How to Adjust a Rifle Sling

A rifle sling is a crucial piece of equipment, both for carrying a rifle easily and, more important, as a brace to aid accuracy. Whether you are using the sling to transport a rifle or to improve your shooting, it is important that the sling is adjusted to the proper length. These adjustments are quick and easy to make.

Things You'll Need

  • Rifle
  • Rifle sling
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Instructions

    • 1

      Hold the rifle in the shooting position with the sling wrapped once around the supporting forearm. It should be snug enough to hold the arm in position but not so tight that it cuts off circulation or prevents the arm from taking its proper position beneath the gun.

    • 2

      Sling the rifle over the shoulder and/or over the head to get a feel for various carrying positions. Determine which positions are most comfortable and what adjustments may be necessary.

    • 3

      Locate the point on the sling where the main strap doubles back on itself. This point varies from one sling to another, but it is generally near the middle, marked by a buckle or hook that secures the end of the strap to the middle of the strap.

    • 4

      Move the hook or buckle up the strap (toward the front of the gun) in order to tighten the sling.

    • 5

      Move the hook or buckle down the strap (toward the butt of the stock) in order to loosen the sling.

    • 6

      Assume both shooting and carrying poses again to test the results of the changes. Adjust again as necessary.