The Sling Is The Thing

by
posted on March 19, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
cb315b_75c1222f127348f8a56e554aeb452d72jpg_srz_400_300_75_22_050_120_000_jpg_srz.jpeg

In the course of setting up numerous rifles, I’ve found that the choice of sling can be a critical one-and one that should be complementary in a number of ways. A good sling can be an invaluable aid to accurate shooting in the field, but a bad one is nearly useless.

As far as appropriateness to the platform, a thick, stiff leather “cobra” style probably isn’t a good, or necessary, fit on a superlight rifle. By the same token a thin 1” nylon strap likely won’t feel all that great on a dangerous game rifle. My own rule of thumb is to use 1” slings on rifles weighing around 7 lbs. or less and 1¼” slings on those that are heavier. High-quality leather, such as those from Turner Sadlery for service or precision rifles, or nylon, such as those from The Wilderness, are hard to beat.

Other considerations are format-Ching sling style, Rhodesian sling style (check out Andy's Leather), military style or simple carry strap style-and fittings; HK-style snap hooks, mash hooks, push-buttons or conventional QD studs. All can affect a rifle build or the decision as to which sling to buy, particularly if the fittings are permanently attached. By the way, another great one to consider is Brownells Latigo sling-just do youself a favor and order the model with pre-installed swivels!

Latest

Trump Atf Reforms F
Trump Atf Reforms F

How the Trump Administration is Reforming the ATF

After more than a year of review, the DOJ, and its sub-agency, the ATF, released 34 notices of final and proposed rules to eliminate infringements on Americans’ Second Amendment rights.

A Tale of Two Grips: Building Beyond the First Shot

Every shooter has two grips living inside them, and most never realize it until they are exposed by a timer.

Roni Corporation Establishes U.S.-Based Manufacturing

Roni Corporation—designer and manufacturer of the Micro Roni, PDW-style pistol-to-carbine conversion kits and other firearm accessories—has established U.S.-based operations and manufacturing in Houston, Texas.

PenFed Credit Union Reports Strong Q1 Growth in 2026

Continuing its record of positive growth over the last several years, NRA partner PenFed Credit Union reported increases in capital and liquidity, earning growth and credit quality through the first quarter of 2026.

I Have This Old Gun: Model 1884 Trapdoor Springfield

The U.S. military's first official breechloading service rifle was the Trapdoor Springfield, and of the line of guns that saw use throughout the late 19th century, one of the most refined was the Model 1884 Trapdoor.

A Retro Python: The Pietta Blacktooth Revolver

As the company did with the original Colt Single Action Army, Pietta sought to reproduce the Colt Python as closely to the original as possible with its new Blacktooth revolver.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.