AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede Review

The AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede Made a Bold First Impression

I’ve handled countless slings in my career, from mil-spec nylon webbing to intricately woven paracord designs. But when I first laid eyes on the AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede, I knew this wasn’t just another piece of gear. The classic design and the promise of comfortable carry immediately piqued my interest.

As a seasoned hunter who values both function and tradition, I was looking for a sling that offered reliable rifle support without sacrificing comfort during long treks. My old nylon sling, while durable, often dug into my shoulder, especially when carrying a heavier rifle. I was hoping the AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede would solve this problem.

Unboxing the sling, I was immediately struck by the quality of the suede leather. The black color gives a classic look that is understated. The stitching appeared robust, and the foam padding felt substantial under my fingertips, promising a welcome respite from the harshness of nylon.

I considered other slings, like the neoprene padded slings offered by Allen, and the adjustable paracord slings from some smaller brands. I chose the AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede for its simple yet elegant design, and the perceived quality of the AAE Leathercraft construction. My first impression was one of genuine excitement.

Real-World Testing: Putting AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede on a weekend deer hunt in the rugged terrain of the Allegheny National Forest. The weather was typical for late fall: damp and chilly, with occasional bursts of rain. This tested both the sling’s comfort and its resistance to the elements.

The sling proved to be incredibly comfortable, even after hours of hiking with my Winchester Model 70. The suede padding distributed the weight evenly across my shoulder, preventing the pressure points I often experienced with other slings. The adjustment buckle also allowed me to dial in the perfect length, ensuring the rifle sat securely against my body, even when navigating steep inclines.

However, the suede absorbed some of the moisture from the damp conditions. This caused it to darken slightly and become a bit tacky to the touch. Despite this, the sling continued to perform its primary function without issue.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede has held up remarkably well. The suede has softened slightly with use, becoming even more comfortable against my shoulder. There are no signs of fraying or stitching failures.

The only visible wear and tear is some minor discoloration of the suede in high-contact areas, such as where it rests against my jacket. I have cleaned the sling a few times using a leather cleaner and conditioner, which has helped maintain its suppleness and prevent cracking. Compared to my previous nylon sling, the AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede offers a superior level of comfort and a more classic aesthetic.

Breaking Down the Features of AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede

Specifications

The AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede is designed to comfortably carry your rifle while maintaining control. The key specifications include:

• Suede-Lined Pad: The pad is entirely suede lined, providing a soft and comfortable surface against the shoulder. This is a critical feature for long days in the field.
• Inner Foam Padding: Inner foam provides cushioning and distributes weight evenly. This is crucial for reducing shoulder fatigue.
• Genuine Suede Cowhide: The pad consists of genuine suede cowhide for durability and classic look. This adds a touch of elegance to your firearm.
• Leather Slide Buckle: A leather slide buckle enables easy length adjustment. This allows for a customizable fit for various body types and carrying preferences.
• Locking Loop: A locking loop secures the adjusted length. This prevents the sling from slipping during use.

These specifications contribute to the overall comfort, durability, and functionality of the sling. They make it suitable for a variety of hunting and shooting applications.

Performance & Functionality

The AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede performs its primary function – carrying a rifle comfortably and securely – exceptionally well. The suede padding and foam inner provide excellent cushioning, reducing shoulder fatigue even with heavier rifles. The adjustable length and locking loop ensure a secure and customizable fit.

While the suede is comfortable, it is not inherently water-resistant. The sling requires some care in wet conditions to prevent excessive moisture absorption. Overall, the sling meets and exceeds expectations for a classic, comfortable rifle sling.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede is simple, classic, and functional. The black suede offers a timeless aesthetic that complements most rifles. The weight is light, which helps prevent additional strain during extended carries.

The sling is generally user-friendly, although adjusting the buckle can be a bit stiff initially. Once adjusted, the locking loop keeps the length secure.

Durability & Maintenance

The AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede appears to be durable. The high-quality materials suggest a long lifespan with proper care. Suede requires occasional cleaning and conditioning to prevent drying and cracking.

Easy cleaning with leather cleaner ensures a long service life. With proper maintenance, this sling should last for many years of reliable use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Customization is limited to adjusting the length of the sling and attaching it to your rifle using standard sling swivels. It’s compatible with most standard sling swivels.

While there aren’t extensive customization options, the focus is on the core function: comfortably and securely carrying a rifle. It achieves this exceptionally well.

Pros and Cons of AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede

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Who Should Buy AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede?

This sling is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who appreciates classic design and comfort. It is particularly well-suited for individuals who spend long hours carrying a rifle in the field. Anyone looking for an affordable, reliable, and comfortable rifle sling should find this product exceptional.

Those who prioritize water resistance or extensive customization options might want to explore alternatives. A good set of quick-detach sling swivels is a must-have accessory for easy attachment and removal.

Conclusion on AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede

The AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a comfortable, reliable, and classically designed rifle sling. Its soft suede padding and adjustable length provide superior comfort, while its durable construction ensures long-lasting performance. At $29.99, the price is incredibly justified for the quality and functionality it offers.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the AAE Sling Black Long Taper Suede to fellow hunters and shooters. If you value comfort, tradition, and affordability, this sling is an exceptional choice. Upgrade your carrying experience and add a touch of classic elegance to your rifle.

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