Blue Force Gear Elastic Hook Cover Review

The Truth Revealed: Blue Force Gear Elastic Hook Cover

For years, I’ve relied on a patchwork of solutions to keep my gear quiet and my firearms pristine. Whether in the controlled chaos of a workshop, the unforgiving elements of the field, or the meticulous demands of a lab, the details matter. That’s precisely why I found myself researching solutions for exposed sling hardware. The Blue Force Gear Elastic Hook Cover arrived on my radar as a potential answer to a persistent annoyance: the clatter of metal on metal and the dread of potential scratches. I’d previously experimented with DIY methods, including rubber bands and small pieces of medical tape, but these were often temporary fixes that failed under stress. Some generic slip-on protectors I’d tried were either too loose or too restrictive, compromising functionality. This particular elastic cover, however, promised a more refined, purpose-built solution. Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of understated utility; it felt durable, yet flexible, hinting at a design that understood the nuances of real-world application.

Real-World Testing: Putting Blue Force Gear Elastic Hook Cover to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for these hook covers were primarily my personal range bag and a few different rifle slings that feature MASH hooks. I’ve been utilizing them attached to a 2-point sling that often gets tossed around in the back of my vehicle or leaned against walls during field operations. The covers slid on easily, fitting snugly over the MASH hooks with minimal effort. This immediate ease of use was a welcome change from some DIY solutions that required significant fiddling.

I paid close attention to how they performed under typical conditions. During a recent range day, the covers effectively silenced the metallic pinging that used to emanate from my sling’s hardware whenever I moved or set my rifle down. Even when the sling brushed against the concrete floor of the shooting stall, there was no jarring sound and, more importantly, no new scratches appeared on the hook itself. I also noticed they remained in place during moderate physical activity, like navigating rough terrain to get to a shooting position.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Blue Force Gear Elastic Hook Cover has proven its mettle. The military-grade elastic has maintained its tension, showing no signs of stretching out or becoming loose. The covers still fit snugly, preventing any unnecessary movement or noise. I’ve intentionally exposed them to light dust and a bit of moisture from dew on early morning outings, and they’ve held up without any degradation in their function or appearance.

Compared to other elastic or rubberized covers I’ve encountered over the years, these offer a superior balance of retention and flexibility. Some cheaper alternatives eventually crack or harden with UV exposure, but the Blue Force Gear Elastic Hook Cover seems resistant to this. Cleaning them is as simple as a quick wipe-down, or even a rinse if they get particularly dirty; they dry quickly due to the elastic material. They have effectively replaced my ad-hoc solutions and have become a standard part of my sling setup.

Breaking Down the Features of Blue Force Elastic Hook Cover

Specifications

The Blue Force Gear Elastic Hook Cover is constructed from military grade elastic, a material chosen for its durability and resilience. Each cover measures 1.75 inches in length, providing ample coverage for common sling hardware. They weigh a negligible 5 grams, adding virtually no bulk or noticeable weight to your setup.

This military grade elastic is key to the product’s performance, offering a secure grip without being overly restrictive. The 1.75-inch length is sufficient to encompass the entire working portion of MASH hooks and similar metal connectors, thus reducing noise and preventing the hardware from making direct contact with weapon finishes. The low 5-gram weight ensures that it doesn’t negatively impact the balance or feel of your sling system.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Blue Force Gear Elastic Hook Cover is to mitigate noise and protect finishes, and it excels at both. The elastic material creates a snug fit around metal sling hardware like MASH hooks, effectively dampening the metallic clinking that can betray movement or simply be an auditory nuisance. This sound dampening is crucial in situations where stealth is a consideration, or simply for general peace of mind during transit.

Its main strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. It does exactly what it’s designed to do without complication. A potential minor weakness, though not experienced by me, could be its limited compatibility. The manufacturer explicitly advises against using them with push-button, RED, or side-release swivels, as they may impede their function. This is a deliberate design choice to ensure the covers don’t interfere with critical quick-release mechanisms.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of these hook covers is deceptively simple yet highly effective. They are slightly tapered, which aids in achieving a secure fit on a variety of hook shapes and sizes. This taper helps the cover to grip the hardware firmly once installed.

The build quality feels robust. The military grade elastic provides a reassuring texture and stretch. The slightly tapered design is a thoughtful touch that makes installation easier and ensures a tighter, more reliable fit once in place. The dimensions, while specific, allow for a good range of compatibility with standard sling connectors.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the military grade elastic construction, the durability of the Blue Force Gear Elastic Hook Cover is expected to be high for its intended use. These are not designed for extreme abrasive environments but rather for protecting hardware and reducing noise. They should last a considerable amount of time under normal usage patterns.

Maintenance is essentially non-existent beyond occasional cleaning if they accumulate dirt or grime. They can be wiped clean or rinsed and will dry quickly. There are no complex parts to maintain or replace.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Blue Force Gear Elastic Hook Cover is a standalone accessory and does not come with any additional components or offer customization in terms of colors or sizes within this specific model. Its design is focused on a singular purpose and a streamlined application.

The product is not designed to be customized. It is a finished item intended for direct use over existing hardware.

Pros and Cons of Blue Force Gear Elastic Hook Cover

Who Should Buy Blue Force Gear Elastic Hook Cover?

This product is an excellent choice for anyone utilizing slings with MASH hooks or similar metal connectors, particularly those involved in tactical operations, law enforcement, or competitive shooting where noise discipline is important. It’s also highly beneficial for hunters or recreational shooters who want to protect their firearm’s finish from incidental scratches. Anyone who has grown tired of the constant jingle of their sling hardware will find significant value here.

Those who primarily use slings with integrated push-button or quick-release swivels should look elsewhere, as these covers are not designed for those specific types of hardware. If visual customization is a priority, this product’s utilitarian design might not meet those needs. For enhanced functionality, consider ensuring your sling has MASH hooks or comparable connectors that are compatible with this cover.

Conclusion on Blue Force Gear Elastic Hook Cover

The Blue Force Gear Elastic Hook Cover is a small, inexpensive accessory that delivers a disproportionately large benefit. It effectively addresses the common issues of noise and potential finish damage associated with metal sling hardware. The use of military grade elastic ensures durability and a secure fit, while the slightly tapered design makes installation straightforward. For its price point of $6.95, the value proposition is exceptionally strong. It’s a no-brainer for anyone whose gear features MASH hooks and who values a quieter, more protected setup. I would readily recommend this simple yet effective solution to anyone seeking to eliminate the jingle and scuff marks from their slings, provided their hardware is compatible.