First Thoughts on the Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo
The Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo promises a hands-free firearm carry solution. Offered by Outdoor Connection, its core feature is a sling designed to integrate with a backpack. This immediately addresses a need I and many other outdoorsmen face: safely and comfortably carrying a rifle or shotgun while keeping hands free for other tasks.
I’ve spent years juggling a rifle with a standard sling while hiking and hunting, a scenario that often ends in frustration and fatigue. My main goal was to find a hands-free system that didn’t restrict movement. Upon receiving the Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo, I noted the surprisingly light weight and relatively simple design.
Compared to dedicated gun-carrying backpacks or chest rigs, this seemed like a minimalist approach, and that intrigued me. I’ve also used standalone rifle slings and chest harnesses, finding them either too cumbersome or lacking integration with other gear. The Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo seemed to offer a middle ground.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; the materials appeared decent, and the Realtree APG camo pattern looked effective. At a price point of $21.49, my expectations were tempered. I was eager to see if it could deliver on its promise of convenient, hands-free firearm carry.
Real-World Testing: Putting Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo on a day-long upland bird hunt in rolling hills and dense brush. The terrain demanded constant adjustments and occasional scrambling. The Talon swivels seemed secure initially.
The weather was dry but cool, with temperatures hovering around 40 degrees Fahrenheit. I attached my 12-gauge shotgun to the sling and integrated it with my existing hunting backpack. The hands-free carry was a welcome relief.
However, after a few hours, I noticed the rubber material of the sling started to rub against my back uncomfortably. Also, the attachment points on my backpack felt strained, making me question their long-term durability. The lack of padding on the sling became apparent.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of intermittent use, primarily on shorter hikes and range trips, the Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo showed some signs of wear. The rubber material showed some surface cracking. The stitching around the swivel attachment points showed slight fraying.
Cleaning was simple, requiring only a damp cloth to remove dirt and mud. However, the rubber material retained odors from bug spray and other outdoor chemicals. Compared to my previous experiences with dedicated gun-carrying backpacks, the Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo felt like a compromise in both comfort and durability. It offers a solution, but perhaps not the best solution for frequent or demanding use.
Breaking Down the Features of Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo
Specifications
The Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo features the following specifications:
- Type: Backpack Sling
- Swivel Size: Included Talon Swivels
- Length: 21″ Spreader
- Width: 2″
- Color: Realtree APG
- Material: Rubber
These specifications matter because they dictate the sling’s compatibility with different firearms and backpacks. The 21-inch spreader determines the range of motion and the overall comfort of the carry. The rubber material affects both the sling’s durability and its grip on the firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo performs adequately in its primary function: providing hands-free firearm carry. However, the lack of padding and the somewhat flimsy construction limit its overall effectiveness. The Talon swivels do their job in allowing for quick shouldering of the firearm.
The biggest weakness is comfort, especially during extended use or with heavier firearms. It meets basic expectations for occasional use but falls short for serious backcountry hunting or tactical applications.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo is simple and straightforward. The Realtree APG camo pattern is effective for blending into natural environments. The rubber material provides a non-slip surface for the firearm.
The build quality, however, is questionable, and the lack of padding makes it uncomfortable to use for long periods. There is no real learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo is a significant concern. The rubber material is prone to cracking and wear, and the stitching at the attachment points seems weak. Maintenance is easy, but the materials used are not particularly robust.
I doubt this sling would last more than a few seasons of regular use, especially in harsh conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo comes with the Talon Swivels necessary for attaching it to a firearm. There are no other included accessories. Customization options are limited, as the sling is designed to integrate with existing backpacks.
You could potentially replace the Talon Swivels with higher-quality alternatives. However, the inherent limitations of the rubber material and the basic design remain.
Pros and Cons of Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo
Pros
- Budget-friendly: The low price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Hands-free carry: Allows for convenient and safe firearm transport.
- Easy to install: Simple design ensures quick and easy integration with most backpacks.
- Talon Swivels: Included swivels provide secure and reliable firearm attachment.
- Lightweight: Does not add significant weight to your overall gear load.
Cons
- Uncomfortable: Lack of padding leads to discomfort during extended use.
- Poor Durability: Rubber material is prone to cracking and wear.
- Questionable Build Quality: Stitching at attachment points seems weak and prone to fraying.
Who Should Buy Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo?
The Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo is perfect for casual hunters or recreational shooters who need a basic, budget-friendly hands-free carry solution. It’s suitable for short hikes or range trips where comfort and durability are not paramount. Those who need a low cost solution will benefit most.
Those who should skip this product include serious backcountry hunters, tactical users, or anyone who requires a durable and comfortable firearm carrying system for extended periods.
Must-have accessories or modifications include adding padding to the sling. Replacing the Talon Swivels with higher-quality options is also recommended.
Conclusion on Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo
The Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo offers a budget-friendly solution for hands-free firearm carry. However, its limitations in comfort and durability make it a less compelling option for serious users. At a price of $21.49, it’s hard to expect premium quality.
The value proposition is debatable; while the price is low, the long-term cost of replacing a worn-out sling might outweigh the initial savings. I would cautiously recommend it to those on a tight budget who only need a basic, occasional-use solution.
Ultimately, the Outdoor Connection Backpack Black Swivel Camo is a compromise. For those seeking serious performance and durability, investing in a higher-quality, dedicated gun-carrying backpack or chest rig is a better long-term strategy. It’s a starting point, but not the final destination.