AR slings...which one should I get and why?

C

Creature

Moderator
Single point, dual...and three point slings. They can get pretty complicated. And pricey. I have a standard GI sling, which I am used to using...but never had an opportunity to use the fancier slings that are available. I have been looking a the Vickers sling...but I dont used a collapsible stock. The three point slings seem to be versatile but look like a pain in the patooty to sort out.

So...which one do you like for your AR...and why? Post pics if you can.
 
Hey Creature!

I'll put my .02 in.

First, I'm not an experienced AR slinger, but I'm partial to 3 point slings myself. I used a 3 point in a recent carbine course and it *absolutely* rocked.

Pros: - Very Versatile
- Could go over back with it (Muzzle Up)
b186837245.jpg


- Could sling it over one shoulder (How I usually carry it--deployment simply involves reaching back, grabbing it and bringing the rifle to bear)
b186837252.jpg


-Can Back-pack carry it for extended runs (not shown)

- Can easily switch shoulders with it. (Much like a 1 point sling)

Here's a pic of how I usually have my 3 point deployed:
b186837236.jpg


It just hangs there until I need to shoot and I'm good to go.

Cons:
- The Extra straps can get hung up on on mag pouches, but I usually rectify it (and effectively) by putting the strap over a mag pouch, and letting the rifle sling down the middle like so:
b186837230.jpg


- - Further, I find that when I'm reloading, I usually have the muzzle forward, so the straps aren't in the way anyway.

- Take a bit of getting used to.

- 3 Points aren't really useable for stabilization in long range shooting like two points are (in my experience at least)

==========

I think USGI is two point (I shot a buddy's M4 and she had a two point). I know *some* hi-speed guys love the 1 point for it's weapon maneuverability (plus, they're usually easily detachable).

For me, I'm happiest w/ my 3 point.

Some Youtube Videos:
- Chris Costa (I think) at Shotshow demonstrating the Magpul 1 point.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcYsl1XrsNc&feature=related

- John Kreuger of Anvil Arms Demonstrating the 3 point sling.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qVGbYG2_u4I

- Viking Tactics Demonstration of their 5.11 Two Point sling
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gesXIMa0vFU


I think when it comes down to it, it's whatever, *YOU* are most comfortable with. With training and learning how to manipulate your sling, I'm sure the sling will become like 2nd nature to you.
 
3 point slings suck... they just get caugh up on things and they dont provide you with any real benefit...

It depends what youre using it for honestly...

I use a viking tactical sling... Its an adjustable 2 point sling so I can easily transition to slung across my back to engaging targets if need be.
Wolf hooks are also a good option, but only if youre swat or military, kind of pointless without kit on.
 
Single Point Sling! If rigged properly it will allow you to maneuver better. Especially in an urban enviroment when you shifting from room to room. Just depends on your job and specialties.

I have seen alot of people complacent with the 3 point sling. Its really big when they want to rest there elboys ontop of the weapon allowing them to accept unneccessary risk to themselves. All from being lazy and an easy target.
 
I like the Vickers a lot. The problem is that the nylon can slide off your shoulders depending on your garments of course.

Nothing wrong with a GI cloth sling for $3 at a gun show.
 
What are you using the sling for?

The Viking Tactics VTAC sling looks good. Expected to attach to a collapsible stock, it has an optional buttstock adaptor for std stocks. I have one for the rifle, and one for the shotgun I use in "sling" oriented 3-gun matches.

I never had to do this but if I had to get in and out of vehicles with an M4, a single point sounds good. Also good for CQB and room clearing. Since I do not perform these activities, I have no use for a single pt.

I do not get 3-points. What problem are they trying to solve that other slings do not solve better?

Lee
 
For overall general use I would pick one of the adjustable two-point slings. Times when you just have to haul ass (no hostile contact) I would rather have the three point - land navigation, timed event, swimming, cross country skiing, snowshoeing or even climbing - give me a three point.
I have never owned or used a single point and have no desire to.
 
Another nod to the Vicker's Slings. They're arguably the best 2-Point adjustable slings on the market.
 
I've used the Specter Gear 3-point, the Spect Gear MOUT single point, and the Vickers 2-point. It all comes down to what you need to do with the sling and the rifle. If you need a carry strap, the regular GI sling works just fine.

If you need to be able to transition to the opposite side (either to secure the rifle during a transition to pistol or to shoot around a barrier), then the single point slings work the best, followed by the Vickers/VTAC type quick-adjust 2-point slings. The single-point is also handier for shooting from non-traditional positions.

For everything else, I like the 2-point sling with a quick-adjust (either VTAC or Vickers as you prefer). Magpul also has an interesting sling that works as either a 2-point quick-adjust or single point depending on how you have it rigged. I think it will be an excellent sling when more widely available but haven't had a chance to play with it yet.
 
I've been using the Viking Tactics sling for 5 years now and I love it. I'm not as big a fan of the new padded version because I can't take out as much adjustment at the back end to suit me, though. When I went through an advanced marksmanship course with the AWG, one of the instructors said it was one of the best slings out there.
 
Nice rig there KChen, too bad you couldn't afford boots to got with it:rolleyes: I too have a plain A2HBAR with an OD issue sling and every day I fight the urge to add bells and whistles, If John Wayne didn't need it then neither do I. Beware the accessory darkside Luke.
 
As a matter of fact my boots were down stairs. Why would I wear my muddy boots in to a carpeted bed room? Don't jump to conclusions.
 
Myself, I just use a plain old Boonie Packer two-point, linked below. My AR is a 16" carbine with a Superlight barrel and older, two-position collapsible stock and I find that, for my uses (LE use), it works wonderfully well. Need to transition to a secondary weapon, Just drop the AR. Need to cuff up a suspect? Just drop the AR. Either way, it just drops and hangs at your weak side. Now, if I was humping off all over God's green Earth with it, maybe something else would be called for, but for what I use it for, the Boonie Packer works well.

http://www.redi-mag.com/Shop/pc/viewPrd.asp?idproduct=8&idcategory=7

Bub
 
I think the two point is definitely the way to go. I have ordered up a Vicker's (non-padded...good call IZ, thanks). I will let you all know what I think after I give it a vigorous and thorough workout. I hope it beats my old GI sling for sheer utility and ease of use. Thanks for the input everyone!
 
Looks like most are made for colaspable stocks. How about standard stocks?
Even better, how about non AR rifles?
 
Looks like most are made for colaspable stocks. How about standard stocks?
Even better, how about non AR rifles?
 
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