Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black Review

The Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black Made a Bold First Impression

I’ve slung rifles and carbines across my chest for over a decade, from my days in the service to instructing civilians on firearm safety and tactical applications. So, when I saw the Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black from Blackhawk, I was immediately intrigued by its promise of heavy-duty construction and quick-release functionality at a budget-friendly price of $20.49. Could it deliver the performance and durability I demand from a sling, or would it be another piece of kit destined for the gear graveyard?

Years of carrying a heavy rifle during long patrols led me to prioritize comfort and ease of use in a sling. I needed something that could distribute the weight effectively, allow for quick transitions, and facilitate rapid detachment of the firearm in emergency situations.

My first impression upon unboxing was positive; the Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black felt robust. The nylon webbing was thick, and the metal snap hooks seemed sturdy enough to handle the weight of a fully loaded rifle. It was noticeably lighter than my older, padded sling from a different manufacturer.

Compared to my Magpul MS4 sling (known for its versatility) and a standard GI-issue sling (known for its simplicity but lack of features), the Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black seemed to offer a good middle ground. It had more features than the GI sling but aimed for simplicity compared to the MS4’s complex adjustability. I chose it for the promised quick-release functionality and the bungee section, hoping it would reduce felt weight.

I was cautiously optimistic. The price point made me wonder about long-term durability, but the initial feel was encouraging. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it could stand up to real-world use.

Real-World Testing: Putting Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was the local shooting range, where I spent an afternoon running drills with my AR-15. I focused on practicing transitions between my primary weapon and sidearm and simulating various tactical scenarios.

The sling performed well in dry conditions. The side-release buckle allowed for quick firearm attachment and removal during transitions, as advertised. The bungee section offered a noticeable reduction in felt weight, especially during prolonged periods of carrying the rifle.

However, I did encounter a slight issue with the adjustment. The sling tended to loosen up after repeated movements, requiring occasional tightening. This wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it was something I needed to monitor.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple range trips and a weekend-long tactical training course, the Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black has held up reasonably well. The nylon webbing shows no signs of fraying or tearing, and the metal snap hooks remain securely attached.

The only real sign of wear is some minor discoloration on the side-release buckle. It’s purely cosmetic and doesn’t affect its functionality. The sling is easy to clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent.

Compared to my previous experiences with similarly priced slings, the Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black has exceeded my expectations. While it’s not as feature-rich as some higher-end options, it provides solid performance and durability at a fraction of the cost. I would still prefer my higher-end sling for duty carry, but this is an excellent budget-friendly option.

Breaking Down the Features of Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black

Specifications

• Material: The Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black is made from heavy-duty tubular nylon webbing. This offers a good balance of strength and flexibility.
• Design: An elliptical bungee section is incorporated into the design. This helps absorb shock and distribute weight more evenly.
• Attachment: Metal snap hooks at each end provide versatile attachment options. They allow for connection to most weapon systems, brackets, buckles, or webbing loops.
• Adjustability: The sling is fully adjustable to fit all operators. This ensures a comfortable and secure fit regardless of body type or gear configuration.
• Quick Release: A side-release buckle facilitates rapid firearm attachment and removal. This is crucial for quick transitions and emergency situations.
• Emergency Release: A secure three-point cop-lok buckle is located in the middle of the sling. This allows for easy weapon removal from the attaching point on a vest in critical situations.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the sling’s performance and usability. The nylon webbing provides strength and durability, while the bungee section enhances comfort. The adjustability ensures a proper fit, and the quick-release buckles offer tactical advantages.

Performance & Functionality

The Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black performs its primary job of carrying a firearm adequately. The bungee section effectively reduces felt weight, and the quick-release buckles function as intended.

The main strength is its simplicity and ease of use. It’s easy to adjust and attach to a variety of firearms. The weakness is that the adjustment can sometimes slip, requiring occasional tightening.

It meets expectations for a sling in this price range, offering a good balance of features and performance without breaking the bank. It does not offer the load-bearing comfort of higher-end padded slings.

Design & Ergonomics

The Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black boasts a simple and functional design. The materials used are durable and lightweight.

It is generally user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. Adjusting the sling and operating the quick-release buckles is straightforward.

Durability & Maintenance

The sling seems built to last, with heavy-duty nylon webbing and sturdy metal hardware. Only time will tell how it holds up to prolonged exposure to harsh conditions.

It’s easy to maintain; simply wipe it down with a damp cloth as needed. No specialized cleaning or maintenance is required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, its versatile attachment points make it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories.

It can be used with various sling mounts, adapters, and quick-detach swivels. The black color also makes it easy to match with existing gear.

Pros and Cons of Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black

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Who Should Buy Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black?

The Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black is perfect for budget-conscious shooters, recreational range users, and those looking for a simple and functional sling for their AR-15 or other tactical rifle. It’s also a good option for airsoft players or anyone who needs a reliable sling without breaking the bank.

Those who require maximum comfort for extended periods of carrying a heavy firearm, such as hunters on long treks or law enforcement officers on duty, should skip this product. Instead, they should invest in a higher-end sling with enhanced padding and ergonomic features.

A must-have modification would be adding QD (Quick Detach) sling swivels for even faster attachment and detachment. Other than that, it is ready to use out of the box.

Conclusion on Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black

The Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black is a solid, budget-friendly option for anyone looking for a simple and functional tactical sling. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it provides reliable performance and durability at an affordable price.

The price is definitely justified; you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck. It is not the most comfortable option, but it performs its role well.

I would personally recommend it to anyone on a budget or looking for a basic, no-frills sling. It’s a great value and a solid performer. So, if you’re in the market for a new sling, give the Tactical Releaseable S.T.R.I.K.E. Sling Black a shot. You might be surprised at how much you get for so little.

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