Allen 8686 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Mossy Oak Obsession Review

First Thoughts on the Allen 8686 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Mossy Oak Obsession

The Allen 8686 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Mossy Oak Obsession is a purpose-built sling designed with the turkey hunter in mind. From Allen, a trusted name in outdoor gear, this sling promises a lightweight, comfortable, and functional solution for carrying your shotgun through the woods. I was particularly drawn to the integrated mouth call storage and extra shell loops, features that could streamline my setup in the field.

My old shotgun sling was, frankly, a pain. It was a cheap nylon strap that dug into my shoulder after a few hours and offered zero organization. I often found myself fumbling for calls or shells, spooking wary gobblers in the process. I considered upgrading to slings from brands like Quake or Magpul, but their price point seemed excessive for a simple sling.

Upon unboxing the Allen 8686 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Mossy Oak Obsession, I was immediately impressed by the lightness of the hypalon construction. The molded, low-density foam felt promising for shoulder comfort, and the Mossy Oak Obsession camo pattern looked great. The inclusion of swivels was a welcome bonus, as many slings require you to purchase them separately.

Compared to the minimalist nylon strap I was used to, the Allen sling felt significantly more substantial. The quality of the fabric and stitching seemed decent for the price, although I had some initial concerns about the long-term durability of the hypalon material. I was excited to put it to the test in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Allen 8686 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Mossy Oak Obsession to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the Allen 8686 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Mossy Oak Obsession came during a week-long turkey hunting trip in the Ozark Mountains. I spent several hours each day hiking through rugged terrain, often in damp conditions. The sling performed admirably, distributing the weight of my 12-gauge shotgun evenly across my shoulder.

The molded foam provided noticeable cushioning, preventing the strap from digging in even after extended periods of carrying. The Mossy Oak Obsession camo blended seamlessly with the surrounding foliage. I found the mouth call storage pockets to be incredibly convenient, allowing me to quickly and quietly access my calls without having to rummage through my vest.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Allen 8686 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Mossy Oak Obsession has proven to be a reliable and functional piece of gear. There are no significant signs of wear and tear, although the hypalon material does show some minor scuffing. The non-slip backing has held up well, preventing the sling from sliding off my shoulder even when wearing slick rain gear.

Cleaning the sling is simple – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes most dirt and grime. The shell loops have maintained their elasticity, securely holding my shotgun shells without any slippage. Compared to my previous sling, the Allen sling is a significant upgrade in terms of comfort, organization, and overall usability.

Breaking Down the Features of Allen 8686 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Mossy Oak Obsession

Specifications

• The Allen 8686 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Mossy Oak Obsession is constructed from ultra-durable and lightweight hypalon. This material contributes to the sling’s overall low weight and resistance to the elements.
• It features molded, low-density foam for added shoulder comfort and a non-slip backing to prevent slippage. These features significantly improve the carrying experience, especially during long days in the field.
• The front of the sling boasts Mossy Oak Obsession camo in quiet fabric, ensuring minimal noise when moving through the woods. This is a crucial detail for turkey hunters who rely on stealth.
• Three mouth call storage pockets with a quiet opening flap provide convenient and accessible storage for your calls. The shell loops add additional storage for two extra shotgun shells, allowing for quick reloads.
• The body of the shoulder pad measures 14″ long by 3.25″ wide, offering ample surface area for weight distribution. The adjustable web sling is 1″ wide and approximately 35″ in overall length, and includes an adjustable ladder lock buckle for a customized fit.

Performance & Functionality

The Allen 8686 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Mossy Oak Obsession excels at its primary job: comfortably and securely carrying your shotgun. The weight distribution is excellent, and the non-slip backing keeps the sling in place. The integrated storage features are a game-changer for turkey hunters, streamlining access to essential gear.

The main strength of this sling is its balance of lightweight design, comfort, and functionality. The mouth call pockets are ingeniously designed and easily accessible. The only potential area for improvement might be the addition of a small loop or clip for attaching a rangefinder or other small accessory.

Design & Ergonomics

The Allen 8686 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Mossy Oak Obsession features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes comfort and practicality. The Mossy Oak Obsession camo pattern is effective and aesthetically pleasing. The weight is negligible, making it ideal for hunters who value mobility.

The sling is user-friendly, requiring no special setup or adjustments beyond fitting the length to your body. There is no learning curve – simply attach it to your shotgun and you’re ready to go.

Durability & Maintenance

While the hypalon material seems durable enough for typical hunting conditions, it might not withstand extreme abuse. With proper care, the Allen 8686 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Mossy Oak Obsession should last for several seasons. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Allen 8686 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Mossy Oak Obsession comes ready to use with included swivels. There aren’t extensive customization options for this particular sling. While not a customization, ensuring you have the correct swivel studs on your shotgun is necessary for use.

Pros and Cons of Allen 8686 Hypa-Lite Included Swivel Size Mossy Oak Obsession