First Thoughts on the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels
The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels promises comfort and functionality in a simple package. Marketed as a solution to reduce felt weight and bounce, the neoprene sling aims to make long carries more bearable. Butler Creek is a known brand in the shooting accessories world, and a reputation for value precedes them, making this sling an interesting proposition.
I was looking for a sling that wouldn’t dig into my shoulder during long hunts. My old nylon sling, while durable, became incredibly uncomfortable after a few hours with a rifle. I needed something with padding and adjustability.
My first impression upon unboxing was that the sling felt soft and pliable. The neoprene had a decent thickness, and the stitching seemed robust enough for regular use. The included swivels were a welcome addition, saving me the hassle of sourcing them separately. Compared to minimalist paracord slings or heavily padded tactical slings with MOLLE webbing, the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels seemed to strike a nice balance between comfort and simplicity. I chose this model because I wanted something lightweight and comfortable, without unnecessary bulk. My initial thought was cautiously optimistic – it seemed like a good value for the price.
Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels was on a day-long hog hunt in central Texas. The terrain was a mix of thick brush and open fields, requiring a lot of walking and occasional quick shouldering of the rifle. Conditions were dry and moderately warm.
The sling was relatively easy to adjust to the desired length, even with gloves on. The stretchable neoprene did seem to absorb some of the bounce from the rifle as I walked. I didn’t experience any significant digging or chafing on my shoulder. After the first few hours, the difference between this sling and my old one was noticeable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels has held up surprisingly well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being exposed to mud, rain, and the occasional scrape against tree branches. The neoprene material remains flexible and comfortable.
Cleaning the sling is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper slings that frayed or ripped easily, the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels has proven to be a reliable and comfortable option. It certainly outperforms the basic nylon slings that come standard with many rifles.
Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels
Specifications
- Type: Sling. Designed for carrying rifles comfortably.
- Swivel Size: 1″. Compatible with most standard rifle swivel studs.
- Length: 44″. Offers ample length for adjustment to various body sizes and carrying styles.
- Width: 2.25″. Provides a comfortable bearing surface on the shoulder.
- Color: Black. A versatile and low-profile color suitable for most environments.
- Material: Neoprene. Offers cushioning, stretch, and water resistance.
These specifications are crucial for a comfortable and functional sling. The neoprene material provides essential padding and reduces felt weight. The length and adjustability ensure a proper fit for different users.
Performance & Functionality
The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels performs its core function admirably: carrying a rifle comfortably. The stretchable neoprene effectively reduces felt weight, making longer treks less taxing. The Non-Slip Grippers™ work well, keeping the sling in place on my shoulder even during strenuous activity.
The primary strength is its comfort; the neoprene padding and stretch make a significant difference. One area for improvement could be the adjustability mechanism. It works fine, but a quick-adjust buckle would be an upgrade. Overall, it meets expectations for a sling in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels features a simple, functional design. The black neoprene is understated and blends in well with most gear. The sling is lightweight and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk.
The comfort in hand (or, more accurately, on the shoulder) is excellent. There is a slight learning curve to adjusting the sling length, but it’s minimal. After a few tries, it becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels should last for several years with regular use. The neoprene is durable, and the stitching appears to be well-executed. The swivels are of decent quality and don’t show any signs of rust or corrosion.
Maintenance is minimal; simply wipe it down after use. Neoprene is generally resistant to mildew and odors. I anticipate a long lifespan with basic care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels comes with pre-installed 1″ swivels. This is a major convenience as you don’t need to buy them separately. There aren’t any official customization options offered by Butler Creek, however, you could potentially replace the swivels with higher-quality QD (Quick Detach) swivels if desired.
The sling is compatible with any rifle that has standard swivel studs. This makes it versatile and easy to integrate into existing setups. Aftermarket swivel upgrades are readily available.
Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels
Pros
- Significantly reduces felt weight due to the Comfort Stretch™ neoprene.
- Provides a comfortable carrying experience, even on long hikes.
- Easy to adjust to the desired length.
- Includes swivels, saving time and money.
- Offers a great value for the price.
Cons
- The adjustment mechanism could be improved with a quick-adjust buckle.
- Neoprene, while comfortable, may get a little warm in extremely hot weather.
Who Should Buy Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels?
The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who needs to carry a rifle for extended periods. It’s an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort and value. It’s especially beneficial for individuals who find traditional slings uncomfortable or those who need to carry heavier rifles.
Those who should skip this product include tactical operators requiring advanced features like quick detach systems or extreme durability. Also, users operating in intensely hot environments might find the neoprene a bit warm. A must-have accessory would be a set of high-quality QD swivels if you plan to frequently detach the sling from your rifle.
Conclusion on Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels
The Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels is a solid choice for anyone seeking a comfortable and affordable rifle sling. It effectively reduces felt weight and provides a noticeable improvement over basic nylon slings. The included swivels are a welcome bonus.
The price is definitely justified; you get a lot of value for your money. I would absolutely recommend the Butler Creek Adjustable Black Rifle Sling w/Swivels to anyone looking for a comfortable and functional sling without breaking the bank. Upgrade your carry today!