What I Found Using the Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling
The Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling is a seemingly simple piece of kit that promises a significant upgrade in comfort and control when carrying a shotgun. Butler Creek, a trusted name in firearm accessories, aims to provide a reliable and affordable solution for hunters, sport shooters, and anyone who needs to keep their shotgun readily accessible. I was intrigued to see if this basic sling could live up to the demands of serious field use.
I was tired of my shotgun digging into my shoulder during long days hunting upland birds. The factory sling was little more than a strip of webbing, offering no padding or grip. I needed a sling that would distribute the weight more evenly and stay put, even when moving through thick brush.
My initial impressions were positive; the Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling felt more substantial than expected. The padded Cordura shoulder pad felt comfortable to the touch, and the non-slip lining seemed promising. It looked like a well-made, practical piece of gear.
I considered the Allen Company Shotgun Sling with Swivels and the Quake Claw Shotgun Sling before settling on the Butler Creek. I ultimately chose the Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling for its simplicity and reliance on barrel loops rather than swivels. This design minimizes potential points of failure and seemed more suited to navigating dense cover.
I was cautiously optimistic. It was a no-frills design, but the promise of added comfort and stability was appealing. I was eager to see how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling during a weekend pheasant hunt in South Dakota. The terrain was varied, from open fields to dense patches of cattails, requiring a lot of walking and quick shouldering of the shotgun. The weather was dry, but the mornings were cold.
The sling performed admirably. The padded shoulder pad effectively distributed the weight of my 12-gauge over my shoulder, eliminating the pressure points I previously experienced. The non-slip surface on the barrel loops kept the sling securely in place, preventing the shotgun from sliding around while walking.
Installation was straightforward, although it took a bit of maneuvering to get the loops properly positioned on the barrel and pistol grip. There were no immediate issues or surprises. The sling felt comfortable and secure.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile addition to my shotgun setup. I’ve used it on numerous hunting trips, as well as during clay shooting sessions. The sling shows minimal signs of wear and tear.
The Cordura shoulder pad has held up well, with no fraying or tears. The nylon webbing remains strong and flexible. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris.
Compared to my previous experiences with basic factory slings, the Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling is a significant improvement. It offers superior comfort, stability, and peace of mind. It is far more comfortable during long hunting days.
Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling
Specifications
The Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling boasts several key specifications that contribute to its functionality and user experience. It features a 36-inch length, offering ample adjustability for various body sizes and carrying preferences. The 1-inch width of the nylon webbing provides sufficient strength and stability.
The sling is constructed from durable Nylon Webbing, ensuring resistance to abrasion and the elements. The inclusion of a padded Cordura shoulder pad with a non-slip lining enhances comfort and prevents slippage. These specifications are vital for providing a comfortable and secure carrying experience in diverse hunting and shooting scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling performs its primary function of carrying a shotgun exceptionally well. The padded shoulder pad significantly reduces felt weight, and the non-slip features keep the shotgun securely in place. It offers enhanced comfort and control, compared to standard slings.
The sling’s greatest strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. Its weakness, perhaps, is its lack of advanced features like quick-release buckles or adjustable length on the fly. The Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling meets and exceeds expectations for a basic, functional shotgun sling.
Design & Ergonomics
The Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling features a straightforward and practical design. The materials used are durable and lightweight, contributing to a comfortable carry. It provides a decent balance of comfort and functionality.
The Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling is user-friendly. It requires minimal setup and adjustment. The simple loop design allows for easy attachment to most shotguns, without the need for swivels.
Durability & Maintenance
The Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling is built to last. The nylon webbing and Cordura padding are resistant to wear and tear, ensuring long-term durability. It is designed for years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep the sling clean and functioning properly. The simple design minimizes the risk of parts failing or requiring repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling does not come with any additional accessories. It is a self-contained unit designed for simple, effective shotgun carrying. However, users can add aftermarket sling swivels if they prefer that method of attachment.
The sling’s compatibility with other accessories is limited, given its basic design. However, the standard 1-inch webbing width is compatible with many aftermarket sling pads or quick-detach buckles, offering some degree of customization.
Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling
Pros
- Provides excellent comfort thanks to the padded Cordura shoulder pad.
- Offers reliable stability with its non-slip barrel loops and shoulder pad lining.
- Features a durable construction that ensures long-lasting performance.
- Simple to install and use, requiring no specialized tools or modifications.
- Affordable price point, making it an excellent value for the money.
Cons
- Limited adjustability compared to slings with buckles or sliders.
- The fixed length may not be ideal for all body types or carrying preferences.
Who Should Buy Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling?
The Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling is perfect for hunters who prioritize comfort and reliability in the field. It is ideal for recreational shooters who want a simple and affordable way to carry their shotgun at the range. This is also a good option for anyone who prefers a traditional sling design without the added complexity of swivels or quick-release mechanisms.
Those who need a highly adjustable sling with quick-detach capabilities should skip this product. Those requiring extreme durability for harsh environments might consider heavier-duty options.
Consider adding aftermarket sling swivels if your shotgun is already equipped with swivel studs.
Conclusion on Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling
The Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling is a simple, effective, and affordable solution for carrying a shotgun comfortably and securely. It is a well-made product that performs its intended function reliably. The value is excellent for the price.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a basic, no-frills shotgun sling that prioritizes comfort and durability. If you’re tired of your shotgun digging into your shoulder, give the Butler Creek Shotgun Nylon Sling a try. You won’t be disappointed. Upgrade your hunting experience today!