Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit Review

First Impressions of Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit

In the tactical gear world, a rifle sling isn’t just an accessory; it’s a critical piece of equipment that impacts your weapon handling, readiness, and overall comfort. The Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit promises to be more than just a strap. It offers a comprehensive solution for carrying and deploying your rifle efficiently. I was looking for a sling that offered both comfort for long carries and rapid adjustability for immediate action.

My first encounter with the Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit was a direct response to the limitations of generic slings. I’d grown tired of slings that dug into my shoulder, slipped during movement, or were frustratingly slow to adjust when transitioning from a relaxed carry to a firing position. The Blue Force Gear name carries weight, known for durable, no-nonsense gear. Pulling it from the packaging, the kit immediately felt robust. The materials had a quality feel, and the stitching appeared meticulous.

Compared to the Magpul MS1 sling, which I found overly complex, or the Viking Tactics VTAC sling, which lacked sufficient padding for heavier rifles, the Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit seemed to strike a balance between simplicity, durability, and comfort. I also considered the Ferro Concepts Slingster, but its minimalist design seemed better suited for lighter carbines. Ultimately, the promise of Blue Force Gear’s renowned quality and the seemingly well-thought-out design of the AF Sling sold me.

My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism. Could this sling actually live up to the hype and solve the issues I’d faced with other slings? Only time and real-world testing would tell, but the initial impressions were certainly positive. The feel of the webbing and hardware suggested quality, and I was eager to get it mounted on my rifle and put it through its paces.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test of the Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit took place at a local shooting range during a full-day carbine course. The course involved a variety of drills, from static shooting to dynamic movement and transitioning between multiple targets. This provided an ideal environment to assess the sling’s comfort, adjustability, and overall functionality.

The weather was typical for a spring day: intermittent rain and cool temperatures. This presented a good opportunity to evaluate how the sling performed in less-than-ideal conditions. I noticed immediately that the sling material didn’t become slippery when wet. The textured adjustment pull tabs remained easy to grip. Adjusting the sling length on the fly was surprisingly intuitive. I was able to quickly transition between a tight, secure carry and a looser configuration that allowed for faster shouldering of the rifle.

One initial surprise was how much more comfortable the padding was compared to my previous sling, especially during extended periods of carrying the rifle. There were no pressure points or chafing, even after hours of continuous use. Overall, the first use was a resounding success, with no immediate issues or disappointments.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including multiple range sessions, a weekend-long tactical training course, and even a few backcountry hikes with my rifle, the Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of fraying or wear on the webbing or stitching, even in high-stress areas around the attachment points.

Cleaning the sling is a breeze. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Even after exposure to mud and rain, the sling dried quickly and retained its shape and integrity. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper slings that quickly showed signs of wear and tear, the Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit has far exceeded my expectations. It feels like it will hold up for years to come.

Compared to other slings I’ve used, the Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit has consistently outperformed them in terms of comfort, durability, and ease of adjustment. It has become an essential part of my rifle setup.

Breaking Down the Features of Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit

Specifications

The Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit is designed as a versatile and robust rifle sling. It focuses on simplicity and effectiveness. The core of the kit is the adjustable sling itself. It is made from high-quality nylon webbing.

The sling’s notable features include:

• An adjustable slider for quick length modification.
• A comfortable shoulder pad.
• Various mounting hardware options.
• Color Options: Typically available in black, coyote brown, and Multicam.
• Material: Constructed from durable nylon webbing.
• Hardware: Utilizes metal or heavy-duty polymer adjusters and attachment points.
• Weight: Lightweight design to minimize added bulk.
• Adjustability: Designed for rapid, single-handed length adjustments.
  These specifications are vital for a sling that needs to withstand the rigors of tactical use.

Performance & Functionality

The Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit excels in its primary function: securely and comfortably carrying a rifle while allowing for rapid deployment. Its strengths lie in its simplicity and intuitive design. The adjustable slider makes it easy to shorten or lengthen the sling on the fly. This is crucial when transitioning between carrying the rifle close to the body and bringing it to bear for firing.

The sling’s padding provides a comfortable platform for carrying heavier rifles for extended periods. However, the included hardware might not suit every rifle configuration. Some users may need to purchase additional mounting hardware to achieve their desired setup. Overall, the Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit meets and often exceeds expectations for a high-quality rifle sling.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit prioritizes functionality and durability over aesthetics. The materials used are high-quality and feel substantial without being overly bulky. The sling is lightweight, which is a significant advantage when carrying a rifle for long durations.

The sling is generally user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. However, some users might need to experiment with different mounting configurations to find what works best for their rifle and body type. Once properly adjusted, the Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit provides a secure and comfortable carry.

Durability & Maintenance

The Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit is built to last, thanks to its durable nylon webbing and robust hardware. The materials are resistant to abrasion and wear, and the stitching is reinforced in high-stress areas. With proper care, the sling should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the sling in good condition. If the sling gets particularly dirty, it can be hand-washed with mild soap and water. Overall, the Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit is designed for durability and ease of maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit is primarily a standalone product. It includes the sling itself and various mounting hardware options. These are usually triglides or QD (Quick Detach) swivels. This allows it to be attached to a variety of rifles.

While Blue Force Gear doesn’t offer a wide range of accessories specifically for the AF Sling, the sling is compatible with many aftermarket sling attachments from other brands. Users can customize their setup with different QD swivels, sling mounts, and other accessories to suit their specific needs. The versatility of the mounting options is a key strength.

Pros and Cons of Blue Force Gear AF Sling Kit