Let’s Dive into Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling w/Swivels
The Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling w/Swivels promises a revolutionary approach to weapon carry, focusing on lightweight comfort and rapid deployment. Butler Creek aims to redefine the single-point sling experience with this offering. Its design prioritizes breathability and ease of use, catering to both seasoned professionals and recreational shooters alike.
After years of lugging around heavily-laden rifles, I sought a sling that wouldn’t add to the burden. I needed something comfortable for all-day use and easy to adjust on the fly. The promise of a significantly lighter sling piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the Featherlight Sling’s unique construction. The foam padding felt surprisingly soft and lightweight, a stark contrast to the bulky nylon slings I’m accustomed to. The build quality appeared solid.
Compared to my old padded two-point sling from Vtac and a generic single-point bungee sling, the Butler Creek option immediately stood out for its weight. The cut-out design was intriguing, suggesting better ventilation than the full-coverage padding of the Vtac. I opted for the Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling because it promised all-day comfort without the bulk of traditional slings.
My initial impression was excitement tempered with a touch of skepticism. Could something this lightweight truly offer the support and durability I require? I was eager to find out.
Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling w/Swivels to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling w/Swivels at an outdoor shooting range during a carbine course. The weather was hot and humid, perfect for testing the sling’s breathability. I ran drills involving transitions, movement, and rapid target acquisition with an AR-15.
Even after hours of use in the humid conditions, the Featherlight Sling remained remarkably comfortable. The cut-out design did seem to improve airflow. The single-point configuration allowed for quick transitions between shooting and administrative tasks.
Initially, I had to adjust the sling length several times to find the optimal position for my rifle. The thumb loop took some getting used to. There was also a bit of play in the swivel attachment points.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling w/Swivels has held up surprisingly well. I’ve used it on multiple range trips and even during a weekend hog hunt. Despite some initial concerns, the foam padding shows no significant wear or compression.
However, the swivel attachment points do exhibit a slight increase in looseness over time. Regular tightening is necessary. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a damp cloth to wipe away dirt and sweat.
Compared to my older slings, the Featherlight Sling excels in comfort and weight reduction. But it lacks the rock-solid stability of a two-point sling during prolonged static shooting. The lighter weight foam is also clearly less abrasion-resistant than heavy-duty nylon.
Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling w/Swivels
Specifications
- The Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling w/Swivels features a lightweight, closed-cell foam inner construction. This inner core makes it 45% lighter than the Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded sling.
- Its adjustable length ranges from 22 to over 36 inches, accommodating various body sizes and weapon configurations. The sling’s width is 3 inches.
- Butler Creek designed this sling in black. The construction includes cut-out slots for enhanced breathability.
- It includes two built-in cartridge holders for quick access to ammunition. The sling is equipped with swivels for attachment to compatible firearms.
- A large thumb loop is integrated into the bottom of the sling to improve security and control. This loop helps secure the sling on the shoulder.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the sling’s comfort, functionality, and overall user experience. The lightweight design reduces fatigue, while the adjustable length ensures a proper fit. The added features, such as the cartridge holders and thumb loop, enhance its utility in the field.
Performance & Functionality
The Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling w/Swivels performs well in its intended role. It provides a comfortable and convenient way to carry a rifle, particularly during dynamic shooting scenarios. Its single-point design allows for rapid transitions and easy manipulation of the weapon.
The sling’s strengths lie in its lightweight construction and breathability. Its weakness resides in its inherent lack of stability compared to two-point slings. It meets my expectations for a lightweight, comfortable sling.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling is adequate, with durable stitching and sturdy hardware. The use of closed-cell foam provides excellent comfort without adding excessive weight. At 3 inches wide, it distributes weight nicely across the shoulder.
The sling is user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustment to achieve a comfortable fit. The single-point design simplifies weapon deployment and maneuvering.
Durability & Maintenance
The Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling‘s durability is satisfactory for its intended use, however the foam construction might not withstand extreme abrasion. With proper care, it should last for several seasons of regular use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and tightening of the swivels.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling w/Swivels comes with two built-in cartridge holders, providing immediate access to ammunition. No significant customization options are available, as the sling is designed as a complete unit. The swivels are compatible with standard sling attachment points found on most modern rifles and shotguns.
Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling w/Swivels
Pros
- Remarkably lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear.
- Breathable design reduces heat and sweat buildup.
- Single-point configuration allows for rapid transitions and weapon manipulation.
- Built-in cartridge holders provide quick access to ammunition.
- Adjustable length accommodates various body sizes and weapon configurations.
Cons
- Swivel attachment points may loosen over time and require periodic tightening.
- Foam construction might not withstand extreme abrasion as well as nylon.
Who Should Buy Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling w/Swivels?
The Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling w/Swivels is perfect for: tactical shooters, carbine course participants, hunters who prioritize lightweight gear, and anyone seeking a comfortable and maneuverable sling solution.
This product should be avoided by: individuals requiring maximum weapon stability for precision shooting, or those who frequently operate in harsh environments where abrasion resistance is paramount.
Must-have accessories or modifications: Consider using thread locker on the swivel attachment screws to prevent loosening.
Conclusion on Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling w/Swivels
Overall, the Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling w/Swivels is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a lightweight, comfortable, and maneuverable sling.
The price of $38.89 is justified given its unique features and benefits.
I would personally recommend it to those who value comfort and ease of use.
If you’re tired of heavy, bulky slings that weigh you down, give the Butler Creek Featherlight Single Point Sling a try. It might just be the upgrade you’ve been waiting for.