It doesn't matter if you are in the military and need a sling that provides just as much comfort as it provides durability, or a hunter who needs a sling that can be more than just a piece of fabric slung over a shoulder. The difference between a decent sling that gets you by, and a great sling that lasts for years, is astounding. The best hunting rifle sling can save you money too, and I'm not just talking about lasting longer so you don't have to replace it as often. I am talking about the times while you are hiking through the wilderness, gun slung over one shoulder by a cheap nylon sling so both your hands can be free, and you bend down to examine tracks.
*Updated 2018 with Editors Choice, see below.
Before you know what is happening your gun slips from your shoulder and falls to the ground. A short distance sure, but it lands on a rock denting your optics and scratching your barrel.
1. Be grateful it didn't misfire, and
2. Know that this was completely preventable.
A good sling would have gripped to your clothing, and at the very least provided you with an opportunity to stop and catch your weapon before falling to the ground.
Image by NechakoRiver
Good rifle slings will save you from potential pain as well. They are both versatile, meaning they can do more than just go over a shoulder, and they are designed to be very comfortable. Taking into consideration advancement in technology, new materials, and adaptations such as stretching, good rifle slings will provide you with the ability to carry your rifle for a longer duration. Not only that, but you will be able to hike with your rifle for farther distances without feeling any negative strain or as much muscle soreness as a simple and traditional sling would give you.
There are tons of styles and options to choose from including a massive price ratio. So, when it comes to choosing the best option to match your personal needs look no further than these hunting rifle sling reviews.
Before we get into our top 6 rifle slings, there are some important factors to consider so that you can choose the best one.
These are for you to think about. They are for you to weigh which variables are most important to you, and for you to consider what practical uses, beyond being a shoulder strap, you would like your new rifle sling to possess.
1. How much hiking, or how far do you typically travel when hunting with your rifle?
Obviously, if your traveling great distances you are going to want something that offers quite a bit more comfort than average. You may also want a sling that can be worn comfortably multiple ways.
2. What are you hunting?
This basically comes down to whether or not you may be taking any standing shots. If you are, we recommend a flexible sling that can be wrapped around your support arm to aid in stability while standing.
3. What type of weather will you be hunting in?
Slightly of lesser concern and having to deal with comfort, the weather is important because it determines the type of clothing you will be wearing. If you are concerned about saving every penny possible, and you hunt in cooler temperatures, that means you will have on thick layers. In turn you could probably skip out on the extra cushioned shoulder straps which could potentially save you a few bucks. *Although, we never recommend on skipping out on comfort if you have the choice.
4. How versatile would you like your new sling to be?
This could mean choosing a sling that is designed to hold ammunition, or it could mean you want a sling that has extra options regarding adjustments or ways of being worn.
5. How aesthetically pleasing do you want your new rifle sling to be?
If looks are important to you, which it is totally cool if they are, you may consider a "fancier" sling such as a handmade leather one. This can of course bump up the price. However, believe me when I say everyone will grow a bit jealous of how sexy your rifle looks wearing a custom embroidered wide leather sling as it shines off a fresh layer of sparkling snow. They look down at their bleak, black, and beat up simple slings wishing they did what you did, and bought a new one from the list.
6. One other thing to consider is, of course, price
Slings aren't too terribly expensive to begin with, but of course that is a relative statement. They have a large price ratio, from around ten bucks, to well over a hundred. You want to be careful to not spend too much on something that won't give back its worth, and not spend too little on something cheap your going to have to replace in two seasons.
All things considered, lets check out our choices for the top 6 rifle slings:
1. Zengi Rifle Sling
This two-point sling (attachable at two spots) is a great sling at a very low price. If price is a major concern or high priority, you cant go wrong here. The Zengi rifle sling offers four adjustment points so you can find your perfect fit, and stretchable ends that were originally designed for military use. This is because the military does a bit more jogging and they go on longer hikes. The stretchable ends provide relief when bouncing around as they disperse the weight of the weapon, ultimately lightening your strain.
The biggest drawback is the thin strap which can be uncomfortable depending on the thickness of your layers and the duration you're carrying it.
Other key features include a lifetime guarantee, it is strength tested up to 250 pounds, and they have large clips.
Leather slings are where you can get lost down the rabbit hole of expensive fashion. Although practical, being handcrafted typically with fine leathers and padded shoulder area for maximum comfort, they can definitely cost a pretty penny. However, they are usually built to last and in many cases are created by hunters themselves. Leather is also very tough, durable, and able to withstand any environmental condition. Add in a side of uniqueness and you can see why a good leather sling can be a great choice.
We have chosen a nice middle of the road leather rifle sling that still maintains all the properties you want in a leather sling without breaking the bank. It is usually priced around the 50 dollar mark which is just about the max most would spend on a gun accessory. This leather sling by Levy's offers grade A leather with a swede backing for comfort. It also is in the cobra style, meaning it gets wider at the area resting on your shoulder. It has a single adjustment able to go from 28 inches to 36 inches, and has very appealing decorative stitching.
This extremely tough and durable sling is made from the ever-increasing popular paracord. It is lightweight and very strong. It can withstand any range of elements and offers not only a bit of fashion but a whole lot of functionality as well. In desperate scenarios paracord is very versatile making it an incredible tool for survival because it can be used for so many things. This is just as much a tactical sling as it is a simple hunting sling.
The Paracord 550 sling can usually be picked up for under $20 which is a steal when considering the potentially life saving applications the paracord could be used for, if necessary. It is a two point sling made for standard swivel mounts. It also has a single adjustment and the sling itself is very malleable, allowing it to adjust to fit your body most naturally. The 550 sling comes in many colors and can be adjusted from 33 to 44 inches.
With three adjustment points, a padded shoulder area, and the ability to hold ammunition, this rifle sling is just as comfortable as it is practical. Made from lightweight and soft neoprene, this sling will surely prove to be one of the most easy-wearing slings. A key stand out features is the "shark-skin" technology backing which is their slip proof design. Now there is no worry of your rifle slipping off your shoulder as you maneuver about. The ability to hold 5 shells is a great addition to this sling making it ideal for those hunting small game, predators, or really anything where you can bag more than one in a day. This sling is designed for swivel attachments and these ones are rated at 300 lbs.
5. Ultimate Gun Sling - EDITORS CHOICE!
The ultimate gun sling simply put, is just that. The ultimate gun sling. This sling is way too cool to pass up putting it in our top 6 list. This is a double strap sling, meaning it offers the widest range of ways to wear and carry your rifle. To a degree, that alone can mean it is the most comfortable rifle sling. It is made from a thermo-plastic rubber-like material that is completely impervious to all environments and weather extremes. It will not crack or become brittle because it is not affected by UV damage, or extremely cold/dry conditions. Therefore, when you purchase this sling you will also get a lifetime warranty.
The slings material is also slip-proof, meaning it will grip to your clothing. It is also stretchable enough to pull around your body and then contract, tightening your rifle snug to your back or side.
A couple other cool features include the fact that it is very lightweight and almost dead silent. There is nothing on this sling that can hit together or move to make unwanted noise. Also, this sling is great for wrapping around your elbow to help stabilize your arm during standing shots, overall increasing your accuracy.
This is the best hunting sling around. Once you think about all its features it is easily argued that this is the best rifle sling for deer hunting as well because of its silent, comfortable, and variable design allowing you hands free movement when climbing up and down from your tree stand.
Check out this video review:
Lastly, the Claw rifle sling is a great middle of the road option. It features a highly innovative shoulder strap with "claw' technology that will not slip even when wet. It also is padded for extra comfort. The claw style of shoulder padding is built right around the strap and is designed to give a little flex to maximize comfort. The claw sling also has been designed with special swivel attachments that will not rust, become squeaky, or rattle during rifle movements. Their silent design makes them ideal for hunting situations. With different color options this is a rifle sling that will get the job done, comfortably.
Within this top 6 list you will surely find the best hunting rifle sling for you. We hope this article was helpful and that you enjoyed it. Thanks for reading!
