I need a sling, what do I need to know?

[S391]

The only thing missing from my AR set up is a sling but I see so many different types on the market that it gets a bit crazy.

What do you folks run and why? My thinking is that I want something that mounts to one point on the rear of the gun but I'm curious about the pros and cons of running this type of a set up.

thanks and Merry Christmas,
Steve

[rob_s]

I only like a one-point if I'm using a short & light gun, otherwise I use a two-point. By FAR the most popular/common two-point slings are the Viking Tactics Sling (VTAC) (http://www.vikingtactics.com/prod_sling_VTAC-MK1-a.html) and the Blue Force Gear Vickers Combat Applications Sling (VCAS) (http://www.blueforcegear.com/product.cfm?type=cat&cat_id=5&prod_id=112). I prefer the latter to the former personally, and will use the padded version (http://www.blueforcegear.com/product.cfm?type=cat&cat_id=5&prod_id=111) on heavier guns.

The Magpul MS2 (http://www.magpul.com/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=82_132&products_id=301&zenid=573827e9cf77d38b53608c743687c15d) is gaining popularity as it supposedly converts easily from a single-point to a two-point, but I was not happy with the one I bought and sold it after very little use. I found it lacking in almost every regard. I also see many of our shooters that were using them at one time have now moved away from them or are looking to do so.

Many people like to be different or contrarian or have industry connections and prefer something else they were sent for free, or made by their friends, or whatever, but the VCAS and the VTAC are still the top two slings I see at every match and class by far and with good reason. I don't think you can go wrong either way.

[S391]

Thanks Rob, I'll take a look at the pages you linked.

[bigcoastie]

I have to agree with the MS2 sling comments as well. I ran one exclusively at a 1 day carbine class. The concept is great but for me it just wasn't comfortable. It may be my body type but I noticed that it really didn't want to stay in place where I wanted it to. Since then I have changed to a two point setup using the vtac one end on the rear of my stock and the other attached to a Noveske end plate, it still allows transition from weak to strong side, which is becoming ever popular during training and for me gives great support and is still very comfortable.

http://i548.photobucket.com/albums/ii328/bigcoastie/SDC10382-1.jpg

[Hoss356]

Here's another option if you decide to go for a two point. While I can't give it the run down like Rob, I can say it seems very well put together and easy to use.
http://sktindustries.com/catalog/doc4.pdf

[Eric]

I believe I posted this elsewhere, but I was a slow convert to the two-point sling. However, I now believe that it's the best for most applications. They are easy to use, secure and allow for an easy transition to a secondary weapon. Like Rob, I have the VTAC and VCAS slings and can highly recommend them. I'm also very fond of the Gear Sector GS-2P (http://www.gearsector.com/browse/category/slings/two-point-slings/) and one currently sits on my work gun.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v503/AR15forme/Colt%20AR15/IMG_5861.jpg

[chenzzo]

anyone use the gunslinger sling?

http://prostores2.carrierzone.com/servlet/emdomusa/Detail?no=57

I've been looking at that because it looks like it does 2 point or 1 point pretty well and is a bit more universal than the MS2

[S391]

I believe I posted this elsewhere, but I was a slow convert to the two-point sling. However, I now believe that it's the best for most applications. They are easy to use, secure and allow for an easy transition to a secondary weapon. Like Rob, I have the VTAC and VCAS slings and can highly recommend them. I'm also very fond of the Gear Sector GS-2P (http://www.gearsector.com/browse/category/slings/two-point-slings/) and one currently sits on my work gun.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v503/AR15forme/Colt%20AR15/IMG_5861.jpg

I really like the look of that set up.... simple, clean, and to the point. Thank you.

[rob_s]

anyone use the gunslinger sling?

http://prostores2.carrierzone.com/servlet/emdomusa/Detail?no=57

I've been looking at that because it looks like it does 2 point or 1 point pretty well and is a bit more universal than the MS2

Without having used that sling, but having gone down the road of creating my own 1-to-2-point sling, I can say that the D-ring attachment for going to 1-point is less than ideal. Because it's able to flop back and forth, finding it with the hook on the other end of the sling can be a challenge. if the ring is in-line with the webbing instead you can keep tension on the sling to keep the ring stable and hook up more easily.

[OUTLAW2]

I would highly reccommend a VTAC sling. I have been running a VTAC (non-padded) during 20+ months (including currently) of combat operations here in Afghanistan. I can say it is also a VERY quality product since I am on the original with a backup still in the bag JIC. I have used many different sling styles/manufacturers/config, and I would honestly choose the VTAC 10/10 times. I've used single point on a Mossy 500 mil for breaching applications (along with a retainer) but can't see the practicality on a combat carbine (or similar set-up). Perhaps for a PSD application with a SMG but def not here for the humping/door-kicking. IMHO I'd have to say stay away from the 3pt setup. That extra 'line' is more trouble (or potential trouble) than it is worth. Just my 2c....

[S391]

I would highly reccommend a VTAC sling. I have been running a VTAC (non-padded) during 20+ months (including currently) of combat operations here in Afghanistan. I can say it is also a VERY quality product since I am on the original with a backup still in the bag JIC. I have used many different sling styles/manufacturers/config, and I would honestly choose the VTAC 10/10 times. I've used single point on a Mossy 500 mil for breaching applications (along with a retainer) but can't see the practicality on a combat carbine (or similar set-up). Perhaps for a PSD application with a SMG but def not here for the humping/door-kicking. IMHO I'd have to say stay away from the 3pt setup. That extra 'line' is more trouble (or potential trouble) than it is worth. Just my 2c....

First off, thank you for your service to our country! Second, thank you for the info on the sling. I think I'm going to order one and give it a try.

[S391]

Well, I kicked a hippie (ikickhippies.com). I ordered the plate late last week Wednesday and I got an email by noon on Thursday (New Year's Eve) telling me that it had shipped. I installed it on the gun tonight and I think it will do just what I need it to do. I'll post a follow up as soon as the sling arrives and a I get a chance to take it out to the range.

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b283/S682/IMG_1436.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b283/S682/IMG_1447.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b283/S682/IMG_1448.jpg

http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b283/S682/IMG_1450.jpg

[HeavyDuty]

I'm a sling newb and not a high speed / low drag kinda guy - maybe I can offer my comments from that perspective. There is a ton of great information here from experienced users about slinging, but it's almost like trying to drink from a firehose.

One concern I had was spending top dollar for a sling before I had even tried the concept - my Scottish blood and all that. Based on the recommendation of a M4C/TOS poster I ordered a few inexpensive slings from Boonie Packer - a pair of different quick adjust two points and a single point. The total cost delivered was about what one first line sling would have cost me.

Now I can play with both single point and two point slinging and determine what I like and dislike for myself. I might even get lucky and find these Boonie Packers are all I need long term. I've only had them for a few days, but I can say they're much better than the price would lead you to expect.

So, if you're new to slinging - why not try an economical alternative until you know exactly what you want?

[matt7184]

anyone use the gunslinger sling?

http://prostores2.carrierzone.com/servlet/emdomusa/Detail?no=57

I've been looking at that because it looks like it does 2 point or 1 point pretty well and is a bit more universal than the MS2

I have one. I have it set up with:
Rear: VLTOR heavy duty QD going into a DD Rear Receiver QD
Front: MASH Hook - hooked on to a Heavy Duty QD Swivel at the rear of the rail

It is my current favorite 1/2pt sling at the moment. I like the wider shoulder strap, and I find an HK Snap Hook or MASH Hook easier to use than the lockjaw on the MS2.

In 1pt mode: It works. but I prefer an MS2 or my Gear Sector in 1pt mode. With the MASH hook I am running, the D-Ring tends to twist and push into me a little bit. Not a big deal though imo. It is more comfortable to me in 1 pt mode than the other two 1pters I have, due to the wide seatbelt strap.

In 2pt mode: It works well, but not as well as a dedicated 2pt sling, but better than the MS2. I really like the wide seatbelt strap as it distributes the weight better than the narrower webbing on the MS2. I still find padded slings more comfortable though. I also find the quick adjust feature on the gunslinger to work well.

To me, the MS2 is primarily a 1pt sling, that can work as a two point sling. It's not as comfortable as a Gunslinger, VCAS, or a VTAC. A trick with the MS2 is to run it VERY tight. I found that when running an MS2 tight, it is more comfortable and stays in place better. In addition, that seemed to take some of the weight off of my shoulders/traps. The lockjaw will get easier to use with use. The finish applied to the lockjaw makes it harder to lock/unlock. Moving it back and forth a bit will make the process much easier.

For ME: if I am running a heavier rifle I prefer a 2pt or a Gunslinger. If I run a lighter rifle, I will run a 1pt or a convertible 1/2pt sling.

An important point to remember, is that there is no one perfect sling. Personal preference will come into play. If you are just starting out, I would recommend a Gear Sector 1 pt. It is simple, and will not get in your way during transitions or other weapons manipulations.

[CAPT KIRK]

+1 for the Padded VTAC 2 point adjustable two point sling. Have used many others (1,2,3 points) and this one works the best for me.

Mounted this way allows me to transition from right/left just like I did with a single point.
http://i391.photobucket.com/albums/oo355/DEPKIRK/N4left2010.jpg

[S391]

+1 for the Padded VTAC 2 point adjustable two point sling. Have used many others (1,2,3 points) and this one works the best for me.

Mounted this way allows me to transition from right/left just like I did with a single point.
http://i391.photobucket.com/albums/oo355/DEPKIRK/N4left2010.jpg

Capt K, very cool. Thank you.