The Allen Westcliff Full Grain Made a Bold First Impression
The Allen Westcliff Full Grain buttstock cartridge carrier from Allen promises a simple yet effective way to keep ammunition readily accessible. This leather accessory, designed to slip over a rifle or shotgun buttstock, aims to provide quick access to extra rounds. Its promise of a classic look and practical functionality piqued my interest, particularly as a seasoned hunter always looking for ways to streamline my gear.
What led me to seek out a product like the Allen Westcliff Full Grain was simple: frustration with fumbling for cartridges in critical moments. Losing valuable time searching for ammo while tracking game is a scenario I wanted to eliminate. My hunt for a reliable and convenient cartridge carrier became a priority, and the Allen Westcliff Full Grain seemed like a promising solution.
Unboxing the Allen Westcliff Full Grain was a straightforward affair. The leather felt firm and relatively thick, suggesting a degree of durability. The stitching appeared neat and consistent, giving an initial impression of reasonable build quality.
Compared to nylon cartridge carriers, often seen as the more modern option, the Allen Westcliff Full Grain appeals to a more traditional aesthetic. Compared to elastic slip-on carriers, it promises greater longevity. Ultimately, I chose the Allen Westcliff Full Grain for its classic look and the perceived durability of leather over synthetic materials.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While the leather quality seemed adequate for the price of $29.99, I was eager to see how it would hold up in real-world conditions. The design was simple and functional, but the true test would be its performance in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Westcliff Full Grain to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Allen Westcliff Full Grain came during a deer hunting trip in the Pennsylvania mountains. I attached it to the buttstock of my .30-06 rifle, loaded it with five rounds, and headed into the woods. This initial outing would determine if its design and functionality translated into real-world benefit.
The weather was damp and chilly, presenting an immediate challenge to the leather’s resistance to moisture. Despite the wet conditions, the Allen Westcliff Full Grain held the cartridges securely, and the leather did not noticeably degrade after a day in the drizzle. The carrier remained snug on the buttstock, showing that it could withstand light moisture.
Using the cartridge carrier proved to be intuitive. Retrieving cartridges was quick and easy, far more so than digging through pockets or a backpack. No time to get used to it was needed, and it was easy to use even with gloved hands.
The only initial issue was the tightness of the cartridge loops. Loading and unloading rounds required a bit of effort at first, but I anticipated the leather would stretch and loosen with use. It was a minor inconvenience but one to note.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple hunting trips and range sessions, the Allen Westcliff Full Grain has held up reasonably well. There are, however, some observations to share. Repeated loading and unloading of cartridges have indeed loosened the leather loops as initially suspected.
The leather has shown some signs of wear, particularly around the edges, but nothing that significantly compromises its functionality. Occasional applications of leather conditioner have helped to maintain its suppleness and prevent cracking. Considering the leather is full-grain, it has resisted scratching and tearing better than other similarly-priced leather carriers.
Maintenance is simple. I typically wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use and apply leather conditioner every few weeks. This routine has kept the Allen Westcliff Full Grain in good working order.
Compared to previous experiences with cheaper, synthetic cartridge carriers, the Allen Westcliff Full Grain definitely feels more substantial and reliable. However, it doesn’t quite reach the standard set by higher-end, custom-made leather carriers. Overall, the Allen Westcliff Full Grain holds up surprisingly well for its price.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Westcliff Full Grain
Specifications
The Allen Westcliff Full Grain features a simple design constructed from full-grain leather. It is designed to hold up to five rifle cartridges, suitable for common hunting calibers. The carrier slips over the buttstock of a rifle or shotgun.
The specifications include:
- Material: Full-Grain Leather
- Capacity: 5 Rifle Cartridges
- Attachment: Slip-on Design
- Price: $29.99
These specifications directly influence the product’s performance. The full-grain leather contributes to its durability and classic aesthetic. The five-round capacity provides a sufficient amount of readily available ammunition for most hunting scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Westcliff Full Grain performs its primary job adequately: holding and providing easy access to rifle cartridges. The cartridges are held securely within the leather loops, preventing them from falling out during movement. The convenience of having readily accessible ammunition cannot be understated.
However, there are definite strengths and weaknesses. The main strength is its simplicity and ease of use. The primary weakness lies in the initial tightness of the cartridge loops, which requires some breaking-in.
For its intended purpose, the Allen Westcliff Full Grain meets expectations. It is a functional and affordable cartridge carrier that provides a convenient solution for hunters.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Allen Westcliff Full Grain is straightforward and functional. The full-grain leather provides a classic look and feel. The weight is negligible, adding no significant burden to the rifle.
The carrier slips easily onto the buttstock and stays in place during normal use. There is a slight learning curve in terms of breaking in the cartridge loops, but overall it is user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Allen Westcliff Full Grain, made of full-grain leather, appears to be constructed for reasonable longevity. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and conditioning, is essential to prolong its lifespan. Regular application of leather conditioner will ensure the leather does not dry or crack.
Maintenance involves wiping it down with a damp cloth and applying leather conditioner as needed. Repairs, if required, would likely involve re-stitching any seams that come loose.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Westcliff Full Grain comes as a standalone product with no included accessories. Customization options are limited, primarily focusing on leather conditioning products to maintain its appearance and durability.
While not specifically designed to integrate with other brands’ accessories, the universal slip-on design allows it to be used on most standard rifle and shotgun buttstocks. Compatibility with aftermarket leather care products ensures maintaining the Allen Westcliff Full Grain is easy.
Pros and Cons of Allen Westcliff Full Grain
Pros
- Affordable Price: At $29.99, it’s a budget-friendly way to add functionality.
- Full-Grain Leather: Offers a classic look and reasonable durability.
- Easy to Use: Simple slip-on design requires no special installation.
- Convenient Ammunition Access: Keeps five rounds readily available.
- Universal Fit: Compatible with most standard rifle and shotgun buttstocks.
Cons
- Cartridge Loops initially too tight: Requires breaking in before optimal use.
- Limited Customization: No included accessories or significant modification options.
Who Should Buy Allen Westcliff Full Grain?
The Allen Westcliff Full Grain is perfect for hunters seeking an affordable and convenient way to carry extra ammunition on their rifle or shotgun. It’s also suitable for recreational shooters who want easy access to cartridges at the range. Anyone seeking a budget-friendly option that combines practicality with a classic leather look will find this product appealing.
This product isn’t ideal for individuals seeking a highly customizable or tactical cartridge carrier. Those requiring specialized features, such as MOLLE compatibility or rapid-deployment systems, should explore other options.
A must-have accessory is a quality leather conditioner to maintain the leather’s suppleness and prevent cracking. Regular conditioning is crucial for preserving the Allen Westcliff Full Grain.
Conclusion on Allen Westcliff Full Grain
The Allen Westcliff Full Grain is a functional and affordable cartridge carrier that delivers on its promise of convenient ammunition access. While it has some minor drawbacks, its strengths outweigh its weaknesses, especially considering its price point. It combines a classic look, reasonable durability, and user-friendly design to provide a solid value proposition.
The price of $29.99 is justified, making it an accessible option for hunters and shooters on a budget. It’s a cost-effective way to improve the efficiency and convenience of carrying extra rounds.
I would personally recommend the Allen Westcliff Full Grain to anyone seeking a simple and affordable cartridge carrier with a classic leather aesthetic. It is not a high-end, premium product, but it offers solid performance and value for the money.
If you’re looking for a reliable and budget-friendly way to keep extra cartridges within easy reach, the Allen Westcliff Full Grain is worth considering. It’s a practical and aesthetically pleasing addition to any hunting or shooting setup.