Let’s Dive into Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling
The Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling is a no-frills, weather-resistant sling designed for hunters and shooters who need a reliable way to carry their firearm. Manufactured by Allen, this sling distinguishes itself with a lightweight rubber pad and a tacky backing, promising a secure and comfortable carry. I was intrigued by its simplicity and the promise of a shoulder grip that wouldn’t slip, especially in challenging weather conditions.
My trusty old leather sling, while aesthetically pleasing, had become a liability in wet weather, slipping constantly off my shoulder. I needed a sling that could provide a confident grip, regardless of rain or snow, without breaking the bank. Upon unboxing the Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling, my initial impression was one of practical simplicity. The charcoal rubber pad felt durable, and the webbing seemed robust enough for regular use.
Compared to some more elaborate slings with fancy padding and quick-detach swivels, the Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling is decidedly basic. I considered a padded neoprene sling from Butler Creek and a tactical sling from Magpul, but opted for the Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling due to its weatherproof design and affordable price point. I was cautiously optimistic; the build quality seemed decent for the price, but the real test would be in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling on a late-season deer hunt in the Pennsylvania mountains. The weather was predictably damp, with intermittent rain and a constant threat of snow. The terrain was steep and uneven, requiring me to hike several miles through dense forest.
The Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling performed admirably, staying firmly in place on my shoulder even when navigating tricky slopes. The tacky backing of the rubber pad did its job, preventing the rifle from slipping, even with a wet jacket. I didn’t need to constantly readjust the sling, which allowed me to focus on the hunt.
There was a slight learning curve to getting the sling adjusted perfectly to my body and rifle, but once dialed in, it felt secure and comfortable. Initially, the rubber pad felt a bit stiff, but it softened up after a couple of hours of use. There were no immediate issues or surprises.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling has held up remarkably well. The rubber pad shows no signs of cracking or deterioration, despite exposure to rain, mud, and snow. The webbing remains sturdy, with no fraying or stretching.
I’ve used the sling on multiple hunts and range trips, and it continues to perform reliably. The only maintenance I’ve performed is wiping it down with a damp cloth after each use to remove dirt and grime. Compared to my old leather sling, the Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling is significantly more durable and requires less maintenance. It definitely outperforms in wet weather, providing a much more secure and comfortable carry.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling
Specifications
- The Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling features a lightweight charcoal rubber pad. This rubber composition makes it impervious to weather, a crucial feature for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
- It includes heavy-duty webbing for strength and durability. This heavy-duty webbing ensures the sling can withstand the rigors of field use.
- The Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling comes equipped with swivels tested to 300 pounds. These 300-pound tested swivels provide peace of mind, knowing your firearm is securely attached.
- Available in black and Mossy Oak Break-Up Country(TM). The color options cater to different preferences and environments.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the sling’s performance and user experience. The weather-resistant rubber pad and durable webbing ensure longevity, while the high-strength swivels guarantee secure firearm carry.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling excels at its primary function: securely and comfortably carrying a firearm. The tacky rubber backing provides excellent grip, preventing slippage even in wet conditions. It’s reliable, easy to use, and offers a decent level of comfort for extended carry.
One strength is its simplicity; there are no complicated adjustments or unnecessary features. A potential weakness is the lack of padding beyond the rubber, which might become uncomfortable for very heavy firearms during long hikes. It meets my expectations for a basic, reliable, and weatherproof gun sling.
Design & Ergonomics
The Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling features a straightforward design focused on functionality. The rubber pad is contoured to fit comfortably on the shoulder, and the webbing is easily adjustable to accommodate different body sizes and carrying preferences. The build quality is good for the price point, with durable materials and sturdy stitching.
The sling is user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustment and no special skills to operate. There is a slight learning curve to find the optimal length and positioning, but overall, it’s very intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling appears to be built to last. The rubber pad is resistant to cracking and deterioration, and the webbing is strong and durable. With proper care, this sling should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. There are no complex parts or mechanisms to worry about.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling comes with basic sling swivels. It does not include any additional accessories.
There are no specific customization options for the sling itself. However, the standard 1-inch webbing is compatible with most aftermarket sling swivels and accessories.
Pros and Cons of Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling
Pros
- Excellent Grip: The tacky rubber backing provides a secure hold, preventing slippage even in wet conditions.
- Weather Resistance: The rubber pad is impervious to weather, making it ideal for hunting and outdoor use.
- Durability: The heavy-duty webbing and sturdy construction ensure long-lasting performance.
- Affordable Price: The Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling offers excellent value for the money.
- Simple and Easy to Use: The straightforward design requires minimal adjustment and no special skills.
Cons
- Minimal Padding: The rubber pad provides some cushioning, but it might not be sufficient for heavy firearms during long hikes.
- Basic Design: It lacks some of the features found on more expensive slings, such as quick-detach swivels or integrated storage.
Who Should Buy Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling?
The Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who needs a reliable and affordable way to carry their firearm. It is especially well-suited for those who frequently hunt in wet or challenging weather conditions. It is also a great choice for budget-conscious shooters who prioritize functionality over fancy features.
This sling might not be ideal for those who carry extremely heavy firearms for extended periods or those who require advanced features like quick-detach swivels or integrated storage.
A must-have accessory would be a set of high-quality sling swivels if the factory ones don’t fit your needs.
Conclusion on Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling
The Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling is a solid, no-frills option for anyone needing a reliable and weatherproof gun sling. It’s not the fanciest or most feature-rich sling on the market, but it excels at its primary function: securely and comfortably carrying a firearm.
At a price of $43.99, the value proposition is excellent. It offers a significant improvement over basic nylon slings, especially in wet conditions.
I would definitely recommend the Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling to anyone looking for an affordable, durable, and weatherproof gun sling. If you want a simple, effective, and reliable way to carry your firearm, give the Allen Bighorn Rubber Gun Sling a try. You won’t be disappointed.