First Thoughts on the Butler Creek 26742 Ultra 72″ x 1″ 1″ Swivel Neoprene/Nylon Black
The Butler Creek 26742 Ultra 72″ x 1″ 1″ Swivel Neoprene/Nylon Black sling promises to be a comfortable and durable solution for carrying firearms, bows, or even camera equipment. The Butler Creek brand has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable outdoor accessories, and this sling aims to uphold that tradition with its combination of neoprene and nylon construction. With a focus on comfort and ease of use, this sling is designed to be a versatile option for various activities.
My need for this sling stemmed from years of lugging heavy rifles on hunting trips, often relying on uncomfortable and poorly designed slings that dug into my shoulder. I was looking for a sling that could distribute weight effectively and provide a non-slip grip, allowing for extended periods of comfortable carry in the field. The advertised features of the Butler Creek 26742 Ultra 72″ x 1″ 1″ Swivel Neoprene/Nylon Black, particularly the stitched, quilted shoulder pad and non-slip backing, seemed to address these concerns directly.
Upon unboxing, the sling felt surprisingly lightweight yet substantial. The neoprene shoulder pad had a nice give to it, and the stitching appeared robust. The nylon webbing felt sturdy and well-constructed, promising long-term durability.
Compared to a standard nylon web sling, which offers minimal padding, and a fully leather sling, which can be heavy and stiff, the Butler Creek 26742 Ultra 72″ x 1″ 1″ Swivel Neoprene/Nylon Black seemed to strike a good balance between comfort and practicality. I chose this particular model for its reputation, the simplicity of its design, and the promise of a comfortable, non-slip carrying experience. Initial impressions were positive, and I was eager to put it through its paces in the field. I felt excited to finally have a sling that would make long treks through the woods with my rifle a more comfortable experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek 26742 Ultra 72″ x 1″ 1″ Swivel Neoprene/Nylon Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Butler Creek 26742 Ultra 72″ x 1″ 1″ Swivel Neoprene/Nylon Black during a week-long deer hunt in the rugged terrain of the Pennsylvania mountains. I attached it to my trusty .30-06 rifle and set off into the woods. The varied terrain provided a good testing ground for the sling’s performance.
The sling performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions. Even when the neoprene shoulder pad became damp from light rain, the non-slip backing kept it firmly in place, preventing the rifle from sliding off my shoulder. It took no time at all to get used to carrying my rifle with this sling as the setup was pretty intuitive. After the first day of hunting I had zero complaints.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Butler Creek 26742 Ultra 72″ x 1″ 1″ Swivel Neoprene/Nylon Black has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on either the neoprene padding or the nylon webbing. The stitching remains intact, and the swivels operate smoothly.
The sling has proven to be quite durable. Even after dragging it through thick brush and exposing it to the elements, it continues to perform as expected. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional wiping down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
Compared to previous slings I’ve used, the Butler Creek 26742 Ultra 72″ x 1″ 1″ Swivel Neoprene/Nylon Black clearly outperforms them in terms of comfort, stability, and durability. It has become an indispensable part of my hunting gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek 26742 Ultra 72″ x 1″ 1″ Swivel Neoprene/Nylon Black
Specifications
- Type: Sling. This is a dedicated sling designed for carrying firearms or other equipment.
- Swivel Size: 1″. The sling is designed to accommodate 1-inch swivels, which are a common size for many rifles and shotguns.
- Length: 72″. The 72-inch length provides ample adjustability to fit a wide range of users and carrying styles.
- Width: 1″. The 1-inch width of the nylon webbing offers a good balance between strength and comfort.
- Color: Black. The black color makes it a versatile and discreet choice for various environments.
- Material: Nylon. The use of nylon ensures durability and resistance to wear and tear.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the sling’s performance and user experience. The swivel size ensures compatibility with common firearms, while the length provides adjustability for different body types and carrying preferences. The nylon material contributes to the sling’s overall durability and longevity.
Performance & Functionality
The Butler Creek 26742 Ultra 72″ x 1″ 1″ Swivel Neoprene/Nylon Black performs its job admirably. It securely holds the firearm, distributes weight effectively, and remains comfortable even after extended periods of use. The non-slip backing is a standout feature, preventing the sling from sliding off the shoulder, which is crucial in challenging terrain.
One of the strengths is its simplicity and ease of use. There are no complicated adjustments or confusing features. The weakness is the lack of adjustability in the neoprene shoulder pad itself, meaning the user is stuck with its location on the sling.
Overall, it meets and slightly exceeds expectations, providing a comfortable and reliable carrying solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with durable materials and robust stitching. The neoprene shoulder pad offers a comfortable and cushioned feel. The weight is well-balanced, contributing to overall comfort.
The sling is user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive design. There’s no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The combination of nylon webbing and neoprene padding ensures that this sling will last for years with proper care. Minimal maintenance is required, typically just wiping it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Butler Creek 26742 Ultra 72″ x 1″ 1″ Swivel Neoprene/Nylon Black comes with basic 1-inch swivels. It’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket swivels, allowing users to customize the sling to their specific needs. I recommend looking at heavier duty swivels as the included ones may not last as long as the rest of the sling.
Pros and Cons of Butler Creek 26742 Ultra 72″ x 1″ 1″ Swivel Neoprene/Nylon Black
Pros
- Comfortable: The neoprene shoulder pad provides excellent cushioning and weight distribution.
- Non-slip: The non-slip backing keeps the sling securely in place, even in wet conditions.
- Durable: The nylon webbing and robust stitching ensure long-term reliability.
- Simple and Easy to Use: The straightforward design requires no learning curve.
- Versatile: Suitable for carrying firearms, bows, or other equipment.
Cons
- Limited Adjustability: The shoulder pad is in a fixed location and not adjustable.
- Basic Swivels: The included swivels are adequate but could be upgraded for heavier loads.
Who Should Buy Butler Creek 26742 Ultra 72″ x 1″ 1″ Swivel Neoprene/Nylon Black?
The Butler Creek 26742 Ultra 72″ x 1″ 1″ Swivel Neoprene/Nylon Black is perfect for hunters, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a comfortable and reliable way to carry their gear. It’s also a great option for recreational shooters who want a simple, effective sling for range trips. Anyone carrying a rifle or shotgun over longer distances will appreciate the comfort the Butler Creek Ultra Sling provides.
This product may not be ideal for those seeking a highly adjustable or tactical sling with numerous attachment points. Individuals who require specialized features or prefer a more minimalist design might want to consider other options.
A must-have modification is the purchase of more robust swivels.
Conclusion on Butler Creek 26742 Ultra 72″ x 1″ 1″ Swivel Neoprene/Nylon Black
In summary, the Butler Creek 26742 Ultra 72″ x 1″ 1″ Swivel Neoprene/Nylon Black is a well-designed and durable sling that delivers on its promise of comfort and reliability. While it may lack some of the advanced features found on more expensive slings, its simplicity and effectiveness make it an excellent value for the price. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a comfortable and dependable sling for their firearms or other outdoor equipment.
If you’re tired of uncomfortable slings that dig into your shoulder and slip off at the worst possible moments, then the Butler Creek 26742 Ultra 72″ x 1″ 1″ Swivel Neoprene/Nylon Black is definitely worth considering. Take the plunge and experience the difference a quality sling can make!