First Thoughts on the Outdoor Connection Adjustable Black Padded Super Sling
The Outdoor Connection Adjustable Black Padded Super Sling promises comfort and control at a budget-friendly price, a combination that’s always intriguing to a seasoned outdoorsman like myself. With over a decade spent lugging rifles and shotguns through dense woods and across open fields, I’ve become intimately familiar with the agony of poorly designed slings. This sling aims to solve that issue, offering a padded shoulder section and a thumb loop for enhanced firearm control.
I was specifically looking for an affordable, comfortable sling for my new deer rifle. My old leather sling, while classic, was digging into my shoulder after long treks. I considered pricier options from brands like Magpul and Blue Force Gear, known for their high-end materials and advanced features. However, the Outdoor Connection sling’s promise of basic comfort and control at a fraction of the cost piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing, the Outdoor Connection Adjustable Black Padded Super Sling feels surprisingly robust for its price. The nylon webbing appears durable, and the padding, while not exceptionally plush, seems adequate. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic: it looks like a practical, no-frills solution, but I reserved judgment until I could test it in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Outdoor Connection Adjustable Black Padded Super Sling to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test involved a full day of scouting for deer in the rugged hills of Pennsylvania. The Outdoor Connection Adjustable Black Padded Super Sling was attached to my rifle, and I immediately noticed the difference in comfort compared to my old sling. The padded section did a decent job of distributing the weight, and the thumb loop helped me maintain a secure grip while navigating steep terrain.
However, the sling did exhibit some initial shortcomings. The nylon webbing felt a bit stiff, and the adjustment buckle occasionally slipped, requiring readjustment throughout the day. Despite these minor issues, the sling proved significantly more comfortable than my previous setup, especially during uphill climbs.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Outdoor Connection Adjustable Black Padded Super Sling has softened up slightly, and the initial stiffness of the nylon has diminished. I’ve used it during both dry and moderately wet conditions, and the nylon shows no signs of mildew or discoloration. The padding has maintained its shape and continues to provide adequate cushioning.
The durability, however, is a concern. I noticed some slight fraying at the edges of the nylon webbing near the swivels after about a month. Cleaning the sling is straightforward, simply requiring a damp cloth and mild soap. Compared to my experience with more expensive slings using higher-denier nylon, the Outdoor Connection shows its budget-friendly nature in long-term wear.
Breaking Down the Features of Outdoor Connection Adjustable Black Padded Super Sling
Specifications
The Outdoor Connection Adjustable Black Padded Super Sling is designed for simplicity and functionality. It features 1-inch wide nylon webbing, providing adequate strength for most rifles and shotguns. The sling is adjustable in length, accommodating a wide range of body sizes and carrying preferences.
The padded shoulder section is the sling’s defining feature, offering cushioning to reduce shoulder fatigue. The inclusion of a patented Thumb Loop allows for enhanced control and comfort. The sling comes in black and utilizes 1-inch swivels for attachment.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Outdoor Connection Adjustable Black Padded Super Sling is to carry a firearm comfortably and securely. It performs this function adequately, providing noticeable improvement over unpadded slings. The Thumb Loop allows for better control, preventing the firearm from swaying excessively during movement.
However, the quality of the materials and hardware limits its overall performance. The adjustment buckle’s tendency to slip can be frustrating, and the fraying of the nylon webbing raises concerns about long-term durability. While it meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly sling, it doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is straightforward and utilitarian. The black nylon webbing is unassuming and blends well with most firearms. The padded section is adequately sized and shaped to conform to the shoulder.
The ergonomics are generally good, although the stiffness of the webbing can make adjustments slightly cumbersome. The Thumb Loop is a welcome addition, offering a secure and comfortable grip. There’s a slight learning curve in finding the optimal sling length and thumb loop position.
Durability & Maintenance
The long-term durability of the Outdoor Connection Adjustable Black Padded Super Sling is questionable based on my observations. The fraying of the nylon webbing suggests that it may not withstand heavy use or harsh conditions. The 1-inch swivels seem adequately strong, but their long-term reliability remains to be seen.
Maintenance is simple, requiring occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. However, the potential for fraying may necessitate more frequent inspections and repairs. For those needing ultimate durability, this sling may fall short.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Outdoor Connection Adjustable Black Padded Super Sling is a standalone product and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited, primarily involving replacing the 1-inch swivels with higher-quality alternatives. The sling is compatible with most firearms equipped with standard 1-inch sling attachment points. Aftermarket sling swivels, such as those from GrovTec, could enhance its reliability.
Pros and Cons of Outdoor Connection Adjustable Black Padded Super Sling
Pros
- Provides noticeable comfort improvement over unpadded slings.
- The Thumb Loop offers enhanced firearm control and stability.
- Affordable price point makes it an accessible option for budget-conscious users.
- Adjustable length accommodates a wide range of body sizes and carrying preferences.
- Simple and utilitarian design blends well with most firearms.
Cons
- The nylon webbing feels somewhat stiff and prone to fraying.
- The adjustment buckle can slip, requiring frequent readjustment.
- Durability concerns limit its suitability for heavy use or harsh conditions.
Who Should Buy Outdoor Connection Adjustable Black Padded Super Sling?
The Outdoor Connection Adjustable Black Padded Super Sling is perfect for casual hunters, recreational shooters, and budget-conscious individuals seeking a basic, comfortable sling. It’s a good option for those who primarily hunt or shoot in relatively mild conditions and don’t require extreme durability. First-time gun owners looking for an inexpensive sling solution will also find it suitable.
This product should be skipped by serious hunters, tactical professionals, or anyone who subjects their gear to heavy use and demanding conditions. Those requiring maximum durability and reliability should invest in a higher-quality sling made from more robust materials. A must-have modification would be upgrading the swivels to a higher quality offering from a brand like Uncle Mike’s.
Conclusion on Outdoor Connection Adjustable Black Padded Super Sling
The Outdoor Connection Adjustable Black Padded Super Sling offers a budget-friendly solution for those seeking improved comfort and control while carrying a firearm. While it has limitations in terms of durability and hardware quality, it delivers adequate performance for casual users. The price is justified for what it offers, a comfortable and functional sling without breaking the bank.
I would recommend the Outdoor Connection Adjustable Black Padded Super Sling to anyone on a tight budget who needs a basic, comfortable sling for occasional use. However, be aware of its limitations and consider upgrading certain components if you plan on subjecting it to more demanding conditions. If you want a durable, reliable, no-frills solution for your firearm carry needs at an entry level price, then this is a sling to consider.