First Thoughts on the Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels
The Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels promises a blend of classic aesthetics and modern durability. Offered by Hornady, and developed by the Hunter Company of Colorado, this sling aims to provide reliable rifle carry for various hunting and shooting applications. The combination of leather and nylon construction, coupled with Hogue sling swivels, suggests a sling built for comfort and resilience in the field.
My need for a reliable and comfortable rifle sling stems from years of carrying various rifles during demanding hunts. Many slings I’ve used either lacked the durability for harsh environments or provided insufficient padding for long carries. I wanted a sling that could withstand the rigors of backcountry hunting while distributing weight evenly and comfortably.
Upon receiving the Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels, my first impression was positive. The brown leather accents exuded a classic, rugged charm, and the nylon felt sturdy. The inclusion of Hogue sling swivels, a reputable brand, immediately signaled a focus on quality and functionality.
Compared to other slings I’ve used, such as the cheaper, all-nylon slings or more expensive, fully leather options, this Hornady sling presents a compelling middle ground. All-nylon slings often lack the comfort and visual appeal of leather, while full leather slings can be overly expensive and require more maintenance. The Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels seemed to offer a balanced approach, combining the best attributes of both materials.
Initially, I was excited by the sling’s potential to provide both durability and comfort during long hunts. Whether that expectation would be met remained to be seen after putting it through its paces in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial field test of the Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels took place during a week-long elk hunt in the Colorado Rockies. The varied terrain, ranging from dense forests to open meadows, provided ample opportunity to assess the sling’s performance. I encountered both wet and dry conditions throughout the week.
The sling proved comfortable during long hikes, distributing the rifle’s weight effectively across my shoulder. The leather shoulder pad prevented the nylon from digging into my skin, even with a heavy rifle. Attaching the sling to my rifle was simple and straightforward, thanks to the Hogue sling swivels.
I experienced no immediate issues or surprises during this first outing. The sling performed as expected, providing a secure and comfortable way to carry my rifle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, spanning multiple hunting seasons and range trips, the Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The stitching remains intact, and the leather has maintained its integrity.
The nylon shows no signs of fraying or discoloration. I’ve made sure to wipe down the leather periodically with a leather cleaner and conditioner. This simple maintenance has kept it supple and prevented it from drying out.
Compared to previous slings I’ve used, the Hornady sling has proven to be significantly more durable and comfortable, particularly on longer treks. It has become an indispensable part of my hunting gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels
Specifications
Color: Brown. The brown color offers a classic, aesthetically pleasing look that complements most rifles.
Material: Leather/Nylon. This combination blends the durability of nylon with the comfort and traditional appearance of leather.
Swivels: Hogue sling swivels included. These high-quality swivels ensure a secure and reliable attachment to the rifle, offering smooth rotation and preventing unwanted noise.
The leather shoulder pad provides added comfort during extended carry. The nylon webbing offers robust support and resistance to abrasion. The Hogue swivels are essential for preventing sling twist and ensuring smooth rifle movement.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels excels at its primary function: securely and comfortably carrying a rifle. It distributes weight evenly, minimizing strain on the shoulder and neck. The sling is easy to adjust, allowing for quick transitions between carrying positions and shooting stances.
The sling’s strengths lie in its durability, comfort, and ease of use. A potential weakness is that the leather component needs periodic care to prevent drying and cracking. The sling absolutely meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady sling exhibits a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both aesthetics and functionality. The combination of leather and nylon provides a balance of comfort and durability. The sling feels substantial without being overly heavy.
The sling is user-friendly, requiring no specialized knowledge or tools for installation and adjustment. Its design makes it intuitive and comfortable to use right out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels is built to last. The high-quality nylon webbing and genuine leather construction ensure resistance to wear and tear. Proper care, including occasional cleaning and conditioning of the leather, will extend its lifespan significantly.
The sling is relatively easy to maintain. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient for cleaning the nylon. Leather cleaner and conditioner should be applied periodically to maintain the leather’s suppleness and prevent cracking.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels comes standard with Hogue sling swivels, eliminating the need for additional purchases. While the sling itself offers limited customization options, the universal swivel attachment points allow compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket sling studs and mounting hardware.
The sling is compatible with most rifles equipped with standard sling swivel studs. This versatility makes it a suitable choice for a variety of firearms.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels
Pros
- High-quality materials used: The combination of leather and nylon offers a balance of durability and comfort.
- Comfortable to carry: The padded leather shoulder section distributes weight evenly, reducing strain during long treks.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
- Easy to adjust: Allows for quick transitions between carrying positions.
- Includes Hogue sling swivels: These are top-quality and provide reliable attachment to the rifle.
Cons
- Leather requires periodic maintenance: To prevent drying and cracking.
- Limited customization options: Beyond the standard swivel attachments.
Who Should Buy Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels?
Perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who values a comfortable and durable rifle sling. The sling is particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a blend of classic aesthetics and modern materials.
Those seeking a highly customizable sling with numerous attachment points and modular components might want to explore other options. Those who are unwilling to perform basic leather maintenance should also consider alternative materials.
A good quality set of sling swivel studs might be required, depending on the user’s rifle, as well as leather cleaner and conditioner for periodic maintenance.
Conclusion on Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels
The Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels offers an excellent blend of durability, comfort, and classic aesthetics. The combination of nylon and leather provides a robust and comfortable carrying solution for rifles. The inclusion of Hogue sling swivels adds further value and ensures reliable attachment.
At $36.99, the price is justified by the sling’s quality construction and performance. Considering the cost of comparable slings and the added value of the Hogue swivels, it’s a worthwhile investment.
I would personally recommend the Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels to anyone seeking a reliable and comfortable rifle sling for hunting, shooting, or general outdoor use. It is a well-made and thoughtfully designed product that delivers on its promises. Upgrade your rifle carry today with the Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels!