Galco Universal Carry Sling Review

First Impressions of Galco Universal Carry Sling

The Galco Universal Carry Sling arrives as a solution for a problem many gun owners face: how to comfortably carry a long gun that lacks sling swivels, or one that you don’t want to modify. This sling, manufactured by Galco, promises a simple yet effective way to carry various long guns without the need for permanent alterations. I’ve always appreciated Galco’s reputation for quality leather goods, so I was eager to see if this sling lived up to their name.

I was tired of lugging my grandfather’s classic lever-action rifle on my shoulder during hunting trips; it lacked any way to attach a traditional sling. I needed a solution that wouldn’t involve drilling into the beautiful wood stock. Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the rich, dark chocolate brown color of the bull hide leather.

The leather felt supple yet sturdy, suggesting durability. The simple design, consisting of a wide shoulder strap and an adjustable loop, seemed straightforward to use. Compared to other universal slings I’ve seen, the Galco stood out with its apparent higher quality leather and cleaner design; many competing slings look flimsy and cheap.

My initial impression was positive. The quality of the leather and the simplicity of the design gave me confidence that this sling would provide a comfortable and secure carrying solution without compromising the integrity of my firearm. I was excited to test it out in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Galco Universal Carry Sling to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Galco Universal Carry Sling was on a pheasant hunting trip in the South Dakota grasslands. The weather was dry but the terrain was uneven, a perfect environment to evaluate the sling’s comfort and stability. I used it on my Winchester Model 94 lever-action rifle, a classic gun that I often hesitate to bring out due to the lack of sling attachment points.

The sling was surprisingly easy to install; I simply slipped the wider strap over the stock and tightened the front loop around the barrel. Once adjusted, the rifle felt secure, and the wide strap distributed the weight evenly across my shoulder. Even after hours of walking through tall grass, the sling remained comfortable and the rifle stayed securely in place. I did notice a slight initial slippage of the front loop, but after readjusting and tightening it firmly, the issue resolved.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple hunting trips and range sessions, the Galco Universal Carry Sling has proven to be quite durable. The leather shows minimal signs of wear and tear, and the stitching remains strong and intact. I’ve used it in various weather conditions, from dry and dusty to light rain, and the leather has held up remarkably well.

Cleaning and maintaining the sling is simple; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth and occasionally apply a leather conditioner to keep it supple. Compared to other slings I’ve used, the Galco provides a more comfortable and secure carrying experience, particularly for firearms without traditional sling swivel attachments. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both comfort and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Galco Universal Carry Sling

Specifications

The Galco Universal Carry Sling boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and usability. It is constructed from supple, durable bull hide leather, ensuring both comfort and longevity. The sling measures 39.5 inches in length, providing ample adjustment for various body sizes and carrying preferences.

The attachment type utilizes a belt loop/slot design for the stock and an adjustable loop for the barrel or handguard, accommodating a wide range of long guns. It is designed to fit rifles, shotguns, and even black powder rifles, making it a versatile option for various firearm types. These specifications are essential because they dictate the sling’s ability to securely and comfortably carry a variety of firearms without requiring modifications.

Performance & Functionality

The Galco Universal Carry Sling performs its intended function admirably, providing a comfortable and secure way to carry long guns that lack traditional sling swivels. The wide shoulder strap effectively distributes the weight of the firearm, reducing strain on the shoulder and neck. The adjustable front loop ensures a snug fit around the barrel or handguard, preventing the gun from slipping or swaying during movement.

The sling’s main strength lies in its simplicity and versatility. It easily adapts to different firearm types and body sizes, making it a convenient option for hunters, shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts. One potential weakness is the possibility of the front loop slipping if not properly tightened; however, this is easily addressed with a quick adjustment. Overall, the sling meets and exceeds expectations, providing a reliable and comfortable carrying solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The Galco Universal Carry Sling features a simple yet elegant design that prioritizes both functionality and aesthetics. The use of high-quality bull hide leather gives the sling a premium look and feel. The wide shoulder strap is contoured for comfort, and the adjustable front loop is designed to fit securely around various barrel and handguard profiles.

The sling is lightweight and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the firearm. There is minimal learning curve; the sling is easy to install and adjust, even for first-time users.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its Galco’s bull hide leather construction, the Galco Universal Carry Sling is built to last. The durable materials and strong stitching ensure that it can withstand the rigors of regular use in the field. With proper care and maintenance, this sling should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward; simply wipe down the leather with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris, and occasionally apply a leather conditioner to keep it supple and prevent cracking. No specialized tools or skills are required for maintenance or repair.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Galco Universal Carry Sling is primarily a standalone product and doesn’t come with a wide array of accessories. Its beauty lies in its simplicity, focusing on functionality without the need for additional attachments. Given its universal design, it does not directly integrate with accessories like QD swivels or specialized mounting hardware.

However, the sling can be used in conjunction with other accessories, such as barrel-mounted Picatinny rails for attaching lights or lasers, as long as these accessories do not interfere with the sling’s front loop. The lack of extensive customization options is not necessarily a drawback, as the sling is designed to be a simple and effective solution for carrying long guns without the need for modifications.

Pros and Cons of Galco Universal Carry Sling

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Who Should Buy Galco Universal Carry Sling?

The Galco Universal Carry Sling is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and firearm collectors who own long guns without sling swivels or who wish to avoid permanently modifying their firearms. It is particularly well-suited for those who value quality craftsmanship and a classic aesthetic. This sling is ideal for carrying lever-action rifles, side-by-side shotguns, and black powder rifles.

Those who require extensive customization options or prefer slings with quick-detach swivels may want to explore alternative options. A must-have accessory would be a quality leather conditioner to keep the sling supple and prevent cracking over time.

Conclusion on Galco Universal Carry Sling

The Galco Universal Carry Sling is a well-crafted and versatile accessory that provides a comfortable and secure way to carry long guns without sling swivels. The high-quality bull hide leather construction, combined with its simple yet effective design, makes it a worthwhile investment for firearm owners who value both functionality and aesthetics. At $71.20, the price is justified given the quality of materials and craftsmanship.

I would personally recommend the Galco Universal Carry Sling to anyone seeking a reliable and elegant solution for carrying their long guns. If you’re tired of awkwardly carrying your classic rifle or shotgun, this sling will make your time in the field much more enjoyable. Don’t let the lack of sling swivels hold you back; get the Galco Universal Carry Sling and experience the difference!