Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling Review

Is the Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling All Talk?

The Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling promises enhanced comfort and reduced felt weight when carrying your firearm. The Butler Creek sling is designed to make those long treks to the hunting blind or shooting range less burdensome. I was immediately drawn to this sling’s claims of superior comfort and its ability to accommodate both rifles and shotguns, as I frequently switch between the two during different hunting seasons.

My interest in the Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling stemmed from recurring shoulder pain experienced during extended hunts with my trusty, but heavy, deer rifle. Traditional slings dug into my shoulder, causing discomfort and fatigue, ultimately detracting from my overall hunting experience. I needed a solution that would distribute the weight more evenly and provide adequate cushioning.

Unboxing the sling, I was immediately pleased with the feel of the Neoprene. The padding felt substantial, and the overall construction seemed robust enough to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. It felt much softer than the nylon slings I’d used in the past, and I was eager to test its comfort claims in the field.

I considered the Magpul MS4 Dual QD Sling Gen2 and the Viking Tactics VTAC Wide Padded Sling before settling on the Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling. While the Magpul offered versatile attachment options, its lack of significant padding concerned me. The Viking Tactics sling seemed durable, but its price point was higher, and I was drawn to the Butler Creek’s promise of immediate comfort.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The sling felt promising, but the true test would be how it performed under the weight of my rifle during a multi-hour hike. I was hopeful that the Comfort Stretch design would live up to its name.

Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling during an early-season deer hunt in the Appalachian Mountains. The terrain was steep and rugged, requiring several hours of hiking through dense forests. The weather was cool and damp, with occasional light rain.

The sling performed admirably in these challenging conditions. The Neoprene padding significantly reduced the felt weight of my rifle, and the Comfort Stretch backing absorbed much of the bounce. This prevented the jarring against my shoulder that I usually experienced with traditional slings. The sling remained securely in place, even when navigating uneven terrain.

The initial setup was straightforward, requiring only a few minutes to attach the sling to my rifle’s swivel studs. Adjusting the length was also easy, allowing me to customize the fit for optimal comfort. I was initially concerned that the Non-Slip Grippers might cause discomfort against my clothing, but they proved to be unobtrusive.

After the first hunt, I noticed a slight fraying of the stitching near the swivel attachments. This was a minor concern, but something I decided to monitor during subsequent uses. Overall, I was impressed with the sling’s performance during its maiden voyage.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use during various hunting trips and range sessions, the Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling has held up reasonably well. The Neoprene padding has retained its shape and cushioning properties, although it does show some signs of compression in areas that bear the most weight. The fraying near the swivel attachments has not worsened significantly.

The sling has proven to be durable enough for typical hunting and recreational shooting activities. However, I would hesitate to subject it to extremely demanding conditions, such as a multi-day backpacking trip in rugged terrain. The stitching, while adequate, does not appear to be as robust as some higher-end slings.

Cleaning the sling is relatively easy. I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use to remove dirt and moisture. The Neoprene material is resistant to staining and dries quickly. I have not needed to use any specialized cleaning products.

Compared to my previous experiences with nylon slings, the Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling offers a significant improvement in comfort. The Comfort Stretch design and Neoprene padding make a noticeable difference, especially during extended periods of carrying a firearm. While it may not be the most durable sling on the market, its superior comfort makes it a worthwhile upgrade for most hunters and shooters.

Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling

Specifications

The Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance. It features a length of 44 inches, providing ample adjustability for different body types and carrying styles. The width is 1 inch, offering a comfortable balance between support and maneuverability. The sling utilizes Neoprene as its primary fabric/material, known for its cushioning and water-resistant properties. The design incorporates Padding for enhanced comfort and features Sewn-In Swivels for secure attachment. The attachment type being Sewn-In Swivels does cause some limiting factors.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the sling’s comfort, durability, and ease of use. The Neoprene padding and Comfort Stretch backing work together to reduce felt weight and absorb shock. The adjustable length ensures a customized fit. The Non-Slip Grippers prevent the sling from sliding off the shoulder. The sewn-in swivels, while convenient, limit the ability to quickly detach or swap the sling between firearms without modification.

Performance & Functionality

The Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling performs its primary function of carrying a rifle or shotgun effectively and comfortably. The Comfort Stretch design significantly reduces the felt weight of the firearm, making those long treks to the stand far more bearable. The Non-Slip Grippers keep the sling securely in place, preventing it from sliding off the shoulder, even when wearing slick outerwear.

The sling’s strengths lie in its comfort and ease of use. The Neoprene padding is soft and forgiving, distributing the weight evenly across the shoulder. The length is easily adjustable. A potential area for improvement is the durability of the stitching near the swivel attachments.

Overall, the Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling meets and even exceeds expectations for a sling in its price range. Its superior comfort and user-friendly design make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who spends extended periods carrying a firearm.

Design & Ergonomics

The Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes comfort and functionality. The Neoprene material feels soft and pliable against the skin. The adjustable length allows for a customized fit. The streamlined profile minimizes bulk and prevents snagging on brush or clothing.

The sling is relatively user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. Attaching it to the firearm is straightforward, and adjusting the length is quick and easy. The Non-Slip Grippers provide a secure hold without causing discomfort.

Durability & Maintenance

The Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling appears to be reasonably durable, but it is not indestructible. The Neoprene material is resistant to tearing and abrasion, but the stitching may be a weak point. With proper care and maintenance, it should last for several seasons of regular use.

Maintaining the sling is simple. Wiping it down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient. More thorough cleaning may be necessary if it becomes heavily soiled. The Neoprene material is easy to clean and dries quickly.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling does not come with any additional accessories beyond the sewn-in swivels. Customization options are limited, primarily consisting of choosing from various camo patterns.

The sewn-in swivels are compatible with most standard swivel studs found on rifles and shotguns. Modifying the sling to accommodate quick-detach swivels would require some DIY skill.

Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling

Who Should Buy Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling?

The Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling is perfect for hunters who spend long hours in the field, carrying their rifles or shotguns. It’s also well-suited for recreational shooters who value comfort and ease of use. Anyone who experiences shoulder pain or fatigue from carrying a firearm will appreciate the Comfort Stretch design and Neoprene padding.

Individuals who require extreme durability or extensive customization options may want to consider a higher-end sling. Those who frequently swap slings between firearms may find the sewn-in swivels to be a limitation.

Must-have accessories or modifications would depend on individual needs and preferences. Quick-detach swivels would enhance versatility. A sling swivel adapter for firearms without swivel studs would be beneficial.

Conclusion on Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling

The Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling is a well-designed and affordable accessory that significantly enhances the comfort of carrying a firearm. Its Comfort Stretch design, Neoprene padding, and Non-Slip Grippers make it a standout performer in its price range.

The value proposition is excellent. The sling delivers on its promise of superior comfort without breaking the bank. The minor drawbacks, such as the stitching durability and limited customization, are easily outweighed by its benefits.

I would personally recommend the Butler Creek Rifle/Shotgun Comfort Stretch Sling to anyone looking for a comfortable and reliable sling for their rifle or shotgun. Upgrade your hunting experience today and say goodbye to shoulder pain!