The Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown Made a Bold First Impression
The Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown promises enhanced comfort and adaptability for carrying heavier firearms. As someone who’s spent over a decade lugging various rifles and carbines through demanding environments, I’m always on the hunt for gear that improves weapon handling and reduces fatigue. This sling piqued my interest with its promise of padded comfort and rapid adjustability, both crucial elements for tactical efficiency and extended carry comfort.
My need for a new sling arose from a recent extended hog hunt in Texas. The standard GI sling I was using dug into my shoulder after hours of patrolling, making every ounce of my AR-10 feel like ten. I needed a solution that distributed the weight better and allowed for quicker transitions between a slung and ready position.
Upon receiving the Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown, I was immediately impressed by the seemingly robust construction. The closed-cell foam padding felt substantial, offering a noticeable improvement over the unpadded nylon straps I was accustomed to. The Coyote Brown color was a perfect match for my rifle, blending seamlessly with my overall setup.
I was considering a Blue Force Gear Vickers Combat Applications Sling and a Magpul MS1 sling. Ultimately, the Viking Tactics sling won out because of its wider padding and seemingly more robust hardware, which seemed better suited for carrying a heavier rifle. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism: could this sling live up to the hype and truly enhance my comfort and performance in the field?
Real-World Testing: Putting Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to truly test the Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown came during a training weekend at a local shooting range. I spent the day running drills, practicing transitions, and generally putting my rifle through its paces. The sling was subjected to varied conditions: from bright sunshine to a brief but heavy downpour.
Initially, I noticed how easily the sling adjusted. The quick-adjust pull tab allowed for seamless transitions between a tight, secure carry and a looser, ready-to-fire position. The padded section remained comfortable even after several hours of continuous use, significantly reducing the shoulder fatigue I had experienced with other slings. However, the nylon material did get slightly slick when wet, requiring a firmer grip on the adjustment tab.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. I’ve taken it on multiple hunting trips, training sessions, and even a few long-distance hikes. The sling has held up remarkably well, with no significant signs of wear and tear.
The stitching remains tight and secure, and the metal hardware continues to function flawlessly. The closed-cell foam padding has retained its shape and cushioning, showing no signs of compression or degradation. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. It definitely outperforms my previous GI sling in terms of comfort and adjustability, offering a significant upgrade for extended carry.
Breaking Down the Features of Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown
Specifications
The Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown is designed for use with most rifles and carbines. It features a wide padded section for enhanced comfort.
The sling is constructed from durable nylon webbing and features high-quality metal hardware. This construction ensures longevity and reliability under demanding conditions.
The adjustable portion of the sling allows for quick and easy transitions between a tight, secure carry and a looser, ready-to-fire position. The closed-cell foam padding is designed to distribute weight evenly, reducing shoulder fatigue.
The sling is available in Coyote Brown to match a variety of tactical gear and weapon finishes. This provides a professional and cohesive appearance.
Performance & Functionality
The Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown excels at providing comfortable and secure weapon carry. Its key strength lies in the wide padded section, which significantly reduces shoulder strain during extended periods of use. The quick-adjust mechanism allows for rapid transitions between different carry positions, enhancing tactical flexibility.
The sling’s main weakness is the nylon webbing, which can become slightly slick when wet. A more textured material, or the addition of rubberized grips on the adjustment tab, would improve handling in adverse conditions. Despite this minor drawback, the sling meets and exceeds my expectations for comfort, durability, and ease of use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown features a simple yet effective design. The materials used are durable and lightweight, contributing to overall comfort.
The sling is relatively user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. Its intuitive design makes it easy to adjust and configure for different body types and weapon systems.
Durability & Maintenance
The Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown is built to last. The robust nylon webbing and metal hardware ensure long-term durability.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the sling clean and functioning properly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, it is compatible with a variety of sling attachment hardware, allowing users to customize the sling to fit their specific weapon system. The sling works well with QD sling swivels from various brands. The user can also add aftermarket pads for the unpadded section of the sling.
Pros and Cons of Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown
Pros
- Wide, comfortable padding for extended carry.
- Quick-adjust mechanism for rapid transitions.
- Durable construction and high-quality materials.
- Simple and intuitive design for ease of use.
- Coyote Brown color blends well with tactical gear.
Cons
- Nylon webbing can become slightly slick when wet.
- No included accessories.
Who Should Buy Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown?
The Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown is perfect for tactical shooters, hunters, law enforcement, and military personnel who need a comfortable and reliable way to carry their firearms for extended periods. It’s also a great choice for anyone who carries a heavier rifle and wants to reduce shoulder fatigue.
This product might not be the best choice for minimalist users who prioritize lightweight gear above all else. They may find the padding unnecessary. A must-have accessory would be high-quality QD sling swivels for secure and quick attachment to the firearm.
Conclusion on Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown
Overall, the Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown is an excellent sling that offers a significant improvement in comfort and usability compared to standard slings. Its durable construction, quick-adjust mechanism, and comfortable padding make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who carries a firearm regularly.
At $40.99, the price is justified by the sling’s quality and performance. I would definitely recommend the Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling – Coyote Brown to anyone looking for a comfortable, durable, and versatile sling. Upgrade your carry today and experience the difference!