Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra Review

First Thoughts on the Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra

The Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra, from the well-regarded Paradox company, enters the market as an affordable option for archers needing a reliable bow carry solution. It combines the traditional security of a harness leather hookup with a wider, braided strap, promising both comfort and functionality. For years, I’ve been modifying and jury-rigging slings for my bows, never quite finding the perfect off-the-shelf solution; could this finally be “the one?”

My quest for the ultimate bow sling stems from years of frustrating experiences in the field. A too-narrow strap digs into my shoulder, while flimsy connections result in near-disastrous bow drops – never fun when traversing steep terrain. The promise of a wide, braided strap and a secure leather harness piqued my interest, offering a potential solution to both comfort and security issues.

Unboxing the Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra, my first impression was one of practical simplicity. The olive green braid looks durable, and the harness leather feels robust, hinting at long-lasting wear. At a glance, the build quality seems decent for the price point.

Compared to simpler paracord slings or more elaborate padded models I’ve used previously, the Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra seems to strike a balance between streamlined design and functional support. I picked this sling over a basic nylon strap because I value the added security of the harness connection. It also seemed like a better option than heavily padded slings, often bulky and unnecessary for shorter treks.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The simplicity is appealing, and the materials seem reasonable for the price. Whether it can truly deliver on its promise of comfortable and secure bow carry will depend on its performance in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test took place during a scouting trip in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. I needed to cover several miles of uneven terrain, carrying my compound bow and essential gear. The Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra was immediately put to the test.

The performance was surprisingly good, even in moderately humid conditions. The braided strap distributed the weight of my bow evenly, preventing the localized pressure points that I’ve experienced with thinner slings. It took a few minutes to adjust the harness for optimal fit, but once dialed in, the sling felt secure and comfortable.

The only initial issue was minor: the leather harness felt a little stiff. I anticipate this will soften with use. However, it did its job well, holding my bow securely and allowing hands-free movement when needed.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, including a few short hunting trips and range sessions, the Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra has proven to be a reliable and practical accessory. The braided strap shows no signs of fraying, and the stitching remains intact. The leather harness has softened slightly, becoming more comfortable over time.

Durability-wise, the sling has held up well to scrapes against tree branches and brushes with muddy boots. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe with a damp cloth removes most dirt and grime. I occasionally apply a leather conditioner to the harness to maintain its suppleness.

Compared to some of the improvised slings I’ve used in the past, the Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra is a significant upgrade. It offers a level of comfort and security that those makeshift solutions simply couldn’t match. It does not, however, equal the comfort of a more expensive, heavily padded sling system – but those come with a much higher price tag and added bulk.

Breaking Down the Features of Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra

Specifications

The Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra features a combination of traditional and modern design elements. The key specifications include:

• Harness Leather Hookup: Provides a secure and traditional connection point to the bow’s riser.
• Paradox Exclusive Double-Wide Braided Strap: Designed for comfort and even weight distribution.
• Stainless Steel Cone Washer: Facilitates easy and secure mounting.
• Olive Xtra Color: Offers a low-profile and blends well with natural environments.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the sling’s comfort, security, and ease of use. The harness leather provides a time-tested method of attachment, while the wider strap prevents shoulder strain. The stainless steel washer ensures a durable and rust-resistant connection.

Performance & Functionality

The Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra excels at its primary function: securely carrying a bow while allowing hands-free movement. The weight distribution is excellent, minimizing shoulder fatigue even during extended treks. The harness connection feels solid, inspiring confidence that the bow will remain securely attached.

One potential weakness is the lack of quick-release functionality. Releasing the bow requires unclipping the harness. This might be a minor inconvenience in a fast-paced hunting situation, however the reliability in a hunting environment outweighs any need for the quick release.

Overall, the sling meets expectations for an entry-level to mid-range bow carrying solution. It strikes a good balance between affordability, functionality, and durability.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is simple and functional, prioritizing practicality over aesthetics. The olive green color is discreet and blends well with hunting apparel. The braided strap is comfortable against the skin, even without padding.

The sling is relatively user-friendly, although some archers may need to experiment with the harness adjustment to achieve optimal fit. Once properly adjusted, it conforms well to the body and doesn’t interfere with movement.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction with harness leather and a braided synthetic strap, the Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra appears to be built for lasting use. The stainless steel washer minimizes the risk of corrosion. With proper care, including occasional cleaning and leather conditioning, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning. The simple design minimizes potential failure points, enhancing its long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, focusing instead on core functionality. The stainless steel cone washer is the only included component beyond the sling itself.

While customization options are limited, the universal harness design should be compatible with most compound bows and traditional bows that feature a standard accessory mounting point. Some archers may choose to add aftermarket padding to the strap for enhanced comfort, but this is largely a matter of personal preference.

Pros and Cons of Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra

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Who Should Buy Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra?

The Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra is perfect for hunters, recreational archers, and target shooters seeking an affordable and reliable bow carrying solution. It’s a great option for those who value simplicity and durability over bells and whistles.

This product might not be ideal for archers who require quick-release functionality or those who prefer heavily padded slings with extensive customization options. However, for most users, the Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra offers an excellent balance of performance and value.

A must-have accessory would be a small bottle of leather conditioner to keep the harness supple and prevent cracking.

Conclusion on Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra

The Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra proves to be a surprisingly effective and affordable bow sling. Its combination of a secure leather harness and comfortable braided strap delivers on its promise of reliable bow carry. It certainly is an upgrade from the typical cheap nylon bow slings.

The price is certainly justified, considering the quality of materials and the overall performance. For archers looking for a no-nonsense, dependable sling that won’t break the bank, the Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra is an excellent choice.

I would personally recommend it to anyone needing a basic but reliable bow sling, especially beginners or those on a budget. It is well worth the money and delivers on what it promises. Consider the Paradox Elite Bow Sling Olive Xtra for your next archery adventure.

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