First Impressions of Magpul MAG1312-BLK MS1 Lite Sling Black Nylon 48″- 60″ OAL Rifle
The Magpul MAG1312-BLK MS1 Lite Sling Black Nylon 48″- 60″ OAL Rifle is a streamlined, lightweight sling designed for those who value simplicity and functionality. Magpul is well-known for its durable and practical firearm accessories, and this sling promises to be no exception. It’s a single-ply nylon sling that prioritizes reducing bulk and preventing snags.
I was looking for a less cumbersome sling option for my lightweight AR build. The standard two-point slings I was using felt bulky and often got in the way when transitioning between shooting positions. I needed something that would stay out of the way, yet be readily available when needed, hence I’m testing the Magpul MAG1312-BLK MS1 Lite Sling.
Upon unboxing, the sling felt noticeably lighter and more flexible than my existing slings. The 1″ nylon webbing felt sturdy despite its thin profile. The Magpul polymer hardware seemed robust, and the overall build quality appeared to be excellent.
I considered the Blue Force Gear Vickers Combat Applications Sling and the VTAC Wide Padded Sling, but opted for the Magpul MS1 Lite because of its minimalist design and lower price point. I wanted something simple and effective, without unnecessary padding or features. I was also attracted by Magpul‘s reputation for quality and durability.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for a lighter, less bulky sling, but also a little concerned about comfort during extended use. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it could live up to Magpul‘s reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Magpul MAG1312-BLK MS1 Lite Sling Black Nylon 48″- 60″ OAL Rifle to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Magpul MAG1312-BLK MS1 Lite Sling at an outdoor shooting range during a three-gun match. The weather was mild, with clear skies and a slight breeze. I ran several drills, including transitions between rifle and pistol, and practiced shooting from various positions, such as standing, kneeling, and prone.
The sling performed well in these conditions. It stayed out of the way during transitions and didn’t snag on my gear. Adjusting the length was easy and quick, allowing me to adapt to different shooting positions on the fly.
One minor issue I noticed was that the thin webbing could dig into my shoulder a bit when carrying the rifle for extended periods. This was particularly noticeable when wearing a light t-shirt. However, it wasn’t unbearable and was easily mitigated by adjusting the sling or wearing a thicker shirt.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Magpul MAG1312-BLK MS1 Lite Sling has held up admirably. I’ve used it on several range trips, a weekend hunting trip, and even for some dry-fire practice at home. The sling shows no signs of significant wear and tear.
The nylon webbing remains strong and flexible. The polymer hardware is still in excellent condition. The sling has been exposed to dirt, dust, and even a bit of rain, but it has cleaned up easily with a damp cloth.
Compared to some of the bulkier, more heavily padded slings I’ve used in the past, the Magpul MS1 Lite has proven to be a significant improvement in terms of comfort and maneuverability. It’s not the most comfortable sling for extended carry, but its lightweight design and ease of use make it a winner in my book. It definitely outperforms my expectations given its minimalist design.
Breaking Down the Features of Magpul MAG1312-BLK MS1 Lite Sling Black Nylon 48″- 60″ OAL Rifle
Specifications
The Magpul MAG1312-BLK MS1 Lite Sling has an overall length of 48″- 60″. This length is adjustable to fit a wide range of body types and shooting styles.
The sling’s width is a slim 1 inch. This reduced width contributes to the sling’s lightweight and snag-free design.
The sling is constructed from durable black nylon webbing. This high-strength nylon resists wear and tear while remaining flexible and comfortable.
The condition of the product is new. It arrives in pristine condition, ready for immediate use.
The sling’s finish is black. This neutral color blends well with most firearms and tactical gear.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the sling’s functionality and user experience. The adjustable length ensures a comfortable fit, while the narrow width reduces bulk and the durable nylon construction ensures long-lasting performance. The minimalist design prioritizes practicality and ease of use.
Performance & Functionality
The Magpul MAG1312-BLK MS1 Lite Sling excels at its primary job: securely carrying a rifle while keeping it readily accessible. The sling allows for comfortable and efficient transitions between shooting positions. Adjusting the sling length is quick and easy, even with gloves on.
The sling’s main strength lies in its simplicity and lightweight design. It stays out of the way when not in use, preventing snags and allowing for unrestricted movement. However, the lack of padding can be a weakness for those who frequently carry heavy rifles for extended periods.
Overall, the Magpul MS1 Lite meets expectations for a minimalist sling. It’s not the most comfortable option for all-day carry, but its lightweight design and ease of use make it ideal for dynamic shooting scenarios. It exceeds expectations in terms of its streamlined profile and snag-free design.
Design & Ergonomics
The Magpul MS1 Lite Sling features a simple, functional design. The 1″ nylon webbing is lightweight and flexible, conforming to the body without feeling bulky. The Magpul polymer hardware is robust and well-designed.
The sling is very user-friendly. There’s virtually no learning curve. Adjusting the length is intuitive, and the sling is easy to attach to most firearms.
Durability & Maintenance
The Magpul MAG1312-BLK MS1 Lite Sling is built to last. The high-strength nylon webbing resists wear and tear, and the Magpul polymer hardware is extremely durable. With proper care, this sling should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. The sling can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent. The nylon webbing resists stains and dries quickly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Magpul MAG1312-BLK MS1 Lite Sling is a minimalist design and doesn’t include any additional accessories in the box.
While the sling itself isn’t highly customizable, it is compatible with a variety of aftermarket sling attachment options, such as QD swivels and various types of mounting hardware. This allows users to tailor the sling to their specific firearm and shooting style. This compatibility is a great benefit for those who want to fine-tune their setup.
Pros and Cons of Magpul MAG1312-BLK MS1 Lite Sling Black Nylon 48″- 60″ OAL Rifle
Pros
- Lightweight and minimalist design.
- Durable nylon webbing and Magpul polymer hardware.
- Easy to adjust and use.
- Snag-free design.
- Affordable price.
Cons
- Lack of padding can be uncomfortable for extended carry with heavy rifles.
- Minimal customization options included (relies on aftermarket).
Who Should Buy Magpul MAG1312-BLK MS1 Lite Sling Black Nylon 48″- 60″ OAL Rifle?
The Magpul MAG1312-BLK MS1 Lite Sling is perfect for shooters who prioritize lightweight design, ease of use, and affordability. It’s ideal for three-gun competitors, recreational shooters, and anyone who wants a simple, reliable sling for their rifle. This sling is also a great choice for those who want to minimize bulk and weight on their firearm.
Those who frequently carry heavy rifles for extended periods or require maximum comfort should consider a more heavily padded sling option. If you need built-in QD attachment points, this minimalist sling may not be the best choice.
A must-have accessory is a set of QD sling swivels or other compatible attachment hardware to connect the sling to your firearm. Consider aftermarket padding options if you anticipate carrying heavy loads for long durations.
Conclusion on Magpul MAG1312-BLK MS1 Lite Sling Black Nylon 48″- 60″ OAL Rifle
The Magpul MAG1312-BLK MS1 Lite Sling Black Nylon 48″- 60″ OAL Rifle is a well-designed, affordable sling that delivers on its promise of lightweight simplicity. It may not be the most comfortable sling for all-day carry, but its ease of use, snag-free design, and durable construction make it a great value. For its intended purpose, the MS1 Lite delivers.
The price is definitely justified. At around $36, you get a high-quality Magpul product that will likely last for years.
I would definitely recommend this sling to anyone looking for a minimalist, reliable, and affordable option. If you’re tired of bulky, cumbersome slings getting in your way, give the Magpul MS1 Lite a try. You might be surprised at how much you like it. Ditch the bulk, embrace the Lite!