First Thoughts on the Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels
The Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels is a seemingly simple piece of gear, but a vital one for anyone who carries a rifle or shotgun for extended periods. Butler Creek has been a trusted name for decades, known for producing functional and reliable accessories. This sling promises to offer that same dependability, providing a comfortable and secure way to carry your firearm.
For years, I’d relied on cheap, uncomfortable slings that dug into my shoulder. I was tired of the constant readjustment and the feeling of my rifle digging into my back during long hikes. I needed a sling that was both durable and comfortable, without breaking the bank.
Upon unboxing the Butler Creek Black Sling, I immediately noticed the stitched, quilted shoulder pad. The pad felt surprisingly plush, and the nylon webbing seemed sturdy enough to withstand some serious abuse. The sewn-in 1″ swivels appeared robust and ready to attach to my rifle.
Compared to a basic nylon web sling I’d been using from an no-name brand, the Butler Creek offering felt like a significant upgrade. Similarly priced slings felt flimsy and lacked the padding. I chose the Butler Creek because it seemed to strike the perfect balance between affordability and quality.
My first impression was definitely positive. The sling appeared well-made, comfortable, and ready to tackle whatever I threw at it.
Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Butler Creek Black Sling during a weekend hunting trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was damp, and the terrain was challenging, with steep inclines and thick underbrush. My rifle, a Winchester Model 70, was slung across my back for the majority of the day.
The sling performed admirably in the wet conditions, with the non-slip backing preventing it from sliding off my shoulder. I didn’t have to constantly adjust the rifle’s position. The quilted shoulder pad distributed the weight effectively, preventing the strap from digging into my skin, even after hours of hiking.
Initially, the sling felt a little stiff, but it quickly conformed to my body with use. There were no major surprises or issues, just a noticeable improvement in comfort compared to my old sling.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Butler Creek Black Sling has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it on multiple hunting trips, range days, and even a few hiking expeditions. The nylon webbing shows no signs of fraying or tearing.
Despite being exposed to mud, rain, and snow, the sling remains in excellent condition with minimal maintenance. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to clean it. It’s definitely outperforming my expectations, offering a level of comfort and durability I didn’t anticipate at this price point.
Comparing it to other slings I’ve used, the Butler Creek model excels in comfort and ease of use. It’s a noticeable step up in quality and performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels
Specifications
The Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels boasts a simple yet effective design. It is constructed from durable black nylon webbing and features a stitched, quilted shoulder pad.
The sling measures 48″ in length and 1″ in width. The sewn-in 1″ swivels have a blued finish. The Manufacturer specifies that the sling is a universal fit, suitable for most rifles and shotguns equipped with 1″ sling swivel studs.
These specifications translate into a sling that is lightweight, easy to adjust, and compatible with a wide range of firearms. The shoulder pad significantly enhances comfort, while the durable nylon construction ensures long-lasting performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Butler Creek Black Sling performs its primary function – carrying a firearm comfortably and securely – exceptionally well. It provides a stable and balanced platform for carrying a rifle or shotgun over the shoulder or across the back. It keeps my rifle in place.
Its strengths lie in its simplicity, durability, and comfort. The only potential weakness is the lack of adjustability in the shoulder pad position. The sling definitely meets expectations, providing a reliable and comfortable carrying solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The sling features a classic, no-frills design that prioritizes functionality. The materials are durable and lightweight. The weight of the sling itself is negligible.
The quilted shoulder pad is the standout ergonomic feature. It provides excellent cushioning and distributes weight evenly. There’s practically no learning curve; it’s easy to adjust and use right out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The Butler Creek Black Sling is built to last. The high-quality nylon webbing and robust stitching ensure it can withstand years of use. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
The sling shows no signs of wear and tear after several months of use in various conditions. It appears to be a very durable and low-maintenance accessory.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels comes as a complete package with the swivels pre-installed. There are no included accessories beyond the sling itself. Due to its universal design, it’s compatible with any firearm that accepts standard 1″ sling swivels.
While there are no direct customization options for the sling itself, users can easily swap out the sewn-in swivels for quick-detach (QD) swivels if desired. This allows for greater flexibility in attaching and detaching the sling from the firearm.
Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels
Pros
- The stitched, quilted shoulder pad offers excellent comfort, even during extended periods of use.
- Durable nylon webbing ensures long-lasting performance in demanding conditions.
- The sewn-in 1″ swivels provide a secure and reliable attachment point for most rifles and shotguns.
- The sling is lightweight and easy to adjust, making it suitable for users of all sizes.
- At $20.49, the sling offers excellent value for the money.
Cons
- The shoulder pad position is not adjustable, which may not be ideal for all users.
- The simple design lacks some of the advanced features found on more expensive slings, such as quick-adjust buckles.
Who Should Buy Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels?
The Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who needs a comfortable and reliable way to carry a rifle or shotgun. It’s also a great choice for beginners due to its simplicity and ease of use.
Those seeking advanced features such as quick-adjust mechanisms or modular attachment points should skip this product. They should consider higher-end slings. A must-have modification is a set of QD swivels if you plan to switch the sling between multiple firearms frequently.
Conclusion on Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels
The Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels is a fantastic value for the money. It offers a winning combination of comfort, durability, and simplicity. The price is justified, offering a good compromise between quality and affordability.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a basic but reliable sling. For shooters looking for a comfortable and functional sling without breaking the bank, the Butler Creek Black Sling is an excellent choice. Upgrade your carrying experience today and discover the difference a quality sling can make!