The ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING 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 slings. Securing your rifle effectively, comfortably, and reliably is critical whether you’re humping gear through the backcountry on a hunt or hitting the range for practice. The ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING promised a lot for its budget-friendly price tag, and I was eager to see if it could deliver.
I needed a versatile sling for my AR-15 that would allow for both comfortable carry and quick transitions. I had been using a simple single-point sling, which, while compact, lacked the stability I needed for longer treks. I had also been searching for a sling that offered quick detach (QD) functionality without breaking the bank.
Upon unboxing, I was pleasantly surprised by the ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING’s robust feel. The nylon webbing felt durable, and the QD swivels seemed securely attached. My initial thought was, “This could work.”
Compared to higher-priced options from brands like Magpul or Blue Force Gear, the ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING certainly felt less refined. However, considering the price point, the ALLEN sling appeared to offer a solid value proposition. I chose it because the price was right and user feedback indicated it was “as good as higher priced slings”.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The sling looked promising, but I knew the true test would be how it performed in the field. I was excited to test its quick detach functionality and double-point adjustability in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING was at an outdoor shooting range. I wanted to evaluate its performance during drills that required frequent shouldering and un-shouldering of my rifle. I also spent time simply carrying the rifle, assessing how comfortable the sling was for general transport.
The range was hot and dusty, conditions that can quickly reveal the weaknesses of poorly constructed gear. Adjusting the sling to my desired length was relatively easy, although the adjustment buckle felt a bit stiff initially. I didn’t experience any issues, but the sling’s material did collect some dust.
The ease of transitioning between shooting positions was noticeably improved compared to my old single-point sling. The QD swivels worked smoothly, allowing me to quickly detach the rifle when needed. After the first use, I was pleased, but wondered if the sling would maintain functionality long term.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including multiple trips to the range and a weekend-long camping trip, the ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING has held up reasonably well. I’ve found the sling to be reliable for general range use, but I would hesitate to take this sling on any extreme backcountry trips.
While the nylon webbing hasn’t shown any signs of fraying or tearing, the plastic adjustment buckle is showing some wear. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth has been sufficient to remove most of the dust and grime. I would recommend spot cleaning every few uses to ensure long-term functionality.
In comparison to other slings I’ve used, the ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING offers a decent level of performance for its price. It doesn’t match the comfort or durability of high-end slings, but it’s a significant step up from basic, unpadded options. Overall, I was surprised at how well the sling has done.
Breaking Down the Features of ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING
Specifications
- The ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING is designed for use with rifles equipped with QD attachment points. It is a double-point sling, meaning it attaches to the rifle at two locations for increased stability.
- It features durable nylon webbing, designed to withstand the rigors of regular use. The ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING features robust QD swivels for quick and secure attachment.
- The overall length is adjustable to accommodate different body sizes and carrying preferences. This adjustability is key to achieving a comfortable and secure fit. The color is black, a practical choice for tactical applications.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the sling’s usability, comfort, and durability. A well-made sling needs to withstand tension, quick changes, and the elements. The QD functionality allows for quick and easy weapon removal and attachment, crucial in dynamic situations.
Performance & Functionality
The ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING performs its primary function of securely carrying a rifle reasonably well. The double-point design distributes the weight more evenly than a single-point sling. This reduces strain on the user.
The sling’s strengths lie in its simplicity and affordability. The quick detach functionality is reliable, and the adjustability allows for a customized fit. The main weakness is the slightly stiff adjustment buckle, which can be difficult to manipulate with gloves.
For the price, the ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING meets expectations. It’s not a top-tier sling, but it provides a functional and affordable solution for carrying a rifle.
Design & Ergonomics
The ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING features a straightforward design with a focus on functionality. The materials used are durable, though not as comfortable against the skin as padded options. The weight is minimal, which is a plus for long days in the field.
The sling is relatively user-friendly, requiring minimal setup and adjustment. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the quick detach system, but it’s easily overcome with practice. The simple design makes it effective.
Durability & Maintenance
With regular use, the ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING should last for a decent amount of time. The nylon webbing is resistant to tearing and abrasion, and the QD swivels appear to be well-constructed. The plastic adjustment buckle is the most vulnerable component, but it should hold up with reasonable care.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The sling is not designed to be repaired, but replacement parts, such as QD swivels, are readily available. Keeping the sling clean increases longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING does not come with any additional accessories. It’s a standalone product designed to be used with rifles equipped with QD attachment points. There aren’t really any customization options available for the ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING.
The sling is compatible with any rifle that has standard QD sling swivel attachment points. This makes it a versatile option for a variety of firearms. However, to make the sling more comfortable, you could consider aftermarket sling pads.
Pros and Cons of ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING
Pros
- Affordable Price Point: The most compelling reason to consider this sling is its low cost.
- Quick Detach Functionality: The QD swivels allow for rapid attachment and detachment of the rifle.
- Adjustable Length: The sling can be adjusted to fit different body sizes and carrying preferences.
- Durable Nylon Webbing: The nylon webbing is resistant to tearing and abrasion.
- Lightweight Design: The sling adds minimal weight to the rifle setup.
Cons
- Adjustment Buckle: The plastic adjustment buckle feels stiff and may not be as durable as metal alternatives.
- Lack of Padding: The sling lacks padding, which can cause discomfort during extended use.
- Limited Customization: There are few customization options available.
Who Should Buy ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING?
The ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who need a functional and reliable sling for range use or light recreational activities. It’s also a good option for beginners who are just starting to build their tactical gear setup. This sling is also great for those who want a sling that they aren’t afraid to get worn and dirty.
Those who should skip this product include experienced shooters or hunters who demand the highest levels of comfort and durability. Individuals who plan on extensive backcountry trips or tactical operations may find the ALLEN sling lacking in features and robustness. Additionally, if you want a sling with a lot of padding, then you should not buy the ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING.
Must-have accessories or modifications include aftermarket sling pads to increase comfort during extended use. You can buy these pads online for a reasonable price. Also, if your rifle doesn’t have them already, you will need to buy QD sling swivel attachment points.
Conclusion on ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING
The ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING offers a solid value proposition for its price. It provides essential functionality, including quick detach capability and adjustable length, in a durable package. While it’s not the most comfortable or feature-rich sling on the market, it’s a reliable and affordable option for casual shooters and beginners.
The price is definitely justified, considering the performance and features offered. This is a great sling for those who are new to shooting and want a sling that won’t break the bank. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly sling for range use or light recreational activities.
If you’re looking for a no-frills, affordable sling that gets the job done, the ALLEN CITADEL QD DOUBLE POINT SLING is worth considering. Upgrade your rifle setup today!