Let’s Dive into Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling
The Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling isn’t just another sling; it’s a purpose-built piece of kit designed to handle the unique demands of supporting a belt-fed weapon. Blue Force Gear has a reputation for producing high-quality, no-nonsense tactical gear, and this sling is no exception. This sling is designed for the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) and similar light machine guns, offering improved comfort and weapon retention.
I needed a sling that could comfortably distribute the weight of a SAW during extended patrols and range sessions. My old sling, a generic two-point, was digging into my shoulder and lacked the adjustability needed for quick transitions. I was searching for something durable, comfortable, and specifically designed for heavier weapon platforms.
Unboxing the Vickers M249 Saw Sling, I immediately noticed the robust construction. The tubular webbing pad felt substantial, and the Blue Force Gear‘s signature Quick Adjust feature looked reliable and easy to use. The materials felt high-quality, suggesting this sling could withstand serious abuse.
I considered the Magpul MS4 GEN2 and the VTAC Wide Padded Sling. However, the Vickers M249 Saw Sling stood out due to its wider, more substantial padding and Nomex front webbing, specifically designed for the heat generated by a SAW. The Blue Force Gear seemed like the perfect balance of comfort, durability, and specific features tailored to my needs.
My initial impression was positive and hopeful. I was excited to see if the Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling lived up to its promise of providing comfortable and reliable support for a SAW. The build quality looked impressive, and I was eager to test its performance in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling at a military training exercise focused on squad-level tactics. The exercise involved long patrols, simulated engagements, and a lot of time spent carrying the M249. The sling was tested in various weather conditions.
The conditions ranged from dry and dusty to unexpectedly rainy and muddy, adding a real-world element to the evaluation. The Vickers M249 Saw Sling proved its worth immediately. The Quick Adjust feature allowed for rapid adjustments when transitioning between patrol, firing positions, and other tactical scenarios.
The sling required no time to get accustomed to. The intuitive design and easy adjustability made it simple to use. The wide pad distributed the M249’s weight evenly across my shoulder, significantly reducing fatigue during long patrols.
After my first use, I found it comfortable and robust. My initial thought was that it was far more comfortable than my old sling. It also adjusted very quickly with the quick adjust.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The construction is very durable.
The sling has seen everything from intense heat and humidity to freezing temperatures and constant exposure to dirt and mud. It cleans up easily with a simple scrub using mild soap and water. The materials don’t absorb dirt or moisture easily.
Compared to other slings I’ve used, the Vickers M249 Saw Sling is superior in terms of comfort, adjustability, and durability. Its design specifically addresses the challenges of carrying a heavier weapon. It exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling
Specifications
The Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling features 1.25in webbing on the front adjustable section, allowing for smooth and quick adjustments. The 2.75in wide x 18in long tubular webbing pad (2in wide for Multicam) provides excellent comfort and weight distribution. The sling also utilizes 1.50in webbing on the rear section for secure attachment.
These specifications translate to a sling that is both comfortable and functional. The wide padding ensures that the weight of the M249 is distributed evenly, reducing strain on the shoulder. The adjustable front webbing allows for easy transitions between different carrying positions.
Performance & Functionality
The Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling performs exceptionally well in its intended role. It securely supports the M249, allowing for comfortable carry and rapid weapon deployment. The sling is reliable.
Its strengths lie in its comfortable padding, easy adjustability, and robust construction. The only area for potential improvement might be to offer even more color options beyond the standard black, coyote brown, and Multicam. The sling met my expectations and exceeded them.
Design & Ergonomics
The Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling boasts a simple yet effective design. The materials used are of high quality, and the construction feels incredibly solid. It feels well-made and durable.
The sling is designed to be user-friendly, with the Quick Adjust feature allowing for intuitive adjustments. The learning curve is minimal. Even someone with little experience can quickly master its operation.
Durability & Maintenance
The Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling is built to last. The durable materials and robust construction ensure that it can withstand years of hard use. The Nomex front webbing adds another layer of heat resistance.
The sling requires minimal maintenance. Cleaning is simple and straightforward, requiring only mild soap and water. The high-quality materials resist dirt and moisture, reducing the need for frequent cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling does not come with any included attachment hardware. This is so it is versatile for the user’s application. Triglides on both ends of the sling can be looped through sling swivels on the gun or combined with Universal Wire Loops, HK Hooks, or MASH Hooks (sold separately) for increased sling attachment options.
The sling’s open-ended design allows users to select their preferred attachment hardware. This makes it compatible with a wide range of weapons and attachment systems. The ability to customize the sling with different hooks and loops makes it adaptable to individual needs.
Pros and Cons of Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling
Pros
- Extremely durable construction, designed to withstand heavy use.
- Comfortable padding, even when carrying a heavy weapon for extended periods.
- Quick Adjust feature, allowing for rapid transitions and adjustments.
- Nomex front webbing, providing heat resistance for use with a SAW.
- Versatile attachment options, compatible with various weapon platforms and hardware.
Cons
- Lack of included attachment hardware requires separate purchase.
- Relatively higher price point compared to basic slings.
Who Should Buy Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling?
Perfect for: Military personnel, law enforcement officers, and tactical shooters who use M249 SAWs or similar light machine guns. It’s also ideal for hunters using heavier battle rifles or bolt action rifles.
Who should skip this product? Individuals looking for a basic sling for lighter rifles may find this sling overkill. Those on a very tight budget might find more affordable options that suit their needs.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Depending on your weapon and attachment points, consider purchasing Blue Force Gear Universal Wire Loops, HK Hooks, or MASH Hooks for optimal attachment.
Conclusion on Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling
The Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling is a top-tier sling designed specifically for heavier weapon platforms. Its durable construction, comfortable padding, and easy adjustability make it an excellent choice for anyone who needs to carry a SAW or similar light machine gun. The Blue Force Gear lives up to its reputation for building reliable, high-quality gear.
The price is justified by the sling’s exceptional performance and longevity. It’s an investment that will pay off in terms of comfort, durability, and functionality. If you’re serious about carrying a SAW comfortably and efficiently, the Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling is worth every penny.
I would absolutely recommend this sling to anyone in need of a reliable and comfortable solution for carrying a heavier weapon. Stop struggling with uncomfortable slings and upgrade to the Blue Force Gear Vickers M249 Saw Sling today!