Ravin Shoulder Sling Review

The Real Deal Behind the Ravin Shoulder Sling

The Ravin Shoulder Sling promises to be the ultimate carry solution for Ravin crossbow owners, offering comfort, protection, and ease of use in the field. Designed specifically for Ravin crossbows, it boasts a padded, non-slip design crafted from water-resistant neoprene, appealing to hunters navigating diverse weather conditions. Is this sling a must-have accessory, or is it just another overpriced piece of gear riding the Ravin brand name?

My need for a reliable crossbow carry system arose from a particularly grueling whitetail hunt last season. After struggling to maneuver my R10 through thick brush, I realized a dedicated sling was no longer a luxury, but a necessity. I needed a sling that would distribute the weight comfortably, keep my hands free, and protect my investment from the elements.

Upon unboxing, the Ravin Shoulder Sling felt substantial. The neoprene material seemed durable, and the padding was noticeably thick. The quick-detach swivels appeared sturdy, and the Ravin orange accents added a touch of visual flair. However, the overall design felt somewhat generic, similar to many readily available rifle slings. Compared to a generic rifle sling, the Ravin sling justifies its price with its cam protection.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The materials felt premium, but I remained skeptical about the Ravin Shoulder Sling’s actual performance in the field, especially considering the mixed user reviews regarding comfort and value. Is it going to be my faithful companion for seasons to come, or would I be better off with a modified rifle sling?

Real-World Testing: Putting Ravin Shoulder Sling to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Ravin Shoulder Sling during a three-day hog hunt in the Texas backcountry. The terrain was a mix of dense brush, open fields, and muddy creek beds, offering a variety of challenging conditions. The Ravin Shoulder Sling was immediately helpful carrying the crossbow across the open fields.

The sling performed admirably in dry conditions, distributing the weight of my Ravin R10 comfortably across my shoulder. However, once the rain started, the neoprene began to feel clammy against my skin, and the non-slip backing seemed less effective. The ease of use was decent; attaching the quick-detach swivels was straightforward. The thumb loops were difficult to use in practice and I avoided using them.

After the first day, I noticed some slight chafing on my shoulder despite the padding. Also, the thumb loop was too small to use while wearing gloves.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Ravin Shoulder Sling has held up reasonably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. The neoprene material is proving to be more durable than I initially expected, resisting abrasions from branches and thorns. Maintenance has been simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove mud and dirt.

However, my initial concerns about comfort remain. The sling still tends to chafe during extended use, particularly in warmer weather when sweat becomes an issue. Also, the size of the thumb loop is still too small. While it offers a slight improvement over carrying the crossbow by hand, it doesn’t quite live up to the “premium” experience I had hoped for. A rifle sling at half the cost would offer a similar experience.

Breaking Down the Features of Ravin Shoulder Sling

Specifications

The Ravin Shoulder Sling features a durable neoprene construction, designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. It has a width of 2.5 inches (6.35 cm), providing a comfortable surface area for weight distribution. The sling is adjustable, allowing users to customize the length for optimal fit and carry.

The quick-detach swivels enable rapid attachment and removal of the crossbow. Additional features include built-in thumb loops for enhanced carrying comfort and water-resistant properties to protect against the elements. These specifications translate to a sling that is both practical and resilient, designed to enhance the hunter’s experience.

Performance & Functionality

The Ravin Shoulder Sling performs its primary function of carrying the crossbow adequately. It does keep my hands free, allowing me to navigate challenging terrain more easily. However, the comfort level is only moderate, and the thumb loops are virtually unusable for me.

The sling’s strengths lie in its durability and water resistance. The Ravin Shoulder Sling’s cam protection gives it a slight edge over competitors. Its weaknesses are its limited comfort and impractical thumb loops. It meets the basic expectations of a crossbow sling but doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The Ravin Shoulder Sling features a simple, functional design with the Ravin logo prominently displayed. The Ravin Shoulder Sling is lightweight and the neoprene padding is comfortable to the touch, however, the thumb loops are too small. While easy to attach, the thumb loop can be uncomfortable.

Durability & Maintenance

The Ravin Shoulder Sling’s neoprene construction appears to be durable and is easy to clean with a damp cloth. With proper care, it should last for several seasons. Replacing it is not possible to do yourself and you must rely on the manufacturer.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ravin Shoulder Sling comes with quick-detach swivels for easy attachment to Ravin crossbows. There are no other included accessories, and customization options are limited. It’s primarily designed to be used as-is, with no readily available modifications. It is optimized for Ravin crossbows.

Pros and Cons of Ravin Shoulder Sling

Who Should Buy Ravin Shoulder Sling?

The Ravin Shoulder Sling is perfect for Ravin crossbow owners who prioritize brand matching and require a durable, water-resistant sling for occasional use. It’s also suitable for hunters who want the added cam protection. It is ideal for hunters who need to keep their hands free in the field.

Hunters on a budget or those prioritizing comfort over brand loyalty should skip this product. The Ravin Shoulder Sling is too expensive and is not comfortable to use. A good quality rifle sling would be a much better alternative.

Conclusion on Ravin Shoulder Sling

The Ravin Shoulder Sling is a decent but overpriced accessory for Ravin crossbow owners. While it offers durability and water resistance, its limited comfort and impractical thumb loops detract from its overall value. The price is hard to justify.

The value proposition is questionable. At $59.99, there are better alternatives.

I would only recommend it to Ravin loyalists who absolutely must have a brand-matched accessory. If you’re looking for a comfortable and practical crossbow sling, explore other options before committing to the Ravin Shoulder Sling. Investigate other options today!