Why the McLean Core Sling Exists and CQB Problem-Solving
The video opens by introducing the McLean Core sling as a purpose-built CQB solution that behaves like a single-point sling while solving its biggest drawback: the rifle swinging uncontrollably when the shooter goes hands-free. Designer Neil McLean, an 11-year Navy SEAL with extensive VBSS experience, explains that constant ladder climbing, tight shipboard spaces, and rapid transitions drove the design. The sling incorporates a built-in retention system and a quick-release that lets the user move from an administrative carry mode into an active single-point configuration instantly, without re-clipping hardware. The hosts contrast it with basic bungee single-point slings often seen on MP5s, as well as older three-point and simple 2-to-1 slings, emphasizing that the McLean design focuses on zero wasted movement and continuous weapon control. They position it as ideal for compact CQB rifles like a CZ Bren 2 in 5.56, where maneuverability, retention, and fast access matter more than traditional field-style carry.
Mounting the McLean Sling and Adjustable Admin Loop
The hosts show the McLean Core sling mounted on a CZ Bren 2 in 5.56, using a Silven Arms M-LOK adapter that accepts both QD and hook-style attachments for flexible mounting. Neil walks through the sling’s adjustable section and loop, explaining how it cinches the rifle tight to the body for climbing, searching, or other hands-on tasks, then releases with a single touch point to immediately free the gun into a single-point configuration. This eliminates the need to disconnect or reconfigure hardware under stress. They compare this to older Marine-issue three-point slings and popular two-point options like Blue Force Gear and Victor’s Tactical, noting that those excel at traditional carry but are slower in tight CQB transitions. The McLean sling’s generous webbing is highlighted as accommodating a wide range of body sizes and kit. The segment closes by introducing a new swivel adapter for the B5 stock, designed by Paul Bergman, which mounts on the bottom of the stock to allow side-to-side swivel and smoother shoulder transitions without interfering with the firing grip.
From Traditional Two-Point Slings to the McLean DRS Concept
Attention shifts to how the B-size stock and the new swivel adapter work together, allowing the sling to pivot easily from shoulder to shoulder while keeping the rifle stable. The hosts note that this adapter is a new-to-market product from Paul Bergman, aimed at improving transitions for modern carbines. They then step back to contrast this with traditional two-point slings, which use two fixed attachment points and a loop-style carry that has existed since early military history. Those slings are effective for patrolling and long guns but less optimized for dynamic CQB. Neil explains the evolution of the McLean DRS concept, crediting a cousin’s suggestion at a gun show: create a single-point sling that performs dual functions, combining admin retention with instant deployment. This idea led to a redesign into the current DRS system. The hosts emphasize that the McLean DRS is optimized for CQB and shorter rifles, while they still prefer conventional two-point slings for longer platforms and dismiss three-point slings as largely obsolete and unnecessarily complex.
Timed CQB Drills and Behind-the-Back Rifle Retention
The video moves into live-fire demonstrations, using timed double-tap drills to show how quickly the McLean sling transitions from administrative carry to target engagement. The hosts compare two techniques: simply releasing the sling into single-point mode versus first adjusting tension, then presenting the rifle. They reference specific times in the 1.67–2.22 second range for engaging targets with two shots, using the numbers to evaluate which method is more efficient under pressure. They then demonstrate a behind-the-back retained position, where the rifle is stowed securely yet can be brought into action almost instantly. This position keeps the gun out of the way for movement or tasks while still allowing a full range of motion. The segment also highlights a Rough Neck Firearms rifle, praised for its simplicity and sub-quarter-MOA proof targets at 100 yards. The hosts contrast this lightweight, work-focused setup with a heavier Mark 18 covered in accessories, used more for experimentation and training with a burdened platform.
Practical Home-Defense Rifle Setup and Minimalist Gear
Discussion turns to what makes a practical home-defense rifle. The hosts advocate a simple, efficient setup: a quality optic, an angled foregrip, a reliable sling like the McLean, and especially a weapon-mounted flashlight for positive target identification. They caution against unnecessary accessories that add weight, snag, and slow the shooter, arguing that most people overbuild rifles for roles that do not require so much gear. A custom ergonomic grip from Future Forge is showcased, 3D-printed to match the user’s hand using proprietary composite materials described as extremely strong and lightweight. One host contrasts his minimalist issued gear, kept light and streamlined for all-day professional use, with the heavier, more accessorized rifles used for recreational shooting or range experimentation. They then run a timed drill deploying the rifle from a behind-the-back sling position, recording times like 3.26 seconds and 4.11 seconds for two-shot engagements, and discuss refining technique to shave off deployment time while maintaining control.
Origin Story, SWAT Use Cases, and Tight Gear Philosophy
The hosts further demonstrate how the rifle can be slung behind the shooter to stay out of the way for tasks like using both hands or even going to the bathroom, then rapidly deployed again. Another timed run shows the shooter beating a previous time while confirming a round is chambered, underscoring the system’s readiness. Neil shares the sling’s origin story: a scenario where a soldier had to fireman-carry a downed man 200–300 yards while an over-20-pound automatic weapon on a single-point sling swung uncontrollably in front, making movement miserable and unsafe. This experience highlighted the need for better retention and inspired the McLean design. A law-enforcement example follows, involving SWAT officers who personally purchased the sling. During an active-shooter aftermath, they repeatedly transitioned between hands-on searching, rifle engagement, and communication, impressing other officers with how quickly they could go into an admin mode. The segment closes with a gear philosophy: equipment should be tight enough to sprint without anything banging or flopping, and practical application matters more than looking like a high-speed operator.
Viewer Feedback, Sling Colors, and Function Over Fashion
In the closing portion, the hosts note that gear setup and tactics could easily fill an entire separate discussion and joke about online criticism and trolls that often focus on superficial details. They invite viewers to comment with their experiences using the McLean Core sling and to share what sling setups they currently run, encouraging practical feedback rather than brand worship. Available sling colors are listed as black, coyote brown, Ranger green, and multicam, with a current push toward multicam due to its popularity in the market. The conversation contrasts a preference for functionality over color with the stricter appearance rules common in the Marines, citing examples like restrictions on black gloves. The underlying message is that while color options exist and multicam is trendy, performance, retention, and how the sling integrates into a complete, efficient rifle setup are far more important than matching patterns or chasing a particular aesthetic.
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