How to choose a sling for your AR-15

Brady Kirkpatrick
Updated onMay 10, 2023 1:48 PM PDT
4 minute read
rifle slings

M16A4 service rifle, donning the web sling, lies next to an M4 carbine rifle, donning the vigorous combat application sling. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Adam O. Korolev/Released)

SUMMARY

Before investing in a quality AR-15 sling, there are several items to consider. Here are our tips on how to choose the best one.

A sling is a useful accessory for any rifle owner, especially for those who own an AR-15. A sling can help you carry your rifle more comfortably, stabilize your shooting position, and transition between different stances. However, not all slings are created equal. 

There are different types of slings, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. How do you choose the best sling for your AR-15? In this article, we will explain the main features of slings and some tips on how to find the best one for your rifle.

Buyer’s guide 

Before investing in a quality AR-15 sling, there are several items to consider. Slings are an excellent choice, but you don’t want a low-quality or uncomfortable product. An ideal sling provides excellent value for your investment. Whether it’s your first time investing in a sling for your AR-15, or you are looking for a replacement for your current aging sling, we will provide you with some details to help you make the right choice.

What to look for in an AR-15 sling

Point

First, consider if you want a one, two, or three-point sling for your AR-15. The two-point is a classic, but there is also the option for a one or three if you want to mix it up. The three allow easy transitions to multiple positions, while the single point permits unrestricted access in many directions. Examine the pros and cons of each to determine the right selection.

Comfort

Comfort is also one of the most valuable items to consider. Its purpose is to simplify carrying and firing your AR-15, so why invest in one that hurts you? Consider the material and the width of the strap to determine which will sit the most comfortably on your body. Not all straps are created equal when it comes to comfort on the move.

Practicality

Finally, consider the practicalities of each sling. Will it fit on your AR-15? Will it allow you to handle the weapon in the way you want to? If a sling won’t serve you well, don’t purchase it for your shooting needs. You want a sling that is just as practical as it is comfortable and classy.

JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. (Oct. 10, 2019) Master-at-Arms 3rd class Michael Rivera, assigned to USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) fires an M4 carbine during a small arms qualification course on Joint Base Lewis-McChord. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Haydn N. Smith/Released)

Pros of an AR-15 sling

Hands-free carry

An AR-15 provides a hands-free carry, allowing you to move with ease around the area. You will have an opportunity to carry more things at once, as well as take a break without stressing over setting down your AR-15. You will have a much better experience if you can have a moment hands-free while carrying around an AR-15.

Additional stability

An AR-15 sling permits additional stability with every shot, allowing for more accuracy and control when you fire the weapon. They connect at various points to keep the firearm on your shoulder and ready to go at all times. Stability will change the way you use your firearm.

Potential add–on

AR-15 slings permit the addition of other items on your strap, allowing for various modifications and upgrades to your shooting experience. There is room for more with a sling for an upgraded experience, so make your choice carefully.

Cons of an AR-15 sling

Potential limited movement

An AR-15 sling might allow you more movement with your hands, but it could limit what you can do with your weapon. The three-point AR-15 sling has attachments and will provide stability, but it will limit the direction you can move the firearm as you navigate through your surroundings.

Complicated attachments

Some slings are tricky to attach, making a frustrating experience for everyone involved. Some add-ons are tricky to work with while trying to get things done quickly. Complicated attachment processes are frustrating.

Added expense

Of course, investing in an AR-15 sling is more expensive than avoiding the product altogether. If you don’t purchase an AR-15, you will save more money than if you decide to purchase this attachment for your firearm. Not everyone has the ideal budget and available price range for an additional sling. 

U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Levonte Gilyard, a motor transport operator with 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, shoots an M16A4 service rifle during company field exercise 1-23 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, Oct. 13, 2022. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Atticus Martinez)

FAQs

What is the biggest advantage of single-point slings?

There are many excellent qualities to consider with single-point slings, and they’re worth an investment. They are ideal. They provide optimal readiness and accessibility because they position the firearm right in front of your body, allowing simple reach and access when the time calls for it.

What sling do snipers use?

There is a standard sling for snipers, one that rises above the rest in terms of popularity and practicality when firing. Most snipers take advantage of the M24 Sling, a product that has gone through extensive testing and practice shooting sessions until proven a top-notch choice for snipers.

What sling does the U.S. military use?

There is a singular standard in combat slings used in the United States Military. The most common sling is the Standard Issue Vickers Sling, passing several intense combat situations and readiness tests to become the standard for those in the United States military forces.

Conclusion

Choosing a sling for your AR-15 is not a trivial task. You need to consider your personal preferences, your shooting style and your budget. 

A sling can make a big difference in how you handle your rifle and how accurate you are. The best sling for you may not be the best sling for someone else. Therefore, you should try out different slings and see what works for you. 

In this article, we have covered the main types of slings - single-point, two-point, three-point, and specialized. We have also given you some tips on how to mount them on your rifle. We hope this article has helped you find the right sling for your AR-15.

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