This modern reproduction is a good copy of the third type 1887 sling based on my reading of "The .45-70 Springfield" by Poyer and Riesch. The sling I received differed from the pictured one in that the prongs were not bent inward properly, the stitching on the keepers was done with brown thread and the Rock island Arsenal marking was lightly struck and faint. As another reviewer noted the sling reaks of the chemicals used to finish the leather. It did measure 70". One of the keepers was indeed bigger than the other allowing it to be installed on the rifle without undue trouble. Manipulating the button was not easy - I used a chopstick and a large screwdriver to apply rearward pressure to install my sling. Although information that came with the sling said to visit world war supply website for instructional videos on how to install slings they don't have one for this sling (at least not at the time I am reviewing this). I was able to find information on "How to Install an M1887 Sling on a Krag Rifle" on the Surplusrifle forum and unfortunately reviews may not contain links to websites or I would have included it. Nonetheless, despite the little flaws I mentioned the sling is a nice addition to my old Round Rod Bayonet Springfield Model of 1888 Rifle. I was able to use a pliers to bend the prongs. The leather does look nice, hopefully the chemical smell will dissipate as I no longer like to get high.Read full review
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
Would have been 5 stars but it has a very strong musty/moldy smell that has not gone away after a week. Looks very good, so I'm going to try to hang it in the garage to see if the odor will lessen or go away.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
This is a great sling made of good quality leather. Many attempts made to make it historically correct. Be advised, this is a 'one-piece' leather sling. It cannot be used as a marksmanship sling, like the 2-piece M1905 sling. However, this sling is period correct for the Krag & Trapdoor rifles. It wasn't till the 1903 Springfield & Garands that the M1905 sling was used during marksmanship. This sling was made solely for sling carry & parade carry. Many reviewers have made statements concerning the strong 'odor' when the sling is 1st opened. This to me is standard with any newly treated & dyed leather product. Left out in the open, especially outdoors, the odor will dissipate, as with all leather products. Another option is to rub in some neutral leather polish (i.e. baseball glove) which will also reduce the smell. Only recommendation is to include a card with installation instructions fro the krag & trapdoor installation. These can be found online and take a few attempts before you master and get it on correct. A step-by-step set of instructions, with pictures would be very helpful.Read full review
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
In reading other reviews I noticed comments about the smell of the preservative being a little strong. This is pretty much a true fact ... but ... being familiar with leather and different treatments it really wasn't a concern for me. As soon as I unpackaged the sling ... I put it out side under the awning on my porch and let it air out for a couple days. That eliminated most of the smell. Then I brought it back in and cleaned it thoroughly with saddle soap. The saddle soap cleaning left it with a nice smell and much more supple! It now has a new personality ... kind of like a quality well cared for vintage piece of leather! I am absolutely pleased with the application and my purchase!
Verified purchase: No
With chemical treatment to leather, and not properly cured i.e. dried correctly, this is that moldy, thinner smell. NICE Leather, and fit my 1891 Trapdoor Ramrod perfect. Ok, step 1. VINIGER, wipe on heavy, or soak. Step 2. Let dry in sunlight for 3-5 days or longer. Step 3. Brown leather cream, both side to replace oils, and soften and give it a little shine Now, NO smell, but nature leather and not grandpa's house...lol
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New