing for those, if you want custom/hand made check out esty.com or most specialty baby stores carry them.
The other sling I use often is just a basic pouch style. These are great for getting baby in and out quick but they are not comfortable for long periods of time. I use that one when shooting when I know I just have to carry one of my sons in between targets or something. You can find pouch slings almost anywhere, but they are also really simple to sew if you or or your wife sew. I have lot's of links with tutorials on making all three of those slings if you're interested.
Anyway there's what little advice I have to offer... we're due with our 3rd kid next month so I expect to have to carry him/her anytime we head out to shoot again.
NTD:
Thanks for the advice. We have a sling (hippie carrier) >:D ;D and My wife just bought a mei tai, she did tell me yesterday that you can use it on the back, we'll see how that works out. Thanks guys!
ricktrojanowski:
Cute kid. The time will go sooooo fast enjoy every moment.
Diligence:
Great looking baby!
I have 3 kids....and all three got carried around in either a "ring sling" similar to this (www.babymoonslings.com) or a "wrap" (www.mobywrap) - similar to a mei tai I think.
Let me tell you this, looking like a "hippie" as you call it has allowed me to have my hands free to do lots of things. A sling is easy to make, lots of patterns on the web, and you could even make it out of camo material if you wanted. Mine has sports equipment on it (bats, balls, etc) and looks "manly".
Best benefit of carrying my kids is that it gives them a chance to "hang with dad" and bond a bit.....who cares what kind of looks you get - you are the DADDY, you get to make the decisions (at least while "she who must be obeyed" is not around) ;D.
Once your little one is a bit bigger, the sling is really easy to use as a backpack carrier....see the link above and look under instructions.
Or...you could get a backpack style carrier. I have one similar to these http://www.rei.com/category/4500066
Cheers,
J
I encourage you to use the sling....it's easy to do, the kids love it and besides, you get to bond! what can be better in this world than having your child (little angel) rest their head against you? O:)
Postman:
Very cute kid! You hit the nail on the head with "...enjoy it while it lasts" -
When she gets older, bib overalls are great carriers! ;D
I don't know how many last second saves I've made by grabbing the overalls straps right before my boys got to the mud, phone, floor buffet, ect...
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