First Thoughts on the Aim Sports Shotgun Sling Deluxe Mil-Spec Nylon Webbing Black
The Aim Sports Shotgun Sling Deluxe Mil-Spec Nylon Webbing Black promises to be a practical and affordable solution for carrying your shotgun. Made by Aim Sports, it’s designed for quick transitioning and comfortable carry. For just $11.75, it’s hard to ignore the potential value this sling offers.
My need for a reliable shotgun sling stemmed from years of awkward carries during upland bird hunts. I needed something that would keep my hands free, provide quick access to my shotgun, and not break the bank. Countless hunts involved improvised carries that were uncomfortable and unsafe.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the nylon webbing felt reasonably sturdy, despite the budget price. The polymer buckles seemed adequate and the metal swivel spring hooks, while not heavy-duty, appeared functional. The Aim Sports Shotgun Sling Deluxe Mil-Spec Nylon Webbing Black feels surprisingly lightweight, which is a definite plus.
Compared to a more expensive, padded sling from Blue Force Gear and a simple paracord sling I’ve used in the past, the Aim Sports sling is a compromise between cost and functionality. The padded sling is undoubtedly more comfortable for long carries, but also significantly more expensive. The paracord sling is cheap and lightweight but offers no quick adjustability or shell storage.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was curious to see if the Aim Sports Shotgun Sling Deluxe Mil-Spec Nylon Webbing Black could deliver on its promise of practical functionality without sacrificing durability. The price is certainly appealing, but only real-world use would determine its worth.
Real-World Testing: Putting Aim Sports Shotgun Sling Deluxe Mil-Spec Nylon Webbing Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Aim Sports Shotgun Sling Deluxe Mil-Spec Nylon Webbing Black at my local shooting range. I was practicing trap shooting with my Remington 870. The weather was clear, but a slight breeze added a bit of a chill to the air.
The first thing I noticed was the ease of attachment. The spring hooks clipped onto my shotgun’s sling swivels without any fuss. Adjusting the sling length was also relatively straightforward, allowing me to find a comfortable carry position quickly. However, the Tension Quick Release System took a bit of getting used to.
After a few hours of shooting, I noticed the unpadded nylon webbing did start to dig into my shoulder a bit. This was especially noticeable when carrying the shotgun for extended periods between rounds. I was also initially concerned about the polymer buckles holding up to repeated use, but they seemed secure during this first outing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, primarily during dove and quail seasons, the Aim Sports Shotgun Sling Deluxe Mil-Spec Nylon Webbing Black has held up surprisingly well. There are some minor signs of wear and tear, particularly on the metal swivel spring hooks, where the black finish is starting to wear off. The nylon webbing, however, shows no signs of fraying or weakening.
Cleaning the sling is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The polymer buckles haven’t shown any signs of cracking or breaking despite being exposed to mud, rain, and general outdoor abuse.
Compared to the Magpul MS4 sling I previously used, the Aim Sports sling lacks the advanced adjustability and robust construction, but it’s also a fraction of the price. While the Magpul sling felt indestructible, the Aim Sports Shotgun Sling Deluxe Mil-Spec Nylon Webbing Black proves that affordable doesn’t necessarily mean unreliable. It is important to remember the price point though.
Breaking Down the Features of Aim Sports Shotgun Sling Deluxe Mil-Spec Nylon Webbing Black
Specifications
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Type: Bandolier. This configuration allows for carrying extra shotgun shells directly on the sling.
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Color: Black. This provides a tactical look and blends well with most outdoor gear.
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Material: Nylon. The Mil-Spec nylon webbing is designed for durability and resistance to wear and tear.
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Holds up to 14 Shotgun Shells. This is a significant advantage, providing readily accessible ammunition.
The Tension Quick Release System is arguably the most important feature. It allows for fast transitioning from slung to shouldered, which is critical in hunting or tactical situations. The metal swivel spring hooks provide a secure and quick attachment/detachment method.
Performance & Functionality
The Aim Sports Shotgun Sling Deluxe Mil-Spec Nylon Webbing Black performs its primary job adequately. It allows you to carry your shotgun hands-free. The Tension Quick Release System is functional, but it does require practice to master.
The shotgun shell holders are a valuable addition, providing quick access to extra ammunition. However, the shell holders can add bulk and weight, especially when fully loaded. The sling’s lack of padding is a definite weakness for extended use.
It meets expectations for its price point, offering basic functionality and reasonable durability. However, it falls short of more expensive slings in terms of comfort and advanced features.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is adequate for the price. The materials used are functional, but not premium. The weight is light, which is a plus for long days in the field.
The design is simple and straightforward. There’s no significant learning curve. However, the lack of padding makes it less comfortable than slings with more ergonomic designs.
Durability & Maintenance
The nylon webbing appears durable and should last for several seasons of moderate use. The polymer buckles are the potential weak point, but so far, they have held up well. The metal swivel spring hooks will likely show signs of wear over time, but they are easily replaceable.
Maintenance is minimal. Simple cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Regular inspection of the buckles and hooks is recommended to ensure they remain in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Aim Sports Shotgun Sling Deluxe Mil-Spec Nylon Webbing Black doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond what is integrated into the design. There are limited customization options, given its simple design. However, the metal swivel spring hooks can be replaced with higher-quality alternatives if desired.
It’s compatible with any shotgun that has standard sling swivel studs. Aftermarket sling swivels can be added if your shotgun doesn’t already have them.
Pros and Cons of Aim Sports Shotgun Sling Deluxe Mil-Spec Nylon Webbing Black
Pros
- Affordable Price: At $11.75, it’s a budget-friendly option.
- Shotgun Shell Storage: Holds up to 14 shells for quick access.
- Quick Release System: Enables rapid transitioning from slung to shouldered.
- Lightweight: Doesn’t add significant weight to your shotgun.
- Easy to Install: Attaches quickly to standard sling swivels.
Cons
- Lack of Padding: Can become uncomfortable during extended use.
- Basic Build Quality: Materials are functional but not premium.
- Potential Buckle Weakness: Polymer buckles may not be as durable as metal alternatives.
Who Should Buy Aim Sports Shotgun Sling Deluxe Mil-Spec Nylon Webbing Black?
The Aim Sports Shotgun Sling Deluxe Mil-Spec Nylon Webbing Black is perfect for budget-conscious hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone needing a simple and functional shotgun sling. It’s also a good option for those who want the added benefit of carrying extra shotgun shells directly on the sling. This would be suitable for people who utilize shotguns in competitions or tactical situations.
This product isn’t ideal for those who prioritize comfort above all else or need a sling for extremely demanding conditions. Those who regularly carry their shotgun for extended periods or require a sling that can withstand heavy abuse should consider a higher-quality, padded alternative.
A must-have modification would be adding some form of padding to the sling, such as a shoulder pad or wrapping it with paracord. Upgrading the polymer buckles to metal ones would also enhance its durability.
Conclusion on Aim Sports Shotgun Sling Deluxe Mil-Spec Nylon Webbing Black
The Aim Sports Shotgun Sling Deluxe Mil-Spec Nylon Webbing Black is a decent, budget-friendly option for carrying your shotgun. It provides basic functionality and the added benefit of shotgun shell storage at a very affordable price. While it lacks the comfort and durability of more expensive slings, it’s a practical choice for casual users.
The price is definitely justified. For around $12, you get a functional sling that does what it’s supposed to do. I would personally recommend it to anyone on a tight budget or who only needs a sling for occasional use.
For anyone looking for a simple, affordable, and functional shotgun sling, the Aim Sports Shotgun Sling Deluxe Mil-Spec Nylon Webbing Black is worth considering. Grab yours today and experience the convenience of hands-free shotgun carrying without breaking the bank!