The Small Concealed Carry Sling Pack Black Made a Bold First Impression
The Small Concealed Carry Sling Pack Black entered my world promising discreet preparedness. It’s a sling pack designed for concealed carry, balancing practicality with a low-profile aesthetic.
As someone with over a decade in the tactical gear realm, I’m constantly searching for gear that blends seamlessly into everyday life without compromising functionality. I needed a compact solution for carrying a firearm and essential gear without screaming “tactical.”
Unboxing revealed a compact bag, smaller than I anticipated at 14 x 10 x 7 inches. The all-metal zippers and pulls initially felt promising in terms of durability. My first impression leaned towards cautious optimism; it looked the part, but the real test would be in its performance.
Compared to larger backpacks I typically use for range days, the Small Concealed Carry Sling Pack Black offers a streamlined alternative. It is lighter and less bulky than a dedicated range bag, aiming for everyday concealability. I chose it over a traditional holster due to its capacity to carry extra magazines and other essential items.
My initial reaction was a mix of excitement and trepidation. The size was appealing, but the $45.49 price point raised questions about long-term durability, especially given the mixed user feedback on build quality.
Real-World Testing: Putting Small Concealed Carry Sling Pack Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I subjected the Small Concealed Carry Sling Pack Black to its maiden voyage at a local shooting range. The day was hot and humid, a good test for the bag’s breathability.
The ease of accessing my firearm from the concealed carry pockets impressed me. The Velcro adjustment inside the pockets allowed for a secure fit for my pistol. However, the material felt a bit thin.
Initial use revealed one significant issue: the dual zipper on the front pocket indeed stuck on one side, as mentioned in the user feedback. It was frustrating, hindering quick access to smaller items.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a couple of months of consistent use, the wear and tear on the Small Concealed Carry Sling Pack Black became apparent. The stitching on the main compartment started to show signs of stress.
The padded compartments offered decent protection, but the overall structure began to lose its shape. Cleaning was straightforward, but the fabric seemed prone to absorbing dirt. It also began to fray slightly around the zipper.
Compared to more robust packs I’ve used from brands like 5.11 Tactical, this pack felt less durable. The cheaper materials used were noticeable. It works well enough for a short duration or for a user on a very strict budget.
Breaking Down the Features of Small Concealed Carry Sling Pack Black
Specifications
- Dimensions: 14 x 10 x 7 inches. These dimensions make it compact enough for concealed carry, yet spacious enough for essential gear.
- Material: Undisclosed, likely a lower-denier nylon or polyester. The material feels thinner compared to higher-end tactical bags, impacting overall durability.
- Zippers: All-metal zippers and zipper pulls. While the zippers are metal, the quality feels less robust, as evidenced by the sticking zipper issue.
- Concealed Carry Pockets: Left and right zippered pockets with Velcro adjustment and universal holster compatibility. These pockets are a key feature, allowing for ambidextrous carry and secure firearm placement.
- Padded Compartments: Padded main compartment for mini and regular tablet storage, and a padded compartment for accessories and extra magazines. These offer decent protection for electronic devices and essential gear.
Performance & Functionality
The Small Concealed Carry Sling Pack Black performs adequately for its intended purpose, but falls short in several areas. Its main strength lies in its concealed carry capability and compact size.
The sticking zipper is a significant weakness, hindering quick access. The overall durability is questionable, especially with the observed stitching issues. It only barely met expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Small Concealed Carry Sling Pack Black aims for a low-profile design, minimizing its tactical appearance. The padded shoulder sling strap offers acceptable comfort for short periods.
The learning curve is minimal; it’s a straightforward sling pack. However, the build quality and material choice detract from the overall user experience.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the observed wear and tear, the Small Concealed Carry Sling Pack Black‘s lifespan appears limited. Regular maintenance is simple, but frequent use will likely accelerate degradation.
Repairing the stitching issues would be possible, but the low price point might make replacement a more viable option. The lower cost of the pack, versus the cost of repairing it, should be a factor.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Small Concealed Carry Sling Pack Black includes no additional accessories beyond the bag itself. The universal holster compatibility within the concealed carry pockets allows for customization.
Compatibility with third-party magazine pouches and accessories is possible, but the bag’s overall durability should be considered. Adding significant weight could further strain the stitching. Consider the overall weight.
Pros and Cons of Small Concealed Carry Sling Pack Black
Pros
- Affordable price point. It is very budget-friendly.
- Compact and discreet design suitable for concealed carry. Its smaller size is a plus.
- Ambidextrous concealed carry pockets with Velcro adjustment. This helps with firearm retention.
- Padded compartments provide decent protection for tablets and accessories. The padding is a welcome addition.
- Lightweight and easy to carry. The pack is not heavy even when loaded.
Cons
- Questionable build quality and stitching durability. The stitching has been proven unreliable.
- Sticking zipper on the front pocket hinders access. This is inconvenient.
- Material feels thin and prone to wear and tear. The durability is suspect.
Who Should Buy Small Concealed Carry Sling Pack Black?
The Small Concealed Carry Sling Pack Black is perfect for budget-conscious individuals seeking a basic concealed carry solution. It may work for those who need a low-profile bag for short trips or light EDC (Everyday Carry).
This product should be skipped by those prioritizing durability and long-term reliability. Also, users who require quick and reliable access to their gear should also skip this product.
A must-have modification would be reinforcing the stitching at stress points. Also, upgrading the zipper pulls would greatly improve its longevity.
Conclusion on Small Concealed Carry Sling Pack Black
The Small Concealed Carry Sling Pack Black offers a mixed bag of features and shortcomings. Its affordable price and discreet design are appealing, but questionable durability and a sticking zipper detract from its overall value.
The $45.49 price tag is justifiable for what it offers, but buyers should be aware of its limitations. Expect to use it for a shorter duration before wear and tear make replacement a necessity.
I would recommend it with strong reservations. Those who understand its limitations and are on a tight budget may find it useful. However, I would recommend saving up for a more durable option.