First Impressions of Tac-Six Tac-Six Citadel Double Point Firearm Sling
The Tac-Six Tac-Six Citadel Double Point Firearm Sling enters a crowded market, promising versatility and affordability. Marketed by Tac-Six, this sling aims to provide a functional, adaptable solution for carrying and deploying your firearm. I was immediately drawn to its advertised features, particularly the rapid adjustment system and compatibility with various attachment methods.
I’ve spent years struggling with uncomfortable and ineffective slings on hunting rifles and tactical carbines. Many slings lacked quick adjustability or were simply too flimsy to withstand serious use. The Citadel sling seemed to address these issues at a price point that wouldn’t break the bank.
Upon unboxing, the sling felt surprisingly robust for its price. The webbing was thick and the stitching appeared secure, although not exceptionally refined. Compared to a Magpul MS4 or a Blue Force Gear Vickers sling (both significantly more expensive), the Citadel initially seemed a bit less polished. I was cautiously optimistic.
The promise of a versatile, rapidly adjustable sling for under $20 was intriguing. My first impression was cautiously positive, tempered by the knowledge that real-world performance is what truly matters. I was eager to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tac-Six Tac-Six Citadel Double Point Firearm Sling to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Tac-Six Tac-Six Citadel Double Point Firearm Sling at a local outdoor shooting range during a carbine course. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for evaluating its performance. I used the sling with my AR-15, attaching it to the rifle using QD swivels.
The rapid adjustment system proved useful when transitioning between different shooting positions. Tightening the sling to secure the rifle against my body for hands-free movement was quick and easy. However, the pull tab required a firm tug, and I worried about its long-term durability.
Initially, I struggled to find the ideal length adjustment. After about an hour of manipulation, I was able to adjust to a comfortable fit for rapid transitioning. There were no catastrophic failures, although the plastic hardware felt somewhat cheap.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use during training exercises and a few hunting trips, the Tac-Six Tac-Six Citadel Double Point Firearm Sling has held up reasonably well. There are some signs of wear on the webbing, particularly around the adjustment points, but no critical failures yet. The plastic buckles remain functional, but I suspect they will be the first components to break.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Compared to more expensive slings with elaborate padding or specialized materials, the Citadel is easier to maintain but less comfortable for extended carry.
In comparison to my experiences with higher-end slings, the Citadel offers acceptable performance at a budget price. While not as durable or comfortable as a premium option, it provides a functional and adjustable solution for most shooters. The sling did hold up to the abuse I put it through over several months.
Breaking Down the Features of Tac-Six Tac-Six Citadel Double Point Firearm Sling
Specifications
The Tac-Six Tac-Six Citadel Double Point Firearm Sling features front and rear ladder buckles for attachment to GI sling swivels, QD swivels, and other hardware loop systems. The pull tab forend rapid adjustment system allows for quick tightening and loosening of the sling. Its tri-sectional custom fitting system aims to provide a comfortable and secure fit. The sling boasts heavy-duty, reinforced webbing, hardware, and stitching.
- Manufacturer: Tac-Six
- Color: Black
- Attachment Type: QD Swivel
- Gun Model: Universal
- Padding: No
These specifications indicate a focus on versatility and affordability rather than premium materials or features. The universal design makes it compatible with a wide range of firearms, while the lack of padding keeps the price down. The use of QD swivels is a plus for modern weapon platforms.
Performance & Functionality
The Tac-Six Tac-Six Citadel Double Point Firearm Sling performs adequately for its intended purpose. It allows for hands-free carry of a firearm and facilitates transitions between different shooting positions. The rapid adjustment system is functional, but not as smooth or intuitive as higher-end designs.
The sling’s primary strength is its adjustability. It can be quickly tightened to secure the rifle against the body or loosened for greater freedom of movement. The main weakness is the quality of the hardware.
The sling meets expectations for a budget-friendly option. Shooters should not expect the same level of performance or durability as a premium sling. However, it’s still a functional product.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Tac-Six Tac-Six Citadel Double Point Firearm Sling is acceptable for its price point. The webbing is reasonably thick, but the plastic hardware feels somewhat cheap and potentially fragile. The lack of padding makes it less comfortable for extended carry.
The design is relatively user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the sling to the optimal length. The tri-sectional custom fitting system is a good idea, but the execution is not as refined as on more expensive slings. The plastic hardware reduces the comfort significantly.
Durability & Maintenance
The long-term durability of the Tac-Six Tac-Six Citadel Double Point Firearm Sling is questionable. The plastic buckles and adjustment hardware are the most likely points of failure. However, the webbing itself appears to be reasonably robust.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. No special cleaning products or procedures are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tac-Six Tac-Six Citadel Double Point Firearm Sling does not come with any additional accessories. It is designed to be compatible with a wide range of attachment hardware, including QD swivels, HK hooks, and paracord loops. Most AR-15 owners will already have QD swivels on hand.
Users can customize the sling by adding padding or using different attachment hardware. However, the basic design is relatively fixed. Experimentation is key to determine the perfect setup.
Pros and Cons of Tac-Six Tac-Six Citadel Double Point Firearm Sling
Pros
- Affordable Price: The sling’s low cost makes it an accessible option for budget-conscious shooters.
- Versatile Attachment: Compatible with various attachment methods, including QD swivels and GI sling swivels.
- Rapid Adjustment: The pull tab system allows for quick and easy length adjustments.
- Universal Fit: Designed to work with most firearms.
- Functional Design: Provides basic functionality for carrying and deploying a firearm.
Cons
- Questionable Durability: The plastic hardware feels cheap and potentially fragile.
- Lack of Padding: The absence of padding makes it less comfortable for extended carry.
Who Should Buy Tac-Six Tac-Six Citadel Double Point Firearm Sling?
The Tac-Six Tac-Six Citadel Double Point Firearm Sling is perfect for budget-conscious shooters, casual range users, and those seeking a simple, functional sling for occasional use. It’s also a decent option for beginners who are unsure of their sling preferences and don’t want to invest in a more expensive model.
This product should be skipped by serious tactical users, hunters who spend long hours in the field, and anyone prioritizing comfort and durability above all else. They would be better off spending the money on a high quality sling.
Must-have accessories include QD swivels (if not already owned) and potentially aftermarket padding for enhanced comfort.
Conclusion on Tac-Six Tac-Six Citadel Double Point Firearm Sling
The Tac-Six Tac-Six Citadel Double Point Firearm Sling offers a basic but functional solution for carrying and deploying a firearm at an extremely affordable price. While it lacks the durability and comfort of more expensive options, it provides a versatile and adjustable platform for casual users. The price is definitely justified for the amount of functionality you receive.
I would cautiously recommend it to budget-conscious shooters who understand its limitations. Don’t expect it to last forever or provide the same level of comfort as a premium sling. However, if you need a cheap and cheerful sling for occasional use, the Citadel is worth considering. Get yours today and see if it fits your needs!