Let’s Dive into Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling
The Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling is more than just a strap; it’s a thoughtfully designed piece of kit from Magpul, a company known for its innovative and robust firearm accessories. This sling aims to provide a comfortable and versatile carrying solution for your AR-platform rifle, excelling in both two-point and, with optional adapters, single-point configurations. The intuitive adjustability and durable construction promise a sling that can keep up with the demands of serious use.
My need for a reliable and comfortable sling arose from long days at the range and in the field, where carrying my AR became increasingly cumbersome. I was seeking a solution that would distribute weight evenly, allow for quick adjustments, and not snag on gear. The Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling seemed to tick all the boxes.
Upon unboxing, the sling felt robust, with quality stitching and durable-feeling polymer hardware. The padding was noticeably thicker and more substantial than other slings I’d handled, lending a sense of comfort and quality. The webbing felt strong and had a reassuring texture.
I considered the Viking Tactics VTAC padded sling and the Blue Force Gear Vickers Combat Applications Sling (VCAS) before settling on the Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling. I chose the Magpul due to its simpler design, the reputation for quality, and positive user feedback regarding ease of adjustment. The VTAC felt too bulky, and the VCAS seemed unnecessarily complex for my needs.
My first impression was positive. The Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling felt like a well-made and practical piece of gear. I was eager to get it on my rifle and put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range during a carbine course. The weather was sunny and warm, perfect for spending the day practicing drills. I used the sling on my 16-inch AR-15.
The Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling performed admirably. The rapid adjustment slider allowed for quick transitions between carrying the rifle at the low ready and shouldering it to engage targets. Even with a loaded magazine, the padded section distributed the weight comfortably, minimizing fatigue. I experienced no slipping or snagging during rapid movements and transitions.
There were no immediate issues. However, the length of the sling initially felt a little long for my preferred carrying position, requiring a small amount of adjustment to dial it in.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use in both range and field settings, the Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. I’ve taken it on a few hunting trips in varying weather.
The sling shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The stitching remains intact, and the polymer hardware continues to function flawlessly. The padded section has retained its shape and cushioning, even after being subjected to sweat and dirt. The webbing has not frayed or faded.
Cleaning is straightforward: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. For heavier grime, a mild detergent can be used without damaging the materials. It easily outperforms the cheap nylon sling that came with my rifle, and the padding makes a world of difference during extended carry.
Breaking Down the Features of Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling
Specifications
- The Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling weighs in at 6.4 oz. This keeps the overall rifle weight manageable.
- It has an overall recommended length of 48-60 ± 5 inches. This provides ample adjustment for various body types and carrying preferences.
- The slider offers a 10-inch adjustment range. This enables rapid transitions between tight and loose carry.
- The webbing width is 1.25 inches. This provides a comfortable balance between strength and bulk.
- The pad width is 1.85 inches. This ensures effective weight distribution.
- It is constructed from custom variable-width tubular webbing. This design combines strength and comfort while reducing chafing.
- The sling includes a high-grade, ripstop coated, closed cell foam pad. This provides excellent cushioning and durability.
- The sling’s colored webbing has Near Infrared (NIR) treatment. This reduces the sling’s IR signature for tactical applications.
These specifications directly impact the usability and comfort of the sling. The lightweight design and adjustable length make it suitable for a wide range of users and applications, while the padded section significantly enhances comfort during extended carry. The NIR treatment adds a valuable layer of concealment for tactical scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling excels at its primary job: providing a secure and comfortable way to carry a rifle. The rapid adjustment slider is incredibly intuitive and allows for lightning-fast changes in sling length. The padding effectively distributes weight, reducing fatigue during long days on the range or in the field.
The sling’s strengths lie in its simplicity, durability, and ease of use. However, the adjustment slider can sometimes be a bit stiff, especially when the sling is new. While the padding is excellent, it can also add some bulk, which may not be ideal for users prioritizing a minimalist setup. Overall, the sling meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling features a simple yet effective design. The materials feel high-quality and durable, and the stitching is clean and robust. The sling is lightweight and comfortable to wear, even for extended periods.
The sling is exceptionally user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The rapid adjustment slider is intuitive to use, and the overall design is uncluttered and straightforward. Even inexperienced users should be able to quickly master the sling’s operation.
Durability & Maintenance
The Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling is built to last. The durable webbing, robust polymer hardware, and high-quality stitching suggest that it can withstand years of use and abuse. I anticipate it will outlast cheaper alternatives.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The materials are resistant to water and sweat, further simplifying the cleaning process.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling is designed to be adaptable, and Magpul offers a range of accessories to customize its configuration. These accessories primarily revolve around different sling mounting options, allowing users to tailor the sling to their specific rifle and carrying preferences.
- Magpul offers MS3 Paraclip Adapters. These allow for quick and easy conversion to a single-point sling configuration.
- Magpul also offers QD Sling Swivel Adapters. These provide a more secure and robust attachment point for single-point use.
- The sling is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket sling mounts from other brands. This provides flexibility in attachment options.
Pros and Cons of Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling
Pros
- Rapid and intuitive adjustment: The MS1 slider allows for incredibly fast and easy sling length adjustments, even with one hand.
- Comfortable padding: The integrated padded section effectively distributes weight, reducing fatigue during extended carry.
- Durable construction: High-quality materials and robust stitching ensure long-lasting performance.
- Versatile configuration: The sling can be easily configured for two-point or single-point use with optional adapters.
- Lightweight design: The sling adds minimal weight to the rifle, preserving maneuverability.
Cons
- Adjustment slider can be stiff when new. Requires some break in time.
- Padding adds bulk. It may not be ideal for minimalist setups.
- Sling can be long for shorter users. Requires careful adjustment.
Who Should Buy Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling?
The Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling is perfect for: Tactical shooters, range enthusiasts, hunters, and anyone who needs a comfortable and versatile way to carry their AR-platform rifle. Its adjustability makes it well-suited for users of different sizes and body types, while its durability ensures it can withstand the rigors of regular use.
This product might not be the best choice for: Users prioritizing an ultra-minimalist setup, or those on a very tight budget. While the Magpul sling is reasonably priced, cheaper alternatives are available (albeit with compromises in quality and features).
Must-have accessories or modifications: Depending on the user’s preferences, QD sling swivels or a Paraclip adapter can enhance the sling’s versatility. A quality sling mount matched to the rifle’s configuration is also essential.
Conclusion on Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling
The Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a comfortable, durable, and versatile sling for their AR-platform rifle. Its intuitive adjustability, effective padding, and robust construction make it a standout product in its class. While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, its performance and longevity justify the price.
The value proposition is strong. The Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling provides a noticeable improvement in comfort and usability compared to cheaper alternatives. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone who spends a significant amount of time carrying their rifle.
I would personally recommend it without hesitation. The Magpul Industries AR Rifle MS1 Sling has become an essential piece of my kit, and I’m confident it will serve me well for years to come. Upgrade your rifle-carrying experience today – you won’t regret it.