The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels Made a Bold First Impression
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve slung countless rifles. The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels promises comfort and practicality at an accessible price point, a combination that immediately piqued my interest. I needed a reliable sling that wouldn’t break the bank but would still provide the support needed for long days in the field, especially during deer season when I’m covering miles of varied terrain.
My old sling, a generic nylon strap, had served its time, digging into my shoulder after a few hours of carrying my rifle. I needed an upgrade that offered both comfort and security, and the Butler Creek seemed to offer just that. The package arrived simply, the sling neatly coiled, showcasing the black neoprene material and pre-attached swivels.
Initially, I considered a padded two-point sling from a higher-end brand, and even looked at some single-point tactical options. Ultimately, the Butler Creek’s reputation for value and the promise of comfortable carry swayed me. My first impression was positive; the neoprene felt softer than expected, and the swivels seemed sturdy. This felt like a significant step up.
Was I excited? Yes, cautiously optimistic. I hoped the comfort claims would hold up in the real world, and my initial impression seemed promising.
Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels was a scouting trip in the local state forest. I was prepping for the upcoming hunting season, which involved traversing steep hills and dense brush. The sling immediately felt different from my old one, distributing the weight of my rifle more evenly across my shoulder.
Even in the early morning chill and the occasional drizzle, the neoprene maintained its grip, preventing the rifle from sliding. Adjusting the sling length on the fly was simple, even with gloves on. I was initially concerned that the swivels might squeak, but they remained silent throughout the day.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Butler Creek sling on various hunts and range trips, it has proven to be a reliable and comfortable option. The neoprene padding still feels soft against my shoulder, even after prolonged use. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being exposed to mud, rain, and brush.
Cleaning the sling is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes. Compared to my previous nylon sling, the Butler Creek is a clear winner in terms of comfort and ease of maintenance. It significantly outperforms my old sling in comfort.
Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels
Specifications
- The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels is constructed from soft, flexible closed-cell neoprene. Its Comfort Stretch™ backing significantly reduces felt weight by soaking up the bounce.
- It features Non-Slip Grippers™ to keep it firmly in place. The sling is available in black, with Uncle Mike’s QD® Swivels sewn-in for easy attachment to most rifles.
These specifications are crucial for a comfortable and secure carry. The neoprene and grippers prevent slippage, while the stretch backing helps distribute weight evenly. The attached swivels make installation a breeze.
Performance & Functionality
The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels performs its primary function admirably: securely and comfortably carrying a rifle. The Comfort Stretch™ backing does, in fact, reduce felt weight, making long days in the field less taxing. The Non-Slip Grippers™ are effective at keeping the sling in place, even when moving through dense terrain.
The adjustment buckle is easy to use, allowing for quick changes in sling length. The one area for potential improvement would be even wider padding for carrying extremely heavy rifles. Overall, it exceeds expectations for its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The black neoprene material has a clean, understated look. The sling is lightweight and comfortable to wear, thanks to the soft padding and Comfort Stretch™ technology.
The design is straightforward and intuitive. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels appears to be reasonably durable, given its price point. After several weeks of use, there are no signs of fraying or tearing.
Cleaning is simple; wiping it down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient. I expect this sling to last for several seasons of moderate use with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels comes with Uncle Mike’s QD® Swivels already attached, which are compatible with most rifles that have swivel studs. There aren’t really any “customization” options as such; the sling is designed to be a simple, effective solution.
You can replace the swivels with higher-end models if desired, but the included Uncle Mike’s versions seem perfectly adequate. The sling is compatible with most rifles that accept standard sling swivels.
Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels
Pros
- Comfortable neoprene padding reduces felt weight.
- Non-Slip Grippers™ keep the sling securely in place.
- Uncle Mike’s QD® Swivels are included and pre-attached.
- Adjustable length allows for a customized fit.
- Excellent value for the price.
Cons
- The padding could be thicker for extremely heavy rifles.
- Limited color/pattern options available.
Who Should Buy Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels?
The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who needs a comfortable and reliable way to carry a rifle without breaking the bank. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to upgrade from a basic nylon sling.
Those carrying exceptionally heavy rifles or who prefer a more tactical-style sling with multiple attachment points might want to explore other options. A set of quick-detach sling swivels compatible with your specific rifle is all you might consider.
Conclusion on Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels
The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels delivers on its promise of comfort and value. The Comfort Stretch™ neoprene and Non-Slip Grippers™ make it a pleasure to use, even for extended periods.
At around $20, the price is more than justified for the level of performance and comfort it provides. I would absolutely recommend the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels to anyone looking for an affordable and effective rifle sling. Upgrade your carry today, you won’t regret it!