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Review of the Blue Force Gear, Inc. SOC-C S Sling ™ Contractor Pak
Introduction
We recently received the SOC-C S Sling ™ Contractor Pak (sling/kit) for testing and evaluation (T&E). The kit was offered and accepted with no compensation other than that the team would keep the sling following the T&E. No member of the team had or has any business relationship whatsoever with Blue Force Gear.
Conditions
The kit was tested during training conditions in a country with one of the longest running insurgencies in the world. Testing was conducted by a variety of personnel and under conditions ranging from arms room (assembly) to marksmanship range to shoothouse.
In addition, the sling was used for approximately 10 weeks as one Operator’s everyday sling. Weather during the testing period ranged from hot to inclement.
Average altitude for testing areas was approximately 2,500 meters.
The test team included former and current Special Operations Forces Operators and Law Enforcement personnel.
Assembly was conducted by host nation support personnel.
Test weapon was a new model M4 carbine with Surefire M73 rail system and KAC VFG installed.
The sling was worn both over body armor and without.
Operations included marksmanship range, shoothouse, movement by vehicle and short range patrolling in mountainous terrain.
Results
Overall, the test team liked the SOC-C S Sling ™ Contractor Pak. The sling functioned as advertised and provided a stable platform for both firing and carrying the weapon. We feel that this pack would be of great benefit for those deploying to areas with multiple weapons issued.
Material
The webbing, buckles and other hardware are all of first-rate quality. While we are not experts in sewing, the sewing appeared to us to be first-rate as well, and no failures were experienced. The kit is, as per popular vernacular, “bomb-proof”. The test version was a true OD Green with black hardware.
Assembly
As is to be expected given the stated purpose of adapting to various different weapons platforms, the kit included numerous straps and buckles. It is relatively complicated to assemble, but worth the effort.
The team found “Mode 3 – Classic Three Point Sling” to be our preferred mode of carry for the M4. This after experimenting with both “Mode 1 – One Point Sling” and “Mode 2 – Two Point Sling”. This preference was probably more personal than anything else, as the sling performed as promised in all three modes.
The provided hardware allowed for mounting the sling with no alterations required on the weapon.
Use
The sling performed very well under all conditions. It was comfortable, even after 8 hours of continuous wear. The sling allowed for a crisp, rapid presentation of the weapon and assisted shooters in recoil control. No problems were encountered during ancillary operations such as searches and prisoner control.
Areas for Improvement
1. Being a multi-weapon platform, the Pak brings several sets of straps to the table. The instructions make reference to part numbers; however the individual straps are not marked to correspond to the instructions. We feel stamping the part numbers on the individual parts would greatly facilitate assembly.
2. The instruction manual provides general instructions and examples of a couple of types of weapons, however, can be confusing. A clearer instruction manual with larger, more detailed photos would be a significant improvement.
3. We had difficulty tightening the sling for smaller personnel. This could have been due to our lack of understanding of the instructions.
Conclusion
In the current threat environment and with the current operational tempo, it is very likely that Operators, especially those Operators conducting PMC operations, will be required to utilize non-standard weapons. The SOC-C S Sling ™ Contractor Pak provides a kit that will allow the Operator to appropriately carry and present various weapons without being required to carry multiple slings are invent field expedients. The SOC-C S Sling ™ Contractor Pak is a well thought out, well made addition to the professional’s kitbag.
We recommend the SOC-C S Sling ™ Contractor Pak without reservations for those searching for a sling solution.
*photos by kgoerz
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Somewhere a True Believer is training to kill you. He is training with minimal food or water, in austere conditions, training day and night. The only thing clean on him is his weapon and he made his web gear. He doesn't worry about what workout to do - his ruck weighs what it weighs, his runs end when the enemy stops chasing him. This True Believer is not concerned about 'how hard it is;' he knows either he wins or dies. He doesn't go home at 17:00, he is home.
He knows only The Cause.
Still want to quit?
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This is the sling I have been looking for, Thanks
Linear Mode
