Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling Review

First Impressions of Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling

The Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling has long been a staple in the tactical and shooting communities, and for good reason. Developed in collaboration with legendary firearms expert Larry Vickers, this sling promises a blend of comfort, adjustability, and rugged durability. Having run various rifles in austere environments for over a decade, I was looking for a sling that could truly stand up to abuse while providing optimal weapon retention and transitioning capabilities.

My journey to the Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling started with a frustrating experience with cheaper, generic slings. These invariably frayed, slipped, or proved incredibly uncomfortable during extended carry. I needed a sling that could hold up to the rigors of training and real-world operations, offering rapid adjustability for different firing positions and scenarios.

Upon receiving the sling, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the materials and construction. The heavy-duty nylon webbing felt incredibly robust, and the stitching was clean and precise. The padding, while not overly thick, provided a noticeable level of comfort compared to unpadded slings I had used in the past. My first impression was one of quiet confidence – this sling looked and felt like it was built to last. I immediately compared it to a Magpul MS4 and a cheaper Condor sling I had on hand. The Blue Force Gear felt significantly more robust and refined compared to both. I was definitely excited to get it out in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling was at an all-day carbine course. The course involved a mix of static shooting, movement drills, and transitioning between primary and secondary weapons. This was the perfect environment to test the sling’s adjustability and comfort. The sling performed flawlessly, allowing me to quickly adjust the length for comfortable carry and then cinch it down tight for stable shooting.

During the course, we encountered intermittent rain and plenty of dust. The sling held up admirably, showing no signs of slippage or degradation in the wet conditions. The quick-adjust slider worked smoothly even when coated in dust. I was impressed by how easily I could manipulate the sling, even with gloves on.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling has proven to be exceptionally durable. I’ve used it on numerous range trips, hiking excursions, and even a hunting trip in the backcountry. Despite being exposed to mud, rain, and general wear and tear, the sling shows minimal signs of wear.

The nylon webbing remains strong and unfaded, and the stitching is still intact. I’ve even intentionally subjected it to some stress tests, such as using it to haul gear and support my weight during awkward climbs. The sling has consistently performed without fail. Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. Compared to previous slings I’ve used, the Blue Force Gear product has significantly outperformed them in terms of durability and long-term reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Blue Force Gear. A well-known name in high-quality tactical gear.
• Fabric/Material: Nylon. Known for its strength, abrasion resistance, and water resistance.
• Price: $74.95. A mid-range price point, reflecting the quality of materials and construction.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the sling’s performance and longevity. The nylon construction ensures that the sling can withstand harsh conditions and heavy use, while the reasonable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.

Performance & Functionality

The Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling excels in its core function: providing secure and comfortable weapon retention. The quick-adjust slider allows for rapid adjustments, enabling seamless transitions between different carry modes and shooting positions. The padding provides a noticeable level of comfort, especially during extended periods of carrying a rifle.

The sling’s strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. It’s easy to use, even under stress, and it performs consistently in a variety of conditions. However, the padding could be slightly thicker for added comfort during prolonged use with heavier rifles. Overall, the sling meets and exceeds expectations for a tactical sling in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling is straightforward and functional. The materials used are high-quality and feel durable. The sling is relatively lightweight, which is important for minimizing fatigue during long days in the field.

The sling is generally user-friendly, although it may take some practice to master the quick-adjust mechanism. The padding is well-placed and provides adequate comfort, but it could be improved with a slightly wider profile. The sling’s minimalist design avoids unnecessary bulk or complexity.

Durability & Maintenance

The Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling is built to last. The heavy-duty nylon webbing and reinforced stitching ensure that it can withstand significant abuse. Based on my experience, I expect this sling to last for many years of regular use.

Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The sling is also resistant to fading and mildew, making it suitable for use in humid environments.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling itself doesn’t come with a vast array of accessories. The key is its adaptability. However, its modular design allows for customization through various attachment methods. Users can choose between using QD swivels, HK hooks, or paracord loops to attach the sling to their rifle.

The sling is compatible with most common attachment hardware and accessories from other brands. This allows users to tailor the sling to their specific needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling

Who Should Buy Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling?

The Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling is perfect for: tactical shooters, law enforcement officers, military personnel, hunters, and anyone who needs a durable and reliable sling for their rifle. It’s a great choice for those who prioritize comfort, adjustability, and long-term performance.

Who should skip this product? Someone who only occasionally uses a rifle and isn’t concerned about durability or adjustability might find a cheaper, less robust sling to be sufficient. Additionally, users who prefer heavily padded slings might find the Vickers Sling’s padding to be inadequate.

A must-have accessory for this sling is a set of high-quality QD swivels. These allow for quick and easy attachment and detachment of the sling from the rifle.

Conclusion on Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling

The Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a durable, adjustable, and comfortable rifle sling. It’s built to withstand the rigors of demanding use. The quick-adjust mechanism and comfortable padding make it a pleasure to use in a variety of scenarios.

The price of $74.95 is justified by the quality of materials and construction. This isn’t a cheap sling, but it’s an investment in reliability and long-term performance.

I would personally recommend the Blue Force Gear Padded Vickers Sling to anyone looking for a top-tier rifle sling. If you value durability, adjustability, and comfort, you won’t be disappointed. Upgrade your rifle setup today and experience the difference a quality sling can make!