October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black Review

The October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black Made a Bold First Impression

The October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black immediately caught my eye with its promise of universal compatibility and practical features. As someone who juggles both firearms and crossbows during different hunting seasons, the idea of a single sling that could handle both was incredibly appealing. My trusty old sling was showing its age, and I needed a replacement that offered more versatility without breaking the bank.

I was specifically looking for a sling that was comfortable enough for extended carry, could securely hold my equipment, and wouldn’t slip off my shoulder during stalks. The October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black, with its advertised slip-proof shoulder pad and heavy-duty strap, seemed to tick all the right boxes.

Unboxing the sling, my first impression was positive. The materials felt durable, and the construction seemed solid for a sling in this price range. The QD swivel connectors looked robust and ready to attach to my gear, and the accessory/ammo holders were a welcome bonus.

I considered other slings like the Allen Company Vanish Camo Rifle Sling and the Butler Creek Easy Rider Sling, but the October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black won out due to its universal design and additional features at a comparable price. While others specialized in either firearms or crossbows, the Xcursion appeared to be a true hybrid.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. It looked promising, but the true test would be in the field. I was eager to see if it could live up to its claims of comfort, security, and versatility.

Real-World Testing: Putting October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black on a weekend archery hunt in the rugged hills of Pennsylvania. Attaching it to my crossbow was a breeze thanks to the QD swivel connectors. The fit felt secure right away.

The weather was damp, with a light drizzle persisting throughout the morning. I appreciated the slip-proof shoulder pad as I navigated the steep terrain; it stayed firmly in place even with my heavy hunting jacket. I found the sling relatively easy to adjust, allowing me to fine-tune the length for optimal comfort.

My initial impression was that the sling was surprisingly comfortable for its price point. However, the accessory/ammo holders felt a bit flimsy, and I wasn’t sure how well they would hold up over time. After several hours of hiking, the heavy-duty strap felt comfortable and sturdy.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black has proven to be a reliable companion on both hunting trips and range visits. While the accessory/ammo holders haven’t fallen apart, they are definitely the weakest point of the design, and I’ve opted to use them sparingly.

The sling has held up remarkably well to wear and tear, showing only minor signs of use despite being exposed to mud, rain, and the occasional brush with thorny bushes. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a damp cloth.

Compared to my previous sling, which was a simple nylon strap, the October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black is a significant upgrade in terms of comfort and functionality. It’s not the highest-end sling on the market, but it offers excellent value for its price.

Breaking Down the Features of October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black

Specifications

The October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black is designed to be compatible with both crossbows and firearms, making it a versatile accessory for hunters and shooters. It features a fully adjustable design to accommodate different body sizes and preferences.

• QD Sling Swivel Connectors: These allow for quick and easy attachment and detachment of the sling to your weapon.
• Accessory/Ammo Holders: These provide convenient storage for small items like extra bolts or cartridges.
• Comfortable Slip-Proof Shoulder Pad: This ensures a secure and comfortable fit, even during extended use.
• Heavy Duty Strap: This provides increased strength and durability.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the user’s comfort, convenience, and the overall lifespan of the sling. The QD swivels make it easy to swap the sling between different weapons, while the slip-proof pad prevents shoulder fatigue.

Performance & Functionality

The October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black performs its job admirably, providing a secure and comfortable way to carry both crossbows and firearms. It excels in terms of usability and comfort, especially considering its price.

Its biggest strength is its versatility, allowing it to be used with a wide range of weapons. The accessory holders, while convenient, could be made from a more durable material.

The sling meets my expectations for a budget-friendly option. It’s not perfect, but it gets the job done without any major issues.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black is straightforward and functional. The materials used appear to be durable, and the construction feels solid.

The sling is relatively lightweight and comfortable to wear, even for extended periods. The adjustable strap allows for a customized fit. There’s no significant learning curve, making it easy to use right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black should last for several seasons with proper care. The heavy-duty strap shows no signs of fraying or weakening, and the stitching appears to be well-done.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The sling is not designed to be easily repaired, but the robust construction should minimize the need for repairs.

Accessories and Customization Options

The October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black comes with QD sling swivel connectors and accessory/ammo holders. There aren’t many official customization options offered by October Mountain.

However, the universal design allows it to be used with a wide variety of firearms and crossbows. You can easily add aftermarket sling swivels or adjust the length to your preference.

Pros and Cons of October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black

Who Should Buy October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black?

The October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black is perfect for hunters and recreational shooters who own both firearms and crossbows and are looking for a versatile and affordable sling. It’s also a good option for anyone who needs a comfortable and reliable sling for extended carry.

Those seeking a premium sling with high-end materials and advanced features should skip this product. The accessory holders might not be robust enough for users who need to carry a significant amount of gear.

A good set of high-quality QD sling swivels could enhance the sling’s durability and performance.

Conclusion on October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black

Overall, the October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black is a solid and versatile sling that offers excellent value for its price. It’s not the fanciest or most durable sling on the market, but it gets the job done reliably and comfortably.

The price of $24.99 is definitely justified, considering its universal compatibility and useful features. For anyone on a budget who needs a sling that can handle both firearms and crossbows, this is an excellent option.

I would personally recommend the October Mountain Xcursion Universal Sling Black to anyone looking for a budget-friendly and versatile sling. It’s a great entry-level option that will serve you well in the field. If you’re tired of swapping slings between your rifle and crossbow, give this one a try.