First Thoughts on the Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling
The Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling enters the market as an affordable option promising comfort and durability. As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade under my belt, I’ve seen countless slings come and go, each vying for a spot on a serious shooter’s rifle. I’m eager to see if this sling lives up to its claims, especially given its attractive price point.
My old leather sling, a trusted companion on many hunts, finally gave way after years of abuse, splitting right where it attached to the swivel. I needed a replacement that could handle the rigors of backcountry hunting, wasn’t going to break the bank, and wouldn’t scream “look at me” with excessive tactical flair. The Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling, with its promise of a non-slip pad and silent swivels, seemed like a solid contender.
Upon unboxing, the sling felt surprisingly substantial for its price. The polymer pad had a nice, grippy texture, and the webbing felt durable. The Manufacturer, Quake Industries, seems to have focused on practicality over aesthetics, which is a good start in my book.
Compared to some neoprene slings I’ve used, which tend to bounce and feel bulky, this one looked more streamlined. I also considered a traditional leather sling, but the promise of weather resistance and silent operation with the patented Hush Stalker II swivels ultimately swayed me towards the Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling. The price point was a major factor as well; some of the higher-end slings can cost several times more.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited to see if the “no bounce” claim held true and if the Hush Stalker II swivels lived up to their name. Only real-world testing would reveal the true worth of this budget-friendly sling.
Real-World Testing: Putting Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling was a weekend deer hunt in the rugged terrain of the Cascade Mountains. The weather was typical for the region: damp and cool, with a constant drizzle. I was carrying my trusty Winchester Model 70 in 270 caliber.
The sling performed admirably, even in the less than ideal conditions. The non-slip polymer pad truly lived up to its name, keeping the rifle firmly in place on my shoulder as I navigated steep inclines and thick brush. I appreciated the lack of bounce compared to the old neoprene sling I had borrowed while waiting for this one.
The sling required minimal adjustment right out of the box. It was easy to lengthen or shorten the sling on the fly. This was helpful when transitioning from hiking with the rifle slung across my back to quickly bringing it to bear. No issues arose during the first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple hunting trips and range sessions, the Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. The polymer pad shows no signs of cracking or tearing, and the webbing remains strong and unfaded. The Hush Stalker II swivels are still squeak-free, a major plus for stealthy hunting.
Minor wear and tear is visible on the webbing where it rubs against the swivel studs. It is no more than expected with any sling after repeated use in the field. Cleaning is a breeze; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth removes dirt and grime.
In comparison to my old leather sling, the Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling is significantly more resistant to the elements. It has become a welcome upgrade. It outperforms the borrowed neoprene sling in stability and lack of bounce.
Breaking Down the Features of Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling
Specifications
The Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling is designed for universal use with standard rifle swivel studs. Its length is adjustable to fit a wide range of users and rifles. The sling is constructed from durable polymer and robust webbing.
The dimensions are fairly standard. The “universal” swivel size makes it compatible with virtually any rifle equipped with sling studs. The adjustable length allows for comfortable carry across the chest or over the shoulder. The polymer construction contributes to the sling’s weather resistance, while the webbing provides strength and support.
Performance & Functionality
The Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling performs its primary function of securely carrying a rifle exceptionally well. The non-slip pad keeps the rifle in place, and the adjustable length allows for a customized fit. The Hush Stalker II swivels ensure silent operation, a crucial factor for hunting.
A major strength is the exceptional grip of the polymer pad. This prevents the rifle from sliding around, even during strenuous activity. The main weakness is the lack of padding on the webbing itself. Additional padding might enhance comfort during extended carries with heavier rifles. The sling definitely meets and exceeds my expectations, especially considering its price.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling prioritizes function over form. The sling is lightweight and unobtrusive. The contouring of the polymer pad fits comfortably against the shoulder.
The build quality is impressive for a sling in this price range. The materials feel durable, and the stitching is well-executed. There’s a slight learning curve in adjusting the length of the sling while wearing it. But it is a task easily mastered with a little practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling is built to last. The polymer pad is resistant to cracking and tearing. The webbing is strong and durable.
Maintenance is minimal; a simple wipe-down is sufficient to keep the sling clean and functional. Given the materials and construction, I expect this sling to provide years of reliable service. The simplicity of the design means that there’s little to go wrong.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling comes with the patented Hush Stalker II sling swivels. These are a significant upgrade over standard metal swivels. There are no other included accessories.
Due to its universal design, the sling is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket sling studs and adapters. It is easy to swap out the included swivels for QD (quick detach) versions. This allows for rapid attachment and detachment of the sling. No further customization is possible.
Pros and Cons of Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling
Pros
- Excellent non-slip grip: The polymer pad keeps the rifle securely in place.
- Silent operation: The Hush Stalker II swivels eliminate squeaks and rattles.
- Affordable price: Offers great value for the money.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
- Easy to adjust: Length is easily adjustable for a customized fit.
Cons
- Limited padding on the webbing: Additional padding would enhance comfort.
- Basic design: Prioritizes function over aesthetics.
Who Should Buy Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling?
The Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone looking for a reliable and affordable rifle sling. Its non-slip grip and silent operation make it particularly well-suited for hunting applications. The durability ensures it can withstand the demands of outdoor use.
This sling is not ideal for those who prioritize aesthetics or require extensive padding for carrying extremely heavy rifles. It’s a functional tool, not a fashion statement. It does the job it was designed to do, and it does it well.
A must-have modification, for some, might be upgrading to QD swivels for faster sling attachment and detachment. Otherwise, the sling is ready to go right out of the box.
Conclusion on Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling
The Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling is a no-frills, highly functional rifle sling that delivers on its promises. Its non-slip grip, silent operation, and durable construction make it an excellent value for the money.
The price is absolutely justified. It offers performance comparable to slings costing significantly more. This makes it an accessible option for budget-conscious shooters.
I would definitely recommend the Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable way to carry their rifle. If you need a dependable sling that won’t break the bank, look no further. Give the Quake Industries Black Contoured Rifle Sling a try; you won’t be disappointed.