A reliable rifle sling is crucial for comfortable carrying, quick transitions, and overall shooting stability. Paracord, with its strength, versatility, and readily available nature, makes an excellent material for crafting a custom sling. This guide explores the benefits of paracord rifle slings, how to make your own, and what to consider when choosing a pre-made option.
Why Choose a Paracord Rifle Sling?
Paracord slings offer several advantages over traditional slings:
- Strength and Durability: Paracord boasts exceptional tensile strength, making it capable of withstanding significant stress and wear. It's far more resilient than many other materials used in slings.
- Customizability: You can tailor the length, width, and features of your paracord sling to perfectly fit your rifle and shooting style. This level of personalization is difficult to achieve with off-the-shelf slings.
- Lightweight and Compact: Paracord is remarkably lightweight, adding minimal bulk to your rifle. Its compact nature makes it ideal for backpacking or other situations where weight is a concern.
- Cost-Effective: Creating a paracord sling is significantly cheaper than purchasing a comparable high-quality sling from a retailer. The materials are inexpensive, and the process is relatively simple.
- Versatility: Beyond its sling function, the paracord itself can be used in various survival situations, offering an added layer of preparedness.
Building Your Own Paracord Rifle Sling: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating a paracord rifle sling is a rewarding project for those with some basic crafting skills. Here's a simplified approach:
Materials You'll Need:
- Paracord: Choose a high-quality paracord with a suitable diameter and color. 550 paracord is a popular choice. You'll need approximately 10-15 feet, depending on the desired sling length.
- Swivel Clips: These are essential for attaching the sling to your rifle. Select heavy-duty swivel clips rated for the weight of your rifle.
- Buckles (Optional): Buckles allow for quick adjustment of the sling length.
- Scissors or Utility Knife: For cutting the paracord.
- Lighter or Matches: For melting and sealing the ends of the paracord to prevent fraying.
Instructions:
(Note: This is a simplified guide. Detailed tutorials with diagrams can be found online. Safety should always be a priority when working with sharp objects.)
- Measure and Cut: Measure the desired length for your sling, adding extra for knots and adjustments. Cut the paracord to the appropriate length.
- Create the Sling Body: Several techniques exist for constructing the sling body. Many tutorials demonstrate creating a braided or wrapped paracord tube.
- Attach Swivel Clips: Securely attach the swivel clips to both ends of the sling body using reliable knots appropriate for paracord. Double-check their strength.
- Add Buckles (Optional): If using buckles, integrate them into the sling's design at an appropriate point for length adjustments.
- Melt and Seal: Carefully melt the ends of the paracord to prevent fraying. This extends the sling's lifespan significantly.
Choosing a Pre-Made Paracord Rifle Sling
If crafting your own isn't feasible, several reputable manufacturers produce high-quality paracord rifle slings. When selecting a pre-made sling, consider:
- Material Quality: Ensure the paracord used is durable and resistant to wear and tear.
- Hardware: Check the quality and strength of the swivel clips and buckles.
- Adjustability: Look for a sling with adjustable length for optimal comfort and functionality.
- Attachment Methods: Ensure the sling is compatible with your rifle's attachment points.
Conclusion
Paracord rifle slings provide a blend of strength, durability, and customizability that’s hard to beat. Whether you choose to build your own or purchase a ready-made option, a well-constructed paracord sling will significantly enhance your shooting experience. Remember to prioritize safety and always select materials and construction techniques appropriate for the weight and recoil of your specific rifle.
