The Edgar Sherman Design ESD Sling Desert Digital Made a Bold First Impression
The Edgar Sherman Design ESD Sling Desert Digital isn’t just another sling; it’s a statement. The Edgar Sherman Design (ESD) name carries weight in tactical circles, known for practical, no-nonsense gear built for demanding users. I first encountered their products through a friend, a seasoned SWAT operator, who swore by their minimalist designs. The ESD Sling promised the same philosophy in a sling designed for comfort, adjustability, and durability, all wrapped in the distinctive AOR1 Desert Digital camouflage.
My current sling situation was a mess of tangled webbing and uncomfortable pressure points. I needed something that would allow for quick transitions and comfortable carry during long training days. I’d been eyeing the Viking Tactics VTAC sling and the Blue Force Gear Vickers Combat Applications Sling, both reputable options. But the ESD Sling’s simplicity and focus on essential features drew me in, along with the appealing price point.
Unboxing the Edgar Sherman Design ESD Sling Desert Digital was a surprisingly satisfying experience. The sling felt substantial, with robust 1″ webbing and high-quality polymer hardware. The AOR1 Desert Digital pattern was crisp and well-executed, exactly as depicted online. The matte finish on the hardware suggested a focus on minimizing glare, a critical factor in tactical situations.
My initial impression was one of quiet confidence. This wasn’t a flashy, over-engineered piece of gear. This was a tool, thoughtfully designed and built to perform. I was excited to see how it would hold up under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Edgar Sherman Design ESD Sling Desert Digital to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the ESD Sling was at an all-day carbine course focused on dynamic shooting drills. The course involved a lot of movement, transitions, and awkward shooting positions. The ESD Sling immediately proved its worth. Its simple design made it incredibly easy to adjust on the fly, allowing me to quickly transition between slung and firing positions.
The weather was dry and dusty, typical for our local range. The ESD Sling handled the environment without issue. There were no signs of slippage or degradation of the webbing. The polymer hardware, while lightweight, felt solid and secure.
The ease of use was a standout feature. Unlike some slings that require a degree in engineering to adjust, the ESD Sling was intuitive and straightforward. I needed no time to get used to it. I was running drills within minutes.
The only slight annoyance was the initial stiffness of the webbing. It took a bit of breaking in to achieve optimal smoothness in adjustments.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the ESD Sling has become a trusted piece of my kit. It’s been through numerous range sessions, a weekend-long tactical training course, and even a few hunting trips. It has consistently performed without fail.
Durability has been impressive. There are no signs of fraying, tearing, or fading, even after exposure to sun, rain, and mud. The polymer hardware remains intact. It shows no signs of cracking or weakening.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I’ve occasionally used a mild detergent to remove stubborn stains, but that’s about it.
Compared to previous slings I’ve used (mostly generic, budget-friendly models), the ESD Sling is in a different league. It offers superior comfort, adjustability, and durability. It represents a significant upgrade in performance and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Edgar Sherman Design ESD Sling Desert Digital
Specifications
- 2-Point Combat Sling: The two-point design provides versatility for carrying and transitioning with a rifle. It allows for stable carry across the chest or back.
- 1″ Webbing: The 1″ webbing strikes a balance between strength and weight. It’s durable enough to withstand heavy use. It is also slim enough to remain comfortable against the body.
- Polymer Hardware: The use of polymer hardware reduces weight without sacrificing strength. The hardware is non-reflective, minimizing visibility.
- Matte Finish: The matte finish on the hardware further enhances stealth. It reduces glare in tactical situations.
- AOR1 Desert Digital: The AOR1 Desert Digital camouflage pattern is effective in arid environments. It provides excellent concealment in sandy or desert landscapes.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the sling’s performance, comfort, and durability. The choice of materials and design reflects Edgar Sherman Design’s commitment to providing practical, reliable gear for serious users.
Performance & Functionality
The ESD Sling Desert Digital excels at its primary job: securely and comfortably carrying a rifle while allowing for rapid deployment. The quick adjustability is fantastic. It allows me to adapt to changing situations in seconds.
The sling’s strengths lie in its simplicity and robustness. There are no unnecessary features to complicate operation or add weight. The webbing is strong and comfortable, even under heavy loads.
The only area for potential improvement is the addition of some padding on the sling. While the 1″ webbing is generally comfortable, extended carry with a heavy rifle can cause some discomfort.
Overall, the ESD Sling meets and exceeds my expectations. It delivers on its promise of providing a simple, reliable, and effective sling solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The ESD Sling’s design is minimalist and functional. The build quality is excellent, with attention paid to detail. The use of high-quality materials ensures durability and longevity.
The sling is surprisingly lightweight, thanks to the polymer hardware. It adds minimal bulk to the rifle. The sling feels comfortable against the body, even when worn for extended periods.
The design is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. The sling is easy to adjust and operate, even while wearing gloves.
Durability & Maintenance
The ESD Sling is built to last. The robust webbing and durable hardware can withstand heavy use and harsh conditions. I expect it to provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean. The materials are resistant to stains and fading.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ESD Sling itself doesn’t come with any additional accessories. The beauty of its simple design is its compatibility with various mounting options. It works with standard sling swivels, QD mounts, and HK-style hooks.
The ESD Sling is compatible with a wide range of rifles and mounting hardware. This makes it a versatile choice for various platforms.
Pros and Cons of Edgar Sherman Design ESD Sling Desert Digital
Pros
- Simple and robust design: The ESD Sling is designed for functionality and reliability. It eliminates unnecessary features that could complicate operation.
- High-quality materials: The use of durable webbing and polymer hardware ensures longevity. It withstands heavy use and harsh conditions.
- Easy adjustability: The quick-adjust system allows for rapid transitions between slung and firing positions. This feature is especially useful in dynamic shooting scenarios.
- Lightweight: The polymer hardware helps keep the sling lightweight. This minimizes added bulk to the rifle.
- Affordable price: At $42.49, the ESD Sling offers excellent value for its performance and durability.
Cons
- Lack of padding: The sling could benefit from padding for increased comfort during extended carry with heavy rifles.
- Initial webbing stiffness: The webbing can be somewhat stiff out of the box. It requires a short break-in period for optimal smoothness.
Who Should Buy Edgar Sherman Design ESD Sling Desert Digital?
The Edgar Sherman Design ESD Sling Desert Digital is perfect for:
- Tactical shooters: Law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters who require a reliable and adjustable sling for dynamic shooting situations.
- Hunters: Hunters who need a comfortable and secure way to carry their rifles in the field, especially in arid environments.
- Anyone looking for a durable and minimalist sling: Those who appreciate simple, functional gear that is built to last.
Who should skip this product?
- Those prioritizing maximum comfort above all else: If padding is a must-have, other slings with integrated padding might be a better choice.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- Quality sling swivels or QD mounts: To securely attach the sling to the rifle.
- Sling retention devices: To manage excess webbing and prevent snagging.
Conclusion on Edgar Sherman Design ESD Sling Desert Digital
The Edgar Sherman Design ESD Sling Desert Digital is a well-designed, durable, and affordable sling that delivers on its promise of providing a simple and effective solution for carrying a rifle. Its robust construction, easy adjustability, and lightweight design make it an excellent choice for tactical shooters, hunters, and anyone who appreciates functional gear.
The price of $42.49 is more than justified given the sling’s quality and performance. It represents a solid investment that will provide years of reliable service.
I would absolutely recommend the Edgar Sherman Design ESD Sling Desert Digital to anyone looking for a no-nonsense, high-quality sling that gets the job done. If you value simplicity, durability, and performance, this is the sling for you. Upgrade your kit today and experience the ESD difference.