First Thoughts on the Firefield Tactical Two Point 1.50″ x 37.50″-45″ Black 550 Nylon Paracord
The Firefield Tactical Two Point 1.50″ x 37.50″-45″ Black 550 Nylon Paracord sling enters a market saturated with options, promising both tactical functionality and survival utility. Manufactured by Firefield, this sling boasts a durable construction using 550-pound nylon paracord in a king cobra style braid and adjustability from 37.5 to 45 inches. This caught my eye because I’ve always been a proponent of gear that serves multiple purposes, especially when weight and space are a premium in the field.
I was searching for a robust, reliable sling that could also provide emergency cordage when I stumbled across the Firefield offering. I’ve used standard nylon slings for years, but the idea of having readily accessible paracord integrated into my rifle sling was appealing. I’ve always carried a separate spool of 550 cord on extended trips, but the Firefield sling promised to consolidate gear.
Upon unboxing, the Firefield Tactical Two Point Paracord Sling felt solid and well-constructed. The king cobra braid looked tight and even, and the 550 nylon felt sturdy. The black color is a classic, blending in well with most tactical gear. While it’s not the lightest sling on the market, the weight (8.70 oz) felt reasonable considering the added paracord.
Compared to other slings I’ve used, such as the Magpul MS4 or Blue Force Gear Vickers sling, the Firefield sling stands out due to its dual-purpose nature. While the Magpul and Blue Force Gear slings prioritize rapid adjustability and lightweight design, the Firefield sling adds survival functionality. I ultimately chose the Firefield because I valued the added layer of preparedness it offered, recognizing I might sacrifice a little in terms of pure speed and weight. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping that the sling would live up to its promise of being both a functional tactical sling and a valuable survival asset.
Real-World Testing: Putting Firefield Tactical Two Point 1.50″ x 37.50″-45″ Black 550 Nylon Paracord to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test of the Firefield Tactical Two Point Paracord Sling took place at my local shooting range and during a weekend backcountry camping trip. At the range, I used the sling on my AR-15 to practice transitioning between shooting positions and maintaining a stable firing platform. The adjustability of the sling allowed me to quickly customize the length to suit my body armor and shooting stance.
The sling performed adequately in dry conditions, providing sufficient support for my rifle. I found it slightly less comfortable than padded slings I’ve used, particularly during extended periods of carrying the rifle. No immediate issues arose during this initial use, but I noticed the nylon paracord felt a little stiff against my neck compared to more flexible nylon webbing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple range trips, a hunting excursion, and a multi-day wilderness survival course, the Firefield Tactical Two Point Paracord Sling has proven to be reasonably durable. There are no signs of fraying or significant wear on the paracord braid. However, the metal clips showed some minor surface scratches from rubbing against other gear.
The sling has held up well through exposure to rain and mud during hunting trips. Cleaning involves simply wiping it down with a damp cloth and letting it air dry. While the sling has maintained its structural integrity, the stiffness of the paracord braid hasn’t improved significantly with use. Overall, the Firefield sling has neither dramatically outperformed nor disappointed compared to other basic slings I’ve used.
Breaking Down the Features of Firefield Tactical Two Point 1.50″ x 37.50″-45″ Black 550 Nylon Paracord
Specifications
The Firefield Tactical Two Point 1.50″ x 37.50″-45″ Black 550 Nylon Paracord sling has the following specifications:
- Length: 37.50″-45″ – This adjustability allows for a comfortable fit with various body types and gear configurations.
- Width: 1.50″ – Provides sufficient surface area for weight distribution across the shoulder and neck.
- Color: Black – A classic and versatile color that blends well with most tactical gear.
- Material: Nylon Paracord – Offers a durable and potentially life-saving resource in emergency situations.
- Style: Two-Point – A traditional sling design that provides stable weapon retention.
- Gun Type: Rifle – Designed specifically for use with rifles and carbines.
- Hardware: Clip, QD Buckle – Allows for quick attachment and detachment from the rifle.
- Weight: 8.70 oz – A reasonable weight for a sling with integrated paracord.
These specifications are important because they dictate the sling’s functionality, comfort, and durability. The 550 Nylon Paracord construction is particularly noteworthy, as it adds an element of survival preparedness to a standard piece of tactical gear.
Performance & Functionality
The Firefield Tactical Two Point 1.50″ x 37.50″-45″ Black 550 Nylon Paracord sling performs its primary function of supporting and retaining a rifle adequately. The adjustable length allows for comfortable carrying in various positions, and the quick-detach buckles enable rapid removal of the rifle when necessary.
The sling’s main strength lies in its dual-purpose design, providing readily accessible paracord in a survival situation. One potential weakness is the paracord’s stiffness, which can make it less comfortable than more flexible webbing slings. It meets basic expectations for a two-point sling, but the overall comfort could be improved.
Design & Ergonomics
The Firefield Tactical Two Point 1.50″ x 37.50″-45″ Black 550 Nylon Paracord sling has a simple and functional design. The king cobra braid looks aesthetically pleasing and provides a secure hold. The materials used appear to be of good quality, though the paracord can feel somewhat abrasive against the skin.
The sling is generally user-friendly, with easy-to-adjust sliders and quick-detach buckles. There is minimal learning curve involved in using this sling.
Durability & Maintenance
The Firefield Tactical Two Point 1.50″ x 37.50″-45″ Black 550 Nylon Paracord sling appears to be reasonably durable. The 550 Nylon Paracord is known for its strength and resistance to abrasion. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
With proper care, the sling should provide several years of reliable service. The metal clips may eventually show signs of wear, but they are easily replaceable.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Firefield Tactical Two Point 1.50″ x 37.50″-45″ Black 550 Nylon Paracord sling does not come with any additional accessories beyond the standard clips and QD buckle. Customization options are limited, but the sling can be easily attached to any rifle with standard sling attachment points.
The Firefield sling is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket sling swivels and adapters. Aftermarket padding could also be added for increased comfort.
Pros and Cons of Firefield Tactical Two Point 1.50″ x 37.50″-45″ Black 550 Nylon Paracord
Pros
- Dual-purpose design provides readily accessible 550 Nylon Paracord for survival situations.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting reliability.
- Adjustable length allows for a comfortable fit with various body types and gear configurations.
- Compatible with a wide range of rifles and sling attachment points.
- Affordable price point makes it an accessible option for budget-conscious buyers.
Cons
- Paracord braid can feel stiff and abrasive against the skin, reducing comfort during extended use.
- The metal clips may show signs of wear over time.
- Lacks the advanced features and adjustability of higher-end tactical slings.
Who Should Buy Firefield Tactical Two Point 1.50″ x 37.50″-45″ Black 550 Nylon Paracord?
The Firefield Tactical Two Point 1.50″ x 37.50″-45″ Black 550 Nylon Paracord sling is perfect for:
- Survivalists: The integrated paracord provides a valuable resource for building shelters, starting fires, and other survival tasks.
- Hunters: The sling offers a reliable way to carry a rifle in the field, while also providing emergency cordage for repairs or signaling.
- Budget-conscious shooters: The Firefield sling offers a functional and durable option at an affordable price point.
This product is not ideal for:
- Competitive shooters: The stiffness of the paracord and lack of advanced adjustability may hinder rapid transitions and precise shooting.
- Those prioritizing maximum comfort: More expensive, padded slings offer a more comfortable carrying experience.
A must-have modification would be adding aftermarket padding to the sling for enhanced comfort during extended use.
Conclusion on Firefield Tactical Two Point 1.50″ x 37.50″-45″ Black 550 Nylon Paracord
The Firefield Tactical Two Point 1.50″ x 37.50″-45″ Black 550 Nylon Paracord sling is a solid option for those seeking a durable and functional sling with the added benefit of integrated paracord. While it may not be the most comfortable or feature-rich sling on the market, its affordability and dual-purpose design make it a worthwhile consideration for survivalists, hunters, and budget-conscious shooters.
The price is justified given the quality of the materials and the added functionality of the paracord. I would recommend this sling to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile option that provides a layer of preparedness in the field. Consider the Firefield Tactical Two Point Paracord Sling if you want a sling that’s more than just a sling – it’s a piece of survival gear.