First Thoughts on the Outdoor Connection 1 1/4″ Black Sling w/Swivels
The Outdoor Connection 1 1/4″ Black Sling w/Swivels presents itself as a no-frills, budget-friendly option for anyone needing a basic sling. Outdoor Connection promises weather resistance and easy installation, hinting at a reliable workhorse for the everyday shooter or hunter. Its simplicity is either a blessing or a curse, depending on your needs and expectations.
My old hunting sling finally gave out after years of abuse, tearing right at the adjustment buckle. I needed a quick, inexpensive replacement to get me through the rest of the season. I was primarily looking for something durable enough to withstand the rigors of dense woods and inclement weather, all without breaking the bank.
Upon unboxing, the Outdoor Connection 1 1/4″ Black Sling w/Swivels felt surprisingly robust for its price. The synthetic material felt sturdy, and the swivels seemed adequately secured. The one-piece design gives it a cleaner look than some more complex slings, and the black color is classic and unassuming.
Compared to some of the padded, quick-adjust slings I’ve used in the past from brands like Magpul and Blue Force Gear, the Outdoor Connection sling is decidedly minimalist. I chose it for its simplicity and low price point over those fancier, more expensive options. The lack of padding was a slight concern, but I figured I could always add some if needed.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It wasn’t flashy or feature-rich, but it seemed like a solid, dependable sling for the money. Time and testing would tell if it lived up to expectations or if I had sacrificed too much for the sake of affordability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Outdoor Connection 1 1/4″ Black Sling w/Swivels to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Outdoor Connection 1 1/4″ Black Sling w/Swivels on a weekend deer hunt in the Appalachian Mountains. The terrain was rugged, with steep inclines and thick underbrush. The weather was typical for late fall: cold, damp, and unpredictable.
The sling performed adequately but revealed some limitations. The lack of padding became noticeable after several hours of carrying my rifle. The material began to dig into my shoulder, especially when navigating steep slopes.
Installation was indeed quick and easy, thanks to the detachable brute swivels. I didn’t need any tools, and the knurled pin ends provided a good grip, even with gloved hands. There were no surprises, but the lack of immediate comfort was a minor letdown.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Outdoor Connection 1 1/4″ Black Sling w/Swivels has proven to be more durable than I initially anticipated. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after repeated exposure to mud, rain, and snow. The synthetic material has held up well.
Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The sling requires virtually no maintenance. It surpasses my expectations given the price.
Compared to my old, more expensive sling, the Outdoor Connection lacks comfort and adjustability. However, it matches its durability and ease of use. While it may not be the most comfortable option for long treks, it’s a reliable and cost-effective solution for shorter hunts and range trips.
Breaking Down the Features of Outdoor Connection 1 1/4″ Black Sling w/Swivels
Specifications
The Outdoor Connection 1 1/4″ Black Sling w/Swivels is designed for simplicity and functionality. It features a 1.25″ swivel size for compatibility with most standard rifle sling mounts. The overall length is 56 inches, providing ample adjustment for different body sizes and carrying preferences.
The sling is constructed from durable nylon and comes in a black color. This construction provides good weather resistance. The 1.25″ width is standard for most rifles and shotguns. These specifications are key to its compatibility and basic functionality.
Performance & Functionality
The Outdoor Connection 1 1/4″ Black Sling w/Swivels performs its primary function of supporting the weight of a firearm adequately. It securely holds the rifle and allows for hands-free carrying. The swivels rotate smoothly, preventing the sling from twisting and tangling.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. Its weaknesses are the lack of padding and adjustability. For basic needs, it meets expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is straightforward and utilitarian. The black nylon is unobtrusive and blends well with most firearms. The lack of padding contributes to its lightweight design but detracts from overall comfort.
There is virtually no learning curve; it is easy to install and use. Adjusting the sling length is simple, but it can be cumbersome to do while wearing gloves.
Durability & Maintenance
The durable nylon construction suggests it will last for several seasons of moderate use. The one-piece design minimizes potential failure points. It’s incredibly easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Outdoor Connection 1 1/4″ Black Sling w/Swivels does not come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited due to its basic design. Padding can be added via aftermarket purchases to improve comfort.
The 1.25″ swivels are compatible with most standard sling studs. Other than that, there are no significant customization options. This is a simple product designed for basic functionality.
Pros and Cons of Outdoor Connection 1 1/4″ Black Sling w/Swivels
Pros
- Extremely affordable: At $13.49, it’s hard to beat the price.
- Durable construction: The nylon material holds up well to wear and tear.
- Easy to install: The brute swivels make installation quick and straightforward.
- Weather resistant: Suitable for use in various outdoor conditions.
- Simple and reliable: No unnecessary features that could fail.
Cons
- Lack of padding: Can be uncomfortable for extended use.
- Limited adjustability: Not as easy to adjust on the fly as some other slings.
Who Should Buy Outdoor Connection 1 1/4″ Black Sling w/Swivels?
The Outdoor Connection 1 1/4″ Black Sling w/Swivels is perfect for budget-conscious hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone needing a basic, reliable sling for occasional use. It’s a great option for beginners who don’t want to invest in expensive gear right away. This also works well as a backup sling.
This product isn’t ideal for those who prioritize comfort or require advanced features like quick adjustability. Tactical users needing a highly adjustable or padded sling should look elsewhere. A simple shoulder pad might be a worthwhile addition for enhanced comfort during extended use.
Conclusion on Outdoor Connection 1 1/4″ Black Sling w/Swivels
The Outdoor Connection 1 1/4″ Black Sling w/Swivels is a no-nonsense, budget-friendly sling that delivers on its promise of reliability and ease of use. It may not be the most comfortable or feature-rich option on the market, but it’s a solid choice for those seeking a basic, durable sling without breaking the bank. The value proposition is excellent.
I would personally recommend it to anyone needing a simple, dependable sling for light to moderate use. Its affordability and durability make it a worthwhile purchase. If you’re looking for a basic sling that gets the job done without any frills, the Outdoor Connection 1 1/4″ Black Sling w/Swivels is definitely worth considering.