Specter Gear Remington 870 – 11/87CQB Sling Review

Meet the Specter Gear Remington 870 – 11/87CQB Sling: First Thoughts

As someone who spends considerable time in diverse environments, from dusty workshops to controlled lab settings and rugged field applications, I understand the critical role reliable equipment plays. When I found myself needing a robust and versatile sling for my Remington 870 shotgun, specifically for those moments requiring quick deployment and secure carry, the Specter Gear Remington 870 – 11/87CQB Sling caught my eye. It promised tactical functionality without an exorbitant price tag, a combination that often raises a skeptical eyebrow. My previous experience with slings ranged from flimsy, generic options that frayed after a few uses to over-engineered, expensive solutions that were frankly overkill for many situations. This particular model seemed to strike a potential balance. Unboxing it, my initial impression was one of solid construction and thoughtful design; the webbing felt substantial, and the hardware, while not premium, appeared durable enough for regular use. It arrived with a stirrup-type rear adapter and a GG&G front side mount sling plate, which immediately signaled a complete and user-friendly package, addressing the common frustration of needing to purchase separate mounting hardware. This practical approach offered a welcome sense of immediate utility.

Real-World Testing: Putting Specter Gear Remington 870 – 11/87CQB Sling to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for this sling were the familiar confines of my personal shooting range and a series of tactical training sessions that involved dynamic movement and frequent transitions between shouldered and slung positions. The Remington 870 Express, equipped with an extended magazine tube, served as my test platform. Installation was straightforward, with the ambidextrous rear adapter fitting snugly over the fixed stock and the front plate attaching securely to the GG&G mount. The sling’s adjustable nature allowed for a comfortable fit, distributing the shotgun’s weight effectively and keeping it close to my body during movement, which was crucial for maintaining situational awareness and mobility. I deliberately subjected it to rapid shouldering and dismounting drills, simulating stress-fire scenarios, and found that the sling remained consistently in place, without any unwanted slippage or adjustment. Even after a full day of drills that included crawling and kneeling, the sling held its position remarkably well.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months and numerous range days, this Specter Gear sling has become a dependable part of my shotgun setup. It has endured being slung on my shoulder for extended periods during various outdoor excursions, including some rather brisk hikes where the shotgun was frequently accessed. I’ve also inadvertently subjected it to less-than-ideal conditions, like a light dusting of mud and brief exposure to damp air after a sudden downpour, and it has shown no signs of degradation. The webbing remains robust, and the stitching has held firm with no fraying evident. Cleaning has been as simple as a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth, and when necessary, a gentle wash and air dry. Compared to other slings I’ve used that started to feel stiff or lose their shape after similar use, this model has maintained its flexibility and overall integrity remarkably well. The attachment points, particularly the stirrup and front plate, continue to feel secure, and the adjustment sliders are still easy to manipulate but hold their setting firmly once adjusted.

Breaking Down the Features of Specter Gear Remington 870 – 11/87CQB Sling

Specifications

The Specter Gear Remington 870 – 11/87CQB Sling is constructed from durable, 1.25-inch wide webbing, designed for strength and comfort. A key feature is the optional Emergency Release Buckle (ERB), which provides a rapid way to detach the sling in critical situations, a thoughtful addition for tactical applications. The sling also includes an ambidextrous side sling adapter for the rear stock and a dedicated GG&G front side mount sling plate, ensuring broad compatibility with Remington 870 and 11/87 shotguns featuring a fixed stock. It’s available in several practical colors: Black, Olive Drab, Coyote Tan, and Foliage Green, allowing users to choose an option that best suits their needs or aesthetic preferences. The attachment type is primarily webbing, creating a secure and reliable connection. The manufacturer, Specter Gear, is known for producing tactical gear, and this sling reflects that focus on functionality and durability.

The 1.25-inch width of the webbing is a sweet spot for comfort, distributing the shotgun’s weight effectively across the shoulder without being overly bulky. This width is notably more comfortable than thinner slings, especially when carrying the shotgun for extended durations. The inclusion of the ambidextrous rear adapter is a significant advantage for a wider range of users, eliminating the need for specific left or right-handed configurations. Similarly, the GG&G front side mount sling plate is a practical inclusion, simplifying installation and ensuring a secure front attachment point that’s often a weak link in less comprehensive sling systems. The availability of various color options adds a practical layer of personalization, allowing the sling to blend into different environments or personal preferences.

Performance & Functionality

In practical terms, the Specter Gear CQB sling performs its primary function exceptionally well: securely and comfortably retaining the shotgun for quick access and maneuverability. During drills requiring dynamic movement, the sling keeps the shotgun held close to the body, minimizing sway and preventing it from becoming an impediment. The 1.25-inch webbing offers sufficient padding to prevent digging into the shoulder, even when carrying a loaded shotgun for hours. Transitions between shouldered fire and slung carry are fluid and intuitive, a critical factor in any tactical scenario.

The Emergency Release Buckle (ERB), while I haven’t had to deploy it under duress, is a robust mechanism that feels secure in its engaged position yet offers a clear and quick release point. This feature provides an added layer of safety and tactical advantage that is difficult to quantify but reassuring to have. The sling’s adjustability is excellent, allowing for fine-tuning to accommodate different body types and clothing layers. This ensures a consistent and reliable carry position regardless of the operational environment.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this sling leans heavily towards function over form, which is precisely what one expects from a tactical piece of equipment. The 1.25-inch wide webbing is not just for comfort; it also contributes to the overall sturdiness of the sling. The material feels tough and abrasion-resistant, showing minimal signs of wear even after repeated contact with rough surfaces. The stitching throughout the sling appears to be heavy-duty, suggesting that it can withstand significant strain.

Ergonomically, the sling is designed for ease of use. The ambidextrous rear adapter fits securely around most fixed shotgun stocks, and the material used for the adapter has a slight grippy texture to prevent slippage. The front mount, designed to work with a GG&G plate or similar attachment points, ensures a solid connection at the barrel or receiver end of the shotgun. The overall feel of the sling is one of robust utility, built to withstand the rigors of active use without compromising the operator’s comfort or the security of the firearm.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended use, the Specter Gear Remington 870 – 11/87CQB Sling demonstrates excellent durability for its intended purpose. The webbing material has proven resistant to wear and tear, showing no signs of significant fraying or degradation from abrasion or UV exposure. The stitching remains intact, and the buckles and adapters feel solid, without any looseness or signs of imminent failure.

Maintenance is straightforward and requires minimal effort. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient for light dirt and dust. For more significant grime, the sling can be hand-washed with mild soap and water and allowed to air dry. There are no complex parts or intricate mechanisms that require special lubrication or maintenance, making it a low-hassle addition to any shotgun setup. Given its construction, I anticipate this sling will provide reliable service for a considerable time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Specter Gear Remington 870 – 11/87CQB Sling comes with the essential mounting hardware for most Remington 870/1187 fixed stock configurations: an ambidextrous buttstock stirrup type rear adapter and a GG&G front side mount sling plate. These included components are crucial for immediate deployment and significantly enhance the product’s value, as separate purchases of such hardware can be costly and time-consuming to source. The sling itself is adjustable via robust sliders, allowing users to dial in their preferred carry length.

While the sling is not directly customizable in terms of material or primary color (beyond the available options), its design accommodates users who might wish to add other accessories. For instance, if a user prefers a different type of front attachment point, the webbing loop is broad enough to potentially accommodate various QD swivels or other connectors, provided they are compatible with the 1.25-inch webbing width. The optional Emergency Release Buckle (ERB) can be considered a form of user-selectable feature, where one can choose to have it installed or not, depending on their specific tactical needs.

Pros and Cons of Specter Gear Remington 870 – 11/87CQB Sling

Who Should Buy Specter Gear Remington 870 – 11/87CQB Sling?

This sling is an excellent choice for Remington 870 and 11/87 shotgun owners with fixed stocks who require a reliable, functional, and cost-effective tactical sling. It’s ideal for home defense setups, tactical training, and competition shooting where quick firearm access and secure carry are paramount. Enthusiasts looking for a robust upgrade from basic factory slings without breaking the bank will find significant value here.

Individuals with adjustable or collapsible stocks on their Remington shotguns may need to seek alternative mounting solutions, as this sling is specifically designed for fixed stock configurations. Those who prioritize extreme comfort for very long-duration carries, perhaps on extended hunts over uneven terrain, might consider slings with more advanced padding, though this CQB sling still offers a high level of comfort for its class. For users not needing the rapid release functionality, the ERB might be seen as an unnecessary component, but its presence doesn’t detract from the sling’s core performance. Essential complementary items would primarily be the shotgun itself and the appropriate mounting point on the receiver or barrel for the front sling plate.

Conclusion on Specter Gear Remington 870 – 11/87CQB Sling

The Specter Gear Remington 870 – 11/87CQB Sling stands out as a remarkably capable and well-priced option for shotgun owners. It delivers on its promise of tactical functionality with a durable build, thoughtful features like the optional ERB, and crucial mounting hardware included, which significantly enhances its overall value proposition. The 1.25-inch webbing ensures comfortable carry, and the ambidextrous rear adapter along with the GG&G front plate make installation straightforward for compatible Remington models.

Considering its price point of $49.99, the performance and included accessories far exceed expectations, making it a highly recommended purchase for anyone running a fixed-stock Remington 870 or 11/87 and seeking a dependable tactical sling. I would readily recommend this sling to fellow shooters looking for a no-nonsense, effective solution that balances cost with quality and functionality. It’s a solid piece of kit that punches well above its weight.