Let’s Talk About Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling
The Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling is a rifle sling designed for comfort, durability, and quick adjustability, manufactured by Allen. For many years I used whatever came with the rifle, often a cheap nylon strap that dug into my shoulder after a long day in the field. This new sling promises a solution to those shoulder-aching days with its focus on comfort and quick adjustments.
After years of dealing with uncomfortable slings, I was searching for an affordable yet functional upgrade to improve my overall hunting and range experience. I was specifically looking for something with a non-slip grip and easy adjustability. The promise of the Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling‘s BakTrak rubber grip panel and quick-adjust cam lock buckle caught my eye.
Unboxing the Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling was a pleasant surprise; its sleek profile and lightweight design were immediately apparent. The Hypalon construction felt durable and the red accents and stitching added a touch of style. The BakTrak rubber grip panel felt surprisingly grippy.
I considered slings from Viking Tactics and Blue Force Gear, known for their durability and tactical applications. However, the Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling‘s lower price point and focus on comfort made it a more appealing option for my general hunting and range needs. I felt the Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling offered the features I wanted at a price point that was easier to justify.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. It seemed like a well-made, thoughtfully designed sling for the price. I was excited to see how the BakTrak rubber grip panel performed in real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling on a recent deer hunting trip in the rugged terrain of the Colorado Rockies. I spent hours hiking through dense forests and steep inclines with my rifle slung over my shoulder. The mountains provided the perfect proving ground for the Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling.
During the hunt, I encountered rain and snow, providing ample opportunity to test the sling’s performance in wet conditions. The BakTrak rubber grip panel maintained a solid grip even when wet, preventing the rifle from slipping off my shoulder. It was something my old nylon sling never accomplished.
The quick-adjust cam lock buckle proved to be incredibly convenient when transitioning between carrying the rifle and preparing for a shot. It allowed me to quickly lengthen or shorten the sling as needed. There was no fumbling with buckles or straps.
After my first day using it, I noticed a slight bit of rubbing on my neck, but that was quickly remedied by adjusting the sling slightly higher. Otherwise, I was very pleased with its initial performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The Hypalon construction has proven to be remarkably durable.
Cleaning the sling is a breeze; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove dirt and grime. The BakTrak rubber grip panel still feels as grippy as it did on day one. The only maintenance has been to occasionally wipe it down after a day in the field.
Compared to my old nylon sling, the Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling is a night and day difference. It’s far more comfortable, easier to adjust, and offers a much more secure grip. It has made carrying my rifle for extended periods of time much more bearable.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling
Specifications
The Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance and user experience. It features a BakTrak Rubber Grip Panel to prevent slippage and enhance comfort. Its Ultra Durable and Lightweight Hypalon Construction ensures longevity without adding unnecessary weight.
The Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling also features a Sleek Profile to maximize comfort and reduce weight. Its Quick-Adjust with Cam-Lock Buckle allows for rapid adjustments to sling length. The Swivels are Tested to 300-lbs, providing peace of mind when carrying heavier rifles.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the sling’s comfort, functionality, and reliability. The BakTrak rubber grip panel ensures a secure and comfortable carry, while the quick-adjust buckle allows for easy transitions between different shooting positions. The durable construction and high weight rating contribute to its overall longevity and reliability.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling performs its job exceptionally well. The grip panel keeps the rifle secure on my shoulder, and the quick-adjust buckle makes it easy to customize the fit.
Its strengths lie in its comfortable grip, ease of adjustment, and lightweight design. The only minor weakness is the potential for some rubbing on the neck with certain carrying positions. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a rifle sling in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling features a sleek and modern design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The materials used are high-quality and the overall construction feels solid. The light weight is especially welcomed after a full day in the field.
The sling is remarkably user-friendly. The quick-adjust buckle is intuitive and easy to operate, even with gloves on. The contoured design fits comfortably against the body.
Durability & Maintenance
The Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling‘s Hypalon construction suggests that it will last for many years with proper care. It is resistant to abrasions, tears, and UV damage.
Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to keep it clean. The sling is easily repaired if needed, due to its simple construction.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling comes with integrated swivels that are compatible with most rifles. There are no additional accessories included.
While there are limited customization options for the sling itself, it can be paired with aftermarket swivel mounts or quick-detach sling swivels. This allows users to adapt it to different rifle configurations. The Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling is compatible with most standard sling attachment points.
Pros and Cons of Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling
Pros
- BakTrak rubber grip panel provides excellent non-slip performance.
- Quick-adjust cam lock buckle makes on-the-fly adjustments a breeze.
- Lightweight and durable Hypalon construction.
- Sleek profile maximizes comfort and reduces weight.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
Cons
- May cause slight rubbing on the neck for some users, depending on carrying position.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling?
The Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who carries a rifle for extended periods. It is an excellent upgrade for those seeking a more comfortable and functional sling.
This product may not be the best choice for tactical users who require a more specialized or heavy-duty sling with additional features. Those looking for extensive customization options should also explore alternative products. A good alternative is the Magpul MS4 Dual QD Sling Gen2.
Must-have accessories or modifications would include aftermarket quick-detach sling swivels for added versatility.
Conclusion on Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling
The Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling is a well-designed and affordable rifle sling that offers a significant improvement over traditional nylon slings. Its BakTrak rubber grip panel, quick-adjust buckle, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for any rifle owner.
At a price of $27.49, the Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling offers exceptional value for the money. It provides features and performance that rival more expensive slings.
I would definitely recommend the Allen Baktrak Vapor Sling to anyone looking for a comfortable, functional, and affordable upgrade to their rifle carrying system. Ditch the old nylon strap and experience the difference a quality sling can make. You won’t be disappointed!