The Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoor gear specialist, I’ve slung more rifles than I can count. Comfort, reliability, and practicality are non-negotiable for any rifle sling that earns a spot on my trusted firearm. The Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic promises all three, combined with the added benefit of onboard shell storage – a feature that immediately piqued my interest.
My previous sling, a basic nylon strap, was functional but lacked padding and any convenient way to carry extra rounds. During a recent upland bird hunt, fumbling for shells in my vest while a covey flushed was a frustrating experience. This is why I looked into the Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic.
Upon unboxing, the Butler Creek sling presented a solid first impression. The Mossy Oak Break Up camo pattern is well-executed, and the neoprene padding felt immediately comfortable. While the plastic buckles seemed a bit basic, the overall construction appeared robust enough for field use. Compared to a pricier padded leather sling or a minimalist paracord option, the Butler Creek aimed for a sweet spot of affordability and functionality. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic; the features were promising, but the true test would be its performance under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic was a weekend deer hunt in the dense forests of northern Wisconsin. The weather was predictably unpredictable, ranging from crisp, dry mornings to damp, drizzly afternoons. The sling was fitted to my trusty .30-06 bolt-action rifle, and I loaded four rounds of ammunition into the elastic shell loops.
The immediate improvement over my old sling was undeniable. The Comfort Stretch backing distributed the rifle’s weight evenly, reducing the strain on my shoulder during long hours of hiking and stand hunting. The Non-Slip Grippers also proved their worth, keeping the rifle securely in place even when navigating steep terrain. I initially experienced slight difficulty inserting shells into the elastic loops, but they loosened after several uses.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, spanning multiple hunting trips and range sessions, the Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic has proven to be a reliable and comfortable addition to my gear. While the Mossy Oak Break-Up camo has retained its color well, the plastic buckles display minor scuffing from rubbing against tree bark and pack straps. The neoprene padding continues to provide excellent comfort, showing no signs of compression or wear.
Cleaning the sling is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes mud and grime effectively. Compared to the all-leather sling my father uses, the Butler Creek requires significantly less maintenance. Overall, the sling has exceeded my initial expectations for its price point, proving to be a durable and practical accessory for various hunting and shooting applications.
Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic
Specifications
- Waterproof Closed-Cell Neoprene Construction: The neoprene provides a comfortable and water-resistant surface. This is ideal for protecting against sweat and light rain while in the field.
- Comfort Stretch Backing: This backing is designed to reduce felt weight by up to 50 percent. It allows for more comfortable carrying during extended periods.
- Non-Slip Grippers: These ensure the sling stays firmly in place on your shoulder. This prevents slippage, even when wearing bulky clothing.
- Adjustable Length: The sling is adjustable to fit a variety of body sizes and rifle configurations. This is important to have for a comfortable and secure fit.
- Four Elastic Shell Loops: These loops allow for convenient onboard storage of extra ammunition. It makes for quicker reloads and greater efficiency in the field.
- Uncle Mike’s QD Quick Detachable 1-inch Swivels with Tri-Lock (Not Included): Requires separate purchase of swivels for attachment to the rifle. It is something important to be aware of.
Performance & Functionality
The Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic excels in providing comfortable and secure rifle carry. Its Comfort Stretch backing makes a noticeable difference, particularly during long hikes. The elastic shell loops are a practical addition, allowing for quick access to extra ammunition.
The main area for improvement is the included swivel system. Having to buy these separately feels like a miss; including basic swivels would greatly enhance the value proposition. While the sling performs its core functions well, the lack of included swivels feels like a minor oversight.
Design & Ergonomics
The sling’s design prioritizes functionality and comfort. The neoprene padding is soft against the skin, and the Mossy Oak Break Up camo provides effective concealment. The adjustable length accommodates various body types and rifle setups.
The only ergonomic drawback is the placement of the elastic shell loops; when loaded with heavier cartridges, they can add slight bulk to the sling. Overall, the Butler Creek sling strikes a good balance between comfort, practicality, and camouflage.
Durability & Maintenance
The Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic appears to be built to last. The neoprene and nylon construction are resistant to wear and tear, and the stitching is reinforced in key areas. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to maintain the sling’s appearance and performance.
While the plastic buckles may be the first components to show signs of wear over extended use, they are easily replaceable if needed. The sling’s durable construction and minimal maintenance requirements make it a reliable choice for demanding outdoor environments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic does not come with any accessories other than the elastic shell loops. Customization is limited to the choice of attachment swivels. While the Butler Creek sling itself doesn’t offer extensive customization, it is compatible with any rifle equipped with standard 1-inch swivel studs.
Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic
Pros
- Comfort Stretch Backing: Significantly reduces felt weight for comfortable carrying, even with heavy rifles.
- Non-Slip Grippers: Keeps the sling securely in place on your shoulder, preventing slippage in various conditions.
- Elastic Shell Loops: Provides convenient and accessible storage for four extra rounds of ammunition.
- Waterproof Neoprene: The neoprene material provides protection from sweat and light rain.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for its features and performance.
Cons
- Swivels Not Included: Requires separate purchase of swivels for attachment to the rifle, adding to the overall cost and inconvenience.
- Basic Buckles: The plastic buckles feel less durable than other components and may be prone to wear over time.
Who Should Buy Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic?
The Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic is perfect for hunters and recreational shooters seeking a comfortable, reliable, and affordable sling. It is also a great option for those who want to carry extra ammunition directly on their rifle.
Individuals prioritizing premium materials or integrated swivel systems should explore higher-end options. Those who prefer minimalist slings might find this model too bulky.
Must-have accessories include a set of Uncle Mike’s QD 1-inch swivels with Tri-Lock for secure attachment to the rifle. A small bottle of neoprene cleaner can help maintain the sling’s appearance and prolong its lifespan.
Conclusion on Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic
The Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic delivers on its promise of comfort, practicality, and affordability. While the need to purchase swivels separately is a minor drawback, the sling’s overall performance and durability make it a worthwhile investment.
At a price of $18.49, the value proposition is undeniable; it provides features often found in more expensive slings. I would personally recommend this sling to any hunter or shooter looking for a reliable and comfortable way to carry their rifle.
Upgrade your hunting experience today with the Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic, and say goodbye to shoulder strain and fumbling for ammo.