The Allen Denali Swivel Size Black Made a Bold First Impression
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen my fair share of cartridge carriers. Most are functional, some are comfortable, but few truly impress. That’s what made me curious about the Allen Denali Swivel Size Black. Its promise of neoprene comfort and a secure carry at a budget-friendly price of $19.49 was intriguing.
I needed a reliable cartridge sling for an upcoming pheasant hunt in South Dakota. My old leather sling had seen better days, cracking and offering minimal padding for long days in the field. I wanted something that would distribute weight evenly and keep my cartridges readily accessible.
The Allen Denali Swivel Size Black arrived in a simple plastic bag. My initial thought was, “Wow, that neoprene feels much nicer than I expected”. The stitching appeared clean and the swivels seemed sturdy enough for regular use.
I considered other options like the Banded Gear Neoprene Shell Belt and the Browning Dove & Shell Bag, but I needed something that integrated directly onto my rifle. The Allen Denali Swivel Size Black offered a more streamlined, low-profile solution, and its affordable price point sealed the deal. I was cautiously optimistic.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Denali Swivel Size Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test with the Allen Denali Swivel Size Black was during that South Dakota pheasant hunt. The weather was crisp, with a light drizzle that threatened to turn into a full-blown rain. Walking through fields of tall grass and uneven terrain, I immediately appreciated the sling’s neoprene padding.
The sharkskin backing kept the sling securely in place, preventing it from sliding off my shoulder even when I was quickly mounting my shotgun. Reaching for shells was smooth and easy. No fumbling or awkward movements, which can be critical when a bird flushes unexpectedly.
However, I noticed that the cartridge loops were initially a bit tight. It took some effort to insert and remove shells, but this loosened up with use throughout the day. Overall, the first outing was a success, and I was happy with the sling’s performance and comfort.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Allen Denali Swivel Size Black has become a staple in my hunting gear. I’ve used it on multiple waterfowl hunts in damp marsh conditions and it has held up remarkably well. The neoprene is water-resistant and dries quickly, preventing the sling from becoming heavy and uncomfortable.
There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear. The stitching remains intact and the swivels are still functioning smoothly. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each hunt is all it takes to keep it clean. It definitely outperforms my old leather sling in terms of comfort and weather resistance.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Denali Swivel Size Black
Specifications
The Allen Denali Swivel Size Black is designed as a simple, functional cartridge carrier. It features:
- Neoprene construction: This provides a comfortable, cushioned feel and is water-resistant.
- Slip-proof sharkskin back: This helps keep the sling securely on your shoulder.
- Five cartridge loops: This allows for quick and easy access to ammunition.
- Swivels: These enable easy attachment to most standard rifle swivel studs.
- Size Black: This refers to the color and likely the standard size available for this sling model.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the sling’s comfort, stability, and ease of use. The neoprene ensures comfort during long hunts. The sharkskin backing prevents slippage. The cartridge loops provide quick access to ammunition.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Denali Swivel Size Black performs its primary job exceptionally well. It securely holds five cartridges and allows for easy access. The neoprene padding is surprisingly comfortable. It effectively distributes the weight of the firearm and ammunition.
The only minor weakness is the initial tightness of the cartridge loops, but this resolves itself with use. Otherwise, the sling meets and exceeds my expectations for a product in this price range. It is a reliable and functional piece of gear.
Design & Ergonomics
The Allen Denali Swivel Size Black features a simple, practical design. The materials used are of decent quality for the price. The sling is lightweight and comfortable to wear.
There is virtually no learning curve. It is immediately intuitive to use.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, the Allen Denali Swivel Size Black appears to be quite durable. The neoprene and stitching are holding up well under regular use. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick wipe down after each use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Denali Swivel Size Black is a standalone product and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, it is compatible with most standard rifle swivel studs. This means it can be easily attached to a wide variety of rifles and shotguns.
Pros and Cons of Allen Denali Swivel Size Black
Pros
- Comfortable neoprene construction provides cushioning for all-day carry.
- Slip-proof sharkskin backing prevents the sling from sliding off the shoulder.
- Affordable price makes it an excellent value for the money.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to attach to most rifles and shotguns with standard swivels.
Cons
- Cartridge loops may be initially tight.
- Limited to holding only five cartridges.
Who Should Buy Allen Denali Swivel Size Black?
The Allen Denali Swivel Size Black is perfect for hunters and recreational shooters looking for a comfortable and affordable cartridge sling. It’s also great for those who need a lightweight and durable option for carrying extra ammunition. It is ideal for those who prioritize functionality and value over high-end features.
Those who need to carry a large number of cartridges or prefer a more customizable sling should skip this product. You might also want to skip it if you prefer leather over neoprene.
A can of silicone spray to treat the neoprene and ease cartridge insertion initially might be a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Allen Denali Swivel Size Black
The Allen Denali Swivel Size Black is a surprisingly good product for its price. It offers excellent comfort and functionality.
The price is definitely justified. It is significantly more affordable than many other cartridge slings on the market.
I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly and reliable option. If you need a simple and effective cartridge sling, the Allen Denali Swivel Size Black is a solid choice. Don’t let the low price fool you; this sling delivers on its promises. Grab one and experience the difference a comfortable sling can make on your next hunt.