Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray Review

First Thoughts on the Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray

The Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray is a budget-friendly option in a market saturated with expensive tactical gear. At first glance, this sling promises to be a reliable and durable solution for carrying a rifle or shotgun without breaking the bank. I picked up the Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray hoping to find a simple, no-nonsense sling that wouldn’t fail me when I needed it most.

I’ve always been a firm believer that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get decent gear. When my old sling started to fray after a particularly rough hunting trip, I needed a replacement, and I needed it fast. I considered higher-end slings from brands like Magpul and Blue Force Gear, but their price points were significantly higher. I decided to give the Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray a shot.

The initial impression was surprisingly positive. The materials felt more substantial than I expected for a sling in this price range. The two-layer construction gave it a feeling of robustness, and the black and gray color scheme looked clean and professional. I was cautiously optimistic.

Real-World Testing: Putting Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray was on a weekend hunting trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was typical for that region: damp, with unpredictable rain showers. I used the sling with my trusty Remington 870 shotgun. The thick woods made having a comfortable and secure sling essential.

The sling performed surprisingly well in the wet conditions. The BAKTRAK Slip Resistant Backing did its job, preventing the sling from sliding off my shoulder, even when my jacket was soaked. I initially worried about the sling being uncomfortable after hours of carrying the shotgun, but the wide strap distributed the weight reasonably well. I only had one minor issue; adjusting the sling length with gloves on proved a bit fiddly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray has proven to be a reliable workhorse. I’ve used it on multiple hunting trips, at the shooting range, and even during some informal survival skills practice sessions. So far, it’s held up admirably. There are no significant signs of wear and tear.

The stitching is still intact, and the material hasn’t faded or frayed. Cleaning is a breeze. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dirt and mud. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper slings that quickly fell apart, the Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray has been a pleasant surprise. It has exceeded my expectations for a sling in this price range.

Breaking Down the Features of Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray

Specifications

• Rugged Two Layer Construction: This feature provides added strength and durability, crucial for carrying heavier firearms. The layered design gives the sling a substantial feel, reassuring you that it won’t easily tear or break under stress.
• BAKTRAK Slip Resistant Backing: This prevents the sling from slipping off your shoulder. Even when wet or when you are wearing multiple layers of clothing, it enhances comfort and stability.
• Includes Premium Swivels Tested to 500 LBS: The included swivels are robust and can handle significant weight, ensuring the sling remains securely attached to the firearm. This feature provides peace of mind, knowing your firearm is safely supported.
• Length: 9.0″: The listed length seems to be a packaging dimension, and not the actual length of the sling. The sling’s overall adjustable length is ample for most users.
• Color: Black/Gray: A practical and low-profile color scheme. It blends well with most tactical and hunting gear.

Performance & Functionality

The Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray performs its primary function well: securely carrying a firearm. The adjustable length allows for comfortable carry across the chest or over the shoulder. The swivels rotate smoothly, preventing the sling from tangling. It does exactly what it’s designed to do, and it does it reliably.

The sling’s strength lies in its simplicity. There are no fancy features or intricate designs that could potentially fail. Its weakness, however, is the lack of padding. While the width of the strap helps distribute weight, extended use with heavier firearms could become uncomfortable without extra padding. It meets expectations for a basic, durable sling, and its affordability makes it a great value.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray is straightforward. The two-layer construction feels sturdy, and the black and gray color scheme is unobtrusive. The BAKTRAK Slip Resistant Backing is a thoughtful addition that improves comfort and stability.

The sling is relatively lightweight, which is a plus for long days in the field. There is no significant learning curve. Adjusting the sling length takes a bit of practice.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the materials and construction, the Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray appears to be built to last. The stitching is well-executed, and the fabric shows no signs of premature wear. With reasonable care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintaining the sling is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to remove dirt and grime. For more stubborn stains, mild soap and water can be used.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray comes with the necessary swivels for attachment. There are no additional accessories included. Given its basic design, there aren’t many customization options directly applicable to the sling itself.

Users could potentially add aftermarket sling pads for increased comfort, or replace the included swivels with QD (quick detach) swivels for faster firearm attachment and detachment. The Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray is compatible with most standard sling attachment points found on rifles and shotguns.

Pros and Cons of Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray?

The Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone needing a reliable and affordable sling. It’s also suitable for new firearm owners who don’t want to invest heavily in accessories right away. This sling is a solid choice for anyone who values functionality and durability over premium features.

Someone who requires maximum comfort during extended carry with a heavy rifle should skip this product. In that case, they should consider a more expensive sling with ample padding. A must-have accessory for anyone planning to use this sling extensively is a set of aftermarket sling pads.

Conclusion on Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray

The Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray is a solid performer at an unbeatable price. It may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end slings, but it gets the job done reliably and durably. For the price of a fast-food meal, you get a sling that will likely last for years.

The value proposition is excellent. The sling offers a level of durability and functionality that far exceeds its price tag. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly sling that won’t let them down.

If you’re looking for a no-nonsense, reliable sling without breaking the bank, give the Allen VERTEX Hyper Tough Sling – Black and Gray a try. You might be surprised at how much value you can get for such a small investment.

Check Best Price HERE