The Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling Made a Bold First Impression
The Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling isn’t just another strap; it’s a thoughtfully designed piece of gear intended to make carrying your rifle easier and more comfortable. Butler Creek promises a sling that minimizes felt weight and stays put on your shoulder. For someone who spends long days in the field, those are promises worth investigating.
My old sling, a generic nylon number, dug into my shoulder something fierce after a few hours of lugging my deer rifle around the Pennsylvania woods. It was uncomfortable, and the constant slipping meant I was always readjusting. I needed something that distributed the weight better and, crucially, stayed in place.
Out of the box, the Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling felt substantial, yet surprisingly lightweight. The neoprene had a quality feel, and the stitching looked robust. Compared to the cheap nylon sling it was replacing, this felt like a genuine upgrade. I also considered the padded slings from Quake and Allen, but Butler Creek’s reputation for durable, no-nonsense gear and the positive user feedback swayed me. My initial excitement was cautiously optimistic – could this sling finally solve my shoulder woes?
Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling was a coyote hunt in the rolling hills of West Virginia. I covered about ten miles that day, navigating thick brush and steep inclines. I was immediately impressed with how well the sling stayed put. The Non-Slip Grippers really lived up to their name.
The neoprene conformed to my shoulder, providing a noticeable improvement in comfort compared to my old sling. Despite the sweat and occasional drizzle, the sling remained secure and comfortable. There was a slight learning curve in adjusting the sling on the fly, but after a few tries, it became second nature.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use across various hunting seasons and range trips, the Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling has proven its worth. It has held up remarkably well, showing no significant signs of wear and tear. The neoprene hasn’t cracked or torn, and the stitching remains intact.
Cleaning is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove mud, sweat, or other grime. Comparing it to my previous sling, the Butler Creek is a clear winner in both comfort and durability. It consistently outperforms expectations, making those long days in the field much more bearable.
Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling
Specifications
The Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling is designed for comfort and functionality. It combines waterproof closed-cell neoprene with Comfort Stretch backing. This material helps reduce felt weight by up to 50 percent. The sling also features Non-Slip Grippers to keep it securely on your shoulder.
Rifle models are designed for use with Uncle Mike’s QD quick detachable one-inch swivels with Tri-Lock (not included). Shotgun models utilize a loop system with a suede section to protect the barrel’s finish. These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the sling’s performance, comfort, and durability. The neoprene and stretch backing are key to weight distribution, while the grippers prevent slippage.
Performance & Functionality
The Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling excels at its primary job: carrying a rifle comfortably and securely. The weight distribution is excellent, making even heavier rifles feel manageable over extended periods. It keeps the rifle snug against the body, preventing it from swinging around and getting in the way.
The only slight downside is that the adjustment buckle can sometimes require a bit of effort to move when wearing thick gloves. Overall, the Butler Creek sling meets and often exceeds my expectations. It’s a reliable and functional piece of gear.
Design & Ergonomics
The Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling is designed with both functionality and comfort in mind. The neoprene padding is soft and conforms well to the shoulder. The brown color is understated and blends well with most hunting attire.
The sling is relatively lightweight, adding minimal bulk to your gear. There’s a slight learning curve to adjusting the length on the fly, but it’s generally user-friendly. The Butler Creek sling prioritizes practicality over flashy aesthetics.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the robust construction and quality materials, I expect the Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling to last for many years of hard use. The neoprene is resistant to cracking and tearing, and the stitching is strong and secure. Maintenance is simple: just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use.
Occasional cleaning with a mild soap and water solution will help keep it looking and performing its best. The Butler Creek sling is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, ensuring long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling doesn’t come with a wide array of accessories. However, it’s designed to work seamlessly with Uncle Mike’s QD quick detachable one-inch swivels with Tri-Lock (not included). This allows for quick and easy attachment and detachment from most rifles.
While there aren’t many customization options, the sling’s adjustability allows for a comfortable fit for a wide range of body types and carrying preferences. The use of standard swivel attachments means it’s compatible with most rifles that have swivel studs.
Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling
Pros
- The Comfort Stretch backing significantly reduces felt weight.
- The Non-Slip Grippers keep the sling securely in place, even in wet conditions.
- The durable neoprene construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- It’s easy to clean and maintain.
- The adjustable length provides a comfortable fit for a variety of users.
Cons
- Uncle Mike’s QD quick detachable one-inch swivels with Tri-Lock are not included.
- Adjustment buckle can be slightly difficult to manipulate with thick gloves.
Who Should Buy Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling?
This sling is perfect for hunters, target shooters, and anyone who needs to carry a rifle for extended periods. It’s especially beneficial for those who value comfort and stability. If you’re tired of slings that slip and dig into your shoulder, the Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling is a game-changer.
Someone seeking a lightweight, minimalist sling might want to explore other options. The Butler Creek sling is built for comfort and durability, which means it’s slightly bulkier than some other slings. The Uncle Mike’s QD quick detachable one-inch swivels with Tri-Lock are a must-have accessory for rifle models.
Conclusion on Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling
The Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling is a well-designed, durable, and comfortable sling that delivers on its promises. It effectively reduces felt weight and stays securely in place, making those long days in the field much more enjoyable. At $16.49, the price is more than justified given the sling’s performance and longevity.
I would highly recommend the Butler Creek Adjustable Brown Rifle Sling to anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable way to carry their rifle. It’s a solid investment that will make a noticeable difference in your overall shooting experience. Don’t settle for an uncomfortable, slipping sling – upgrade to the Butler Creek and experience the difference for yourself!