Pre-WWII M1907 Sling

[wemoodydc]

My buddy recently picked up a 30s era '03 Springfield. He would like to find as correct of an M1907 sling as he can find. Where do you normally look for something like that? Also, is there a particular marking that helps date a sling like that?

 

[NCFubar]

The best M1907 sling I’ve seen is a Turner. The CMP even uses a Turner in their video on how to install a M1907 sling.

http://turnersling.com/m1907-military-rifle-sling/

 

[wemoodydc]

I should rephrase. He has a reproduction sling on it already, but he wants something from prior to WWII that is roughly as old as the rifle is.

 

[NCFubar]

Oh okay, to start pre-WWII M1907 slings had brass hardware. They usually will have the makers mark and date stamped around one of the hooks. Now finding one in good shape is hard and getting harder also they have gotten pricey since most rotted from field exposure and even when the rifles were rearsenalized they would scrap the old sling (brass was almost a precious metal during WWII) and install a new steel hook equipped sling. The last serviceable one I saw for sale was at the Raleigh Old North State Gun & Military Show a few years back and it was priced at $200.

 

[wemoodydc]

That is what I was wanting to know, if it was even a viable goal. It completely makes sense why that wouldn't be a great project

 

[rdinatal]

Show a few years back and it was priced at $200.

I will concur with @NCFubar. Any original slings, leather or canvas, were big $. I'm always on the lookout for good canvas slings as I use them on my Garand and ARs.

 

[nbkky71]

While there aren't any slings mentioned on this site, here's a good reference site for the '03 rifle
http://www.vishooter.net/m1903.html

 

[mike59]

Try the CMP forums .... lots of collectors who might be able to point you in the right direction. Also might post in the want to buy section.

Hope this helps and good luck in your search!

 

[Combat Diver]

That is one of the oldest pieces of USGI gear being made and issued even today. I ordered 3ea M1907 leather slings in Kuwait in 2016, those that came in were made in 2014. I issued them out with Mk13, M110 and M2010 Sniper Rifles.

CD