Butler Creek Military Sling Review

Was the Butler Creek Military Sling the Right Choice?

The Butler Creek Military Sling is a classic piece of gear, promising to provide reliable and comfortable carry for your rifle or shotgun. Marketed towards law enforcement and sporting enthusiasts alike, it aims to offer a simple, yet effective solution. But in a world of tactical slings with quick-adjust mechanisms and advanced features, does this traditional leather sling still hold its own?

I needed a durable and aesthetically pleasing sling for my old Winchester lever-action rifle; a sling that wouldn’t look out of place on a classic firearm. I was tired of nylon slings that felt cheap and looked too “tactical” for a traditional hunting rifle. The Butler Creek Military Sling seemed like a good fit with its leather construction and brass fittings.

My initial impression upon unboxing was positive. The leather had that distinct, pleasing smell, and the brass hardware looked sturdy. The color was a rich brown, just as advertised. However, the leather felt a little stiff, a common trait of new leather goods, but something I hoped would soften with use.

I considered a few other options, including some higher-end leather slings from custom leatherworkers, and a few nylon slings from brands like Magpul. Ultimately, I chose the Butler Creek Military Sling for its balance of classic aesthetics, perceived durability, and reasonable price point. The custom slings were too expensive for this particular project, and I wanted to avoid the “tactical” look of nylon.

At first, I was cautiously optimistic. It looked great, but the stiffness of the leather was a slight concern. Only time and real-world use would tell if it lived up to my expectations.

Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Military Sling to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test was during a weekend hunting trip in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania. I attached the Butler Creek Military Sling to my Winchester and headed out into the woods. The sling felt secure, and the weight distribution was comfortable enough for several hours of walking.

The weather was mostly dry, with a brief period of light rain. The leather didn’t seem to be negatively affected by the moisture. The stiffness, however, did make adjusting the sling a bit cumbersome, especially when wearing thick gloves.

There weren’t any significant issues during this first outing, although adjusting the sling length on the fly proved to be less convenient than with a modern, quick-adjust sling. The old-school buckle system required a bit of fiddling.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Butler Creek Military Sling has held up remarkably well. The leather has softened considerably and now conforms to my body much better. There are no signs of stitching failure or significant wear and tear on the leather itself.

The brass hardware has developed a nice patina, adding to the sling’s classic aesthetic. I’ve cleaned and conditioned the leather a few times with a standard leather conditioner, which seems to keep it supple and protected.

Compared to the cheap nylon slings I’ve used in the past, the Butler Creek Military Sling is a significant upgrade in terms of both durability and comfort. While it may not offer the tactical advantages of a modern sling, it excels in providing a reliable and aesthetically pleasing way to carry a rifle or shotgun.

Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Military Sling

Specifications

The Butler Creek Military Sling features a simple, yet robust design.

• Manufacturer: Butler Creek
• Color: Brown
• Length: 44 in
• Fabric/Material: Leather
• Condition: New

These specifications are essential for understanding the sling’s intended use and capabilities. The leather construction provides durability and a classic look, while the 44-inch length is sufficient for most users.

Performance & Functionality

The Butler Creek Military Sling performs its primary function adequately: securely carrying a rifle or shotgun.
It is relatively easy to install and adjust, although the adjustment process is not as quick or convenient as with modern slings. The leather provides a comfortable carrying experience, especially after it’s broken in.

The sling’s main strength lies in its simplicity and durability. Its main weakness is its lack of quick-adjust functionality. It meets expectations for a traditional leather sling but doesn’t offer any groundbreaking features.

Design & Ergonomics

The Butler Creek Military Sling features a classic military-style design. The leather is thick and durable, and the brass hardware adds a touch of elegance. The sling feels comfortable against the body, especially after the leather has softened.

The design is user-friendly, although the adjustment buckles can be a bit stiff initially. There is a slight learning curve to adjusting the sling quickly and efficiently.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its leather construction, the Butler Creek Military Sling is expected to last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and conditioning will help to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning with standard leather care products. The sling is not designed to be repaired easily in the field, but the robust construction minimizes the likelihood of needing repairs.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Butler Creek Military Sling comes with no additional accessories beyond the sling itself. There are limited customization options available. Users can potentially replace the brass hardware with different styles or finishes, but that would require some leatherworking skills.

The sling is compatible with any rifle or shotgun that has standard sling swivel attachment points. There are no specific accessories from other brands that are particularly recommended for use with this sling.

Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Military Sling

Who Should Buy Butler Creek Military Sling?

The Butler Creek Military Sling is perfect for hunters and sporting shooters who appreciate classic aesthetics and durable construction. It is ideal for those who own traditional rifles or shotguns and want a sling that complements their firearm’s design. This sling will also work well for anyone looking for a simple, reliable sling without the complexity of modern tactical options.

Those who prioritize quick adjustability and tactical features should skip this product. It’s not the best choice for those who need to rapidly adjust their sling length or require advanced functionality. If rapid deployment or dynamic shooting situations are your primary concern, a modern, quick-adjust sling is a better option.

A must-have modification would be to apply a high-quality leather conditioner before first use to help speed up the break-in process and protect the leather. Consider adding sling swivels if your rifle doesn’t already have them.

Conclusion on Butler Creek Military Sling

The Butler Creek Military Sling is a solid choice for those seeking a classic, durable, and reliable leather sling. Its simple design and robust construction offer a comfortable and secure way to carry a rifle or shotgun, especially after the initial break-in period. While it may lack the advanced features of modern tactical slings, its timeless aesthetic and dependable performance make it a worthwhile investment for the right user.

At $54.99, the price is justified for the quality of materials and construction. You are paying for a sling that will likely last for many years with proper care.

I would personally recommend the Butler Creek Military Sling to anyone looking for a traditional leather sling for their rifle or shotgun. If you value classic aesthetics, durability, and simplicity over cutting-edge features, this sling is an excellent choice. Upgrade your carry today with the Butler Creek Military Sling and experience the enduring quality of leather craftsmanship.