How to Make a Gun Sling out of Paracord?
As an outdoorsman, hunter, or military personnel, having a reliable and comfortable gun sling can make a huge difference in your shooting experience. A gun sling can help reduce fatigue, improve accuracy, and provide a secure way to carry your weapon. While there are many commercial gun slings available, making your own paracord gun sling can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making a gun sling out of paracord.
Materials Needed
Before we dive into the instructions, make sure you have the following materials:
- 50-100 feet of paracord (7-strand or 10-strand)
- 2 metal or plastic snaps (or any other type of quick-release buckle)
- 2 aluminum or steel rings (or any other type of swivels)
- 2 small pieces of tape or cord lock
- Scissors or a knife
- A sewing needle or a paracord knife
- Optional: cord wrap or paracord wrap tool
Step 1: Measure and Cut the Paracord
Measure the length of your gun sling by wrapping the paracord around your body, from the shoulder to the hip. You can also use a gun sling template or a diagram to help you estimate the correct length. For a standard gun sling, a length of 60-70 inches is recommended. Cut the paracord to the desired length, leaving a few extra inches for adjustments.
Step 2: Create the Sling Body
Cut the paracord into two equal pieces, each approximately 30-35 inches long. Fold the paracord in half and tie a Cow Hitch Knot at the top of each piece, about 2-3 inches from the top. This will create the foundation of the sling body. Make sure the knots are secure and evenly spaced.
Step 3: Add the Snaps
Attach the metal or plastic snaps to the top of each sling body piece, about 1 inch from the knot. You can use a few wraps of paracord to secure the snaps in place. Make sure the snaps are facing outwards, so they can be easily attached to the rings.
Step 4: Add the Rings
Attach the aluminum or steel rings to the bottom of each sling body piece, about 2-3 inches from the bottom. You can use a few wraps of paracord to secure the rings in place. Make sure the rings are facing outwards, so they can be easily attached to the snaps.
Step 5: Add the Adjustments
Cut a small piece of tape or cord lock and attach it to the top of each sling body piece, just above the snap. This will create a small adjustment point to fine-tune the sling’s length.
Step 6: Finish the Sling
Fold the paracord back into its original shape and adjust the sling to your desired length. Make any necessary adjustments to the knots, snaps, or rings. You can also add a cord wrap or paracord wrap tool to keep the paracord organized and prevent it from tangling.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to consider:
- Use a Paracord Knife to cut the paracord and create a clean, uniform edge.
- Add a Cord Lock to the top of each sling body piece to prevent the paracord from coming undone.
- Use Cord Wrap or Paracord Wrap Tool to keep the paracord organized and prevent it from tangling.
- Add a Quick-Release Buckle instead of snaps for a more secure attachment.
- Use different colors or patterns of paracord to create a unique and personalized gun sling.
Benefits of Making Your Own Gun Sling
Making your own gun sling out of paracord has several benefits:
- Cost-effective: Paracord is inexpensive and widely available, making it a cost-effective option compared to commercial gun slings.
- Customizable: You can customize the length, color, and pattern of your paracord gun sling to suit your preferences.
- Durable: Paracord is durable and can withstand heavy use and harsh environments.
- Versatile: You can use paracord for a variety of applications, including camping, hiking, or as a general-purpose utility cord.
Conclusion
Making a gun sling out of paracord is a fun and rewarding DIY project that can provide a comfortable and secure way to carry your weapon. With the right materials and a few simple steps, you can create a customized paracord gun sling that meets your specific needs. Whether you’re an outdoorsman, hunter, or military personnel, having a reliable and comfortable gun sling can make a huge difference in your shooting experience.
