First Thoughts on the Galco RS19B No-Slip Black Leather 29″- 42″ OAL Adjustable Rifle
The Galco RS19B No-Slip Black Leather 29″- 42″ OAL Adjustable Rifle sling promises enhanced security and comfort for carrying your rifle, and in a market saturated with nylon and synthetic options, the Galco name and the promise of quality leather immediately piqued my interest. This isn’t just another sling; it’s a statement that blends classic aesthetics with modern functionality, aiming to solve the age-old problem of slippage.
I’ve been plagued by slings that constantly slide off my shoulder, especially when navigating uneven terrain or wearing bulky hunting gear. The Galco RS19B’s “no-slip” design became a beacon, promising to keep my rifle securely in place without constant adjustments.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the aroma of genuine Latigo leather and the overall craftsmanship. The leather felt supple yet sturdy, and the stitching was clean and precise, radiating a sense of quality rarely found in mass-produced slings. The Gripper Shell material felt reassuringly tacky.
Compared to my standard nylon sling from Viking Tactics and a padded neoprene sling from Butler Creek, the Galco RS19B exuded a different level of class and seemed designed for a more traditional hunting experience, prioritizing both aesthetics and practical security. I passed on a cheaper Uncle Mike’s nylon sling for this product, betting on the quality Galco is known for to last longer and be more durable.
I was genuinely excited; the Galco RS19B No-Slip Black Leather 29″- 42″ OAL Adjustable Rifle sling seemed to deliver on its promise of combining classic style with modern functionality, addressing a real need in a thoughtful, well-crafted package.
Real-World Testing: Putting Galco RS19B No-Slip Black Leather 29″- 42″ OAL Adjustable Rifle to the Test
First Use Experience
I first put the Galco RS19B to the test during a weekend deer hunt in the Pennsylvania mountains. The terrain was steep and rocky, and the weather shifted from sunny to drizzly within hours.
The sling’s Gripper Shell lived up to its name, preventing the rifle from slipping even when I was scrambling over fallen logs and slippery rocks. I appreciated not having to constantly readjust my rifle; it allowed me to focus on the hunt instead of fighting with my gear.
There was a small learning curve; figuring out the key-hole adjustment system took a few minutes, but once I got the hang of it, adjusting the sling’s length became quick and easy. One minor issue was the squeaking of the leather against my jacket, which subsided after a few hours of use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Galco RS19B has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. There are some minor scuffs on the leather, which only add character, and the stitching remains intact and strong.
Cleaning the sling is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional leather conditioning is all it takes to keep it in top shape. The leather has conformed to my shoulder, making it even more comfortable over time.
Compared to my old nylon sling, the Galco RS19B offers superior comfort, stability, and overall quality. The Galco RS19B has far outperformed the cheaper options I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Galco RS19B No-Slip Black Leather 29″- 42″ OAL Adjustable Rifle
Specifications
The Galco RS19B No-Slip Black Leather 29″- 42″ OAL Adjustable Rifle sling boasts a length adjustable from 29″ to 42″, accommodating a wide range of body sizes and rifle configurations. Its 2.50″ width at the shoulder offers a comfortable weight distribution, tapering to 1.25″ at the included swivels, ensuring compatibility with most rifle mounting points.
Constructed from high-quality Latigo leather in black, the sling provides both durability and a classic aesthetic. The integrated Gripper Shell pad, measuring 14.5″ long by 2″ wide, is crucial for preventing slippage. The included quick-detachable swivels offer convenience for quickly attaching and detaching the sling from your rifle, and the key-hole adjustment system allows for easy, tool-free length adjustments.
These specifications are essential because they directly impact the sling’s functionality, comfort, and durability. The adjustable length ensures a customized fit, the wide shoulder section distributes weight effectively, and the Gripper Shell ensures stability.
Performance & Functionality
The Galco RS19B excels at its primary function: keeping your rifle securely on your shoulder. The Gripper Shell works exceptionally well, minimizing slippage even with heavy rifles and bulky clothing.
The sling is comfortable to wear for extended periods. Its key-hole adjustment system allows for quick and easy length adjustments, making it adaptable to different hunting scenarios. The leather does squeak against some materials, which can be a minor annoyance.
The Galco RS19B meets expectations. The sling delivers on its promise of providing a secure and comfortable way to carry a rifle.
Design & Ergonomics
The Galco RS19B features a classic and functional design. The Latigo leather provides a touch of elegance, while the Gripper Shell adds a practical, modern element.
The sling is comfortable to wear, thanks to its wide shoulder section and adjustable length. There’s a minimal learning curve; the key-hole adjustment system is intuitive and easy to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Galco RS19B is constructed from high-quality materials and built to last. The Latigo leather is durable and resistant to wear and tear.
Maintenance is simple; regular cleaning and conditioning will keep the leather supple and prevent cracking. This ensures the sling will provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Galco RS19B comes with a set of 1″ quick-detachable sling swivels. There are limited customization options for the sling itself, but it is compatible with any rifle that accepts standard sling swivels.
You could replace the included swivels with higher-quality or different-sized swivels from brands like Magpul or GrovTec to suit your specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Galco RS19B No-Slip Black Leather 29″- 42″ OAL Adjustable Rifle
Pros
- The Gripper Shell truly prevents slippage, keeping the rifle securely on the shoulder even in challenging conditions.
- The high-quality Latigo leather offers both durability and a classic aesthetic.
- The adjustable length (29″- 42″) ensures a comfortable fit for a wide range of users and rifle configurations.
- The easy-to-use key-hole adjustment system allows for quick length adjustments without tools.
- The wide shoulder section (2.50″) distributes weight effectively, enhancing comfort during extended carry.
Cons
- The leather can squeak against certain materials, which may be a nuisance for some users.
- The $90.99 price point may be higher than comparable nylon slings on the market.
Who Should Buy Galco RS19B No-Slip Black Leather 29″- 42″ OAL Adjustable Rifle?
The Galco RS19B No-Slip Black Leather 29″- 42″ OAL Adjustable Rifle sling is perfect for hunters who value both functionality and aesthetics, preferring a classic leather look with modern no-slip technology. It is also a great choice for anyone who struggles with sling slippage and wants a reliable and comfortable way to carry their rifle.
Those prioritizing budget over quality or needing extreme customization options should skip this product. The Galco RS19B is designed for traditional rifle setups, not necessarily modular tactical rifles.
Must-have accessories include leather conditioning products to maintain the sling’s longevity and potentially upgraded sling swivels for specific mounting needs.
Conclusion on Galco RS19B No-Slip Black Leather 29″- 42″ OAL Adjustable Rifle
The Galco RS19B No-Slip Black Leather 29″- 42″ OAL Adjustable Rifle is a well-crafted and highly functional sling that delivers on its promise of providing a secure and comfortable way to carry your rifle. The combination of high-quality leather and the innovative Gripper Shell makes it a standout product in a crowded market.
At $90.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and the peace of mind knowing your rifle will stay securely on your shoulder.
I would highly recommend the Galco RS19B to anyone looking for a reliable, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing rifle sling. Invest in the Galco RS19B No-Slip Black Leather 29″- 42″ OAL Adjustable Rifle today and experience the difference a quality sling can make!