Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling Review

How the Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling Performed Under Pressure

The Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling promises comfort and stability at a budget-friendly price. Marketed with its thick neoprene padding and shark skin rubberized backing, it aims to alleviate the strain of carrying a rifle for extended periods. Butler Creek, a respected name in shooting accessories, intends this sling to be an upgrade for hunters and recreational shooters alike.

I embarked on a quest to replace a cheap, abrasive nylon sling that came standard with my deer rifle. I was looking for a sling that would distribute weight effectively and wouldn’t dig into my shoulder during long treks through the woods. The promise of neoprene cushioning and a non-slip backing drew me to the Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling.

Unboxing the sling, I immediately noticed the quality of the neoprene padding. It felt significantly thicker and more pliable than the material used in other budget slings. The shark skin rubberized backing appeared robust and ready to grip my clothing. The polypro webbing, while simple, seemed strong enough for the task at hand.

I considered the Magpul MS1 sling and the Viking Tactics VTAC sling but opted for the Butler Creek due to its affordability and focus on comfort over tactical adjustability. The Magpul, while versatile, felt a bit too complex for my needs. The VTAC, known for its rapid adjustability, came with a higher price tag that wasn’t justifiable for my primarily hunting-focused use.

My initial impression was positive. The Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling felt well-made for its price point. I was eager to test its comfort and stability in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test involved a day-long pheasant hunt across rolling fields and dense brush. I attached the Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling to my 12-gauge shotgun using Uncle Mike’s QD swivels. The sling installation process was straightforward.

The weather that day was typical of late autumn: damp, with intermittent drizzle. Despite the moisture, the shark skin backing maintained a secure grip on my jacket. The neoprene padding truly lived up to its promise. It provided a comfortable cushion that prevented the shotgun’s weight from digging into my shoulder, even after hours of walking.

Initially, I didn’t notice any issues. However, after about four hours, the exposed ends of the polypro webbing where it fed through the adjustment buckle began to rub slightly against my neck. This was a minor annoyance, easily remedied by adjusting the sling’s length for more suitable positioning.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the next several months, I used the Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling on numerous hunting trips and range sessions. It continued to perform reliably, providing consistent comfort and stability. The neoprene padding retained its cushioning properties and the shark skin backing showed no signs of wear.

The sling proved surprisingly durable. It withstood scrapes against tree branches and exposure to mud and rain without any noticeable damage. I wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. This keeps it clean and prevents the buildup of dirt and grime.

Compared to my previous nylon sling, the Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling is a significant upgrade. It dramatically improves comfort and reduces fatigue during long days in the field. This sling’s superior padding and non-slip grip make it a worthwhile investment for any hunter or shooter seeking enhanced comfort and stability.

Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling

Specifications

The Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling boasts a few key specifications that define its performance:

• Length: Adjustable up to 48 inches, accommodating a wide range of body sizes and carry styles. This adjustability is crucial for finding the perfect fit, whether you prefer a tight, high carry or a looser, lower position.
• Attachment Type: Sewn-in loops designed to work with 1-inch swivels (swivels not included). While this provides a secure attachment point, the absence of included swivels requires an additional purchase.
• Width: 1 inch, providing a comfortable contact point on the shoulder. This width strikes a balance between stability and maneuverability.
• Fabric/Material: Neoprene padding with a shark skin rubberized backing and polypro webbing. The neoprene provides cushioning, the shark skin enhances grip, and the polypro webbing ensures durability.
• Padding: Yes, featuring thick neoprene for enhanced comfort. This padding is the cornerstone of the sling’s comfort and makes a noticeable difference during extended use.

These specifications, particularly the neoprene padding and adjustable length, directly contribute to the sling’s comfort and usability.

Performance & Functionality

The Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling excels in its primary function: providing comfortable and stable rifle carry. It is designed to prevent slipping and distribute weight evenly. The sling accomplishes this effectively.

Its strengths lie in its comfortable padding, secure grip, and simple adjustability. The absence of included swivels and the potential for webbing rub are minor drawbacks. The sling meets and exceeds expectations for a budget-friendly comfort-focused sling.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is straightforward and functional, prioritizing comfort and ease of use. The materials are well-chosen for their respective roles, with the neoprene padding being particularly noteworthy. The Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling is light and comfortable.

The sling is user-friendly, requiring no special skills or knowledge to install and adjust. The only learning curve involves finding the optimal length and positioning for your body type and rifle.

Durability & Maintenance

The Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling is constructed from durable materials designed to withstand regular use in various conditions. The neoprene padding and shark skin backing are resistant to wear and tear.

The sling requires minimal maintenance. Wiping it down with a damp cloth after each use is generally sufficient to keep it clean and in good working order.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling does not come with any accessories. The sewn-in loops are designed to work with standard 1-inch swivels, which must be purchased separately.

There are limited customization options. The primary customization involves selecting the appropriate swivels and adjusting the sling length to achieve the desired fit. While not offering extensive customization, its compatibility with standard swivels allows users to tailor the sling to their specific rifle and attachment points.

Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling

Who Should Buy Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling?

The Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who carries a rifle or shotgun for extended periods. It is well-suited for individuals seeking a comfortable and affordable sling that prioritizes padding and stability.

Those seeking advanced tactical features, such as rapid adjustability or integrated storage, should skip this product. Consider alternatives like the Magpul MS1 or Viking Tactics VTAC slings.

Must-have accessories include a set of high-quality 1-inch swivels. Consider adding a neoprene cheek rest to enhance comfort and stability while shooting.

Conclusion on Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling

The Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling delivers on its promise of providing comfortable and stable rifle carry at an affordable price. Its thick neoprene padding and secure shark skin backing make it a significant upgrade over basic nylon slings. It offers impressive comfort and reduces fatigue during long days in the field or at the range.

The price is definitely justified. For around $15, you get a durable and comfortable sling that will significantly improve your carrying experience.

I would personally recommend it to anyone seeking a budget-friendly comfort-focused sling. If you’re tired of shoulder pain and slipping slings, the Butler Creek Easy Rider Rifle Sling is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your carrying experience today.