First Thoughts on the Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black
The Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black sling promises a comfortable and secure way to carry your rifle. The Allen company aims to deliver on this promise with their Baktrak technology and thoughtful design. It’s designed for hunters and shooters who need a reliable and user-friendly sling.
I’ve always struggled with slings that slip or dig into my shoulder during long treks. I was looking for a sling that could distribute weight effectively and prevent my rifle from sliding around, especially while navigating uneven terrain. I needed a comfortable, quiet, and secure way to carry my hunting rifle.
Upon unboxing the Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black, the molded rubber tread on the back immediately caught my attention. The material felt soft yet grippy, and the overall construction seemed solid for the price. The included swivels were a welcome addition, saving me the extra cost and hassle of purchasing them separately.
Compared to basic nylon slings I’ve used in the past, like the generic types that come with some rifles, the Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black appeared to offer superior comfort and security. I considered a few other options like the Magpul MS4 Gen 2, but ultimately chose the Allen sling because of the promise of the BakTrak grip and its lower price point. Initial impressions were positive, and I was eager to test its performance in the field.
I was cautiously optimistic. While the Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black seemed like a good value, I wanted to see how well the BakTrak grip held up in real-world conditions and whether the sling would live up to its comfort claims.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test of the Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black was during a day-long deer hunt in the Pennsylvania woods. The weather was cool and damp, providing a good test of the sling’s grip in less-than-ideal conditions. The BakTrak material performed admirably, keeping the rifle securely in place on my shoulder even as I navigated through thick brush.
Adjusting the sling’s length was quick and easy thanks to the one-hand quick adjustment feature. I was able to loosen it for comfortable carrying and tighten it for added security while traversing steeper sections of the terrain. I didn’t experience any significant issues or surprises during the first outing. The sling performed as expected, providing a comfortable and secure way to carry my rifle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use on various hunting trips and range days, the Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after being exposed to rain, mud, and the general abuse that comes with outdoor activities. The stitching remains intact, and the BakTrak material continues to provide excellent grip.
Cleaning the sling is relatively simple. I just wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Compared to previous experiences with cheaper slings that quickly frayed or lost their grip, the Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. It definitely outperforms the basic slings I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black
Specifications
The Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black sling features a length adjustable from 28″ to 35″. It also has a width of 3″ for comfortable weight distribution. The sling is constructed from a combination of nylon and BakTrak rubberized material for grip.
The inclusion of swivels eliminates the need for separate purchases. The four elastic cartridge loops are a thoughtful addition for hunters, keeping extra rounds readily accessible. These specifications contribute to a sling that is both comfortable, functional, and ready to use out of the box.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black excels at its primary job: securely and comfortably carrying a rifle. The BakTrak grip prevents slipping, even with heavy rifles or in wet conditions. The one-hand quick adjustment allows for easy customization of the sling’s length on the fly.
The sling’s biggest strength is its grip. The weakness is the cartridge loops; if not using them, they can get in the way sometimes. This sling meets my expectations for a comfortable and reliable way to carry my rifle.
Design & Ergonomics
The Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black features a straightforward and functional design. The BakTrak material is soft and comfortable against the shoulder. The 3″ width distributes weight effectively.
The one-hand adjustment buckle is easy to use. The sling requires no learning curve. It is intuitive to install and use.
Durability & Maintenance
The nylon and BakTrak construction of the Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black appears to be quite durable. With reasonable care, it should last for many years. The sling is easy to clean with a damp cloth and mild soap if necessary.
There are no complex parts that are likely to break down. The simple design contributes to its longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black comes with included swivels which is a great value. There are no other built-in customization options. It is not really designed for extensive customization.
However, you could potentially replace the included swivels with higher-end QD (Quick Detach) swivels if desired. The sling itself is fairly universal and should be compatible with most rifles that have standard sling attachment points.
Pros and Cons of Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black
Pros
- Excellent BakTrak Grip: Keeps the rifle securely in place, preventing slipping.
- One-Hand Quick Adjustment: Allows for easy customization of sling length on the fly.
- Included Swivels: Saves the cost and hassle of purchasing swivels separately.
- Comfortable Design: The 3″ width and soft BakTrak material provide comfortable weight distribution.
- Affordable Price: Offers good value for the features and performance it provides.
Cons
- Cartridge loops might get in the way if not used.
- Limited Customization options.
Who Should Buy Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black?
The Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who needs a reliable and comfortable way to carry their rifle. It is especially well-suited for those who frequently hike or navigate uneven terrain. The sling’s excellent grip and adjustable length make it a great choice for carrying rifles of various sizes and weights.
Those seeking advanced customization options or needing a sling for specialized tactical applications might want to consider other options. If you need to carry a lot of extra ammunition on your sling, this might not be the best choice due to the limited number of cartridge loops. A set of QD swivels might be a worthwhile upgrade for those who frequently switch slings between different rifles.
Conclusion on Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black
The Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black is a solid and reliable sling that delivers on its promise of comfort and security. The BakTrak grip is a standout feature that prevents slipping and keeps your rifle firmly in place. The one-hand quick adjustment makes it easy to customize the sling’s length on the fly.
The price is absolutely justified. The inclusion of swivels adds even more value. I would absolutely recommend this sling to anyone looking for a comfortable, secure, and affordable way to carry their rifle.
If you’re tired of slings that slip and dig into your shoulder, give the Allen 8385 BakTrak Included Swivel Size Black a try. You won’t be disappointed!