Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel Review

The Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel Made a Bold First Impression

The Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel promises to revolutionize how we carry our firearms. Butler Creek claims that its flexible, tacky compound keeps your gun locked in place, making it feel lighter while absorbing shock. As someone who’s spent over a decade hauling rifles through unforgiving terrain, I’ve seen slings that claim to be the “next big thing” fall flat. But the V-Grip technology piqued my interest, enough so, that I couldn’t wait to see if it lives up to the hype.

Years of dragging heavy rifles through dense brush during elk season have left me with some pretty serious shoulder fatigue. My usual solution is switching between a standard nylon sling and a padded, neoprene model. The nylon works but lacks comfort, and the neoprene is comfortable but lacks grip. The Butler Creek V-Grip aims to bridge that gap.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the unique texture of the V-Grip material. It felt almost sticky to the touch, giving me confidence that it would indeed grip well. The sling felt lightweight yet substantial, and the swivels appeared to be of decent quality, not the cheap, flimsy kind that rust after a single wet hunt. It’s a far cry from some of the more minimalist paracord slings I’ve experimented with.

Compared to my standard nylon sling, the Butler Creek immediately felt more comfortable, thanks to the wider profile of the grip area. My neoprene sling offers more padding, but I suspect the V-Grip’s shock absorption might compensate for the lack of bulk. Ultimately, I selected this sling for the promise of a secure, comfortable carry. My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism, and eager to hit the field to find out.

Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel was during a recent deer hunt in the foothills. The weather was typical for late fall: damp and chilly. The terrain varied from open fields to thickets of thorny brush.

I immediately appreciated the V-Grip material’s ability to keep my rifle securely on my shoulder, even while navigating steep inclines. There was no slipping or sliding, even with my heavy hunting jacket. I did find that adjusting the sling length took a bit of fiddling at first, but once I dialed it in, it stayed put.

I was initially concerned that the tacky material might attract dirt and debris, but it wasn’t an issue. Some leaves and pine needles did stick to it, but they easily brushed off. I did notice the sling squeaked a bit against my jacket initially, but this seemed to lessen after a couple of hours.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, I’ve gained a solid understanding of the Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel’s strengths and weaknesses. I’ve used it on multiple hunting trips, as well as at the shooting range. It has consistently performed well in various conditions.

The durability has been impressive. Despite being subjected to rain, mud, and scrapes against rocks and trees, the V-Grip material shows no signs of wear and tear. The swivels still operate smoothly and haven’t rusted. The sling is easily cleaned with a damp cloth.

Compared to my previous slings, the Butler Creek offers a significant improvement in comfort and security. It distributes the weight of my rifle more evenly, reducing shoulder fatigue, and the V-Grip keeps it firmly in place. It outperforms my nylon sling in every way and provides a more secure carry than my neoprene sling.

Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel

Specifications

The Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel is designed for comfort and secure firearm carry. It features a flexible, tacky V-Grip compound. The design enhances shoulder grip.

The sling includes standard swivels for easy attachment to most firearms. This allows immediate field use. It is offered only in black. The swivels appear to be made of steel.

The sling’s key feature is its V-grooves for extra traction. This ensures a non-slip hold. It is also designed to absorb shock. This aids in reducing felt weight.

Performance & Functionality

The Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel performs admirably in its primary role: carrying a firearm comfortably and securely. The V-Grip material truly lives up to its promise, providing exceptional grip. It keeps the rifle firmly planted on your shoulder.

The sling’s shock-absorbing properties make a noticeable difference, especially when carrying a heavier rifle. It dampens the impact of each step, reducing fatigue over long periods. One weakness, as stated earlier, is the initial squeaking against some fabrics.

Overall, the Butler Creek V-Grip meets my expectations for a comfortable and secure sling. It’s an excellent addition to my gear.

Design & Ergonomics

The Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel features a well-thought-out design. The V-Grip material is the centerpiece. It offers both grip and comfort.

The sling is lightweight and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk. It’s easy to adjust the length. A user can quickly find the optimal fit. It’s user-friendly, even for those unfamiliar with adjustable slings.

The sling’s simple, functional design works effectively. This reduces complexity. It improves the overall user experience.

Durability & Maintenance

The Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel appears to be built to last. The materials feel robust. The stitching is reinforced in key areas.

The V-Grip material is resistant to abrasions and tears. It shows no signs of degradation after weeks of use. Maintenance is simple: wipe it down with a damp cloth.

With proper care, the sling should provide years of reliable service. The durability justifies the purchase price.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel comes ready to use with included swivels. There are no additional accessories included. These are basic, but functional.

The sling itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options. You can, of course, replace the swivels with higher-quality or different types. Options exist for quick-detach models.

It’s compatible with any firearm that accepts standard sling swivels. This makes it versatile. Butler Creek does not offer different color options.

Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel

Pros

  • Exceptional grip provided by the V-Grip material; keeps the rifle securely on your shoulder.
  • Improved comfort due to the wide profile and shock-absorbing properties, reducing shoulder fatigue.
  • Durable construction with robust materials and reinforced stitching, built to withstand harsh conditions.
  • Easy to clean and maintain, requiring only a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
  • Versatile compatibility with most firearms that accept standard sling swivels.

Cons

  • Initial squeaking against some fabrics, which can be annoying.
  • Limited customization options, beyond replacing the swivels.


Who Should Buy Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel?

The Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel is perfect for hunters who need a secure and comfortable way to carry their rifles. Its non-slip grip is ideal for navigating challenging terrain. It’s also well-suited for recreational shooters who value comfort during extended range sessions.

Those who prioritize silent operation above all else might want to explore alternatives. The squeaking against some fabrics could be a deal-breaker for stealth hunting. Also, if extensive customization is desired, a more modular sling system may be a better fit.

While not strictly necessary, upgrading to quick-detach swivels could be a worthwhile modification for increased versatility.

Conclusion on Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel

The Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel delivers on its promise of providing a comfortable and secure firearm carry. The V-Grip technology is a game-changer. It keeps the rifle firmly planted on your shoulder.

At a price of $21.99, the sling offers excellent value for money. The improved comfort and security are well worth the investment. I wholeheartedly recommend the Butler Creek V-Grip Sling to anyone seeking a reliable and comfortable sling.

If you’re tired of your rifle slipping off your shoulder, give the Butler Creek Black Comfort V-Grip Sling w/Swivel a try. You won’t be disappointed.


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