Let’s Dive into Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels
The Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels is an officially licensed product from Ruger, manufactured by Allen. It’s designed for comfort and security when carrying your rifle, featuring a neoprene body, a sticky backing to prevent slippage, and robust swivels. The combination of features and brand recognition intrigued me.
I had an old military-style sling on my primary hunting rifle that dug into my shoulder after long hikes. I needed something more comfortable and secure, especially when traversing uneven terrain. The Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels seemed to promise both, given the neoprene construction and non-slip backing.
Upon unboxing, the sling felt well-made. The neoprene had a good thickness, and the stitching appeared robust. The included swivels felt solid and heavy-duty, not like some of the flimsy ones I’ve encountered.
I considered a couple of other slings before deciding on the Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels. One was a leather sling known for its classic look, but I worried about its weather resistance. The other was a padded nylon sling from a different manufacturer, but it lacked the non-slip backing I desired. The Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels seemed to offer the best balance of comfort, durability, and security.
My first impression was positive. The sling felt substantial and comfortable right out of the box, and the Ruger branding added a touch of class. I was eager to test it in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels during a week-long deer hunt in the Appalachian Mountains. The terrain was steep and rocky, with plenty of dense brush. The weather was a mixed bag, ranging from sunny and dry to cold and drizzly.
The sling performed admirably. The neoprene padding distributed the weight of my rifle evenly across my shoulder, significantly reducing fatigue compared to my old sling. The sticky back worked as advertised, preventing the rifle from sliding around even when I was scrambling over rocks.
I didn’t need any time to get used to it. The sling adjusted easily to my preferred length, and the swivels rotated smoothly, preventing the sling from getting tangled. There were no issues or surprises after the first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear, despite being exposed to mud, rain, and brush. The neoprene hasn’t stretched out or lost its shape, and the stitching remains intact.
Cleaning and maintenance are simple. I just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use to remove dirt and debris. Compared to my previous sling, the Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels is far more comfortable and secure.
Breaking Down the Features of Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels
Specifications
- The Manufacturer is Ruger. The Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels proudly displays the Ruger name, ensuring a level of quality and brand recognition.
- The sling is only available in black. This color choice offers versatility and discreetness for various hunting and tactical environments.
- The total length of the sling is 34 inches. This length is suitable for most adult users and can be adjusted to fit different body sizes and carrying preferences.
- The sling is specifically designed for rifles. It is not intended for use with shotguns or other types of firearms.
- The sling has a width of 3 inches. This width provides ample padding and support for comfortable carrying.
- The sling is constructed from neoprene. Neoprene is a durable, weather-resistant material that offers excellent padding and grip.
These specifications are important because they contribute to the overall comfort, durability, and functionality of the sling. The neoprene construction ensures a comfortable carry, while the sticky back prevents slippage. The durable swivels provide secure attachment to the rifle.
Performance & Functionality
The Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels performs its job exceptionally well. It securely holds the rifle, distributes weight evenly, and prevents slippage. It meets my expectations for comfort and security.
One of its strengths is the non-slip backing. This feature provides exceptional stability, preventing the rifle from sliding around, which is critical when navigating difficult terrain. A minor weakness is the prominently displayed Ruger logo, which some users may find too flashy.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels uses high-quality neoprene and robust stitching. The neoprene provides comfortable padding, and the sling feels well-balanced.
It’s very user-friendly. There is virtually no learning curve, and the adjustable length makes it easy to customize the fit.
Durability & Maintenance
The Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels appears to be very durable. With proper care, it should last for many years.
Maintenance is easy. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels comes with pre-installed swivels. These are tested to hold up to 300 pounds. There are no other included accessories.
The sling is compatible with any rifle that has standard swivel studs. There aren’t specific customization options, but users can replace the included swivels with aftermarket options if desired.
Pros and Cons of Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels
Pros
- Exceptional Comfort: The neoprene padding provides excellent cushioning for long days in the field.
- Secure Grip: The sticky back prevents the rifle from slipping, enhancing stability and safety.
- Durable Construction: High-quality materials and robust stitching ensure long-lasting performance.
- Reliable Swivels: The included metal swivels are tested to hold up to 300 pounds, providing secure attachment.
- Easy to Use: The adjustable length and simple design make it easy to customize and use immediately.
Cons
- The red Ruger logo might be too prominent for some users who prefer a more subtle design.
- The design, while functional, may appear slightly complicated to some.
Who Should Buy Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels?
The Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels is perfect for hunters who value comfort and security when carrying their rifles. It’s also well-suited for recreational shooters and anyone who spends extended periods carrying a firearm.
Someone seeking a minimalist, ultra-lightweight sling might want to skip this product. Also, if you dislike prominent branding, this sling may not be for you.
A must-have modification would be upgrading to quick-detach swivels for faster rifle removal.
Conclusion on Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels
Overall, the Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels is an excellent product that delivers on its promises. It provides exceptional comfort, secure grip, and durable construction.
The price is justified by the quality of materials and performance. Given the improved comfort and security it offers, it’s a worthwhile investment for any rifle owner.
I would highly recommend the Ruger Mesa Neoprene Rifle Gun Sling with Swivels. If you’re tired of uncomfortable slings that slip and slide, this is the perfect solution. Upgrade your rifle carrying experience today!