Let’s Dive into Specter Gear Mossberg 590 / 590A1 CQB Sling
The Specter Gear Mossberg 590 / 590A1 CQB Sling is a purpose-built accessory designed to enhance the maneuverability and control of your Mossberg shotgun. Specter Gear is a well-regarded name in tactical gear, known for their durable and functional designs, and this sling aims to deliver on that reputation. As someone who’s spent over a decade in the outdoors and tactical world, I’m always looking for gear that can withstand demanding environments and improve performance.
My primary need was a sling that would allow me to transition quickly between firing positions and keep my shotgun readily accessible while freeing up my hands when necessary. I’ve used several slings in the past that either lacked adjustability or were uncomfortable during extended use, so I was particularly interested in evaluating the comfort and ease of adjustment of the Specter Gear sling. The initial impression was promising, with a seemingly robust build and straightforward design.
I considered other slings from brands like Magpul and Blue Force Gear, but the Specter Gear model specifically catered to the Mossberg 590/590A1 and seemed to offer a more streamlined solution. At first glance, I was impressed with the seemingly durable materials and construction, but eager to see how it would perform in real-world conditions. I was excited to get it installed and put it through its paces at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Specter Gear Mossberg 590 / 590A1 CQB Sling to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range where I could assess the sling’s functionality under various conditions. I ran drills involving transitions between standing, kneeling, and prone positions, focusing on how easily the sling allowed me to manipulate the shotgun. The weather was slightly damp, providing an opportunity to evaluate the sling’s grip and stability in less-than-ideal conditions.
The Specter Gear Mossberg 590 / 590A1 CQB Sling proved to be surprisingly intuitive; it took only a few minutes to adjust the sling to my preferred length and body type. However, I did notice that the webbing felt slightly stiff initially, which impacted the smoothness of adjustments. There were no immediate issues, but I wanted to see how it held up during longer periods of use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including participating in a tactical shotgun course, the Specter Gear sling has proven its worth, with minor caveats. The durability is commendable, as there are no visible signs of wear or tear on the webbing, stitching, or hardware. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth removes any dirt or grime accumulated during use.
Compared to my previous sling experiences, the Specter Gear Mossberg 590 / 590A1 CQB Sling is a definite upgrade in terms of durability and ease of adjustment. It has noticeably improved my ability to quickly transition between shooting positions and maintain positive control of the shotgun. While not perfect, it’s proven to be a reliable and functional addition to my tactical gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Specter Gear Mossberg 590 / 590A1 CQB Sling
Specifications
The Specter Gear Mossberg 590 / 590A1 CQB Sling is specifically designed for Mossberg 590 and 590A1 shotguns with conventional fixed stocks and reduced length of pull stocks. The sling is 1.25 inches wide, offering a comfortable yet secure fit. It is fully ambidextrous and available with or without an Emergency Release Buckle (ERB).
The webbing is made of durable nylon, and the hardware consists of metal tri-glides and robust plastic buckles. These specifications are important because they determine the sling’s weight-bearing capacity, durability, and ease of use in various tactical scenarios. The 1.25-inch width strikes a good balance between comfort and bulk, while the ambidextrous design makes it suitable for both right- and left-handed shooters.
Performance & Functionality
The Specter Gear Mossberg 590 / 590A1 CQB Sling performs its primary function exceptionally well, allowing for quick and secure transitions between carrying and firing positions. The sling’s adjustability is a key strength, allowing users to customize the fit to their body type and preferred shooting style. The optional Emergency Release Buckle (ERB) provides an added layer of safety, allowing for rapid removal of the shotgun in emergency situations.
While the sling’s adjustability is generally good, the initial stiffness of the webbing can make adjustments slightly cumbersome, particularly when wearing gloves. The sling meets my expectations for a durable and functional tactical accessory, although a smoother adjustment mechanism would be a welcome improvement.
Design & Ergonomics
The Specter Gear Mossberg 590 / 590A1 CQB Sling boasts a simple yet effective design that prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. The materials used, particularly the durable nylon webbing, feel robust and capable of withstanding harsh conditions. The weight is minimal, ensuring that the sling doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the shotgun.
The sling is relatively user-friendly, although it may take some initial experimentation to find the optimal adjustment for your body type and shooting style. The ambidextrous design is a notable feature, making it suitable for a wider range of users. Overall, the Specter Gear sling offers a comfortable and ergonomic experience, contributing to improved handling and control of the shotgun.
Durability & Maintenance
The Specter Gear Mossberg 590 / 590A1 CQB Sling appears to be built to last, thanks to its durable nylon webbing and robust hardware. I anticipate that it will withstand years of regular use without significant wear and tear. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime.
There are no specialized tools or procedures required for maintenance, making it a hassle-free accessory. Given the quality of materials and construction, I expect the Specter Gear sling to provide long-lasting performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Specter Gear Mossberg 590 / 590A1 CQB Sling comes with all the necessary hardware for attachment to the shotgun. Specter Gear also offers compatible accessories like their 6-shell buttstock holder and pouch, designed to integrate seamlessly with the sling. While the sling itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its compatibility with standard Mossberg 590/590A1 attachment points allows for the use of aftermarket sling swivels and adapters.
Users can further customize their setup by adding accessories like quick-detach sling swivels for faster transitions. The sling’s versatility and compatibility with various accessories make it a valuable addition to any Mossberg 590/590A1 setup.
Pros and Cons of Specter Gear Mossberg 590 / 590A1 CQB Sling
Pros
- Durable construction using high-quality nylon webbing and robust hardware.
- Ambidextrous design caters to both right- and left-handed shooters.
- Easy to adjust for a comfortable and secure fit.
- Optional Emergency Release Buckle (ERB) for rapid shotgun removal in emergencies.
- Directly compatible with Mossberg 590/590A1 shotguns.
Cons
- Webbing can be initially stiff, making adjustments slightly cumbersome.
- Lack of padding may cause discomfort during extended use with heavy shotguns.
Who Should Buy Specter Gear Mossberg 590 / 590A1 CQB Sling?
The Specter Gear Mossberg 590 / 590A1 CQB Sling is perfect for tactical shooters, law enforcement personnel, and home defense enthusiasts who rely on the Mossberg 590/590A1 platform. It’s also a great choice for hunters who use shotguns in dense environments where maneuverability is crucial. Someone prioritizing rapid deployment and comfortable carry would benefit from this sling.
Those who primarily use their shotgun for recreational shooting or prefer a more minimalist setup might find the Specter Gear sling unnecessary. A sling swivel might be a must-have modification for some users.
Conclusion on Specter Gear Mossberg 590 / 590A1 CQB Sling
The Specter Gear Mossberg 590 / 590A1 CQB Sling is a well-designed and durable accessory that enhances the usability of the Mossberg 590/590A1 shotgun. The $49.99 price tag is justified by the quality of materials and construction, as well as the sling’s functional benefits. I would definitely recommend it to anyone seeking a reliable and versatile sling for their Mossberg shotgun.
For improved maneuverability and weapon retention, consider the Specter Gear Mossberg 590 / 590A1 CQB Sling. Upgrade your tactical setup today!