Allen 8687 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Realtree Max-5 Review

First Thoughts on the Allen 8687 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Realtree Max-5

Having spent over a decade immersed in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve seen countless slings come and go. The Allen 8687 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Realtree Max-5 immediately caught my eye with its promise of lightweight durability and waterfowl-specific design. It seemed like a potential solution for the long, grueling days I often spend in the marsh.

My primary issue with many slings has always been the trade-off between comfort and durability; finding one that doesn’t dig into my shoulder after hours of carrying a shotgun, while still holding up to harsh environmental conditions, is a constant challenge. The Allen sling aims to tackle this with its hypalon construction, promising both lightweight strength and weather resistance. Unboxing the sling, I was immediately struck by its lightness.

The Allen 8687 Hypa-Lite felt noticeably lighter than my standard neoprene sling from Browning, and even trimmer than a minimalist nylon strap I sometimes use. The Realtree MAX-5 camo pattern seemed well-executed, and the inclusion of shell loops and a call storage pocket hinted at a thoughtful design. My initial impression was positive, though I reserved judgment until I could put it through its paces in a real hunting environment.

Compared to some higher-end, padded slings from brands like Magpul and Blue Force Gear, the Allen 8687 Hypa-Lite appears less bulky and more streamlined. However, those slings boast significantly more padding and potentially superior weight distribution. I chose the Allen sling primarily for its specific waterfowl-focused features and the promise of lightweight comfort, hoping it would provide a balance between functionality and ease of carry during long hunts.

Real-World Testing: Putting Allen 8687 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Realtree Max-5 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Allen 8687 Hypa-Lite during a late-season duck hunt in the frigid marshes of the Chesapeake Bay. The conditions were typical for that time of year: damp, cold, and windy. I carried my 12-gauge shotgun with the sling for approximately four hours, traversing muddy terrain and wading through shallow water.

The sling performed admirably during the initial outing. The Realtree Max-5 camo blended seamlessly with the surrounding marsh vegetation, and the sling’s lightweight construction was immediately noticeable compared to my usual neoprene sling. The call storage pocket proved useful for quickly accessing my duck call, and the shell loops held two extra shells securely.

I did notice a slight discomfort in my shoulder after about three hours of continuous carry. The molded foam pad, while providing some cushioning, wasn’t as substantial as some of the thicker, more padded slings I’ve used in the past. There were no immediate signs of wear and tear, but the true test would be how it held up over extended use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use during both duck and goose hunts, the Allen 8687 Hypa-Lite has proven to be a reliable and functional sling. The hypalon construction has held up well to the elements, showing no signs of cracking or deterioration from exposure to water, mud, and extreme temperatures. It appears the Allen hypalon construction is capable of enduring the elements.

The camo pattern remains vibrant, and the stitching has remained intact, demonstrating a decent level of durability. The molded foam pad has retained its shape and provides adequate cushioning for shorter hunts. The sling is easy to clean with a quick rinse of water, and the hypalon material resists absorbing odors, a welcome feature for waterfowl hunters.

Compared to my older neoprene sling, the Allen 8687 Hypa-Lite offers significantly better resistance to water and mud, and it dries much faster. However, for all-day hunts requiring extensive walking, the lack of substantial padding might become a limiting factor for some hunters. The Allen sling is a great upgrade over standard slings, but isn’t quite the level of professional-grade products.

Breaking Down the Features of Allen 8687 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Realtree Max-5

Specifications

The Allen 8687 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Realtree Max-5 is a sling designed for waterfowl hunting, emphasizing lightweight construction and functional features. It is designed specifically with the needs of waterfowlers in mind.

• Type: Sling – A standard sling designed to carry a firearm over the shoulder. This ensures the firearm is readily available.
• Swivel Size: Included – Comes with pre-installed swivels for easy attachment to most firearms. This greatly simplifies the installation process.
• Length: 35″ – Adjustable length to accommodate different body sizes and carrying preferences. This adjustment allows the sling to adapt to various users.
• Width: 3.25″ – The width of the shoulder pad, providing a comfortable surface area for weight distribution. This ensures a comfortable carry.
• Color: Realtree Max-5 – Camouflage pattern designed to blend seamlessly with marsh and wetland environments. It provides excellent concealment in waterfowl habitats.
• Material: Hypalon w/Foam – Durable and lightweight hypalon construction with molded, low-density foam for added comfort. It offers both durability and a degree of cushioning.
• Spare Call Storage Pocket – A small pocket for conveniently storing a duck or goose call. The pocket allows for quick and easy access to calls.
• Two Extra Shell Loops – Provides quick access to two additional shotgun shells. It is very useful for rapid reloading situations.
• Adjustable Web Sling: 1″ Wide – The adjustable webbing allows for a customized fit. The webbing offers durability.

These specifications contribute to a sling that’s lightweight, durable, and functional for waterfowl hunting, enhancing the overall user experience by providing comfort, convenience, and concealment.

Performance & Functionality

The Allen 8687 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Realtree Max-5 performs its job adequately, providing a secure and relatively comfortable way to carry a shotgun in the field. It is not as comfortable as heavily padded alternatives. The Realtree MAX-5 camo effectively blends into waterfowl habitats, enhancing concealment.

The sling’s strengths lie in its lightweight design and functional features like the call storage pocket and shell loops. These elements greatly improve the usability of the sling. Its weakness lies in the limited padding, which can become uncomfortable during long carries with heavier firearms.

The sling generally meets expectations for a budget-friendly, waterfowl-specific sling. It is a solid option for short to medium length hunts. However, hunters prioritizing maximum comfort for all-day treks might want to consider a more padded alternative.

Design & Ergonomics

The Allen 8687 Hypa-Lite boasts a streamlined design, prioritizing lightweight construction and functionality. The use of hypalon material keeps the weight down. The molded foam pad provides a degree of cushioning.

The sling is generally user-friendly, with easy-to-adjust webbing and readily accessible shell loops and call storage pocket. Some users might find the lack of substantial padding a drawback. The design prioritizes function over maximum comfort.

Durability & Maintenance

The hypalon construction of the Allen 8687 Hypa-Lite suggests decent long-term durability, especially considering its resistance to water and the elements. It should last for several seasons with proper care.

The sling is very easy to maintain, requiring only a quick rinse with water to remove mud and debris. The hypalon material is resistant to stains and odors. This makes it a low-maintenance option for hunters.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Allen 8687 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Realtree Max-5 comes with included swivels, eliminating the need to purchase them separately. These swivels are of adequate quality and fit most standard shotgun attachment points.

There are limited customization options for this sling, as it is designed as a complete package. The swivels can be replaced with higher-quality aftermarket options if desired, but the sling itself offers limited opportunities for modification.

Pros and Cons of Allen 8687 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Realtree Max-5