Browning Laredo Sling 25.50″-35.50″ L Adjustable Olive Cotton Canvas w/Leather Trim Rifle Review

First Thoughts on the Browning Laredo Sling 25.50″-35.50″ L Adjustable Olive Cotton Canvas w/Leather Trim Rifle

In a world saturated with nylon and synthetic gear, the Browning Laredo Sling 25.50″-35.50″ L Adjustable Olive Cotton Canvas w/Leather Trim Rifle offers a refreshing touch of classic style and robust functionality. This isn’t your tactical operator sling; it’s a nod to simpler times, blending durable materials with a timeless aesthetic. I was immediately drawn to the promise of a comfortable, reliable sling that wouldn’t look out of place on my grandfather’s old lever-action rifle or a modern hunting rifle.

Years of using overly complicated, tacticool slings left me yearning for something simpler and more comfortable. I needed a sling that could handle long days in the field, distributing weight effectively without digging into my shoulder. The Browning name also carries weight; I trust their commitment to quality.

Upon unboxing, the Browning Laredo Sling impressed me with its tangible quality. The olive cotton canvas feels sturdy and well-woven, and the leather trim adds a touch of class. It’s substantial without being overly heavy, a good sign for long-term carry comfort.

Compared to some of the nylon slings I’ve used, this one prioritizes comfort and classic aesthetics over modularity and rapid adjustability. It’s simpler than the VTAC sling I often use, and lacks the quick detach features of a Magpul MS4, but the classic aesthetic and potential comfort sold me. It reminds me more of a leather sling my grandfather used on his deer rifle, but with the adjustability that leather slings often lack.

Initially, I was excited. This sling seemed like a perfect blend of old-school charm and practical functionality. It offers a refined and classic way to carry my rifle.

Real-World Testing: Putting Browning Laredo Sling 25.50″-35.50″ L Adjustable Olive Cotton Canvas w/Leather Trim Rifle to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Browning Laredo Sling was a day-long hog hunt in the Texas brush. The terrain was rugged, and the weather was a mix of sunshine and light rain. I attached it to my trusty AR-10, a rifle that can become quite heavy after hours of carrying.

The canvas material felt surprisingly comfortable against my shoulder, even under the weight of the rifle. The adjustable length allowed me to find the perfect carry position, keeping the rifle secure without hindering my movement. It proved far more comfortable than my usual nylon sling when hiking over uneven terrain.

However, the lack of swivels became immediately apparent. Transferring the sling between different rifles required more effort than I was accustomed to. I also noticed that the canvas absorbed a bit of moisture in the light rain, though it didn’t become uncomfortably damp.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Browning Laredo Sling has proven to be a reliable and comfortable companion. The canvas has softened slightly, conforming to my shoulder even better. The leather trim has developed a nice patina, adding to its character.

There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The stitching remains intact, and the canvas shows no signs of fraying. I’ve used it on multiple hunting trips, range sessions, and even a few casual hikes.

Cleaning is relatively simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The canvas doesn’t seem to hold onto dirt or odors. I did apply a leather conditioner to the trim to keep it supple and prevent cracking. Compared to my all-nylon slings, this one requires a tad more attention, but the added comfort and classic look are worth it.

Breaking Down the Features of Browning Laredo Sling 25.50″-35.50″ L Adjustable Olive Cotton Canvas w/Leather Trim Rifle

Specifications

The Browning Laredo Sling 25.50″-35.50″ L Adjustable Olive Cotton Canvas w/Leather Trim Rifle is designed for simplicity and comfort. Its key specifications include:

• Length: Adjustable from 25.50″ to 35.50″. This provides a good range of adjustment for different body types and carry preferences.
• Color: Olive. A classic and versatile color that blends well with most outdoor environments.
• Material: Canvas/Leather. A durable and comfortable combination that provides a classic aesthetic.
• Swivels: Not included. This is a significant consideration, as it means you’ll need to purchase them separately.

These specifications translate to a sling that’s comfortable for extended carry, adaptable to various rifle configurations, and aesthetically pleasing. The lack of swivels, however, means an additional purchase and installation step.

Performance & Functionality

The Browning Laredo Sling excels in its primary function: comfortably supporting the weight of your rifle. The wide canvas strap distributes weight effectively, reducing pressure points on your shoulder. The adjustability allows for a customized fit, ensuring the rifle sits securely and comfortably.

Its strength lies in its simplicity and comfort. It does not offer the rapid adjustability or modularity of some tactical slings. The main area for improvement is the inclusion of swivels, which would significantly enhance its usability.

It meets expectations for comfort and aesthetics but falls short in terms of ready-to-go functionality due to the missing swivels.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid. The canvas is durable, and the leather trim is well-stitched. The weight is appropriate for a sling of this type, neither too heavy nor too flimsy.

It’s user-friendly in its core function. Adjusting the length is straightforward, but the lack of swivels makes it less convenient to attach and detach from different rifles. There is no real learning curve to the sling itself, other than figuring out how to best attach it.

Durability & Maintenance

The combination of canvas and leather suggests good long-term durability. With proper care, this sling should last for years.

Maintenance is relatively easy. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional leather conditioning will keep it in good condition. The canvas is fairly resistant to dirt and abrasion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Browning Laredo Sling comes with no accessories. The primary customization option is the choice of swivels.

It is compatible with most standard sling swivels available on the market. You can also add a shoulder pad for extra comfort, although the canvas is already quite comfortable. It’s worth noting that the minimalist design lends itself well to personal touches, like adding decorative stitching or personalized leather elements.

Pros and Cons of Browning Laredo Sling 25.50″-35.50″ L Adjustable Olive Cotton Canvas w/Leather Trim Rifle