I can tell you this: I'm going to rig up one of Rich Courtney's carry-a-scooter-like-a-stage straps. Toting a UV-26 through 180' of near-zero vis is NO fun.
Printable View
I had an issue retrieving a reel through the Ear with the UV-26 and Rich's idea sounded like the ticket. But your suggestion would work great at JB.