I don't carry only by the scope, my fingers won't fit with low mounts and the DNZ's have a bar below. Usually my fingers are under the action and thumb on the front scope mount on top of the scope. The fat azz DNZ's work well for the thumb on top.
I always carry a sling with me. There are a couple of spots I hunt where I have to climb and need both my hands...one on a climbing/walking stick and the other on any roots, or rocks I can grab. Have held the rifle by the barrel and used the butt as a second walking stick before. I picked up an Elberstock this year and I'm anxious to see how the rifle carrier in it works for some of these spots....kinda worried that the barrel end may catch the ground when coming down the slopes though.
