First Thoughts on the Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic
The Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic promises a comfortable and functional way to carry your rifle in the field. Offered by Butler Creek, a brand known for practical hunting accessories, this sling aims to combine comfort with convenience by integrating shell holders directly onto the sling. For a seasoned outdoorsman like myself, with over a decade of experience in tactical gear, I was eager to see if this sling lived up to the hype, especially considering its attractive price point.
I was in the market for a new sling for my deer hunting rifle. My old leather sling, while classic, was digging into my shoulder during long treks. The Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic immediately caught my eye due to its advertised comfort stretch backing and integrated shell holders, offering a potential upgrade in both comfort and practicality.
Upon receiving the sling, the first thing I noticed was the familiar Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo pattern. The neoprene material felt soft and pliable, suggesting a comfortable carry. My initial impression was positive, although the true test would be in the field. Compared to a basic nylon sling or a more expensive padded leather sling, the Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic seemed to offer a good balance of features and affordability.
I was cautiously optimistic, hoping the advertised features would translate to a comfortable and functional experience in the woods. The integrated shell holders were a particularly intriguing feature, potentially streamlining my gear and eliminating the need for a separate shell carrier. If this sling performs as advertised, it could become a valuable addition to my hunting setup.
Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic on a weekend deer hunt in the Pennsylvania mountains. The weather was typical for late fall: damp and chilly. I immediately appreciated the sling’s non-slip grippers. They prevented the rifle from sliding off my shoulder, even when navigating steep terrain.
The sling was relatively easy to adjust, although I did fumble with the buckles a bit at first while wearing gloves. After a few minutes, I had it dialed in to the perfect length for carrying my rifle comfortably across my chest. I did notice the neoprene retained a bit of moisture in the damp conditions, making it feel slightly heavier than a fully synthetic sling.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full hunting season, the Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic has proven to be a reliable and comfortable option. There are no signs of significant wear and tear despite being exposed to various weather conditions and rough terrain. The neoprene has maintained its flexibility, and the stitching is still holding strong.
The Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo hasn’t faded or discolored, even after several washes to remove mud and dirt. Cleaning is fairly simple; I just hose it down and let it air dry. It has outperformed my expectations for a sling in this price range, proving to be a durable and functional piece of gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic
Specifications
- The Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic is designed as a universal rifle sling. It’s adjustable from 20 to 46 inches in length, accommodating various body sizes and carrying preferences.
- The sling is 2.50 inches wide, providing a comfortable surface area to distribute the weight of the rifle. Made from neoprene with a Comfort Stretch backing, it’s designed to reduce felt weight by 50 percent.
- The sling features the Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camouflage pattern, blending seamlessly into wooded environments. It is intended to be attached to your rifle with Uncle Mike’s QD quick detachable one inch swivels with Tri-Lock (not included).
- The standout feature is the four elastic loops integrated into the sling for carrying extra rifle shells. This eliminates the need for a separate shell holder and keeps ammunition readily accessible.
Performance & Functionality
The Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic performs admirably in its intended role. It securely carries the rifle, distributes weight effectively, and provides quick access to extra ammunition. The non-slip grippers ensure the rifle stays put on the shoulder, even during strenuous activity.
The shell holders are a convenient addition, though they can make the sling feel a bit bulkier when fully loaded. While the neoprene is comfortable, it can retain moisture, which may be a drawback in extremely wet environments. Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly, functional rifle sling.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. The neoprene material is soft against the skin and provides ample padding.
The adjustable length allows for a customized fit, accommodating different carrying styles and body types. The shell holders are strategically placed for easy access.
Durability & Maintenance
The neoprene material of the Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic is reasonably durable. With proper care, it should last for several seasons of hunting or outdoor use.
Maintenance is straightforward; the sling can be easily cleaned with soap and water. Allowing it to air dry thoroughly is crucial to prevent mildew or odor buildup.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options. It requires the use of Uncle Mike’s QD quick detachable one inch swivels with Tri-Lock (not included) for attachment to the rifle.
However, the integrated shell holders eliminate the need for separate shell carriers or pouches. Due to its universal design, it works well with a wide variety of rifles.
Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic
Pros
- Comfort Stretch Neoprene: Reduces felt weight and provides all-day comfort.
- Integrated Shell Holders: Keeps four extra shells readily accessible.
- Non-Slip Grippers: Prevents the rifle from sliding off the shoulder.
- Adjustable Length: Accommodates various body sizes and carrying preferences.
- Affordable Price: Excellent value for the features offered.
Cons
- Neoprene Retains Moisture: Can become heavy and uncomfortable in wet conditions.
- Swivels Not Included: Requires separate purchase of Uncle Mike’s QD swivels.
Who Should Buy Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic?
The Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic is perfect for hunters seeking a comfortable, functional, and affordable sling. It is also suitable for recreational shooters who appreciate the convenience of integrated shell holders. Casual campers who occasionally carry a rifle for protection would also find this sling useful.
Those who prioritize lightweight gear or frequently hunt in very wet environments may want to explore alternative sling options. Individuals requiring specialized tactical slings with advanced features might find this sling too basic.
A set of Uncle Mike’s QD Super Swivels is a must-have accessory for attaching this sling to your rifle.
Conclusion on Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic
The Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic is a solid choice for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a comfortable and practical rifle sling. It provides excellent value for the price, offering features like comfort stretch neoprene, integrated shell holders, and non-slip grippers.
The price is definitely justified, given its features and durability. The Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic is definitely a great choice for carrying your rifle through the woods.
I would personally recommend the Butler Creek Adjustable Mossy Oak Break Up Sling w/4 Elastic to anyone looking for an affordable and functional rifle sling. If you’re looking to upgrade your rifle carrying experience, give this sling a shot – you won’t be disappointed.