Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling Review

Let’s Dive into Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling

In a world saturated with tactical gear, finding the right sling can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Allen, a name synonymous with affordability and reliability, throws its hat into the ring with the Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling. It promises comfort and support without the burden of excess weight, but does it deliver?

I was after a lightweight sling option to replace the bulky, heavily padded sling on my hunting rifle. The factory sling was overkill, adding unnecessary weight and bulk to my already heavy setup. I needed something streamlined and comfortable, but I also wanted something durable enough to withstand the rigors of the hunt.

Upon unboxing, the Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling immediately impressed me with its minimalist design. The lightweight foam padding felt comfortable to the touch, and the textured backing seemed promising for preventing slippage. My initial thought was, “Finally, a sling that understands the meaning of lightweight.”

Compared to a padded neoprene sling I’d previously used, and a simple paracord sling I’d experimented with, the Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling seemed to strike a perfect balance. The neoprene sling was too bulky and retained moisture, while the paracord sling lacked sufficient padding for all-day carry. I chose the Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling because it promised both comfort and minimal weight, a combination that perfectly aligned with my needs.

My first impression was a pleasant surprise. It felt well-made for the price, and the lightweight design was exactly what I was looking for. I was eager to see how it would perform in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling during a week-long elk hunting trip in the Colorado Rockies. This environment presented a variety of challenges, from steep inclines to unpredictable weather conditions. I carried my rifle for hours each day, navigating through dense forests and across open meadows.

The sling performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions. The textured backing did a fantastic job of preventing slippage, even when my hunting jacket was damp from rain and snow. The sling stayed securely in place, allowing me to focus on the hunt without constantly readjusting my rifle.

The Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling required virtually no break-in period. It was comfortable from the start, and the adjustable length made it easy to customize the fit to my body and the layering of my clothing. I appreciated how quickly I could transition from carrying my rifle to bringing it to bear for a shot.

My only initial concern was the long-term durability of the lightweight foam padding. I wondered if it would compress or break down over time with heavy use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling has proven to be remarkably durable. While there are some minor signs of wear on the foam padding, it has held its shape and continues to provide adequate cushioning. The swivel attachments remain secure, and the overall construction feels solid.

I’ve used the sling in various conditions, from hot summer days at the range to cold winter hunts, and it has consistently performed well. It’s easy to clean; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth removes dirt and grime. The material dries quickly, preventing mildew or unpleasant odors.

Compared to my previous experiences with other slings, the Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling has exceeded my expectations. It offers a level of comfort and functionality that belies its affordable price point. It hasn’t disappointed me yet.

Breaking Down the Features of Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling

Specifications

The Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling boasts several key specifications. It features lightweight foam padding for comfort and a textured surface on the body-facing side to prevent slippage. The sling pad is 15 inches long, and the overall sling adjusts up to 38 inches. It includes Allen Magnum Swivels, rated for up to 300 lbs.

These specifications are essential for a comfortable and secure carry. The foam padding cushions the weight of the rifle, reducing strain on the shoulder and neck. The textured surface ensures that the sling stays in place, even during strenuous activity. The adjustable length allows for a customized fit, accommodating different body sizes and clothing. The 300lb swivel rating provides ample strength for most rifles, even those with added accessories.

Performance & Functionality

The Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling excels at its primary function: supporting and carrying a firearm comfortably and securely. Its lightweight design is a major advantage, reducing fatigue during long days in the field. The textured surface prevents slippage, ensuring that the rifle stays in place, even when moving quickly or navigating uneven terrain.

The sling’s strengths lie in its simplicity and functionality. The adjustable length is easy to use, and the swivel attachments provide a secure connection to the rifle. A minor weakness is that the lightweight foam padding may not be sufficient for extremely heavy rifles or extended carries. I expected a basic, functional sling and that is precisely what I got.

Design & Ergonomics

The Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling features a minimalist design that prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. The materials used are durable and lightweight, contributing to the overall comfort of the sling. The sling’s low profile doesn’t interfere with movement or snag on brush.

The sling is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or skills to install or adjust. The only potential learning curve involves finding the optimal sling length for individual preferences and shooting styles. The build quality is commensurate with the price point.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling should provide years of reliable service. The materials are resistant to wear and tear, and the construction is solid. While the lightweight foam padding may eventually compress or degrade, it is easily replaceable.

Maintenance is simple: just wipe down the sling with a damp cloth as needed. Avoid exposing the sling to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures. Periodic inspection of the swivel attachments is recommended to ensure they remain secure.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling comes with Allen Magnum Swivels, which are compatible with most standard rifle sling mounting points. There are limited customization options available for the sling itself. However, users can easily replace the swivel attachments with aftermarket options, such as quick-detach swivels or locking swivels.

The sling is compatible with a wide range of rifles and shotguns. Because of the universal swivel attachment system, it makes it readily adaptable to almost any firearm that accepts sling swivels.

Pros and Cons of Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling

Who Should Buy Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling?

The Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone seeking a comfortable and affordable sling for their firearm. It’s ideal for those who prioritize lightweight gear and don’t want to be weighed down by bulky, heavily padded slings. The sling is also suitable for youth shooters or individuals with smaller frames who may find traditional slings too cumbersome.

Those who carry extremely heavy rifles or require specialized sling features (such as quick-adjust mechanisms or multiple carry configurations) may want to consider other options. It’s also not for those seeking high levels of customization.

A must-have accessory is a quality set of sling swivels if you don’t already have them, or if the included Allen Magnum Swivels don’t fit your rifle.

Conclusion on Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling

The Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling is a simple, functional, and affordable sling that delivers on its promise of comfort and support without excess weight. While it may not be the most feature-rich or customizable sling on the market, it excels at its primary function: securely and comfortably carrying a firearm. Its lightweight design, secure grip, and adjustable length make it an excellent choice for a wide range of users.

The price is absolutely justified for the level of performance and durability offered. In my experience, the Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling provides significant value.

I would personally recommend the Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling to anyone seeking a reliable and affordable sling for their rifle or shotgun. If you’re tired of bulky, uncomfortable slings, this is the perfect solution. Upgrade your carry experience and give the Allen Glenwood Lightweight Sling a try – you won’t be disappointed!