Outdoor Connection Express 2 Brute Swivel Size Advantage Max-4 Review

First Thoughts on the Outdoor Connection Express 2 Brute Swivel Size Advantage Max-4

The Outdoor Connection Express 2 Brute Swivel Size Advantage Max-4 is a no-frills sling designed for hunters and shooters who need a reliable and affordable way to carry their firearm. Outdoor Connection has a reputation for providing functional gear at a budget-friendly price point, and this sling seems to follow that tradition. It promises a durable nylon construction, robust swivels, and a camouflage pattern designed to blend seamlessly into a variety of hunting environments.

I needed a new sling for my trusty deer rifle; the old one was frayed and the swivels were starting to rust. I wasn’t looking for anything fancy, just something that would securely hold my rifle and be comfortable enough for long days in the woods. The Outdoor Connection Express 2 Brute Swivel Size Advantage Max-4 fit the bill in terms of price and apparent durability, at least on paper.

Upon unboxing (or rather, removing it from the simple plastic packaging), my initial impression was that it’s a straightforward, no-nonsense sling. The nylon webbing feels adequately strong, and the Brute Swivels appear to be reasonably well-made. The Advantage Max-4 camo pattern looks decent enough, though the stitching isn’t the cleanest I’ve ever seen.

I considered a few other slings in this price range, notably some generic nylon slings and a couple of offerings from Allen Company. I ultimately chose the Outdoor Connection Express 2 Brute Swivel Size Advantage Max-4 because the advertised Brute Swivels seemed more substantial than the swivels on the other options. Plus, I liked the Advantage Max-4 camo, even if it’s just a simple printed pattern.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It’s certainly not a premium sling, but for the price, it seems like it could be a decent value. I was eager to get it out in the field and see how it performs.

Real-World Testing: Putting Outdoor Connection Express 2 Brute Swivel Size Advantage Max-4 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Outdoor Connection Express 2 Brute Swivel Size Advantage Max-4 during a weekend deer hunting trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was relatively mild, but there was some light rain and mud. I attached the sling to my Remington 700 and spent several hours hiking through the woods.

The sling performed adequately during the initial outing. The rifle felt secure, and the sling didn’t slip or slide on my shoulder. The length was easily adjustable, and the Brute Swivels didn’t make any annoying squeaking noises while walking.

However, I did notice that the nylon webbing felt a bit stiff and abrasive against my neck after a few hours of carrying the rifle. Also, the Advantage Max-4 camo seemed to wear off slightly in areas where it rubbed against my jacket. These weren’t major issues, but they were noticeable.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use during various hunting trips and range sessions, the Outdoor Connection Express 2 Brute Swivel Size Advantage Max-4 has held up reasonably well. There are no major signs of wear and tear, although the camo pattern has faded slightly in high-friction areas. The stitching is still intact, and the swivels are still functioning smoothly.

The sling has proven to be durable enough for typical hunting conditions. I’ve used it in rain, snow, and mud, and it hasn’t shown any signs of degradation. Cleaning is easy; I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth.

Compared to my previous sling (a cheap, generic nylon sling), the Outdoor Connection Express 2 Brute Swivel Size Advantage Max-4 is a definite improvement. It’s more comfortable, more durable, and the swivels are much more reliable. However, it’s not as comfortable or feature-rich as some of the higher-end slings I’ve used in the past.

Breaking Down the Features of Outdoor Connection Express 2 Brute Swivel Size Advantage Max-4

Specifications

• Type: Sling. It serves the basic function of carrying a firearm.

• Swivel Size: Brute Swivel. This indicates the swivel’s supposed robust construction.

• Length: 56″. This length accommodates most users and firearms.

• Width: 1.25″. A standard width providing adequate support without being bulky.

• Color: Advantage Max-4. A camouflage pattern suitable for various hunting environments.

• Material: Nylon. A durable and water-resistant synthetic material.

These specifications are important because they dictate the sling’s suitability for different uses. The Brute Swivels provide a secure attachment to the firearm, while the nylon construction ensures durability in harsh conditions. The camouflage pattern helps to conceal the firearm from game animals.

Performance & Functionality

The Outdoor Connection Express 2 Brute Swivel Size Advantage Max-4 performs its primary function of carrying a firearm reliably. The rifle feels secure and doesn’t shift or slide excessively. The sling is easy to adjust, allowing for comfortable carry in various positions.

The main strength of this sling is its simplicity and reliability. It’s a basic, no-frills design that just works. The main weakness is the lack of padding or other comfort features. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly sling.

Design & Ergonomics

The sling’s design is straightforward and functional. The nylon webbing is adequately strong, and the Brute Swivels are reasonably well-made. However, the sling lacks any ergonomic features, such as padding or contoured shaping.

The sling is relatively user-friendly. Attaching it to the firearm is simple, and adjusting the length is easy. However, the stiffness of the nylon webbing can make it slightly uncomfortable to wear for extended periods.

Durability & Maintenance

The Outdoor Connection Express 2 Brute Swivel Size Advantage Max-4 appears to be reasonably durable. The nylon webbing is resistant to abrasion and tearing, and the swivels are made of metal. With proper care, it should last for several years of regular use.

Maintaining the sling is simple. It can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent. The swivels may require occasional lubrication to prevent rust.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Outdoor Connection Express 2 Brute Swivel Size Advantage Max-4 doesn’t come with any accessories. There are no readily available customization options specific to this model.

The sling is compatible with any firearm that has standard sling swivels. It can be used with a variety of aftermarket swivel studs or adapters to fit different firearm platforms. You could technically add a shoulder pad, but at this price point, it’s likely not worth the effort.

Pros and Cons of Outdoor Connection Express 2 Brute Swivel Size Advantage Max-4