The Magpul MS3 Gen2 Sling 1.25″ W Adjustable One-Two Point Coyote Nylon Webbing for Rifle Made a Bold First Impression
I’ve been slinging rifles for over a decade, from my time in the service to guiding hunts in the Rockies. A good sling is more than just a strap; it’s an extension of your body, crucial for weapon retention, comfortable carry, and quick deployment. When I first saw the Magpul MS3 Gen2 Sling 1.25″ W Adjustable One-Two Point Coyote Nylon Webbing for Rifle, I was intrigued by its promise of adaptability and ruggedness, qualities Magpul is known for.
I needed a sling that could transition seamlessly between one-point and two-point configurations, allowing for both maximum maneuverability in close quarters and stable carry on long treks. After a particularly grueling elk hunt where my old sling dug into my shoulder for miles, I knew it was time for an upgrade. The MS3 Gen2 promised a comfortable and adaptable system at an accessible price point.
Unboxing the sling, I was immediately impressed with the quality of the nylon webbing. The coyote brown color looked fantastic, and the stitching appeared robust. It felt significantly lighter than my old leather sling, but the materials still exuded durability.
I was considering slings from Blue Force Gear and Viking Tactics, but ultimately the Magpul MS3 Gen2 won out because of its simpler design and the proven reputation of Magpul products. Their innovative use of the Paraclip system seemed like a practical solution for quick transitions. My first impression was overwhelmingly positive; it felt like a well-engineered and thoughtfully designed piece of kit that I was eager to put to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Magpul MS3 Gen2 Sling 1.25″ W Adjustable One-Two Point Coyote Nylon Webbing for Rifle to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial field test took place at a local shooting range during a carbine course. I practiced transitioning between targets and performing various shooting drills, utilizing both the one-point and two-point configurations. The MS3 Gen2 allowed for quick and effortless transitions between the two, proving its versatility in a dynamic environment.
The weather was mildly dusty, and I experienced no issues with the sling’s functionality. The adjustment slider worked smoothly, even with gloves on, and the Paraclips locked securely onto my rifle’s sling mounts. I did have to spend a few minutes adjusting the sling length to find the optimal fit for my body and shooting style.
The only surprise I encountered was the initial stiffness of the nylon webbing. It took a bit of maneuvering to get it to lie flat against my body, but after a few hours of use, it began to conform more comfortably.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Magpul MS3 Gen2 Sling 1.25″ W Adjustable One-Two Point Coyote Nylon Webbing for Rifle has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. I’ve used it on numerous range trips, hunting excursions, and even a weekend-long tactical training course.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear; the stitching remains intact, and the Paraclips are still functioning perfectly. A few minor scuffs are visible on the nylon webbing, but that’s to be expected with regular use in the field. Cleaning the sling is simple; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use to remove any dirt or grime.
Compared to my old leather sling, the MS3 Gen2 is far superior in terms of comfort, adjustability, and versatility. It distributes the weight of the rifle evenly across my body and allows for a wider range of motion when shooting or maneuvering in tight spaces. The ability to quickly transition between one-point and two-point configurations is a game-changer in dynamic shooting scenarios.
Breaking Down the Features of Magpul MS3 Gen2 Sling 1.25″ W Adjustable One-Two Point Coyote Nylon Webbing for Rifle
Specifications
The Magpul MS3 Gen2 Sling 1.25″ W Adjustable One-Two Point Coyote Nylon Webbing for Rifle is designed to offer maximum versatility in a lightweight and durable package. It’s made in the USA, which is a significant selling point for me. The sling is constructed from high-strength 1.25-inch wide nylon webbing, which is both comfortable and resistant to abrasion.
The MS3 Gen2 incorporates symmetrical Paraclip shackles made from steel, case hardened, and finished with a ferritic nitrocarburizing process for extreme resistance to wear and corrosion. This ensures reliable weapon quick-release capabilities. The sling features a low-profile quick-adjust slider, allowing for single-hand adjustments to sling length. The cross-bolt lock bar in each Paraclip provides extra security by optionally locking the lever closed.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the sling’s performance, durability, and ease of use. The nylon webbing provides a comfortable and secure carry, while the steel Paraclips ensure reliable attachment and quick release. The adjustability allows for a customized fit, regardless of body size or clothing.
Performance & Functionality
The Magpul MS3 Gen2 Sling 1.25″ W Adjustable One-Two Point Coyote Nylon Webbing for Rifle performs its job exceptionally well. Its primary strength lies in its versatility. The ability to seamlessly transition between one-point and two-point configurations allows the user to adapt to different shooting situations.
The quick-adjust slider works smoothly, allowing for on-the-fly adjustments to sling length. The Paraclips attach securely to sling mounts and provide a reliable quick-release mechanism. One potential weakness is that the Paraclips might not be compatible with all sling attachment points; users should ensure their rifle has appropriate mounting hardware.
Overall, the MS3 Gen2 exceeds my expectations for a sling in this price range. It provides a comfortable, secure, and adaptable platform for carrying and deploying a rifle.
Design & Ergonomics
The Magpul MS3 Gen2 Sling 1.25″ W Adjustable One-Two Point Coyote Nylon Webbing for Rifle features a simple yet effective design. The use of high-quality nylon webbing and steel hardware ensures durability and reliability. The sling is lightweight and comfortable to wear, even for extended periods.
The low-profile quick-adjust slider is easy to use, even with gloves on, and the Paraclips are ergonomically designed for easy manipulation. There’s a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the sling to the optimal length and understanding the different configurations, but once mastered, it becomes second nature. The build quality is excellent, and the materials used feel durable and long-lasting.
Durability & Maintenance
The Magpul MS3 Gen2 Sling 1.25″ W Adjustable One-Two Point Coyote Nylon Webbing for Rifle is built to last. The high-strength nylon webbing and steel hardware are resistant to wear and tear, and the ferritic nitrocarburizing finish on the Paraclips provides excellent corrosion resistance.
Maintenance is simple; just wipe down the sling with a damp cloth after each use to remove any dirt or grime. I anticipate that this sling will last for many years of regular use with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Magpul MS3 Gen2 Sling 1.25″ W Adjustable One-Two Point Coyote Nylon Webbing for Rifle doesn’t come with many accessories, but its design is highly adaptable. It’s compatible with a wide range of sling attachment points, including snap-hook style sling loops and standard or QD sling swivels.
Magpul offers a variety of accessories that can be used with the MS3 Gen2, such as the ASAP (Ambidextrous Sling Attachment Point) for optimal shoulder transitioning in one-point mode, and the RSA (Rail Sling Attachment) or MSA (MOE Sling Attachment) for front mounting in two-point mode. This allows users to customize their sling configuration to meet their specific needs. The sling is also compatible with many third-party sling attachment points, offering even greater flexibility.
Pros and Cons of Magpul MS3 Gen2 Sling 1.25″ W Adjustable One-Two Point Coyote Nylon Webbing for Rifle
Pros
- Versatile one-point and two-point configuration allows for adaptability in various shooting scenarios.
- Durable nylon webbing and steel hardware ensure long-lasting performance.
- Easy to adjust with a single-hand quick-adjust slider.
- Secure Paraclip attachment system provides reliable weapon retention and quick release.
- Made in the USA offers quality assurance.
Cons
- Paraclips may not be compatible with all sling attachment points.
- Nylon webbing can be initially stiff.
Who Should Buy Magpul MS3 Gen2 Sling 1.25″ W Adjustable One-Two Point Coyote Nylon Webbing for Rifle?
The Magpul MS3 Gen2 Sling 1.25″ W Adjustable One-Two Point Coyote Nylon Webbing for Rifle is perfect for tactical shooters, law enforcement professionals, and anyone who needs a versatile and durable sling for their rifle. It’s also a great option for hunters who want a comfortable and adjustable sling for carrying their rifle in the field.
Those who prefer a more traditional sling design or require specific features not offered by the MS3 Gen2 (such as integrated padding) should skip this product. A must-have accessory is a compatible sling attachment point, such as the Magpul ASAP or RSA, depending on your desired configuration.
Conclusion on Magpul MS3 Gen2 Sling 1.25″ W Adjustable One-Two Point Coyote Nylon Webbing for Rifle
The Magpul MS3 Gen2 Sling 1.25″ W Adjustable One-Two Point Coyote Nylon Webbing for Rifle is a well-designed and versatile sling that offers excellent value for the price. For under $40, you get a durable, adaptable, and comfortable sling that will serve you well in a variety of shooting scenarios.
The price is definitely justified. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and adaptable sling. Upgrade your rifle today with the Magpul MS3 Gen2 and experience the difference a quality sling can make!