Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling Review

The Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling Made a Bold First Impression

The Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling promises a blend of comfort and rapid deployment, a combination I’ve sought for years in various hunting and tactical situations. Manufactured by Butler Creek, a name synonymous with reliable firearm accessories, this sling piqued my interest with its claim of quick conversion from a carry position to a shooting support. My primary rifle sling until recently had been a traditional leather sling, offering comfort but lacking in adjustability for different shooting stances.

My quest for the ideal sling stemmed from a recurring frustration: missed opportunities. I’ve often found myself fumbling with my old sling while trying to transition from hiking to taking a shot. This has resulted in spooked game and lost moments during competitions. The Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling’s promise of one-handed adjustment and compatibility with various shooting positions seemed like the perfect solution to my problem.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the surprisingly lightweight yet durable feel of the sling. The padding appeared substantial, and the integrated thumb loop looked promising for enhanced control. The included Uncle Mike’s locking swivels seemed robust and ready to handle the weight of my rifle. While considering similar slings, such as the Magpul MS4 and the Viking Tactics VTAC sling, I was ultimately drawn to the Butler Creek’s seemingly simpler design and its very appealing price point. I was hoping this would offer excellent functionality without breaking the bank.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The quality appeared good for the price, and the design seemed practical, but I was eager to see how it would perform in the field. The promise of quick adjustments and comfortable carry had me excited to give it a thorough test. I wanted to see if it could truly live up to its claims.

Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling was on a whitetail deer hunt in the rugged terrain of the Appalachian Mountains. The varied landscape presented an ideal environment to test the sling’s versatility. I encountered everything from steep inclines to dense brush. The weather, unfortunately, decided to cooperate – meaning it decided not to cooperate; I ended up hiking through light rain for several hours.

Initially, the sling felt comfortable enough while hiking. However, the real test came when a buck materialized from the undergrowth. Transitioning from a shoulder carry to a supported shooting position proved surprisingly intuitive. The one-handed adjustment feature allowed me to quickly tighten the sling for added stability. Even with wet hands, the thumb loop provided a secure grip. Despite the initial ease of use, I noted a slight “stickiness” in the adjustment mechanism. I needed to use a more deliberate motion than expected.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, primarily during scouting trips and range sessions, the Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling has shown commendable resilience. There’s been no noticeable wear and tear to the padding, stitching, or swivels. The adjustment mechanism, initially a bit stiff, has smoothed out with use. The sling remained comfortable after hours of carrying a rifle.

Maintenance has been minimal. I’ve simply wiped down the sling with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Compared to my previous leather sling, which required regular oiling and conditioning, the Butler Creek is significantly easier to care for. In comparison to the comfort of my old sling, the Butler Creek doesn’t quite match that feeling of broken-in leather. However, the adjustability and speed of deployment that the Butler Creek offers more than makes up for the trade off.

Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling

Specifications

The Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling features several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance. These include:

• Adjustable Length: Ranging from 27″ to 36″, the adjustable length caters to a variety of body sizes and carrying preferences. This adjustability means it can be adapted for different rifles and shooting styles.

• Width: At 1 1/4″ wide, the sling provides a comfortable carrying surface without feeling bulky or cumbersome. The width is a sweet spot that disperses weight effectively.

• Construction: The sling incorporates durable nylon webbing and a padded shoulder section for enhanced comfort during extended use. This padding makes a significant difference, preventing shoulder fatigue.

• Swivels: Included Uncle Mike’s locking swivels ensure secure attachment to the firearm. These swivels are a crucial component, guaranteeing that the rifle stays safely connected to the sling.

• Thumb Loop: A built-in thumb loop offers improved control and stability when transitioning to a shooting position. This loop allows for a more secure grip when making adjustments.

Performance & Functionality

The Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling performs admirably in its intended role. The one-handed adjustment feature facilitates rapid transitions from carrying to shooting. Its functionality is a major advantage when seconds count. The padded shoulder section effectively distributes weight, minimizing discomfort during long hikes. This padding is crucial for maintaining comfort.

However, the initial stiffness of the adjustment mechanism and the limited length adjustment range could be considered minor drawbacks. These are things that could be improved. Overall, it meets expectations for a sling in its price range, offering a functional and comfortable carrying solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling prioritizes functionality and simplicity. The materials feel durable, and the padding is adequately thick without being overly bulky. The weight is well-balanced.

The sling is relatively user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. It takes just a few minutes to understand the adjustment mechanism and become comfortable with its operation. The ergonomic design makes it easy to use even with gloves on.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling appears to be built to last. The nylon webbing is resistant to abrasion, and the stitching is robust. With minimal maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.

Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The durable materials are resistant to stains and water damage. The sling’s longevity is a major selling point.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling comes standard with Uncle Mike’s locking swivels. These swivels ensure compatibility with most rifles equipped with swivel studs. There are limited customization options available directly from Butler Creek.

However, the 1 1/4″ width of the sling allows for the attachment of aftermarket accessories such as quick-release buckles or additional padding. The standard design is compatible with a wide range of accessories.

Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling

Who Should Buy Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling?

The Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling is perfect for hunters and recreational shooters who need a reliable, comfortable, and quickly adjustable sling. It’s also a great option for those looking for an affordable upgrade from a basic sling. Its ease of use makes it suitable for both beginners and experienced firearm users.

Those who require a sling with a very wide range of adjustability or who prefer a more premium, specialized sling system might want to explore other options. A must-have accessory would be a set of high-quality quick-detach (QD) swivels for even faster transitions.

Conclusion on Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling

The Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling offers a compelling blend of comfort, functionality, and affordability. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive slings, it performs its core function admirably. The value proposition is undeniably strong.

I would definitely recommend it to anyone seeking a practical and budget-friendly sling solution. Its ease of use, durability, and comfortable design make it a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your carry experience today with the Butler Creek Quick Carry Padded Adjustable Sling! You won’t regret it.