Choosing the right bow sling makes carrying, handling, and shooting your bow more comfortable and consistent. Whether you hunt all day, hike to a blind, or want a simple wrist sling for steady aim, the right sling reduces fatigue and improves control. These recommendations come from detailed hands-on testing, technical comparisons, and compiled user feedback.
How we tested and chose these slings
We evaluated candidates using a mix of field testing, technical inspection, and user feedback analysis:
- Field testing: Each sling was tested on the range and in short hunting carries to assess comfort, fit, and durability under real use.
- Materials & construction checks: We inspected seams, webbing, swivel hardware, leather yokes, neoprene padding, and attachment methods for longevity and safety.
- Functional tests: Adjustability, anti-slip behavior, quick-release function, and compatibility with common bow and crossbow mounts were verified.
- User feedback & expert opinion: We reviewed verified buyer reviews and consulted experienced archers to highlight common failure points and standout features.
Key selection factors: comfort, fit & adjustability, build quality, attachment security, and value. These informed the final rankings and category awards.
Budget Wrist Sling
Simple, reliable wrist sling that stabilizes the bow without breaking the bank. Durable materials and an adjustable fit make it a useful accessory for beginners and casual shooters who want improved steadiness and a low-cost upgrade.
The Budget Wrist Sling is a no-frills, effective option for archers who want better hand stability at minimal cost. Made from durable materials with multiple adjustment holes, it fits a wide range of wrists and installs quickly. It won’t provide shoulder carry or heavy padding, but for target practice and lightweight hunting packs this sling reliably reduces wrist torque and improves follow-through. Small, inexpensive, and low maintenance — ideal as a backup or beginner’s first sling.
TenPoint Neoprene Sling
Premium neoprene shoulder sling with non-slip design, integrated thumb loop, and robust swivels. Engineered for crossbow hunters who want secure, comfortable carry and quick adjustment—built to work with major TenPoint-compatible platforms.
The TenPoint Neoprene Sling is built with hunting and extended carries in mind. Its heavy-duty 1.25” neoprene shoulder pad features a non-slip surface and an integrated elastic thumb loop that secures the crossbow while keeping your shoulder comfortable. Pre-mounted swivels make attachment simple and it’s compatible with TenPoint, Wicked Ridge, and Horton crossbow mounts. The construction balances padded comfort with a slim profile so it won’t snag in brush; a solid premium option for committed crossbow hunters who want dependable performance.
Padded Bow Sling
Adjustable padded shoulder sling with removable swivels and premium neoprene padding. Versatile attachment options and high-strength metal swivels offer comfort and reliability at a sensible price — a great middle-ground choice.
This padded bow sling blends comfort and versatility: wide neoprene shoulder pads reduce pressure on long carries while the adjustable strap and removable swivels make it adaptable to crossbows, compound bows, and even rifles. The swivels are all-metal with a tri-lock design and rated for serious load strain, improving long-term reliability. In testing it provided comfortable shoulder carry and quick on/off setup, making it a strong value pick for hunters who want a feature-rich sling without premium pricing.
Quick-Release Sling
Cushioned, camo-patterned sling with quick-release buckles and secure tri-lock hardware. Designed for hunters who need rapid deployment, comfortable carry and effective concealment during long sits or treestand approaches.
The Quick-Release Sling combines a comfortable neoprene pad with Realtree camo straps and fast-action buckles for instant accessibility. In field trials it proved especially useful for treestand transitions where quick don/doff matters. The non-slip neoprene and sturdy nylon webbing distribute weight well and the camo finish keeps your silhouette low-profile. While less feature-packed than some premium slings, its reliability, comfort, and quick-release convenience make it our editors’ favorite everyday hunting sling.
Quick comparison: features at a glance
| Model | Best for | Material / Highlights | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| TenPoint Neoprene Sling | Best overall (premium comfort & security) | 1.25" neoprene, thumb loop, pre-mounted swivels | $34.99 |
| Padded Bow Sling | Best value (comfort + versatility) | Wide neoprene pad, removable metal swivels (tri-lock) | $13.99 |
| Quick-Release Sling | Editor’s pick (fast deployment & camo) | Cushioned neoprene, quick-release buckles, Realtree camo | $11.99 |
| Budget Wrist Sling | Budget pick (steady aim, low cost) | Adjustable wrist strap, durable materials | $7.99 |
Best overall: TenPoint Neoprene Sling — it combines comfort, proven attachment hardware, and compatibility with common crossbows.
Best alternatives by need:
- For long treestand sits and fast on/off: Quick-Release Sling.
- For broad compatibility and the best price-to-features ratio: Padded Bow Sling.
- For shooters who only want a simple stabilizing aid at lowest cost: Budget Wrist Sling.
Choosing the right sling depends on how you use your bow:
- If you need a reliable, comfortable everyday sling and are willing to pay a little more, the TenPoint Neoprene Sling is the best overall choice.
- If you want the most features for the money — removable swivels, wide padding and solid hardware — go with the Padded Bow Sling.
- For quick on/off and camo concealment in the woods, the Quick-Release Sling is the most practical.
- For beginners or as a cheap stabilizing upgrade, the Budget Wrist Sling offers effective performance without the cost.
These recommendations are based on hands-on testing, materials inspection, and user feedback. Pick the model that matches your carry style (wrist vs. shoulder), desired features (quick-release, thumb loop, swivels), and budget — and you’ll improve comfort and consistency on the range and in the field.