The Crickett Rifle Sling Brown Leather 23″ Made a Bold First Impression
The Crickett Rifle Sling Brown Leather 23″ arrives with a simple promise: a classic, functional, and American-made sling for smaller rifles. This isn’t some tactical, multi-point monstrosity; it’s a straightforward piece of kit designed for a specific purpose, and at a price point that’s hard to ignore. But in a world of nylon and quick-adjust buckles, does this simple leather sling still hold its own?
I found myself needing a sling for my son’s youth .22 rifle. The rifle itself is scaled down, so I needed a sling that wouldn’t overwhelm it with excessive bulk or complicated adjustments. I was looking for something classic, durable, and appropriately sized, and I immediately started browsing for leather slings.
Upon unboxing, the Crickett Rifle Sling Brown Leather 23″ has a pleasant, if mild, leather smell. The leather itself is a medium brown, and the Crickett logo is discreetly embossed. The stitching appears solid, and the overall impression is one of simple, no-nonsense quality.
Compared to some of the padded nylon slings I’ve used on larger rifles, this sling feels almost minimalist. It doesn’t have the same level of adjustability as more modern slings. However, the Crickett Rifle Sling Brown Leather 23″ feels significantly more appropriate for a smaller rifle due to its compact size and simpler operation. My initial reaction was positive – it seems like a well-made, classic sling that fits the bill perfectly.
Real-World Testing: Putting Crickett Rifle Sling Brown Leather 23″ to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was the local shooting range, followed by a weekend camping trip where my son used the rifle for some casual plinking at safe targets. The Crickett Rifle Sling Brown Leather 23″ performed exactly as expected, providing a secure and comfortable way to carry the rifle. Its simplicity was its greatest strength.
The weather was dry and mild during these initial tests, so the sling wasn’t subjected to any extreme conditions. It proved very easy to use, even for my son. No time was needed to get used to the basic design. The sling felt secure and comfortable against the shoulder.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Crickett Rifle Sling Brown Leather 23″ is holding up exceptionally well. The leather has softened slightly, conforming better to the shoulder, but there are no signs of significant wear or tear. The stitching remains tight, and the color hasn’t faded.
Maintaining the sling has been incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. I also occasionally apply a leather conditioner to keep the leather supple and prevent it from drying out. Compared to some of the more complex nylon slings I own, the Crickett Rifle Sling Brown Leather 23″ is far easier to care for. It definitely outperforms cheaper nylon options in terms of durability and feel.
Breaking Down the Features of Crickett Rifle Sling Brown Leather 23″
Specifications
- Crickett™ Embossed: The Crickett logo is subtly embossed on the leather. This adds a touch of branding without being overly ostentatious.
- Dimensions: 23″ (Length) X 1 3/4″ (Width): These dimensions are specifically tailored for smaller rifles. This prevents the sling from being too bulky or overwhelming.
- Brown: The classic brown color complements most rifles and hunting gear. It lends a traditional aesthetic.
- Made of Genuine Leather: The use of genuine leather ensures durability and a classic aesthetic. This provides a significant upgrade in quality and feel compared to synthetic alternatives.
- MADE IN THE USA: This is a key selling point for many buyers who prefer to support American manufacturing. It often implies a higher standard of quality control.
These specifications matter because they define the sling’s purpose: a simple, durable, and appropriately sized sling for smaller rifles. The leather construction ensures longevity, while the compact dimensions make it comfortable to use on youth rifles or other smaller firearms. The fact that it’s MADE IN THE USA also contributes to its overall value proposition.
Performance & Functionality
The Crickett Rifle Sling Brown Leather 23″ performs its job admirably. It securely holds the rifle, is comfortable to carry, and doesn’t interfere with shouldering the weapon. It is inherently reliable due to its simple design.
The sling’s main strength is its simplicity. Its primary weakness is the limited adjustability. It perfectly meets expectations for a basic, high-quality leather sling.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent for the price point. The leather is sturdy but not overly stiff, and the stitching is clean and consistent. The sling is lightweight and comfortable to wear, even for extended periods.
The sling is incredibly user-friendly. There is virtually no learning curve. The design is simple and intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the quality of the leather and the solid construction, the Crickett Rifle Sling Brown Leather 23″ should last for many years with proper care. Leather, properly maintained, is an incredibly durable material.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning. The simple design makes repairs, if ever needed, relatively easy.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Crickett Rifle Sling Brown Leather 23″ doesn’t come with any accessories. Customization options are limited, primarily involving the addition of sling swivels if the rifle doesn’t already have them.
It is compatible with most standard sling swivels. Beyond that, customization is more about personalizing the leather with dyes or tooling.
Pros and Cons of Crickett Rifle Sling Brown Leather 23″
Pros
- Simple, classic design.
- Durable genuine leather construction.
- Appropriately sized for smaller rifles.
- MADE IN THE USA.
- Excellent value for the price.
Cons
- Limited adjustability.
- May require separate purchase of sling swivels.
Who Should Buy Crickett Rifle Sling Brown Leather 23″?
This sling is perfect for: owners of youth rifles, lever-action rifles, or any smaller firearm where a simple, classic sling is desired. Hunters who appreciate traditional gear will also find this sling appealing. Those who value MADE IN THE USA products will also be attracted to this sling.
Those seeking a highly adjustable, tactical sling with quick-release buckles should skip this product. If you need a sling that can be rapidly adjusted for different carrying positions, this isn’t for you. Must-have accessories include a set of high-quality sling swivels, if your rifle doesn’t already have them.
Conclusion on Crickett Rifle Sling Brown Leather 23″
The Crickett Rifle Sling Brown Leather 23″ is a fantastic option for anyone seeking a simple, durable, and classic sling for a smaller rifle. Its no-nonsense design, genuine leather construction, and MADE IN THE USA pedigree make it a standout product in its price range. It offers excellent value for the money.
I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a traditional leather sling without unnecessary bells and whistles. If you appreciate quality craftsmanship and a classic aesthetic, the Crickett Rifle Sling Brown Leather 23″ is a solid choice. Add this sling to your cart today!