Blue Force Gear Vickers ONE Sling 1″ Wide Push Button QD Swivels Black Review

The Blue Force Gear Vickers ONE Sling 1″ Wide Push Button QD Swivels Black Made a Bold First Impression

After a decade navigating the tactical gear landscape, I’ve learned that seemingly simple tools can make or break your experience. Slings, often an afterthought, are a prime example. I was seeking a lighter, more streamlined option for my ultralight AR build, something that wouldn’t add unnecessary bulk. The Blue Force Gear Vickers ONE Sling 1″ Wide Push Button QD Swivels Black immediately caught my eye.

My go-to sling had always been the original Vickers Combat Application Sling™, lauded for its durability and quick adjustability. However, it felt a tad overkill on a rifle built for speed and maneuverability. Unboxing the Vickers ONE Sling, I immediately noticed the difference. The 1″ webbing felt substantial yet noticeably lighter, and the inclusion of push-button QD swivels was a welcome upgrade.

Compared to my older, wider sling from a different manufacturer, the Vickers ONE felt like a tailored suit versus off-the-rack. The Magpul MS4 and the Ferro Concepts Slingster were also considered. I opted for the Blue Force Gear option due to the proven reliability of the Vickers design, now in a more streamlined package. My initial impression was one of excited anticipation. It felt like the perfect complement to my lightweight build.

Real-World Testing: Putting Blue Force Gear Vickers ONE Sling 1″ Wide Push Button QD Swivels Black to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Vickers ONE Sling was a day at the shooting range, specifically designed for dynamic drills. I ran several iterations of transitioning between primary and secondary weapons. The sling excelled during these drills, allowing for smooth transitions without snagging. The ease of adjustment was immediately apparent.

The range day brought intermittent rain, providing an opportunity to test the sling in wet conditions. The Invista CORDURA® webbing retained its grip and didn’t become overly slippery, a testament to its quality. I found the push-button QD swivels incredibly convenient for quickly detaching the sling when needed. There were no initial issues, and the sling felt perfectly suited for its intended purpose.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including multiple range trips and a weekend-long carbine course, the Vickers ONE Sling has proven its reliability. There are no significant signs of wear and tear. The webbing remains unfaded. The DuPont Zytel® Nylon hardware still functions flawlessly.

Cleaning is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. Compared to my previous sling experiences, the Vickers ONE has outperformed expectations. It offers similar functionality in a much lighter and more compact package.

Breaking Down the Features of Blue Force Gear Vickers ONE Sling 1″ Wide Push Button QD Swivels Black

Specifications

  • Compatibility: Recommended for ultralight weight rifle builds or pistol caliber carbines. This sling truly shines on lighter builds, offering a balance of support and maneuverability without adding excessive weight.
  • Installation: Push Button Version requires Two Push Button Sockets (front and rear of weapon). The QD swivels provide a secure and rapid attachment/detachment method, essential for dynamic situations.
  • Size: 1.00” sling webbing. The one-inch webbing strikes an excellent balance between comfort and weight savings.
  • Hardware Build: Nylon hardware: glass reinforced DuPont Zytel® Nylon. This material ensures durability and reliability without adding unnecessary weight.
  • Sling Build: Invista solution dyed CORDURA® webbing. The CORDURA® webbing is known for its abrasion resistance and colorfastness, guaranteeing long-lasting performance.
  • Length: Sling Length – 54” with the Adjuster tightened / 64” (fully extended). The adjustable length accommodates a wide range of body sizes and preferred carry styles.
  • Feature: One inch webbing. The one-inch webbing is the sling’s defining feature and provides a balance between comfort and weight.
  • Feature: Patented Quick Adjuster with Contrasting Pull Tab. The quick adjuster allows for rapid sling tightening and loosening, crucial for transitioning between various shooting positions.

Performance & Functionality

The Blue Force Gear Vickers ONE Sling excels in its primary function: providing secure and comfortable weapon retention while allowing for rapid adjustments. The quick adjuster is incredibly intuitive. It allows for seamless transitions between slung and ready positions. The sling’s lighter weight enhances maneuverability and reduces fatigue during extended use.

The sling’s only potential weakness is its narrower one-inch webbing, which may be less comfortable for heavier rifles or extended periods of carry. However, for its intended purpose – lightweight builds – it performs exceptionally well. It meets and even exceeds expectations by delivering the core functionality of the original Vickers sling in a more streamlined design.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional. Blue Force Gear is known for its attention to detail. The materials are top-notch. The sling feels sturdy and well-constructed, inspiring confidence in its long-term durability.

The sling is user-friendly with a minimal learning curve. The quick adjuster is intuitive. Even new users will quickly master its operation. The push-button QD swivels provide a secure and convenient attachment method.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the high-quality materials used in its construction, the Vickers ONE Sling is expected to last for years. The CORDURA® webbing is highly resistant to abrasion. The DuPont Zytel® Nylon hardware is incredibly durable. Maintenance is minimal. Simple cleaning will keep the sling in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Vickers ONE Sling comes with pre-installed push-button QD swivels. This makes it immediately compatible with any weapon system equipped with QD sockets. While there aren’t many “customization” options beyond color variations, the sling is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing weapon platforms and accessories. Its simplicity is part of its appeal.

Pros and Cons of Blue Force Gear Vickers ONE Sling 1″ Wide Push Button QD Swivels Black

Pros

  • Lighter Weight: Significantly lighter than the original Vickers sling, ideal for lightweight builds.
  • Quick Adjuster: Patented quick adjuster allows for rapid and easy sling adjustments.
  • High-Quality Materials: Constructed from durable CORDURA® webbing and DuPont Zytel® Nylon hardware.
  • Push-Button QD Swivels: Provides secure and convenient attachment to weapons with QD sockets.
  • Streamlined Design: The 1″ webbing offers a minimalist and unobtrusive profile.

Cons

  • Narrower Webbing: May be less comfortable for carrying heavier rifles for extended periods.
  • Price: The price of $89.95 is slightly higher compared to some basic slings on the market.


Who Should Buy Blue Force Gear Vickers ONE Sling 1″ Wide Push Button QD Swivels Black?

The Blue Force Gear Vickers ONE Sling is perfect for shooters who prioritize lightweight gear and streamlined designs. It is ideal for those using ultralight AR platforms, pistol caliber carbines, or any rifle where minimizing weight is crucial. This is an excellent choice for competitive shooters and those participating in dynamic shooting courses.

Those who regularly carry heavier rifles or require maximum comfort during extended carry might want to consider a wider sling. Individuals on a tight budget may find other sling options that offer similar functionality at a lower price point. A must-have accessory would be high-quality QD sockets on your rifle if it doesn’t already have them.

Conclusion on Blue Force Gear Vickers ONE Sling 1″ Wide Push Button QD Swivels Black

The Blue Force Gear Vickers ONE Sling 1″ Wide Push Button QD Swivels Black is a well-designed and high-quality piece of gear that excels in its intended purpose. It offers the core functionality of the original Vickers sling in a lighter and more streamlined package. The price of $89.95 is justified by the quality of materials and construction.

I would personally recommend the Vickers ONE Sling to anyone looking to upgrade their lightweight rifle platform. Its combination of durability, functionality, and weight savings makes it a worthwhile investment. If you value performance and minimalism, then add the Blue Force Gear Vickers ONE Sling to your arsenal.


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