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Why You Need A Sling

Hey all, we here at True Shot Academy are going to go over slings and why you should run one. We are going to provide a brief overview of slings while delving into their benefits and traits. We will also cover use cases and different types of slings on the market. Without further ado, let’s get into it.

What Does a Sling Do for You?

A sling provides a shooter with multiple advantages. Obviously, a sling allows a user to sling a firearm on their body, freeing up their hands. Firearms can be slung on the shoulder or across the body very easily. Slings can also be used to help a shooter stabilize a a firearm when shooting. This benefit can be observed on everything from subguns to rifles. Traditional slings in the past featured a way for a shooter to cinch the sling down around their arm to further promote stability. Slings can also be used to free up a shooter’s hands and allow them to perform other tasks. This is particularly useful for those in the field or austere conditions. Slings can also be stored onboard the firearm in a staged position or removed completely when not in use. Slings don’t take up much space when set up properly and can be employed quickly when the need arises. Essentially, a sling is a versatile piece of equipment which will aid the shooter in a variety of ways.

Who Are Slings For?

Slings can effectively be utilized by a variety of end users. Hunters can utilize slings to comfortably retain their rifle and free up their hands for tasks such as cleaning and carrying game. Those wishing to train with their ARs and other tactical rifles can utilize slings when working on transitioning from rifle to pistol. An important benefit yielded when using a sling is firearm retention. Simply put, a sling tethers a firearm to the body and prevents it from easily being taken away. This benefit is especially relevant to armed professionals. Slings are also an invaluable tool among hunters and those who are out in the field with their firearms. These types of end users can sling their rifles to reduce fatigue and free up one’s hands for other tasks.

Different Types of Slings

Slings will most commonly be found in one of these three types.

Single Point Slings – as the name suggests, slings of this type utilize a single attachment point. This point is typically are the rear of a firearm on the receiver or stock. Single point slings allow a firearm to be employed and stowed rapidly. While these types of slings have seen use on carbines, these slings truly shine on shorter guns. Single point slings are optimal for things such as shorter pistol caliber carbines (PCC), subguns, and shorter shotguns.
Two Point Slings – slings of this type will utilize two attachment points. Slings of this type tend to be the most common types on the market. Two point slings are traditional slings which are at home on long guns of all types. Shotguns, bolt action rifles, AR-15s, and military surplus rifles are commonly fitted with two point slings.
Three Point Slings – these types of slings have been less common in recent years. Three point predate modern style two point and single point slings. Slings of this type actually only attach to a firearm in two points, like what is seen on two point slings. The wearer of the sling serves as the third point of attachment as a looped sling component is worn around their body. These slings have generally fallen out of favor in recent years due to their tendency to restrict the wearer’s movement. Comparatively speaking, single point and two point sling options afford a significantly higher degree of mobility to the shooter.

How Are Slings Attached?

Slings can be mounted in a variety of methods. Most slings will come from the manufacturer able to accept a litany of attachment methods. Some slings will come with mounting hardware permanently attached, preventing an end user from swapping hardware.

Slings are typically attached to firearms using any combination of the following. Some slings only rely on a single attachment point while others utilize more. These sling mounting methods are some of the most common methods one will encounter.

Direct Mount – some firearms have provisions for mounting slings from the factory. These mounts are often integrated into the stock and forend/handguard of a rifle. This method allows many slings to be mounted right out of the box as additional hardware is not necessary. This makes for a rugged and deliberate sling mounting solution.
Quick Disconnect Swivel – swivels of this type are some of the most common sling mounting solutions used today. Mounts and swivels for this mounting method are available in both rotation limited and free rotation configurations. This allows an end user to add further rigidity and flexibility to their sling depending on their preferences.
HK Hoop/Clash Hook – this method utilizes a traditional hook to affix the sling to a rifle. These hooks will easily attach to the loops found on the front of HK firearms such as MP5 and HK-91 style firearms. They will also easily attach to loops like those found on CQD and Magpul RSA sling loops. While not as common as the aforementioned quick disconnect swivels, these hook type mounting solutions are still utilized by many shooters.
Paracord – many shooters will use paracord to affix slings to a firearm. This minimalist mounting method is versatile and cost effective. Rather than utilizing sling mounting hardware, paracord is simply routed through the sling and desired mounting area.

Who Makes Slings?

One can acquire quality slings from a wide variety of manufacturers. Companies such as Magpul, Haley Strategic Partners, Blue Force Gear, and Edgar Sherman Design are among those who provide slings. These four companies are just a drop in the bucket when it comes to those who manufacture slings. At this point in time, there are many quality slings on the market, making it easy for an end user to pick up a reliable piece of kit.

Conclusion

All in all, a sling is an essential piece of kit which is of great benefit to shooters. A sling can be easily added to one’s firearm and removed in a moment’s notice if so desired. The versatility and benefits of a sling will be felt by shooters whether they are using a rifle, shotgun, or even a subgun. Enhance your firearm and set yourself up with a sling today. As always, happy shooting.

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Tyler Elsberry

Tyler Elsberry is an author for True Shot Ammo, boasting over a decade of experience in the firearms industry. His extensive knowledge and hands-on expertise make him a valuable asset to the True Shot team. Tyler's deep understanding of firearms, coupled with his passion for the ammunition industry, allows him to provide insightful and practical guidance to enthusiasts and professionals alike. His writings often reflect his commitment to delivering accurate, up-to-date information on the latest trends, products, and advancements in the field. Tyler's ability to convey complex technical details in an accessible manner has earned him a loyal following among readers seeking reliable advice and information in the world of firearms and ammunition.