The Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required Made a Bold First Impression
I’ve slung shotguns across my shoulder for over a decade, from duck blinds in frigid marshes to upland hunts baking under a summer sun. The search for the perfect shotgun sling is a never-ending quest, balancing comfort, security, and ease of use. When I came across the Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required, the “no swivels required” aspect immediately piqued my interest.
I was tired of constantly adjusting swivels that would loosen or squeak at the most inopportune moments. My previous sling, a generic nylon model with metal swivels, was functional but uncomfortable during long carries. The Quake Industries sling promised a more streamlined and silent solution. Upon unboxing, I was impressed by the feel of the flexible grip pad; it seemed substantial without being overly bulky.
Compared to a traditional leather sling or even a padded nylon sling with QD swivels, the Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required presented a different approach. The Quake Industries sling relies on its unique Claw Contour grip to stay put on your shoulder, eliminating the need for swivels altogether. My first impression was cautiously optimistic – could this simple design truly replace the traditional swivel-based slings I’ve used for so long? The lightweight design and promise of a secure, non-slip hold definitely excited me.
Real-World Testing: Putting Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was a sporting clays course – a perfect environment to evaluate the sling’s comfort and practicality during frequent shouldering and un-shouldering of the shotgun. The Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required performed admirably. The Claw Contour pad did an excellent job of gripping my jacket, preventing slippage even during brisk walks between stations.
I also tested it during a light rain shower. The non-absorbent material of the grip pad prevented it from becoming waterlogged and retaining moisture. The ease of adjustment was another plus; I could quickly tighten or loosen the sling depending on whether I was actively shooting or simply carrying the shotgun. My only initial concern was the durability of the flexible material over extended use, but that would require further testing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including a pheasant hunting trip and numerous range sessions, the Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear or tear on the flexible grip pad, despite exposure to mud, dust, and occasional scrapes against brush. Cleaning is a breeze; a simple wipe with a damp cloth removes any accumulated dirt or grime.
Compared to my previous sling, the Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required offers superior comfort and stability, especially during long carries. The absence of swivels not only eliminates annoying squeaks but also prevents the sling from twisting or tangling. This has translated to less fatigue and a more enjoyable hunting experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required
Specifications
The Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required is designed with a flexible grip pad that conforms to the shoulder, ensuring a secure and comfortable carry. It includes Silent Hush Stalker swivels, although the primary design focus eliminates the need for them in most applications. The sling’s overall length is adjustable to accommodate various body sizes and carrying preferences.
The UPC is 727703500032, which can be used for easy identification and ordering. The “no swivels required” design minimizes noise and potential failure points, making it a reliable option for hunters and tactical users alike. These specifications emphasize the product’s focus on comfort, simplicity, and silent operation in the field.
Performance & Functionality
The Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required excels in its primary function: securely and comfortably carrying a shotgun. The Claw Contour grip pad provides exceptional stability, preventing the shotgun from slipping off the shoulder even when navigating uneven terrain. The silent operation is a major advantage for hunters who need to remain stealthy.
While the included swivels offer optional attachment points, the sling’s design truly shines when used without them, relying solely on the grip pad for retention. This eliminates the need for constant swivel adjustments and reduces the risk of noise or malfunction. However, some users might prefer using the swivels for specific carrying positions or attachment to different types of firearms.
Design & Ergonomics
The Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required features a minimalist design focused on functionality and comfort. The flexible grip pad is contoured to fit comfortably against the shoulder, distributing the weight of the shotgun evenly. The lightweight construction prevents the sling from adding unnecessary bulk or weight.
The ease of adjustment allows users to quickly customize the sling’s length to their preferred carrying style. While the sling lacks elaborate padding or embellishments, its simple and effective design makes it exceptionally user-friendly. The absence of swivels contributes to a cleaner and more streamlined aesthetic.
Durability & Maintenance
The materials used in the Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required appear to be highly durable and resistant to wear and tear. The flexible grip pad is designed to withstand repeated use in various weather conditions. The sling is also easy to clean and maintain; simply wiping it down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
With proper care, this sling should provide years of reliable service. The absence of complex mechanisms or moving parts reduces the risk of failure and contributes to its overall longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required comes with Silent Hush Stalker swivels, offering an alternative attachment method for users who prefer using them. However, the sling is primarily designed to be used without swivels, relying on its Claw Contour grip pad for retention. While there are no specific customization options offered by Quake Industries, users can potentially attach aftermarket accessories, such as shell holders, to the sling’s webbing.
The sling’s compatibility with different types of shotguns is another form of customization. As long as the shotgun has sling attachment points (either swivel studs or a compatible mounting system), the Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required can be used. The included swivels offer a universal mounting solution for most shotguns.
Pros and Cons of Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required
Pros
- Secure and stable carry thanks to the unique Claw Contour grip pad.
- Silent operation due to the “no swivels required” design, perfect for hunting.
- Comfortable for extended use, distributing weight evenly across the shoulder.
- Durable construction that withstands exposure to various weather conditions.
- Easy to adjust and customize the sling’s length to fit individual preferences.
Cons
- The minimalist design might lack the aesthetic appeal of more elaborate slings for some users.
- While the included swivels are a nice addition, their primary purpose is negated by the “no swivels required” design.
Who Should Buy Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required?
The Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required is perfect for hunters seeking a silent and reliable sling that won’t slip off their shoulder. It’s also ideal for clay shooters who value comfort and stability during long days at the range. Anyone who appreciates simple, functional design will find this sling to be a valuable addition to their gear.
Those who prefer traditional slings with elaborate padding or prefer using quick-detach swivels might want to skip this product. Must-have accessories would include a set of quality shotgun shell holders that can attach directly to the shotgun or the sling itself.
Conclusion on Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required
The Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required is a remarkably effective and well-designed product that delivers on its promise of a secure, silent, and comfortable shotgun carry. At $17.49, the price is more than justified by its performance and durability. I would wholeheartedly recommend this sling to anyone looking to upgrade their shotgun carrying experience.
The innovative Claw Contour grip pad truly sets it apart from traditional slings, providing a level of stability that I haven’t experienced with other products. If you’re tired of slipping slings and noisy swivels, give the Quake Industries Black Shotgun Sling/No Swivels Required a try – you won’t be disappointed!