Campcraft Outdoors Axe & Saw Sling Review

First Impressions of Campcraft Outdoors Axe & Saw Sling

The Campcraft Outdoors Axe & Saw Sling promises to be a convenient and durable solution for carrying essential wilderness tools. The Campcraft Outdoors name, while not a household giant, has been whispered amongst the bushcrafting community for producing rugged, functional gear, and this sling seems to fit that bill. For $63.99, it’s positioned as a mid-range option, and my initial curiosity is whether it justifies that price point.

My own need for such a system arose from years of awkwardly juggling an axe and saw while navigating dense trails. There were countless trips where I’d wished for a better system. Instead of constantly worrying about a rogue swing from my axe, or the saw blade snagging on every branch.

Upon unboxing, the waxed cotton canvas immediately impressed with its robust feel and subtle, earthy khaki color. The stitching appears solid, and the overall construction exudes quality, suggesting this isn’t just another cheaply made accessory. The weight, at 0.72 lbs, is noticeable, but not cumbersome – a trade-off I’m willing to accept for enhanced durability.

Compared to DIY solutions I’ve seen involving paracord and makeshift straps, or even some nylon-based slings on the market, the Campcraft Outdoors Axe & Saw Sling presents a more refined and organized approach. The dedicated compartments for both axe and saw, coupled with the promise of comfortable shoulder carry, make it stand out. It has a professional and well-thought-out design.

My first impression is cautiously optimistic. It looks and feels the part of a quality piece of kit. Whether it lives up to the practical demands of extended use in the field remains to be seen.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Campcraft Outdoors Axe & Saw Sling to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Campcraft Outdoors Axe & Saw Sling during a weekend bushcrafting trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The varied terrain, ranging from steep inclines to dense undergrowth, presented a challenging environment. The sling held a 24-inch Boreal 21 buck saw and a 30-inch splitting axe.

The initial hike in was noticeably easier than past excursions. The sling distributed the weight of the axe and saw evenly across my shoulder. Getting used to the positioning of the tools took a few minutes, but once adjusted, the system felt secure and surprisingly unobtrusive. No issue with snagging in the brush.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple camping trips and trail maintenance projects, the Campcraft Outdoors Axe & Saw Sling has proven to be a reliable piece of kit. There are no signs of ripping at any of the seams, or points of connections. The waxed cotton canvas shows some minor scuffs and dirt, but that only adds to its character.

Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Compared to my previous method of carrying tools – bungeeing them to my pack – the sling has saved time, reduced fatigue, and eliminated the constant fear of tools slipping and causing injury.

Breaking Down the Features of Campcraft Outdoors Axe & Saw Sling

Specifications

• The Campcraft Outdoors Axe & Saw Sling is designed to accommodate a 24-inch buck saw, such as the Boreal 21, Sven Saw, or Bob Dustrude models. This ensures compatibility with standard-sized folding saws commonly used in bushcraft and camping.
• The outer sleeve is built to hold the handle of an ax up to 36 inches long. This accommodates a wide range of ax sizes, from hatchets to splitting axes, making it versatile for various wood processing tasks.
• D-rings and a heavy web strap allow for the attachment of a shoulder strap for easy carry. This feature enhances comfort and convenience, especially during long hikes or when navigating uneven terrain.
• A 1.5-inch cotton canvas web strap is included for shoulder carry. The wide strap design helps distribute weight evenly, reducing strain on the shoulder and improving overall comfort.
• The sling’s construction utilizes waxed cotton canvas. The waxed canvas provides water resistance and durability.
• The sling is available in Khaki. The color helps the sling blend well with the surrounding environment.
• The entire sling weighs in at 0.72 lb. Its lightweight design ensures that it doesn’t add excessive weight to your gear load.

Performance & Functionality

The Campcraft Outdoors Axe & Saw Sling performs its job admirably. It securely holds both an axe and saw, allowing for hands-free carry. This is invaluable when navigating difficult terrain or performing other tasks around camp.

The sling’s design is intuitive. The axe and saw are easily accessible when needed. The waxed cotton canvas provides excellent protection against the elements.

Design & Ergonomics

The Campcraft Outdoors Axe & Saw Sling features a simple yet effective design. The axe and saw are held securely within their respective sleeves, preventing them from shifting or swinging during movement.

The included shoulder strap is comfortable and adjustable. This allows users to customize the fit for optimal weight distribution. The sling’s weight is appropriate and doesn’t feel too cumbersome to carry when fully loaded.

Durability & Maintenance

The waxed cotton canvas construction suggests excellent durability. This should allow it to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.

Maintenance is minimal. The waxed canvas is easily cleaned with a damp cloth. With proper care, this sling should last for many years.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Campcraft Outdoors Axe & Saw Sling comes with a 1.5-inch cotton canvas web strap. The D-rings allow for the attachment of different straps or attachment to a pack.

While there are no specific customization options offered by Campcraft Outdoors, the D-rings provide flexibility for attaching additional gear or modifying the carry system.

Pros and Cons of Campcraft Outdoors Axe & Saw Sling