Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels Review

The Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels Made a Bold First Impression

The Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels is a staple for any rifle or shotgun owner seeking a simple, reliable, and affordable carrying solution. Butler Creek has a reputation for quality, and this sling appears to be no exception, offering a classic design with a focus on practicality. My initial expectation was a no-frills, functional sling that would get the job done without breaking the bank, and upon unboxing, the sling certainly looked the part.

I had been searching for a replacement sling for my old deer hunting rifle. The original sling, a cheap nylon strap, had finally given way after years of abuse in the field. This time, I wanted something more comfortable and durable, but without the need for any tactical features I’d never use.

The Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels arrived in a simple plastic bag, no fancy packaging, which I appreciated; it’s what’s inside that counts. My initial impression was positive: the black nylon webbing felt sturdy, the stitching appeared clean and consistent, and the shoulder pad seemed reasonably thick for its size. I was also immediately happy to see it included sewn-in 1″ swivels, saving me the hassle of buying them separately.

I had considered a couple of other options before settling on this sling. I looked at a padded neoprene sling from a competitor, but I worried about the neoprene retaining moisture and becoming uncomfortable on long hikes. I also looked at a more expensive leather sling, but the price point was simply too high for my needs, which led me back to the Butler Creek model.

My first impression was a pleasant surprise. The sling felt more substantial than I expected for the price. I was eager to see how it would perform in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels on a scouting trip in the nearby state forest. I needed to hike several miles through dense woods, carrying my rifle for potential hog encounters. The weather was mild and dry, perfect for testing the sling’s comfort and functionality.

The sling performed admirably. The padded shoulder section distributed the weight of the rifle evenly, preventing digging into my shoulder during long treks. I found that the sewn-in swivels functioned smoothly and quietly.

I did notice a slight tendency for the sling to slip on my shoulder when wearing a lighter jacket. This was easily remedied by adjusting the sling’s length, but it was still a minor inconvenience.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including multiple hunting trips and range sessions, the Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels has held up surprisingly well. There are no signs of fraying, tearing, or stitching coming undone. The nylon webbing remains strong and resilient.

Cleaning the sling is a breeze. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and mud. It dries quickly and doesn’t seem to retain odors, which is a huge plus.

Compared to my old nylon strap sling, the Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels is a night and day difference. It’s significantly more comfortable, durable, and secure, making it a worthwhile upgrade for any rifle or shotgun owner. I am confident in its ability to withstand the rigors of regular use.

Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels

Specifications

The Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels features a durable black nylon webbing construction. It has a stitched, quilted shoulder pad with a non-slip backing. The sling also features sewn-in 1″ swivels with a blued finish.

These specifications translate to a comfortable and secure carrying experience. The nylon webbing ensures longevity, while the padded shoulder section and non-slip backing prevent discomfort and slippage. The sewn-in swivels offer convenience and compatibility with most rifles and shotguns.

Performance & Functionality

The Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels performs its primary function effectively. It allows you to comfortably carry your rifle or shotgun, freeing up your hands for other tasks. It makes carrying significantly easier.

The sling’s strengths lie in its simplicity, durability, and comfort. The only minor weakness is the slight tendency to slip on certain fabrics, which can be easily addressed by adjusting the sling’s length or wearing a thicker garment. Overall, the sling exceeds my expectations for a product in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels features a classic and straightforward design. The materials feel durable, and the sling is surprisingly lightweight. The quilted shoulder pad adds a touch of comfort without being overly bulky.

The sling is incredibly user-friendly, requiring no assembly or adjustment beyond fitting it to your weapon. There’s no learning curve involved; it’s simply a matter of attaching the swivels to your rifle or shotgun and adjusting the strap to your desired length. The Butler Creek Black Sling is simple and straightforward.

Durability & Maintenance

The Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels appears to be built to last. The nylon webbing is resistant to abrasion and tearing, and the stitching is reinforced in critical areas. With proper care, this sling should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal. Simply wipe the sling clean with a damp cloth as needed. There are no moving parts or complex mechanisms to worry about, further enhancing its durability and ease of maintenance. It is also extremely easy to dry.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels doesn’t come with any additional accessories. It is primarily a standalone product designed for basic rifle carrying.

The sling itself offers limited customization options beyond adjusting the overall length. It is compatible with any rifle or shotgun equipped with standard 1″ swivel studs. Customization generally isn’t needed with this style of sling.

Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Black Sling w/Sewn In 1″ Swivels