Specter Gear 2 Point Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1 Review

Discovering the Specter Gear 2 Point Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1: My Take

The world of firearm accessories often presents a dichotomy: either they’re robust and utilitarian, or they’re designed with a specific niche in mind, sometimes sacrificing broader appeal. The Specter Gear 2 Point Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1 falls into a fascinating category, specifically engineered for a particular shotgun and stock configuration. My own journey to this sling began with a desire to improve the handling and carry of my Mossberg 590A1, especially when paired with a reduced-length-of-pull stock. Standard slings, while functional, often felt like an afterthought, failing to integrate seamlessly with the unique ergonomics of a shortened platform. I considered universal slings, but the specific mounting points and potential for interference with the Hogue stock made me hesitant. My initial impression of this Specter Gear offering was one of cautious optimism; the promise of a purpose-built solution was enticing.

Real-World Testing: Putting Specter Gear 2 Point Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of this 2-point sling focused on its intended application: attaching it to a Mossberg 590A1 configured with a Hogue 12-inch reduced length of pull (LOP) stock. The setup process was straightforward, involving the matte finish steel front side sling plate and the rear attachment point on the stock. I spent an afternoon at the indoor range, practicing various shooting drills, transitioning between targets, and performing administrative tasks like clearing and re-holstering (metaphorically, of course, as shotguns aren’t typically holstered). The sling allowed for a good balance between keeping the shotgun accessible and securing it to my body when moving.

During this initial range session, I noticed the sling’s webbing provided a comfortable carry, especially when slung across my chest. However, I also encountered a minor point of friction; the rapid adjust cam buckle, while functional, required a bit of deliberate manipulation to cinch down precisely. It wasn’t a significant hurdle, but it did stand out as an area that didn’t feel entirely intuitive from the first moment. The sling’s inherent stability was apparent, keeping the shotgun relatively stable even during dynamic movements, but I was eager to see how it would fare with more prolonged use.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months, this Specter Gear sling became a fixture on my Mossberg 590A1. It accompanied me on a few local training days, and more importantly, spent considerable time slung during routine firearm maintenance and cleaning sessions in my workshop. The constant in-and-out of the safe, the handling during cleaning, and the occasional need to quickly shoulder the firearm in various positions all contributed to a well-rounded assessment of its reliability.

The Mil-W-43668 webbing has proven remarkably durable. Despite being repeatedly handled, pulled, and occasionally snagged on workbench edges, there are no signs of fraying or excessive wear. The matte finish on the steel front sling plate has held up well, showing only minor cosmetic scuffs that are expected with functional gear. The emergency release buckle, while a feature I hope never to truly test, has remained functional and securely fastened. My only lingering concern from the initial use, the slightly stiff rapid adjust cam buckle, has softened slightly with use but still requires a firm grip and a deliberate pull to engage smoothly. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s a point of subtle, ongoing feedback.

Breaking Down the Features of Specter Gear 2 Point Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1

Specifications

This Specter Gear 2 Point Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1 is a purpose-built accessory designed to integrate seamlessly with specific Mossberg shotguns. The primary material for the webbing is Mil-W-43668, a robust and widely trusted military specification fabric known for its tensile strength and resistance to abrasion. The width of the main webbing across the shoulder area is a generous 1.5 inches, intended to distribute weight comfortably across the user’s shoulder. The adjuster strap, made from the same durable webbing, measures 1 inch in width and incorporates a spring-loaded, self-locking steel rapid adjust cam buckle for quick length adjustments.

A key component is the matte finish steel front side sling plate, specifically designed for attachment to Mossberg 590 and 590A1 models, particularly those fitted with Hogue reduced LOP stocks. The inclusion of an emergency release buckle adds a layer of safety, allowing for rapid detachment if necessary. This sling is engineered to fit 12-gauge Mossberg 590 and 590A1 shotguns that have been fitted with Hogue 12-inch reduced length of pull stocks. The attachment type is primarily through webbing loops and the specialized front plate.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of any sling is to allow for hands-free carrying and quick deployment of the firearm. This Specter Gear sling excels at the carrying aspect, particularly due to its comfortable 1.5-inch wide shoulder strap. When properly adjusted, it effectively distributes the weight of the Mossberg 590/590A1, making extended periods of carry more manageable. The two-point configuration provides good stability, preventing excessive flopping or swaying of the shotgun, which is crucial for weapon retention and control in dynamic environments.

However, the rapid adjust cam buckle is where functionality meets a slight resistance. While it does allow for rapid length adjustment, the mechanism can be a bit stiff, especially under load. It requires a firm pinch and pull, which, while effective, isn’t as fluid as some other quick-adjust systems I’ve encountered. The emergency release buckle functions as advertised, offering a quick way to detach the sling, a valuable feature in scenarios where rapid shedding of gear might be necessary. The front sling plate is a standout feature, providing a solid and secure mounting point that doesn’t rely on aftermarket barrel clamps or fragile receiver inserts.

Design & Ergonomics

Specter Gear has clearly prioritized utility and durability in the design of this sling. The Mil-W-43668 webbing feels rugged and substantial, indicating it’s built to withstand abuse. The matte finish on the steel components is practical, reducing glare and adding to the utilitarian aesthetic. The 1.5-inch wide shoulder pad area is a welcome ergonomic choice, offering superior comfort over narrower slings during extended wear.

The primary ergonomic quirk lies with the rapid adjust cam buckle. While its intention is to provide quick adjustments, its stiffness can make fine-tuning the length a slightly awkward process, especially with gloved hands or under time pressure. The emergency release buckle, on the other hand, is well-placed and operates with a satisfying click, feeling secure yet easy to manipulate when needed. The overall design is straightforward, focusing on function over aesthetics, which aligns well with the tactical nature of the Mossberg 590/590A1.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my testing, the Specter Gear 2 Point Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1 demonstrates excellent durability. The Mil-W-43668 webbing is renowned for its strength and resistance to wear and tear, and this sling is no exception. After months of regular use, there are no visible signs of fraying, stitching failure, or degradation of the material. The steel components are robust and show only minor cosmetic imperfections, which is typical for hard-use gear.

Maintenance is minimal, which is a significant advantage. The webbing can be spot cleaned with mild soap and water if it becomes soiled, and dried naturally. The hardware should be kept free of excessive dirt and debris to ensure smooth operation of the buckles. The simplicity of the design means there are few points of failure, suggesting a long service life for this sling, provided the buckles remain clean and functional.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular Specter Gear sling comes with its core components: the sling itself, the matte finish steel front side sling plate, and the necessary adapters to connect to the rear of the shotgun. There are no extraneous accessories included, which is typical for a specialized sling designed for a specific firearm configuration. The sling is not designed for extensive customization in terms of swapping out major components like the webbing or primary buckles, though the emergency release buckle does offer a form of rapid detachment capability. Its integration with the Mossberg 590/590A1 and Hogue stock is its primary “customization,” in that it’s tailored for this specific setup.

Pros and Cons of Specter Gear 2 Point Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1

Who Should Buy Specter Gear 2 Point Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1?

This sling is an excellent choice for owners of the Mossberg 590 or 590A1 shotgun who have specifically fitted it with a Hogue 12-inch reduced length of pull stock. If you find yourself needing to carry your shotgun for extended periods or require a stable, hands-free carry solution that integrates perfectly with this specific setup, then this sling is a strong contender. It’s ideal for those who prioritize a robust and purpose-designed accessory over a generic one-size-fits-all option.

Conversely, users without this specific Hogue stock configuration, or those looking for a sling with a more universally adjustable or exceptionally fluid quick-adjust mechanism, might want to explore other options. Someone seeking a sling for a different shotgun model or a platform that requires more extensive customization should look elsewhere. For those with the intended shotgun and stock, however, a high-quality flashlight for illumination during operation or maintenance might be a useful companion accessory.

Conclusion on Specter Gear 2 Point Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1

The Specter Gear 2 Point Sling – For Mossberg 590/590A1 delivers on its promise of a specialized, durable carrying solution for a specific shotgun configuration. Its robust construction, comfortable shoulder strap, and dedicated mounting hardware make it a reliable choice for those who need it. The inclusion of the matte finish steel front side sling plate and the emergency release buckle are notable strengths that enhance its practicality and safety.

However, the somewhat stiff operation of the rapid adjust cam buckle prevents it from achieving perfect marks. While functional, it does present a slight point of friction in an otherwise well-executed design. For its price point, the value proposition is strong for the target user, offering a secure and comfortable carry that far surpasses generic slings. If you own a Mossberg 590 or 590A1 with that specific Hogue stock, I would recommend this sling; it provides a tailored and dependable carry solution that integrates seamlessly, despite the minor quibble with its adjustment mechanism.