Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling Review

First Thoughts on the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling

The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling promises a blend of affordability and functionality, a crucial combination for any outdoorsman or tactical enthusiast. I’ve always been a believer that a good sling is as essential as the rifle itself. It enables comfortable carry, steadies your aim, and keeps your firearm accessible when you need it most. For just $10.49, this offering from Butler Creek presents a compelling option for those seeking a reliable and budget-friendly solution.

My quest for the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling began when I needed a lightweight, no-frills sling for a dedicated AR-15 build meant for introducing new shooters to the platform. I wanted something simple to adjust and comfortable enough for extended range sessions, without breaking the bank. Several options crossed my desk – elaborate tactical slings with multiple attachment points and quick-release buckles, and simple nylon straps that dug into your shoulder after an hour. I needed a Goldilocks sling: not too complex, not too uncomfortable, and just right in price.

Upon unboxing, the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling appeared surprisingly well-made for its price point. The neoprene shoulder pad felt thick and cushiony, and the sharkskin backing promised a secure grip. The 1″ strap appeared robust enough for its intended purpose. While not exuding premium quality, the overall impression was positive. I’ve used more expensive slings that felt less substantial.

I initially considered the Magpul MS1 sling, known for its adjustability, and the Viking Tactics VTAC sling, praised for its quick adjust feature. However, both were significantly pricier than the Butler Creek offering. The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling won because it seemed to offer a good balance of features and value for money, aligning perfectly with my “introducing new shooters” build objective.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It wasn’t love at first sight, but the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling seemed like a solid, practical sling that could potentially exceed expectations, given its low cost. I was eager to get it out in the field and see how it performed under real-world conditions.

Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling was at a local shooting range during an “Introduction to AR-15s” workshop I was volunteering at. The weather was mild, thankfully, avoiding any extremes that might immediately test its limitations. I fitted it to my lightweight AR-15 and spent the day demonstrating basic shooting techniques.

The sling’s ease of use stood out. The adjustability was straightforward, allowing me to quickly customize the length for different shooters. The neoprene pad proved comfortable, even after several hours of carrying the rifle. There were no initial issues, and the sharkskin backing did a decent job of preventing slippage.

However, after continuous use, I noticed one minor inconvenience. The sling tended to slightly bunch up near the adjustment buckle. It didn’t affect its function but created a small aesthetic annoyance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of intermittent use, the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling has held up surprisingly well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the neoprene or the stitching. The sharkskin backing still provides adequate grip, even after being exposed to minor dirt and grime.

Cleaning is a breeze. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove any accumulated debris. I’ve found it outperforms similar budget slings I’ve used in the past, which often showed fraying or cracking after a few months.

While it’s not designed for heavy-duty tactical applications, it proves reliable for casual range trips and hunting excursions where a lightweight and comfortable carry is paramount. This Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling is a winner for its value.

Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling

Specifications

The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling is a simple yet effective piece of gear. Here’s a breakdown of its key specifications:

• Type: Sling. This confirms its primary function: carrying a firearm comfortably and securely.
• Swivel Size: None Included. This means you’ll need to provide your own swivels or attach the sling directly to your rifle’s sling mounts.
• Length: 48″. This adjustable length allows for comfortable carry for various body types and shooting styles.
• Width: 2.50″. The 2.5″ width of the shoulder pad distributes the weight of the rifle across a larger area, enhancing comfort.
• Color: Black. A classic and versatile color that blends well with most firearms and tactical gear.
• Material: Neoprene with Sharkskin Back. The neoprene provides cushioning, while the sharkskin backing prevents slippage.

These specifications highlight the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling‘s focus on simplicity, comfort, and functionality. The absence of swivels keeps the cost down, while the neoprene and sharkskin materials enhance the user experience.

Performance & Functionality

The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling excels in its intended role: providing comfortable and secure carry for your rifle. It is exceptionally easy to adjust, allowing for quick customization to suit different body types and shooting positions. The neoprene pad effectively cushions the weight of the firearm, reducing fatigue during extended periods of carry.

Its biggest strength is its affordability and simplicity. It does what it’s designed to do without unnecessary frills or complexity. The main weakness lies in its lack of advanced features like quick-release buckles or multiple attachment points.

For its price point, the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling meets and even exceeds expectations. It delivers reliable performance and comfortable carry, making it an excellent value proposition.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling is straightforward and functional. The neoprene shoulder pad is adequately thick and provides ample cushioning. The sharkskin backing is a thoughtful addition that effectively prevents slippage.

The build quality is decent, considering its low price. The materials used feel durable enough for regular use. There’s a slight learning curve in understanding how to adjust the sling initially, but once you get the hang of it, it’s very easy to use.

Durability & Maintenance

While not designed for extreme conditions, the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling appears reasonably durable. The neoprene and stitching seem capable of withstanding regular use. I expect it to last for several years with proper care.

Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it clean and in good condition. This sling is not designed to be repaired so consider its lifespan when buying.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling comes with no additional accessories. You’ll need to purchase swivels separately if your rifle doesn’t have built-in sling mounts.

There are limited customization options available. The sling’s simple design makes it difficult to modify or adapt with aftermarket accessories.

Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling

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Who Should Buy Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling?

The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling is perfect for:

• Budget-conscious shooters looking for a reliable and comfortable sling.
• Hunters who need a lightweight and easy-to-adjust sling for carrying their rifle in the field.
• Casual range shooters who want a simple and effective sling for target practice.
• New gun owners looking for an affordable sling option.

This sling is not ideal for:

• Tactical users who require advanced features like quick-release buckles and multiple attachment points.
• Those who prioritize high-end materials and construction over affordability.

Must-have accessories:

• Sling swivels (if your rifle doesn’t have built-in sling mounts).

Conclusion on Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling

The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling is an impressive value proposition. It delivers reliable performance, comfortable carry, and easy adjustability at an incredibly affordable price. While it lacks some of the advanced features found on more expensive slings, it excels in its core function: providing a secure and comfortable way to carry your rifle.

The price is more than justified for the functionality and durability offered. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly sling option.

If you’re seeking a simple, comfortable, and affordable sling, the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling is an excellent choice. Don’t let the low price fool you; this sling is a reliable and practical piece of gear that will serve you well. Add it to your cart and experience the difference a good sling can make!

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