The Strike Industries S3 Sling LITE Coyote Brown Padded Made a Bold First Impression
Slings are often overlooked, but a quality sling is critical for firearm control and comfort. The Strike Industries S3 Sling LITE Coyote Brown Padded promises to offer that control in a lightweight and streamlined package. Strike Industries is known for innovative and practical designs, and I was eager to see if this sling lived up to that reputation.
I’d been searching for a sling that wouldn’t add unnecessary bulk to my AR-15. My old sling, while functional, was heavy and cumbersome, making transitions awkward. I hoped the S3 Sling LITE would provide the necessary support without the added weight.
Unboxing the sling, I was immediately impressed by its minimalist design. The Coyote Brown color is a versatile choice, and the materials felt durable despite being lightweight. The build quality appeared solid, with clean stitching and robust hardware.
Compared to my previous sling, a padded two-point from a different Manufacturer, the S3 Sling LITE felt significantly lighter and less bulky. It also seemed simpler to adjust compared to a quick-adjust sling from Magpul that I had considered. I ultimately chose the Strike Industries model because of its balance of simplicity, padding, and lightweight design at a very appealing price point.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The sling looked good and felt promising, but the real test would be how it performed in the field. I was excited to hit the range and put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Industries S3 Sling LITE Coyote Brown Padded to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Strike Industries S3 Sling LITE Coyote Brown Padded at an outdoor shooting range during a carbine course. The weather was mild, but I anticipated the sling would be used in various conditions down the road. I was running drills that involved transitioning between targets, engaging from different positions, and performing reloads.
The sling performed admirably, providing stable support during firing. The padded shoulder section significantly enhanced comfort, even during extended periods of use. I quickly adapted to the sling’s simple design, making length adjustments on the fly with ease.
Initially, I did notice the webbing could slip slightly through the ladder lock buckle after aggressive movements. This required occasional readjustment but wasn’t a major hindrance. Overall, the first range session was positive, and the sling showed promise.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Strike Industries S3 Sling LITE Coyote Brown Padded has proven to be a reliable and comfortable addition to my rifle setup. It’s seen use in various training scenarios, from static range days to dynamic movement drills. The sling shows no significant signs of wear and tear.
The stitching remains intact, and the hardware continues to function smoothly. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean, even after dusty range sessions. The sling is easy to maintain.
Compared to my previous, bulkier sling, the S3 Sling LITE offers superior comfort and maneuverability. Its streamlined design doesn’t interfere with my movement. While the ladder lock buckle still requires occasional adjustment, it’s a minor inconvenience compared to the overall benefits.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike Industries S3 Sling LITE Coyote Brown Padded
Specifications
- The Strike Industries S3 Sling LITE Coyote Brown Padded features a 1-inch width, ensuring a lightweight and non-obtrusive profile. This is essential for maintaining agility and minimizing bulk.
- The sling incorporates twin elastic keepers for managing excess webbing, preventing snagging and keeping the sling neatly organized. This is a practical feature often overlooked in sling designs.
- A cross-stitched handle provides a secure grip for rapid sling length adjustment, allowing for quick transitions between shooting positions. This handle is surprisingly effective and easy to manipulate.
- The padded shoulder section offers enhanced comfort during prolonged use, distributing weight evenly and reducing strain. This padding is well-placed and effectively cushions the shoulder.
- An integrated ladder lock buckle simplifies one-handed manipulations, allowing for quick length adjustments in dynamic situations. While it needs occasional adjustment, it provides a streamlined solution.
- Multiple tri-bar buckles ensure a secure grip on the webbing, allowing for customized fitment adjustments to suit individual preferences and body types. These buckles are robust and hold the webbing firmly.
- A robust, metal loop buckle provides a strong and non-adjustable fastening point, ensuring unyielding reliability in critical situations. This metal buckle is a significant upgrade over plastic alternatives.
- The sling is constructed from durable nylon webbing and high-quality hardware, ensuring long-lasting performance in demanding environments. The Coyote Brown color provides effective camouflage in various terrain.
Performance & Functionality
The Strike Industries S3 Sling LITE Coyote Brown Padded performs its primary function exceptionally well. It provides secure and comfortable support for a rifle, allowing for hands-free carry and improved stability during shooting. The sling excels in its simplicity and ease of use.
The primary strength is its lightweight design and comfortable padding. The one minor weakness is the occasional need to readjust the ladder lock buckle. The sling meets my expectations for a lightweight and functional sling.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Strike Industries S3 Sling LITE Coyote Brown Padded is impressive. The materials used are durable yet lightweight. The sling feels comfortable against the body, even during extended use.
The sling is incredibly user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The adjustments are intuitive, and the sling is easy to configure to different body types and shooting styles.
Durability & Maintenance
The Strike Industries S3 Sling LITE Coyote Brown Padded appears to be built to last. The durable nylon webbing and robust hardware should withstand years of use. Minimal maintenance is required, typically just a quick cleaning after use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike Industries S3 Sling LITE Coyote Brown Padded is primarily designed as a standalone sling. While it doesn’t include any additional accessories, it’s compatible with various sling mounting options available on the market. Users can easily attach it to different rifles using standard QD sling swivels or HK-style hooks.
The sling’s minimalist design allows for easy integration with other gear and accessories. There are no specific customization options beyond adjusting the length and fitment.
Pros and Cons of Strike Industries S3 Sling LITE Coyote Brown Padded
Pros
- Provides Excellent comfort with the padded shoulder section, even during prolonged use.
- Maintains a Lightweight and streamlined design, minimizing bulk and maximizing maneuverability.
- Offers Rapid and intuitive length adjustment with the cross-stitched handle.
- Secures Durable construction with high-quality materials, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Includes Versatile Coyote Brown color, providing effective camouflage in various environments.
Cons
- The ladder lock buckle requires Occasional readjustment to prevent slippage.
- It has Limited customization options compared to more modular sling systems.
Who Should Buy Strike Industries S3 Sling LITE Coyote Brown Padded?
The Strike Industries S3 Sling LITE Coyote Brown Padded is perfect for shooters who prioritize lightweight comfort and simplicity. This sling is ideal for AR-15 enthusiasts, tactical trainers, and recreational shooters who want a reliable and comfortable sling without unnecessary bulk. It’s also a great choice for hunters who need a lightweight and durable sling for carrying their rifles in the field.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who require extensive customization options or those who prefer a more complex and modular sling system. If you need to frequently switch between single-point and two-point configurations, other slings might be a better fit.
A must-have accessory is a set of high-quality QD sling swivels for quick and easy attachment to various rifles.
Conclusion on Strike Industries S3 Sling LITE Coyote Brown Padded
The Strike Industries S3 Sling LITE Coyote Brown Padded is a well-designed and highly functional sling that offers exceptional value for its price of $17.95. It strikes a perfect balance between comfort, durability, and simplicity.
The price is definitely justified. The sling provides a level of performance and comfort that rivals more expensive options.
I would personally recommend this sling to anyone looking for a lightweight and reliable sling for their rifle. It’s an excellent choice for both seasoned shooters and beginners alike. Upgrade your rifle setup today with the Strike Industries S3 Sling LITE Coyote Brown Padded and experience the difference a quality sling can make.