Specter Gear 2 Point Tactical Sling for Mossberg 590 Reduced Length of Pull Stock with ERB, Ambidextrous Review

The Road Test: Specter Gear 2 Point Tactical Sling for Mossberg 590 Reduced Length of Pull Stock with ERB, Ambidextrous

My shotgun, a trusty Mossberg 590 with a reduced length of pull stock for better maneuverability, felt a bit unbalanced during transport. Carrying it slung, especially during longer periods or when navigating tight spaces, often meant readjusting its position frequently. This is where the Specter Gear 2 Point Tactical Sling for Mossberg 590 Reduced Length of Pull Stock with ERB, Ambidextrous promised to bring order to that particular chaos. Specter Gear, a name synonymous with robust tactical accessories, offered a solution designed to distribute weight effectively and ensure a secure, accessible carry.

The need for a better sling became apparent after a particularly demanding day at a defensive shotgun course. Moving between drills, I found myself constantly fumbling with the existing strap, which seemed to have a mind of its own, either too loose or digging into my shoulder. The thought of a quick-release mechanism for emergencies also crossed my mind, making the ERB (Emergency Release Buckle) a compelling feature.

My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid, no-nonsense construction. The webbing felt substantial, and the hardware, particularly the adjustment buckle and the ERB, exuded confidence. I briefly considered a more basic, non-adjustable two-point sling from a lesser-known brand, but the specific features, especially the weight distribution and the rapid adjustment capability, quickly steered me back to this Specter Gear offering. The first reaction was a quiet sense of satisfaction, a feeling that this was a piece of equipment built for purpose, not just aesthetics.

Real-World Testing: Putting Specter Gear 2 Point Tactical Sling for Mossberg 590 Reduced Length of Pull Stock with ERB, Ambidextrous to the Test

First Use Experience

I primarily tested this sling in two environments: a cluttered workshop and a familiar outdoor range. In the workshop, the reduced length of pull on my 590 makes it ideal for working around machinery, but carrying it without a proper sling became awkward. The Specter Gear sling allowed me to keep the shotgun securely positioned, freeing up my hands for tool handling.

At the range, the true test of its effectiveness began. I conducted drills that involved moving between firing positions, simulating dynamic scenarios. The 1.5″ shoulder webbing did an admirable job of distributing the weight of the shotgun across my shoulder, preventing the sharp digging sensation I’d experienced previously. Adjusting the sling’s slack on the fly was surprisingly intuitive, thanks to the spring-loaded cam buckle, which allowed for quick transitions between a more relaxed carry and a snug, ready position.

The only minor quirk during initial use was getting the tension just right; it took a couple of adjustments to find the sweet spot between too loose and too tight. However, this was a small learning curve, easily overcome within the first few minutes of handling.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, including transporting the shotgun to and from the range, and keeping it readily accessible in the workshop, the Specter Gear sling has held up exceptionally well. The MIL-W-43668 heavy-duty webbing shows no signs of fraying or excessive wear, even with occasional contact against rough surfaces. The stitching remains intact, and the hardware continues to function smoothly.

Durability has been a strong suit. Despite being exposed to dust and occasional moisture in the workshop, and the general grime of outdoor range sessions, the sling’s materials haven’t degraded. I haven’t noticed any stiffness in the webbing or any reduction in the functionality of the adjustment buckle or the emergency release.

Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any surface dirt. The ability to completely disassemble the sling, as mentioned in its specifications, means deeper cleaning or inspection is also a straightforward process should it ever be needed. Compared to some cheaper, less robust slings I’ve used in the past, this Specter Gear model feels like it’s built to last significantly longer. Budget options often show wear within weeks, but this sling feels as solid as it did on day one.

Breaking Down the Features of Specter Gear 2 Point Tactical Sling for Mossberg 590 Reduced Length of Pull Stock with ERB, Ambidextrous

Specifications

The Specter Gear 2 Point Tactical Sling for Mossberg 590 Reduced Length of Pull Stock with ERB, Ambidextrous is constructed with 1.5″ webbing for the shoulder strap, designed for optimal weight distribution. The adjuster strap is a 1″ heavy-duty strap, made from MIL-W-43668 webbing, which is a testament to its durability and resistance to abrasion. A key feature is the spring-loaded, self-locking, steel rapid adjust cam buckle with a lanyard, allowing for precise and quick slack adjustment. This model also incorporates an Emergency Release Buckle (ERB), a critical safety feature.

These specifications translate directly into user benefits. The wider shoulder webbing means more comfort during extended carry, preventing fatigue. The 1″ adjuster strap is robust enough for demanding use without being overly bulky. The rapid adjust cam buckle is a game-changer for tactical scenarios or quick transitions, enabling immediate changes in sling tension without fumbling. The ERB provides a vital escape route in high-stress situations, allowing for rapid removal of the sling from the body if needed. Compared to standard slings with fixed lengths or less sophisticated adjustment mechanisms, this sling offers a significant upgrade in versatility and safety.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this sling – securely and comfortably carrying a shotgun – is handled exceptionally well. The 1.5″ webbing across the shoulder really does make a difference in how the weight of the Mossberg 590 is distributed. It prevents the sling from digging into my shoulder, even when the shotgun is loaded and I’m moving around.

The rapid adjust cam buckle is perhaps the star feature here. It’s incredibly smooth and allows for micro-adjustments, making it easy to go from a relaxed carry position to one where the shotgun is held snugly against the body for tactical movement. The self-locking mechanism ensures that once adjusted, it stays put. The Emergency Release Buckle is a thoughtful addition for safety; a firm tug and the sling detaches cleanly. Its function is reliable, and I tested it multiple times to ensure it engaged and released as expected.

Its biggest strength is this blend of comfort and rapid adjustability. The only area that could be considered a minor weakness is that the 1″ adjuster strap, while durable, might feel a bit narrow to some users if they prefer a wider strap even for adjustment. However, its narrow profile is likely a deliberate design choice for ease of manipulation with gloves on.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Specter Gear sling is undeniably functional. The materials feel premium; the MIL-W-43668 webbing has a very dense weave, indicating high tensile strength. The steel hardware components, particularly the cam buckle and the ERB, have a clean finish and feel substantial, without any sharp edges.

Ergonomically, it’s well-executed. The wide shoulder webbing contours nicely, and the adjustability of the 1″ strap ensures a good fit for various body types and clothing layers. Even with thick winter clothing, I found it easy to get the sling into a comfortable and secure position. The lanyard attached to the cam buckle makes it easy to find and operate, even under stress or when wearing gloves.

The ambidextrous nature means it works equally well whether you’re right or left-handed, a crucial detail for many firearms accessories. The modularity, allowing for complete disassembly, is a thoughtful touch for users who might want to customize or thoroughly clean their gear.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on its construction and my extended testing, this sling is built for long-term durability. The heavy-duty webbing and robust steel components suggest it can withstand considerable abuse in harsh environments. I anticipate it will last for many years of active use without showing significant signs of wear.

Maintenance is straightforward. A simple cleaning with soap and water will address most dirt and grime. The fully modular design means that if a component were ever to fail – though I see no indication that it will – individual parts could potentially be replaced, extending the product’s lifespan even further. There are no obvious failure points that stand out; the stitching is reinforced, and the hardware appears robust.

Accessories and Customization Options

The sling itself is the primary component, and it comes ready to attach to your firearm. The Emergency Release Buckle and the rapid adjust cam buckle are integrated features, not separate accessories. The product description mentions it uses the same front and rear adapters that Specter Gear uses on their other slings, implying a certain compatibility within their product line.

While there aren’t traditional “accessories” that come bundled with this sling, its fully modular design offers a level of customization. Users can disassemble it completely to understand its construction or potentially to swap out components if needed. For users who prefer specific attachment points (like QD swivels, although this sling appears to use webbing loops), they would need to adapt or ensure their firearm’s attachment points are compatible with the integrated webbing loops.

Pros and Cons of Specter Gear 2 Point Tactical Sling for Mossberg 590 Reduced Length of Pull Stock with ERB, Ambidextrous

Who Should Buy Specter Gear 2 Point Tactical Sling for Mossberg 590 Reduced Length of Pull Stock with ERB, Ambidextrous?

This sling is an excellent choice for Mossberg 590 owners, especially those with reduced length of pull stocks, who need a reliable and comfortable way to carry their shotgun. It is ideal for individuals involved in defensive shooting courses, tactical training, or any scenario requiring frequent movement and quick access to their firearm. Workshop professionals who frequently need to maneuver with a shotgun readily available will also find its comfortable carry and secure fit highly beneficial.

Anyone looking for a basic, no-frills sling should probably look elsewhere, as this model is packed with features designed for demanding use. Those who prioritize ultra-lightweight gear might find the heavy-duty webbing slightly more substantial than their preference. Essential complementary items would include appropriate sling swivel studs or attachment points on the shotgun itself, which the Mossberg 590 typically comes equipped with.

Conclusion on Specter Gear 2 Point Tactical Sling for Mossberg 590 Reduced Length of Pull Stock with ERB, Ambidextrous

The Specter Gear 2 Point Tactical Sling for Mossberg 590 Reduced Length of Pull Stock with ERB, Ambidextrous truly delivers on its promises of comfort, adjustability, and safety. The combination of the wider shoulder strap and the incredibly effective rapid adjust buckle makes carrying a shotgun far more manageable, even for extended periods. The build quality speaks for itself, with heavy-duty materials and robust steel components that indicate a long service life.

At its price point, the value proposition is strong, offering features typically found on much more expensive tactical slings. I would readily recommend this sling to anyone who owns a Mossberg 590 and is looking to upgrade their carry system. It’s a piece of kit that makes a tangible difference in the usability and comfort of transporting a firearm, justifying its cost through enhanced performance and peace of mind.