Whether you’re out for a hunt or walking a patrol, sometimes you have to carry your rifle a little to long. For short periods of time your AR15 might not seem to heavy. Add your optic and a few other upgrades and it can quickly add up to 10 plus pounds. You can either suffer through carrying your rifle all day or buy a sling. There are a ton of different styles and options available. The best AR15 sling for you will largely depend on your application.
Different Types of AR15 Slings
Rifle slings are one of those things that seem extremely simple, but will quickly overwhelm you. Not only are there a ton of different manufacturers there’s a ton of different styles. The two most popular options are traditional two-point slings and basic single point slings. You’ll also have to sort through the lesser known three point, ching and cuff slings.(maybe missing a few oddballs) You should really only focus on the single or double point slings. I won’t really get into all the unusual variants. The video below will explain a little more about each of your sling options.
- Single Point Sling: Single point slings are extremely popular among the tactical AR15 community. Single point slings use a single attachment point on the rifles stock. They’re extremely versatile and hold your rifle in a comfortable forward position. Most single sling setups can also easily adapt into the more popular two-point setup. I really like the modular Magpul MS4 single sling setup, but it’s a little to expensive for what it is. The Docooler Tactical Two Point Sling is a much more affordable option. It allows you to quickly switch between a single and two point setup.
- Two-Point Sling: This is the type of sling that most people think of when picturing a rifle. Two point slings are popular with hunting rifle, but not really popular with the AR15. With a two point sling you are going to have both a forward and rear connection point. Two point slings are best setup for administrative carry. This type of sling is more comfortable, but you aren’t going to have quick access to your rifle during shooting drills.
What’s The Best AR15 Sling?
1. Magpul MS1 Padded Two-Point Sling
Check Price: Amazon
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he Magpul MS1 Rifle sling is a good blend of cost and function. Everybody in the AR15 community knows that Magpul makes an excellent product. Their’s a ton of versatility in the Magpul sling. With additional adaptors sold separately you can easily change this into a 1 point sling. Their padded rifle sling goes one step above the competition.
Over the last decade Magpul has developed into a major powerhouse in the tactical community. They designed a rifle sling that’s extremely easy to use and will last a long time. Their MS1 sling uses a proven design that’s sure to last a long time. Constructed out of a 1-1/4″ wide heavy duty nylon that’s resistant to wear. It’s not like most nylon straps. Magpul designed the material with anti-chafing comfort. Lightweight yet durable, all the hardware uses heavy duty polymer construction.
Magpul designed and manufactured their MS1 sling entirely in the USA using premium materials. Their design is what really sets Magpul apart from the competition. With thick padding anti-chafing fabric you’ll have all day comfort on long hunts. They designed this sling be easily adjustable in high stress environments. Easily shorten or lengthen the sling using their patented MS1 slider. You won’t have any excess tails or loops that can potentially snag on your rifle. What I really like about Magpul products is all the additional accessories they sell. For a couple bucks you can convert this sling into a single point system, or just add a quick detach anchor. With so many customization options this is easily the nicest sling on the market.
2. S2Delta Rifle Sling
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You don’t have to choose between a two point and one point sling thanks to S2Delta. The S2Delta Rifle sling system offers a ton of options for different tactical needs. It comes with everything you need to convert it into the sling you want. With easy adjustments this modular system is perfect for the AR15.
S2Delta designed this rifle sling to be completely adjustable for all body types and shooting styles. The sling offers quick one handed adjustments to easily change your rifle hold. You can also adjust the overall length to accommodate different body types. You can use any type of modular rifle hooks, like push button swivels and C.L.A.S.H hooks. The different mounting options make it easy to switch between single and 2-Point configurations.
This product was designed and assembled in the USA using quality components. The sling is extremely durable and lightweight. The 2″ band is big enough to spread weight evenly, but could be padded a little better. It’s almost like a heavy duty seatbelt material, which can get uncomfortable after a while. For a few bucks you can add this hazard 4 pad which will make it a lot more comfortable. When in the single point configuration your rifle hangs comfortably in a functional position. The quick release buckle allows you to attach your preferred mounting option. This is the sling for you, if you’re looking to switch between a single and two point mount.
3. Docooler Military Tactical Sling
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DoCooler’s Military Tactical Sling offers a more affordable multi-configuration setup. You can easily switch between a single or dual point setup. At a fraction of the price of the competition, you should definitely check out this sling.
DoCooler really does a lot of things right with this versatile rifle sling. With its quick detach mounts this tactical sling is extremely easy to use. Within seconds you can switch between a single and two point mount. You’re just going to need to attach 1 or 2 quick detach mounts to your rifle. 1 QD mount on the front and one on the rear. You can then quickly adjust your strap length with a simple pull of the strap. With one hand you can tighten it to the perfect position.
At this low of a price I wasn’t expecting a lot out of the Docooler Sling, but I was wrong. It’s made out of a durable nylon material that’s actually more comfortable than it looks. Like the above sling you could probably benefit from a separate pad. Choose from three different color configurations black, olive and tan. For the money you can’t beat this easy single sling setup.
4. Blue Force Gear 2-Point Padded Combat Sling
Check Price: Amazon
Blue Force Gear designed their sling for the professional shooter. Their Vickers Combat sling uses high quality materials designed to last. It’s a comfortable solution that has a ton of options.
I really love all the different customization options available on the Blueforce gear slings. While you can purchase their basic black padded sling on Amazon, I highly recommend checking out the actual blue force gear website. They have an easy to use custom sling builder that allows you to completely customize your gear. You can completely customize every single piece on your Rifle Sling. You can customize everything from the color, to the attachments and even how it’s sewn. With a live visual editor you can see exactly how it’s going to come out.
After you get past all the fancy customization options, you’re left with an excellent final product. Made out of an extremely durable dyed Cordura nylon webbing with heavy duty buckles. The quick pull tab allows you to easily make quick length adjustments. With a quick one handed pull you’ll be able to adjust the sling to your fit.
Leather Vs Nylon Slings
Choosing sling material will most likely come down to leather and some type of nylon. There is no clear cut answer to which sling you are going to prefer. Nylon offers a lot of flexibility, while there’s no mistaking the craftsmanship that goes into a leather sling.
Leather
You might be tempted to spend the extra cash and purchase a leather sling for you AR15. Leather slings, though beautiful are better left for your hunting rifle. There’s no denying the quality craftsmanship that goes into a leather rifle sling. Most of them are hand made and built to last. Some even have custom engraving carved into them. A wide base leather holster tends to offer more comfort than its non-padded nylon peers. The biggest issue is that you aren’t going to be able to use a single point setup. They’re going to be heavier and harder to adjust. Typically using a belt clasp you can’t quickly adjust the length on the fly.
Nylon
Nylon slings are by far the best option for the AR15. Nylon slings are typically lighter, more durable and versatile. Most setups allow you to switch between single and two point setups. To switch all you’re going to need are a few different mounting clasps. So for under 10 bucks and a few minutes of your time you can switch from a single to a 2 point sling. If you’re going the nylon route you should definitely look out for padded options. Nylon has a tendency to dig into your skin after a while.
Single vs Two Point Sling
The single point sling is most of the AR15 communities top choice. The single wraps around your body and attaches only to the rear of your rifle. The two point sling is better used for hunting rifles where quick access isn’t always needed. I’ll give you a few of the advantages and disadvantages below.
Single Point
- Pros: You’re going to have much faster access to your firearm. Hanging across the front of your body gives you direct access to your rifle. It makes dropping and picking up your weapon simple. Simply lower the weapon to the front of your body and let it go. You can continue to steady the rifle with one hand while the other performs a separate task. It’s also much safer since the rifle is pointing down towards the ground. You can also perform a wide range of motion without taking the rifle off your shoulder.
- Cons: The biggest issue with single point is gun sway while you’re not holding the rifle. You’ll especially notice issues while hunting or trudging through the woods. If you plan on doing a lot of walking stick to the two point setup.
Two Point Sling
- Pros: You’ll notice the biggest advantage when carrying your rifle over long distances. I choose a two point setup for all my predator rifles. When you don’t need immediate access to your rifle two points the way to go. By wrapping the sling around your forward arm it can be used as a forward rest. Simply loop the sling around your arm and keep tension on it. With different ways to carry your rifle you have a few options for easy transport.
- Cons: The biggest issue is that you’re going to be slower to retrieve your rifle. With a little bit of practice you can significantly reduce draw speed.
Why Use a Rifle Sling?
For hunting rifles a sling is a no brainer, but some people just don’t see the benefit on the AR15. Yes a sling can sometimes get in the way, but there are a lot more advantages.
- Makes Carrying Easier: The most obvious advantage is that you’ll be able to easily carry your rifle. That 10lb tactical setup might not seem like a lot at the range, but take it out into the field. All that extra tactical gear will quickly add up weight. Slings distribute the weight evenly across your body leaving your arms for the more important stuff.
- Easier Access to Sidearm: Assuming you’re in a tactical situation or competition you’re going to want easier access to your sidearm. With a sling you can simply drop your rifle and grab your sidearm. It will significantly increase your transition speed.
- Easier to Take Tactical Stances: Getting down into a prone shooting stance isn’t the easiest thing to do with a rifle. Without having to worry about your rifle you can quickly get down into tactical stances. Once in position further tightening the sling will help strengthen your hold.
How To Wear Your Sling Comfortably
Wearing a sling might seem self explanatory, but some people find them uncomfortable. Wearing a sling improperly could cause long term discomfort.
- One Point Sling: One point slings are typically worn over your dominant shoulder. The rifles barrel will be safely pointing towards the ground. You can either wear it diagonally across your body or wrapped over a single shoulder. Wearing it across your chest is more comfortable, but sacrifices some functionality. When transitioning into a run you’re going to have to hold your rifle to stabilize it.
- Two Point Sling: You have two main ways to wear a two point setup. The most versatile way is over a single shoulder. With practice you can quickly flip your rifle into a shooting stance. Placing the rifle diagonally across your back is much more comfortable on long walks, but it sacrifices speed.
Which AR15 Sling is The Best?
Magpul’s MS1 rifle sling gives you the best bang for the buck. With its extremely durable design and affordable price tag, you can’t go wrong. If you’re willing to spend the extra money Blue Force Gear is another premium option. All their slings are custom sewed to meet your exact specifications. Choose every individual piece to make a truly custom built sling. DoCooler’s Sling is a much more affordable option. It offers easy setup and a quick switch from 1 to 2 point modes.