The Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels Made a Bold First Impression
The Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels isn’t just another sling; it’s a statement. Developed by the Hunter Company of Colorado, this sling promises a blend of rugged durability and classic aesthetics. It arrives equipped with Hogue sling swivels, a detail that immediately caught my attention.
I was looking for a reliable and comfortable sling that could withstand the rigors of long hunting trips in the Rockies. My old nylon sling, though functional, lacked the comfort and classic look I desired for my vintage lever-action rifle. Unboxing the Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels, I immediately appreciated the feel of the leather and the robust stitching.
The combination of brown nylon and leather exudes a quality feel, hinting at long-lasting performance. The build quality appears solid, and the Hogue swivels feel secure and well-made. I considered other options like the cheaper, all-nylon slings from various brands, and even some higher-end leather-only slings.
Ultimately, the Hornady offering struck a balance between price, durability, and classic design that I couldn’t resist. My first impression was one of pleasant surprise; the Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels seemed to offer a premium feel at a reasonable price point. I was excited to put it to the test in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels was a week-long elk hunt in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. The terrain was steep and rugged, and the weather ranged from sunny skies to sudden snow squalls. The sling was used extensively while hiking through dense forests and across open meadows.
The sling performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions, showing no signs of slippage or discomfort. The combination of nylon and leather provided a comfortable carry, even with the rifle slung over my shoulder for hours at a time. I found the sling easy to adjust, allowing for a secure and comfortable fit while wearing different layers of clothing.
After the first day, I noticed the leather portions began to soften slightly, conforming better to my shoulder and back. This only enhanced the comfort of the sling. There were no initial issues or surprises.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. The stitching remains tight and secure, and there are no signs of fraying or separation of the nylon and leather components. The leather shows some minor scuffs and scratches, but this only adds to its character.
I’ve cleaned the sling a few times with a mild leather cleaner and conditioner, which keeps the leather supple and prevents it from drying out. The nylon is easily cleaned with soap and water. Compared to my previous all-nylon sling, the Hornady sling offers superior comfort and a more secure carry, especially during long hikes. I am satisfied with its performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels
Specifications
The Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels features a durable brown nylon webbing body reinforced with genuine leather accents. It comes equipped with pre-installed Hogue sling swivels for easy attachment to most rifles. The sling is fully adjustable to accommodate a variety of body sizes and carrying preferences.
The combination of nylon and leather provides a balance of strength, flexibility, and comfort. The Hogue swivels are known for their reliability and smooth operation, ensuring a secure connection to the rifle. The adjustable length allows for comfortable carrying in various positions, whether slung over the shoulder or across the chest.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels performs its primary function – carrying a rifle comfortably and securely – exceptionally well. The sling distributes the weight of the rifle evenly, reducing fatigue during long days in the field. The adjustable length allows for quick and easy adjustments, even while wearing gloves.
The strengths of this sling lie in its durability, comfort, and ease of use. A minor improvement could be a slightly wider shoulder pad for even greater comfort with heavier rifles, but overall, the sling meets and exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The combination of brown nylon and leather creates a classic and timeless look that complements most rifles. The sling is lightweight and comfortable to wear, even for extended periods.
The sling is easy to adjust and use, with no complicated mechanisms or confusing instructions. The Hogue swivels operate smoothly and quietly, preventing unwanted noise while hunting. The design is simple and effective, with a focus on functionality and durability.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels is built to last. The durable nylon webbing and genuine leather accents are resistant to wear and tear. The Hogue swivels are made from high-quality materials and are designed for long-lasting performance.
The sling requires minimal maintenance. Periodic cleaning with a mild leather cleaner and conditioner will keep the leather supple and prevent it from drying out. The nylon can be easily cleaned with soap and water. With proper care, this sling should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels comes standard with Hogue sling swivels. There are no other included accessories or customization options directly offered by the manufacturer. However, the sling is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, such as shoulder pads, quick-detach swivels, and sling studs.
The standard Hogue swivels are sufficient for most users, but some may prefer to upgrade to quick-detach swivels for added convenience. Adding a padded shoulder sleeve, available from numerous aftermarket suppliers, could be beneficial for users carrying heavier rifles over extended periods.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels
Pros
- Durable construction using high-quality nylon and leather.
- Comfortable to wear for extended periods.
- Easy to adjust and use, even while wearing gloves.
- Classic and timeless design that complements most rifles.
- Pre-installed Hogue sling swivels for reliable performance.
Cons
- Leather portions may require periodic cleaning and conditioning.
- A wider shoulder pad could enhance comfort with heavier rifles.
Who Should Buy Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels?
The Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels is perfect for hunters who appreciate a blend of classic design and modern durability. It’s also well-suited for recreational shooters and anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable rifle sling. This sling is an excellent choice for those who value quality craftsmanship and long-lasting performance in their gear.
This product may not be the best choice for those seeking the absolute lightest weight sling possible or those needing advanced tactical features such as quick-release mechanisms. A must-have modification could be a neoprene shoulder pad for enhanced comfort when carrying very heavy rifles.
Conclusion on Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels
The Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels is a well-made and thoughtfully designed sling that offers excellent value for its price. At $36.99, it’s an affordable upgrade that provides a noticeable improvement in comfort and durability compared to basic nylon slings. The blend of classic aesthetics and robust construction makes it a worthwhile investment for any rifle owner.
I would personally recommend this sling to anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable way to carry their rifle. The Hornady Universal Brown Nylon/Leather Rifle W/Swivels is a solid choice that will provide years of dependable service. Upgrade your rifle carry experience today!