Specter Gear SOP Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1 Review

Let’s Dive into Specter Gear SOP Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1

The Specter Gear SOP Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1 isn’t just another sling; it’s a purpose-built tool designed to enhance the maneuverability and readiness of your shotgun. Crafted by Specter Gear, this sling aims to provide a superior carrying solution, particularly for those using a Mossberg 590 or 590A1 equipped with a Hogue 12-inch Length of Pull (LOP) stock. Its innovative Transition Release Button (TRB) and thoughtful design promise swift shoulder transitions and comfortable carry, making it a compelling option for tactical users and shotgun enthusiasts alike.

For years, I’ve struggled with slings that either restrict movement or feel uncomfortable during prolonged use. My search for a sling that allows for quick transitions and secure weapon retention, specifically for my Mossberg 590A1, led me to the Specter Gear SOP Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1. Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the robust construction, the wide 1.5-inch webbing, and the seemingly intuitive design of the TRB system. The materials felt durable and well-stitched, instilling confidence in its ability to withstand rigorous use.

Compared to standard two-point slings, which often lack the flexibility needed for dynamic shooting situations, and older three-point designs that can be cumbersome, the Specter Gear SOP Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1 seemed to offer a more refined approach. I chose this sling over options from Blue Force Gear and Magpul primarily for its unique TRB feature and its specific design for the Mossberg 590/590A1 platform. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism.

I was eager to test whether its promises of enhanced maneuverability and comfortable carry would hold true in real-world scenarios. The quality of the materials and the unique TRB design piqued my interest, and I was excited to see how it would perform in action.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Specter Gear SOP Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Specter Gear SOP Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1 at my local shooting range, specifically focusing on drills involving transitions between targets and simulated room clearing exercises. The range provided a controlled environment to assess the sling’s core functionality and ease of use. The sling performed admirably in dry conditions, allowing for smooth and relatively quick transitions between my primary and secondary shooting positions.

The TRB (Transition Release Button) required some familiarization, but after a few practice runs, I found the release mechanism to be intuitive and effective. There were no immediate issues, but I noticed that the sling’s adjustment buckle could potentially slip under heavy recoil.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use during training sessions and a weekend-long tactical course, the Specter Gear SOP Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1 has proven to be a reliable and functional addition to my setup. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the webbing or the stitching, despite repeated use in both dry and slightly damp conditions. The sling’s adjustment buckle, though initially a concern, has remained secure with proper tightening.

Cleaning the sling is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. Compared to some older sling designs I’ve used, the Specter Gear SOP Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1 definitely outperforms in terms of its transition speed and overall comfort during prolonged use. It allows for a more dynamic and adaptive shooting experience.

Breaking Down the Features of Specter Gear SOP Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1

Specifications

The Specter Gear SOP Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1 boasts several key specifications:

• The sling utilizes 1.5-inch wide webbing for the main strap, distributing the weight of the shotgun comfortably across the user’s shoulder. This wider profile reduces pressure points, especially during extended carry.
• It features a flexible 1-inch attachment strap at each end, allowing for seamless integration with various sling mounting points or sling swivels. These straps move and conform within sling loops, enhancing the weapon’s mobility.
• The Transition Release Button (TRB) allows for quick extension, creating slack for easy left/right shoulder transitions. This is a critical feature for tactical users.
• It’s designed specifically for Mossberg 590/590A1 shotguns with a Hogue 12-inch LOP stock, ensuring a proper fit and optimal performance. This specificity guarantees compatibility and efficient functionality.
• The sling is fully ambidextrous, catering to both left-handed and right-handed shooters. This versatility maximizes its usability for a wider range of operators.

These specifications are crucial because they directly influence the sling’s performance, user comfort, and overall effectiveness in tactical scenarios.

Performance & Functionality

The Specter Gear SOP Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1 performs its primary job of securing the shotgun while allowing for rapid deployment and transitions exceptionally well. The TRB system functions as advertised, enabling quick and efficient shoulder switches without fumbling or excessive movement. Its strength lies in its ability to blend the benefits of a traditional three-point sling with the flexibility of a single-point system.

However, the adjustment buckle could be more robust to prevent slippage under heavy recoil. Overall, it meets and, in some aspects, exceeds expectations, particularly in terms of transition speed and ambidextrous functionality.

Design & Ergonomics

The sling’s design is clearly geared towards tactical applications, with a focus on functionality and durability. The materials used feel rugged and capable of withstanding harsh conditions, and the weight is well-distributed thanks to the 1.5-inch webbing. While the TRB system has a slight learning curve, it quickly becomes intuitive with practice.

The design allows the weapon to hang in a more vertical orientation. This enhances free movement of the weapon, while being used in the Military Patrol Ready carry mode.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experiences, the Specter Gear SOP Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1 is built to last. The robust webbing and reinforced stitching suggest a long service life, even under demanding conditions. Maintenance is minimal, typically requiring only a quick wipe-down after use.

The steel side front sling mount plate, with matte finish and the stirrup type webbing rear adapter, is durable. This makes it easy to maintain the sling and keep it in good working order.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Specter Gear SOP Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1 comes supplied with a matte finish steel side front sling mount plate and stirrup type webbing rear adapter. While the sling itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options beyond length adjustments, its compatibility with standard sling mounting points allows for integration with various aftermarket accessories. Users can easily attach quick-detach swivels or other sling hardware to tailor the setup to their specific needs.

The adapter strap feature also allows the user the flexibility to experiment with user specific custom mounting solutions. It is compatible with mounting adapters for use on either side.

Pros and Cons of Specter Gear SOP Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1