First Impressions of Blue Force Gear GMT Sling
The Blue Force Gear GMT Sling promises a revolutionary approach to weapon retention, and my initial experience confirms that Blue Force Gear might just have delivered. With over a decade spent tinkering with and relying on various tactical slings, my standards are admittedly high, and I’m always seeking out the next level of performance and reliability. The GMT sling piqued my interest with its custom double locking buckle, a feature seemingly designed to eliminate the common frustration of sling slippage during dynamic movements.
I had been searching for a sling that could handle the rigors of tactical training courses, specifically one that wouldn’t require constant readjustment after transitioning between shooting positions or moving through simulated urban environments. My old sling was constantly loosening up. I also wanted something that would hold up to our rigorous training, in all sorts of weather.
Upon receiving the Blue Force Gear GMT Sling, the immediate impression was one of quality and thoughtful design. The material felt robust, yet pliable, and the custom buckle mechanism was noticeably solid. Compared to my previous sling, a standard nylon model with a basic tri-glide adjuster, the GMT offered a tangible upgrade in terms of construction and adjustment functionality. I chose this over the Viking Tactics VTAC sling for its simplified design. I also chose the Blue Force Gear GMT Sling over the Magpul MS1 because I like the buckle adjustment style better.
My initial reaction was excitement. This sling seemed like it would solve many of the nagging issues I had with previous designs. If it lives up to its promise of consistent tension and easy adjustment, the Blue Force Gear GMT Sling will quickly become my go-to option for all my tactical carbines.
Real-World Testing: Putting Blue Force Gear GMT Sling to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Blue Force Gear GMT Sling was at a two-day carbine course focused on dynamic shooting and weapon manipulation. The range was dusty, with temperatures hovering around 90 degrees, providing a challenging environment for both shooter and gear. Using the Blue Force Gear GMT Sling proved intuitive almost immediately; the pull tab was easy to locate and manipulate even with gloved hands.
Throughout the drills, the sling remained securely adjusted, a welcome change from my previous experiences. I was particularly impressed with the sling’s performance during rapid transitions between standing, kneeling, and prone positions. The adjustment mechanism worked flawlessly even while under duress. There were no issues or surprises after the first day of use. The Blue Force Gear GMT Sling continued to meet my expectation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including multiple range sessions and a week-long backcountry training exercise, the Blue Force Gear GMT Sling continues to impress. The sling shows minimal signs of wear and tear, with no fraying or weakening of the webbing. The buckle mechanism remains tight and secure. The adjustment buckle continues to perform flawlessly with no issues.
Cleaning the sling is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Compared to other slings I’ve used, the Blue Force Gear GMT Sling is proving to be significantly more durable and reliable. It far outperforms my older nylon sling.
Breaking Down the Features of Blue Force Gear GMT Sling
Specifications
The Blue Force Gear GMT Sling is available in two widths: 1.25 inches for standard applications and 1.00 inch for lighter weapons. The core feature is the custom double-locking buckle, made from durable and rust-free glass-filled nylon. This adjuster provides consistent tension and is designed to prevent slippage. The sling also incorporates a sewn-in stop to prevent accidental detachment of the weapon.
These specifications are significant because they directly address common issues with traditional slings. The double-locking buckle, in particular, offers a tangible benefit in terms of security and ease of adjustment. The two width options of the Blue Force Gear GMT Sling ensure compatibility with a wide range of firearms.
Performance & Functionality
The Blue Force Gear GMT Sling excels in its primary function: reliably securing a weapon while allowing for dynamic movement and rapid adjustments. The pull tab is easily accessible and provides smooth, consistent length adjustment. The double-locking buckle lives up to its promise of maintaining tension, even during strenuous activity.
The sling’s main strength is its secure and reliable adjustment mechanism. A minor weakness might be the lack of padding, which could become noticeable during extended carry with heavier weapons. Overall, the Blue Force Gear GMT Sling exceeds my expectations in terms of performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The Blue Force Gear GMT Sling features a streamlined and minimalist design. The materials are high quality, and the construction feels solid. The weight is negligible, adding no significant bulk to the weapon. The sling is comfortable to wear for extended periods, although as mentioned, padding could enhance comfort for heavier setups.
The Blue Force Gear GMT Sling is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The adjustment mechanism is intuitive and easy to master with a small amount of practice. The design is well-thought-out and functional.
Durability & Maintenance
The Blue Force Gear GMT Sling is constructed from durable materials and appears to be built to last. The glass-filled nylon buckle is particularly robust. The sling is easy to maintain; regular cleaning with a damp cloth is generally sufficient.
Given the quality of materials and construction, I expect the Blue Force Gear GMT Sling to provide years of reliable service. The durability is very high.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Blue Force Gear GMT Sling is designed to integrate seamlessly with standard weapon attachment hardware. No accessories come with the sling. The sling is compatible with a wide range of sling mounts and adapters. The sling is also customizable with various quick-detach swivels.
Many users add padding to the sling for additional comfort. Adding quick detach swivels makes it easy to transition the Blue Force Gear GMT Sling between weapons.
Pros and Cons of Blue Force Gear GMT Sling
Pros
- Secure and reliable adjustment mechanism: Eliminates sling slippage and maintains consistent tension.
- Durable construction: Made from high-quality materials designed to withstand harsh conditions.
- Easy to use: Intuitive adjustment mechanism with minimal learning curve.
- Lightweight and streamlined design: Adds minimal bulk to the weapon.
- Versatile compatibility: Integrates seamlessly with standard weapon attachment hardware.
Cons
- Lack of padding: Could be uncomfortable during extended carry with heavier weapons.
- Minimalist design: Lacks some of the additional features found on more complex slings.
Who Should Buy Blue Force Gear GMT Sling?
Perfect for: Tactical shooters, law enforcement professionals, military personnel, and anyone seeking a reliable and easy-to-use weapon sling. The Blue Force Gear GMT Sling is ideal for those who prioritize simplicity, durability, and secure adjustment. It’s an excellent choice for carbine courses, dynamic shooting scenarios, and general range use.
Who should skip this product? Individuals who require heavily padded slings or those seeking slings with numerous additional features, such as integrated storage compartments. Users who need maximum padding will likely prefer a more robust sling design.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Quick-detach swivels for easy weapon transitions. Padding can be added for increased comfort during extended carry.
Conclusion on Blue Force Gear GMT Sling
The Blue Force Gear GMT Sling delivers on its promise of providing a secure, reliable, and easy-to-use weapon retention system. The double-locking buckle is a game-changer, eliminating the common frustration of sling slippage. The sling’s durable construction and minimalist design make it a practical and effective choice for a wide range of users.
The price of $55.99 is justified, given the quality of materials and the innovative design. The Blue Force Gear GMT Sling offers excellent value for those seeking a high-performance sling.
I would personally recommend the Blue Force Gear GMT Sling to anyone looking for a simple, durable, and reliable weapon sling. If you’re tired of constantly adjusting your sling and want a system that will stay put, give the GMT sling a try. Upgrade your kit with the Blue Force Gear GMT Sling and experience the difference.