The Outdoor Connection Express Sling 1″ W x 46″ L Adjustable Coyote Brown w/Black Strap Paracord for Rifle/Shotgun Made a Bold First Impression
The Outdoor Connection Express Sling 1″ W x 46″ L Adjustable Coyote Brown w/Black Strap Paracord for Rifle/Shotgun isn’t just another sling; it promises practical functionality wrapped in a durable and somewhat stylish package. The Outdoor Connection brand has a reputation for providing affordable, no-nonsense gear, and this sling seemed to fit that bill perfectly. As someone who spends a significant amount of time in the field, often with a rifle or shotgun in tow, I’m always looking for ways to improve comfort and weapon handling.
I needed a sling that could be quickly adjusted for different shooting positions and carrying styles. My old sling, a basic nylon strap, was uncomfortable and lacked any real adjustability beyond its overall length. I was also drawn to the paracord wrapping, hoping it would provide a more comfortable and secure grip, while also offering some emergency utility should the need arise.
Upon unboxing, the sling felt surprisingly substantial for its price point. The coyote brown paracord wrapping contrasted nicely with the black strap, giving it a tactical yet understated look. It felt well-constructed, although the swivels seemed a bit basic compared to higher-end options I’ve used in the past. I considered the Magpul MS1 sling and the Viking Tactics VTAC sling, both excellent choices, but significantly more expensive. This Outdoor Connection sling offered a potentially similar level of utility at a fraction of the cost, making it worth exploring.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The design was appealing, and the build quality appeared decent. I was eager to put it to the test in real-world scenarios and see if it could live up to my expectations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Outdoor Connection Express Sling 1″ W x 46″ L Adjustable Coyote Brown w/Black Strap Paracord for Rifle/Shotgun to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place at a local shooting range during a practice session with my AR-15. The weather was mild, and I was primarily focused on practicing transitions between targets and different shooting positions. I immediately appreciated the ease of adjusting the sling length using the tri-glide. This allowed me to quickly switch from a tight, secure carry to a looser position for greater freedom of movement while engaging targets.
The paracord wrap provided a surprisingly comfortable surface against my shoulder, even during extended periods of carrying the rifle. I did find that the Brute EZ-Detachable swivels were a bit stiff at first and required some breaking in before they functioned smoothly. There weren’t any major issues during this first outing; the sling performed as expected, making weapon handling significantly easier than with my previous, less adjustable sling.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including a weekend hunting trip and numerous range sessions, the Outdoor Connection Express Sling has held up reasonably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the webbing or paracord. The swivels have loosened up with use and now detach and reattach smoothly.
Cleaning the sling is fairly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Compared to my previous nylon sling, the paracord wrap seems to resist absorbing sweat and odors, a definite plus during hot weather. While it doesn’t offer the same level of ruggedness as some of the more expensive slings I’ve used, it has proven to be a reliable and functional piece of gear for its price.
Breaking Down the Features of Outdoor Connection Express Sling 1″ W x 46″ L Adjustable Coyote Brown w/Black Strap Paracord for Rifle/Shotgun
Specifications
The Outdoor Connection Express Sling 1″ W x 46″ L Adjustable Coyote Brown w/Black Strap Paracord for Rifle/Shotgun features a 1-inch wide nylon webbing with a maximum length of 46 inches. This length is generally suitable for most adults. It is wrapped in coyote brown paracord, which offers enhanced grip and a more comfortable carry.
The sling utilizes a tri-glide adjustment system for quick and easy length modification. It also features Brute EZ-Detachable swivels, allowing for rapid attachment and detachment from your rifle or shotgun. The sling is designed for universal compatibility with most rifles and shotguns equipped with swivel studs.
Performance & Functionality
The Outdoor Connection Express Sling performs its primary function effectively, providing a secure and comfortable means of carrying a rifle or shotgun. The ability to quickly adjust the sling length is a major advantage, allowing for seamless transitions between different carry styles and shooting positions. The paracord wrap enhances comfort and provides a more secure grip, even in wet conditions.
The primary weakness lies in the quality of the Brute EZ-Detachable swivels. While functional, they feel less robust than higher-end swivels and may be more prone to wear and tear over time. Overall, the sling meets expectations for its price point, offering a good balance of functionality and affordability.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Outdoor Connection Express Sling is simple and functional, prioritizing ease of use and comfort. The coyote brown paracord wrap provides a visually appealing and tactilely pleasant surface. At the same time, the black nylon webbing provides a sturdy base.
The sling is lightweight and comfortable to wear, even for extended periods. There is no significant learning curve; the adjustment system is intuitive and easy to operate.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the Outdoor Connection Express Sling appears to be adequate for most users. The nylon webbing is reasonably tough, and the paracord wrap adds an extra layer of protection. However, the swivels are the weakest point and may require replacement over time with heavy use.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The sling is not designed to be easily repaired, so any significant damage may necessitate replacement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Outdoor Connection Express Sling comes with everything needed for basic use, including the sling itself and the Brute EZ-Detachable swivels. There are no additional accessories included. Customization options are limited, although it may be possible to replace the swivels with higher-quality aftermarket versions.
The sling is compatible with most rifles and shotguns equipped with standard swivel studs. Some users may choose to add sling keepers or other accessories to further customize the sling to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Outdoor Connection Express Sling 1″ W x 46″ L Adjustable Coyote Brown w/Black Strap Paracord for Rifle/Shotgun
Pros
- Very affordable price point.
- Quick and easy length adjustment with the tri-glide system.
- Comfortable coyote brown paracord wrap.
- Universal compatibility with most rifles and shotguns.
- Provides emergency paracord resource.
Cons
- Brute EZ-Detachable swivels feel less durable than higher-end options.
- Limited customization options.
- Paracord, while comfortable, can get dirty easily and requires cleaning.
Who Should Buy Outdoor Connection Express Sling 1″ W x 46″ L Adjustable Coyote Brown w/Black Strap Paracord for Rifle/Shotgun?
The Outdoor Connection Express Sling is perfect for budget-conscious hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone looking for a simple, functional sling for their rifle or shotgun. It is also a good choice for those who appreciate the added grip and potential emergency utility of the paracord wrap. This sling would be a solid choice for those new to shooting sports.
Those who should skip this product include individuals who require extreme durability, those who demand high-end components, or those who need extensive customization options. If you are regularly using your firearm in extreme conditions, a more robust sling with higher-quality hardware might be a better investment.
A must-have modification would be to replace the Brute EZ-Detachable swivels with higher-quality alternatives for increased durability and reliability.
Conclusion on Outdoor Connection Express Sling 1″ W x 46″ L Adjustable Coyote Brown w/Black Strap Paracord for Rifle/Shotgun
The Outdoor Connection Express Sling 1″ W x 46″ L Adjustable Coyote Brown w/Black Strap Paracord for Rifle/Shotgun is a solid, budget-friendly option for those seeking a functional and comfortable rifle sling. While it may not offer the same level of durability or customization as more expensive slings, it provides excellent value for the money. The quick adjustability, comfortable paracord wrap, and universal compatibility make it a practical choice for a wide range of users.
The price is definitely justified, especially considering the features and functionality offered. For $16.99, it’s hard to find a sling that provides as much value.
I would personally recommend the Outdoor Connection Express Sling to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable sling for their rifle or shotgun. It’s a great option for recreational shooters, hunters on a budget, or anyone who simply wants a more comfortable and functional way to carry their firearm. Upgrade those swivels, and you’ve got yourself a fantastic sling at a steal of a price! Give it a try – you might be surprised at how much you like it.