The quality of the MARS sling is out of this world! Get it? … ok, enough with the jokes.
For the last two-years I’ve been using the Magpul MS3 sling. It was my favourite up until I received the MARS from Blackfolium.
First, let’s talk about the company. Blackfolium is an Italian company that is steadily growing. They work with current and former Italian service members for their testing and development.
They contacted me via IG to test their new sling. It took a while for it to arrive, but that was a positive thing. They kept improving the sling using feedback from their contacts in Iraq.
Eventually I received the sling and it’s a beauty!
Multi-Adaptive Rifle Sling
As the name suggests, it’s multi-adaptive. But what does that mean?
You can buy the sling in one point, two point or switchable 1/2 point configuration. This all depends on the hardware that you choose.
I chose the HK sling hooks so I can switch between a 1 point and a 2 point sling. Plus they fit the sling loops of my SCAR perfectly.
By giving you the option in hardware, Blackfolium didn’t create one, but several types of slings.
But what makes the MARS different from others?
Let’s look at the material:
They’ve used Cordura 500D – DWR/nIR for their central body. The thicker part that helps carry your rifle comfortably for a long time.
Inside, they used a closed cell padding that doesn’t absorb water. So perfect for you diving lot (or the guys like me that tend to fall into the river when crossing it).
The webbing is a high quality, abrasion resistant variant that after hard use, still looks great!
Their hardware is mostly metallic making it highly durable. I haven’t had any problems so far and the sling remains quiet in use.
Now let’s have a look at the design:
When ordering, you can choose between the single point, dual point and switchable version. Afterwards, you choose the hardware you want to include (A: the attachment closest to your stock. B: the middle piece of hardware to switch between 1 and 2 point and C: the part closest to the barrel).
After you’ve made your choice, a technical drawing is displayed! Pretty neat to see what you’ve chosen.
Picture courtesy of Blackfolium. A: Mash hook. B: D-ring. C: Clash hook.
As you can see on the drawing, above hardware C is their quick release buckle. This allows you to adjust the length of sling very fast. The use of the rubber and the plastic tab makes gripping it with wet, cold, gloved or bloody hands easy! In my opinion, this is one of the best parts of the MARS.
The MARS is available in Black, Coyote and Multicam. The price depends on the hardware you choose.
Did I mention they have a lifetime guarantee? The guarantee provides for the repair and replacement of structural defects in the fabrication, according to their website.
My thoughts:
I’ve been using the MARS sling very hard the last couple of months. It has taken me longer than expected to write this review because I’m very hard on weapon related items. If a weapon attachment or sling breaks, it can have serious consequences. So to the guys over at Blackfolium: sorry for the wait, but I’m sure you fellas will understand!
I’ve used the sling on the range, during the patrols in the Belgian streets, during a couple of FTX’s and during close combat training.
So what do I think about the MARS?
First if all, I can honestly say that after this review, I will keep using this sling.
The fast switch between 1 or 2 points, the oversized quick release buckle and the padding are everything I needed without knowing it.
I constantly use the quick release buckle to switch from a close “patrol setup” to a looser “shooting setup”. After some training, it becomes second nature.
The sling has held up to the abuse I’ve trown at it and then some!
The padding in the middle is great for me, but I can imagine that some might not need or like this. Maybe Blackfolium can make this also an option on their website.
My sling came fully assembled and after some small adjustments in size, everything is stowed and fitted. No loose straps because of the included elastic bands and hardware. The attention to detail is amazing on this one.
I can only recommend the MARS sling from Blackfolium. Go check these awesome dudes out!
IG: @blackfolium
Website: http://www.blackfolium.com
~ FMB
Disclaimer:
I’ve received this product free of charge to test and evaluate. I am not bound or paid to write a positive review. This review is completely honest and unbiased.
“Tom is a Belgian JTAC who loves to go shooting, hiking and drop bombs. In his free time he can be found hiking with his two blondes: his fiancée and his labrador. He started his military carreer in 2006 and before qualifying as a JTAC, he was an Artillery Platoon leader.
He has always had an interest in quality gear and wishes to spread his knowledge and interest to others.”
*The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the original authors and contributors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of Spotter Up Magazine, the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.