The Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad Made a Bold First Impression
After years of wrestling with inferior slings that slipped, bounced, and generally made carrying a rifle a chore, I was ready for a change. The Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad promised a solution to all my sling-related woes, and the price point was certainly appealing. I’ve seen far too many hunters struggle with their rifles because of a poor sling.
My main issue was finding a sling that would actually stay put on my shoulder during long treks in the backcountry. Neoprene slings, while comfortable, tend to bounce and shift too much for my liking. I’d heard good things about Quake Industries and their innovative non-slip pad, so I decided to give it a try. Opening the package, I was immediately impressed by the simplicity and ruggedness of the design. The sling felt solid, and the non-slip pad had a reassuringly tactile grip.
Compared to other budget slings I’ve used, like the generic nylon offerings, the Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad immediately felt like a step up in quality. The Magpul MS4 is a versatile sling, but its price can be prohibitive for some. Cheaper slings from no-name brands often have flimsy hardware and uncomfortable webbing. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; it seemed well-made, but the real test would be in the field. I was excited to see if it would live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad to the Test
First Use Experience
I first put the Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad to the test during a three-day deer hunt in the mountains of Montana. The terrain was steep and uneven, with plenty of opportunities for the sling to prove its worth. The weather cooperated too, throwing in a mix of sun, rain, and even a bit of snow. Initially, I was concerned about how well it would perform in wet conditions.
The sling was surprisingly easy to adjust, even with gloves on. It stayed firmly in place on my shoulder, even when traversing steep slopes. There was no noticeable slippage or bouncing, which was a huge improvement over my previous neoprene sling. I did notice that the non-slip pad created a bit of friction against my jacket, but it was a small price to pay for the added security. After the first day, I was already a convert.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it on numerous hunting trips, range sessions, and even a few backcountry camping excursions. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the non-slip pad still provides excellent grip. The sling has proven to be extremely durable.
Cleaning the sling is a breeze; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dirt and grime. The patented hush stalker II sling swivels have remained silent and rust-free, even after being exposed to harsh weather conditions. Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper slings that quickly frayed and fell apart, the Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and reliability. It’s a significant upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad
Specifications
The Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad is designed for simplicity and functionality. The non-slip polymer pad is molded directly onto the sling webbing, providing a secure grip on the user’s shoulder. It allows for approximately 1/2″ of stretch, which helps to absorb shock and reduce fatigue.
The sling comes equipped with patented hush stalker II sling swivels, which are designed to eliminate noise and prevent rust. These swivels are also incredibly strong, boasting a 2 1/2 times greater strength-to-weight ratio than conventional metal swivels. The swivels are designed to fit all standard studs and will not damage the finish on your stock. These features are vital for a hunting sling.
Performance & Functionality
The Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad excels at its primary function: keeping your rifle securely and comfortably slung. The non-slip pad provides excellent grip, preventing the rifle from sliding off your shoulder, even during strenuous activity. The 1/2″ of stretch helps to absorb shock and reduce fatigue during long carries. The swivels are silent and reliable.
The sling’s main strength is its simplicity and effectiveness. It’s easy to adjust and use, and it performs flawlessly in a variety of conditions. The only potential weakness is the friction between the non-slip pad and clothing, which can be slightly annoying at times. Overall, the sling meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad is straightforward and functional. The materials used are durable and lightweight, and the overall construction is solid. The non-slip pad is comfortable against the shoulder, even during extended use. The sling is reasonably lightweight.
The sling is user-friendly, requiring no special skills or knowledge to operate. There is no learning curve; simply attach the sling to your rifle and adjust it to your desired length. This design is simple yet effective.
Durability & Maintenance
The Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad is built to last. The durable webbing and non-slip pad are resistant to wear and tear, and the hush stalker II sling swivels are designed to withstand harsh conditions. The sling should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal; simply wipe the sling down with a damp cloth as needed. There are no moving parts that require lubrication or special care. This sling is very easy to care for.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad comes standard with the hush stalker II sling swivels. While there are no other included accessories, the sling is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket sling swivels and attachment hardware. This allows users to customize the sling to their specific needs.
You can easily swap out the included swivels for quick-detach (QD) swivels if you prefer. The sling is compatible with most standard sling attachment points on rifles and shotguns. This allows for a great deal of customization.
Pros and Cons of Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad
Pros
- The non-slip pad provides excellent grip and prevents slippage.
- The hush stalker II sling swivels are silent, durable, and rust-resistant.
- The sling is easy to adjust and use, even with gloves on.
- It’s durable and long-lasting, made from high-quality materials.
- The affordable price point makes it a great value for the money.
Cons
- The non-slip pad can create friction against clothing.
- It lacks advanced features like quick-adjust sliders found on more expensive slings.
Who Should Buy Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad?
The Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who needs a reliable and affordable sling for their rifle or shotgun. It’s particularly well-suited for those who prioritize a secure grip and quiet operation. It is great for those who value silence.
Those who need advanced features like rapid adjustability or padded comfort might want to consider a more expensive sling. Hunters using heavy rifles might prefer a wider, more heavily padded sling. But for most users, the Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad is an excellent choice.
Must-have accessories would include a quality set of QD sling swivels if quick detach capability is desired. Otherwise, the sling is ready to go right out of the box.
Conclusion on Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad
The Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad is a simple, effective, and affordable solution for anyone who needs a reliable sling for their rifle or shotgun. The non-slip pad provides excellent grip, and the hush stalker II sling swivels ensure quiet operation. The sling is durable and easy to use, making it a great value for the money.
At $16.99, the price is more than justified, given the quality and performance of the product. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a no-nonsense sling that gets the job done. If you’re tired of slings that slip and slide, give the Quake Industries Black Rifle Sling w/Non Slip Pad a try. You won’t be disappointed!