Let’s Dive into Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve slung my fair share of rifles and shotguns. Over the years, I have learned that a good sling isn’t just an accessory; it’s an essential part of a weapon system, improving both comfort and readiness. When I first encountered the Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings, I was immediately interested in their straightforward design and promise of durability, considering the unbelievably affordable price point of $18.18.
I was in search of a reliable sling for my trusty Remington 870 shotgun, something that could handle the rigors of both the range and the occasional foray into the backcountry. My old sling, a cheap nylon strap, had started to fray and dig into my shoulder after long periods of carry. The prospect of a padded sling with integrated shell holders from Elite Survival Systems seemed like a perfect solution.
Upon unboxing the sling, my initial thought was that it was surprisingly well-made for the price. The 1000 denier nylon felt robust, and the 1/4″ closed cell foam padding offered a reassuring amount of cushioning. I have used many items of Elite Survival Systems gear and consider their quality to be far above average, exceeding expectations from materials to construction.
Compared to other slings I’ve used – including a high-end, adjustable two-point sling from Magpul and a basic, unpadded sling from Uncle Mike’s – the Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings stood out for its balance of simplicity and functionality. It wasn’t as feature-rich as the Magpul, but it was significantly more comfortable than the Uncle Mike’s and had the added benefit of shell holders. It was this sweet spot between comfort, utility, and value that ultimately made me choose it.
My first impression was positive, and frankly, a little surprised. I wasn’t expecting high-end luxury at this price, but the Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings exceeded my expectations for basic functionality and comfort. I was excited to see how it would perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings was at a local shooting range, followed by a hunting trip to a nearby wildlife management area. At the range, I tested the sling’s comfort during extended shooting sessions, focusing on how well it distributed the weight of my shotgun. In the field, I evaluated its practicality during a long hike through uneven terrain.
The sling performed admirably in both scenarios. Even in the summer heat, the non-slip backing kept the sling firmly in place, preventing it from sliding off my shoulder. The shell loops held my extra rounds securely and were easy to access when needed. The padding made carrying the shotgun for hours much more bearable than with my previous sling.
There was a slight learning curve in getting the sling adjusted perfectly to my body, but after a few minutes of fiddling, I found the sweet spot. One minor issue was that the elastic in the shell loops was initially quite tight, making it a little difficult to insert and remove shells. With use, however, they have broken in quite nicely.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. It has accompanied me on numerous hunting trips, range visits, and even a weekend-long survival skills course. The 1000 denier nylon shows no signs of fraying or tearing, and the stitching remains intact.
Despite being exposed to rain, mud, and dust, the sling has held up remarkably well. I have noticed a slight amount of fading in the black color, but this is purely cosmetic and doesn’t affect its performance. The elastic loops for shells remain tight and secure.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep the sling clean. I occasionally apply a nylon protectant spray to help maintain its water resistance and prevent further fading. It outperforms my old sling by miles, and its integrated shell holders are a huge convenience.
Breaking Down the Features of Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings
Specifications
The Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings come in two main styles: a Padded Tactical Shotgun Sling and a Padded Rifle Sling. Both slings share several key specifications. The material is a heavy-duty 1000D Nylon for exceptional durability. The width is designed for 1.25-inch swivels. The padding consists of 1/4-inch closed cell foam padding for maximum comfort.
The shotgun sling features 10 elastic loops for shotshells. The rifle sling has four elastic loops for cartridges and other combat accessories. The non-slip backing provides a secure fit. The sling is fully adjustable to accommodate different body sizes and carrying preferences. All models are available in black.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the sling’s functionality and user experience. The 1000D nylon ensures that the sling can withstand the rigors of demanding environments. The padding enhances comfort during long periods of carry. The shell loops provide convenient access to extra ammunition.
Performance & Functionality
The Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings performs its job admirably, providing a comfortable and secure way to carry a rifle or shotgun. The padding effectively distributes the weight of the firearm, reducing strain on the shoulder. The non-slip backing prevents the sling from sliding off the shoulder, even during strenuous activity.
The shell loops on the shotgun sling are a particularly useful feature, allowing for quick and easy access to extra ammunition. The sling is easy to adjust and can be customized to fit a wide range of body sizes. The fully adjustable nature ensures the firearm sits exactly where I need it, for speed and efficiency.
One area that could be improved is the tightness of the shell loops when new. As previously noted, it can be difficult to insert and remove shells initially.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings is simple and functional, with a focus on durability and comfort. The 1000 denier nylon feels rugged and built to last. The 1/4″ closed cell foam padding provides ample cushioning without being overly bulky.
The sling is lightweight and doesn’t add significant weight to the firearm. The non-slip backing is an excellent addition, preventing the sling from sliding around on clothing. The simple, yet effective, design lends itself to efficient use and ease of adjustment.
There is very little learning curve associated with the Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings. It’s intuitive and easy to use right out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction and materials, the Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings is expected to last for many years with proper care. The 1000 denier nylon is highly resistant to abrasion and tearing. The stitching is reinforced in key areas to prevent failure.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. For more stubborn stains, a mild detergent can be used. I recommend applying a nylon protectant spray periodically to help maintain water resistance and prevent fading.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings itself doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond its integrated shell loops (on the shotgun version). However, it’s designed to be compatible with standard 1.25-inch sling swivels, which are widely available from various manufacturers.
The sling can be easily attached to most rifles and shotguns with sling swivel studs. Some users may choose to add quick-detach sling swivels for even faster attachment and removal. There are no other major customization options for this particular sling.
Pros and Cons of Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings
Pros
- Extremely affordable price for the level of quality and functionality offered.
- Durable construction with 1000 denier nylon that will withstand years of hard use.
- Comfortable padding thanks to the 1/4″ closed cell foam.
- Integrated shell loops on the shotgun version provide convenient access to extra ammunition.
- Non-slip backing keeps the sling securely in place.
Cons
- Elastic in shell loops can be tight when new, requiring some break-in time.
- Only available in black.
Who Should Buy Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings?
The Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone looking for a reliable and affordable sling for their rifle or shotgun. The shotgun sling is particularly well-suited for those who want to keep extra ammunition readily available. It’s a great choice for anyone needing a comfortable and durable sling without breaking the bank.
This product might not be ideal for competitive shooters who require highly specialized and adjustable slings with advanced features. Someone needing multiple color options should also consider other options.
A must-have accessory is a set of high-quality 1.25-inch sling swivels if your firearm doesn’t already have them installed. Quick-detach swivels can further enhance the sling’s versatility.
Conclusion on Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings
The Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings is an outstanding value for the money. It offers a winning combination of durability, comfort, and functionality at an incredibly affordable price. The 1000 denier nylon and 1/4″ closed cell foam padding provide a level of quality and comfort that is rare in this price range.
The $18.18 price point is more than justified, given the sling’s performance and build quality. You’d be hard-pressed to find another sling that offers this much value.
I would absolutely recommend the Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings to anyone in the market for a new sling. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a recreational shooter, or simply someone who wants a comfortable and reliable way to carry their firearm, this sling is an excellent choice. Upgrade your carry experience today with the Elite Survival Systems Padded Gun Slings and see the difference a quality sling can make!