First Thoughts on the AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling
The AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling is an intriguing option for anyone looking for a traditional and aesthetically pleasing way to carry their rifle or shotgun. With its embossed deer heads and classic leather design, it promises a blend of functionality and rustic charm. It immediately brings to mind weekend hunts in the crisp autumn air and the satisfaction of passing down treasured firearms, hopefully this sling will provide a solid foundation to those experiences.
For years, I’ve struggled to find a sling that balances practicality with a touch of personality. Most tactical slings, while functional, lack the character and traditional feel that complements a classic hunting rifle, and the AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling appeared to be the solution. The promise of embossed deer heads sparked an appreciation for its simple design and potential durability from the description.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the smell of genuine leather. The AA&E Leathercraft sling felt solid and substantial, hinting at decent construction quality. The embossed deer heads, while simple, added a nice touch of character.
Compared to a nylon tactical sling from Viking Tactics or a neoprene sling from Allen Company, the AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling offers a vastly different experience. The Viking Tactics sling excels in tactical applications and rapid adjustments, while the Allen Company neoprene sling prioritizes comfort. I ultimately chose the AA&E Leathercraft for its classic look and the desire for a sling that felt more connected to the history of hunting and less like a modern battlefield accessory.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The sling looked good, felt sturdy, and seemed to offer a welcome change from the tactical slings I’m accustomed to. I hoped that it would perform as well in the field as it looked in the packaging, but for the price point of $27.49, there was certainly some skepticism, but at this price, the risk is low and the potential reward is high.
Real-World Testing: Putting AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling during a weekend deer hunting trip in the Pennsylvania mountains. The sling was used on my Winchester Model 94, a classic lever-action rifle perfect for the traditional feel of the leather sling. The weather was typical for late fall: cool, damp, and with occasional light rain.
The initial experience was positive; it was simple to attach and immediately felt at home with the rifle. The leather offered decent grip, even with damp gloves, and carried the rifle comfortably across my shoulder during long walks through the woods. There were no significant issues or surprises, although the leather did feel a little stiff out of the box, and I could tell the leather would need time to break in.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, primarily during hunting season and occasional trips to the shooting range, the AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling has held up reasonably well. The leather has softened and conformed to my shoulder, making it more comfortable than the initial outings. The sling shows some signs of wear, particularly around the attachment points, but nothing that compromises its structural integrity.
Cleaning is relatively simple; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth and occasionally apply leather conditioner to keep it supple. Comparing it to a similar leather sling I owned years ago from Butler Creek, the AA&E Leathercraft sling seems to be holding up just as well, if not better, considering the price difference. The Butler Creek version was significantly more expensive, but the AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling provides solid value without sacrificing too much quality.
Breaking Down the Features of AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling
Specifications
The AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling is a leather long taper gunsling. It features embossed deer heads and gun accents. The sling is designed to fit most standard rifles and shotguns.
These specifications are important because they dictate the sling’s compatibility and intended use. The leather construction suggests durability, while the embossed design adds a decorative element. The sling’s purpose is simple: to carry your firearm comfortably and securely while keeping your hands free.
Performance & Functionality
The AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling performs its primary function adequately. It securely holds the rifle, and it allows for comfortable carrying across the shoulder. Its functionality is straightforward; there are no quick-adjust features or complex mechanisms.
The sling’s strength lies in its simplicity and classic design. Its weakness is the lack of adjustability and the potential for the leather to stretch or wear over time. It meets expectations for a basic, affordable leather sling but doesn’t exceed them in terms of advanced features or exceptional durability.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for the price point. The leather is not the highest grade, but it feels reasonably thick and sturdy. The weight is comfortable and doesn’t add excessive bulk to the rifle.
The sling is user-friendly, requiring no setup beyond attaching it to the rifle’s sling swivels. There is no learning curve involved; it’s a simple and intuitive design. The ergonomics are adequate, although prolonged use might lead to shoulder fatigue due to the lack of padding or adjustability.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling should last for several seasons of moderate use. The leather is susceptible to wear and tear from exposure to the elements, but regular cleaning and conditioning will help prolong its lifespan.
Maintenance is easy; just wipe off dirt and moisture and apply leather conditioner periodically. Repairs, if needed, might require professional leatherwork, but the simple design minimizes the likelihood of major issues.
Accessories and Customization Options
The AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling comes as a standalone product with no included accessories. Customization options are limited to adding aftermarket sling swivels if the existing ones don’t fit your rifle.
It is compatible with most standard sling swivels. Due to its simplicity, there aren’t many other customization options available, unlike modern tactical slings that allow for attachments of various accessories.
Pros and Cons of AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling
Pros
- Affordable price makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Classic leather design with embossed deer heads adds a touch of rustic charm to your firearm.
- Simple and easy to use with no complex adjustments or setup required.
- Comfortable for moderate use, especially after the leather breaks in.
- Durable enough for hunting seasons, with proper care and maintenance.
Cons
- Limited adjustability compared to modern tactical slings.
- Leather is not the highest grade, and may stretch or wear over time.
- Lack of padding can cause discomfort during extended use.
Who Should Buy AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling?
The AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling is perfect for hunters who appreciate a traditional aesthetic and are looking for an affordable and functional sling. It’s also suitable for casual shooters who want a simple and reliable way to carry their rifle. It is especially suited to users with older rifles who want to maintain the ‘old world’ aesthetic of the time.
This product is not ideal for tactical shooters who require quick adjustments and accessory attachments. It’s also not recommended for those who prioritize maximum comfort during extended use or extreme conditions. Those needing to rapidly transition their rifle from slung to firing position should avoid this model.
A must-have modification is to ensure you have high-quality sling swivels. If the ones on your rifle are old or worn, replace them before attaching the sling to prevent accidental drops.
Conclusion on AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling
The AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable, classically styled sling. While it lacks the advanced features and high-end materials of more expensive options, it delivers on its promise of basic functionality and rustic charm.
The price of $27.49 is definitely justified. It offers a good value for a leather sling with a decorative touch. You should expect to receive a tool that enhances the visual appeal of your rifle.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a simple, traditional sling for their hunting rifle or shotgun. If you value aesthetics and affordability over advanced features, the AA&E Leathercraft Brown Gunsling is a worthy addition to your gear. Add it to your cart, attach it to your rifle, and enjoy the feel of genuine leather on your next outdoor adventure.