Springfield Armory M1A Sling Review

One Month Later: Springfield Armory M1A Sling Review

The Springfield Armory M1A Sling is a simple, yet essential piece of kit for anyone running an M1A rifle. Crafted from durable cotton and finished in a classic olive drab, this sling provides a comfortable and functional way to carry and stabilize your rifle. Its straightforward design focuses on reliability and ease of use, making it a popular choice among M1A enthusiasts seeking a traditional sling solution.

I had been searching for a simple, mil-spec sling for my M1A build. The modern tactical slings with all their QD points and adjustability just didn’t feel right on this classic rifle. I was aiming for a more authentic, period-correct feel.

Upon unboxing, the Springfield Armory M1A Sling felt sturdy, albeit a bit stiff, which is expected for new cotton. The olive drab color was spot-on, and the metal hardware appeared durable. The sling’s overall build quality felt solid and reliable, promising years of service.

Compared to some nylon slings I’ve used on AR-platform rifles, the Springfield Armory M1A Sling feels decidedly more classic and less tactical. I also considered a leather sling, but opted for the cotton version for its durability in wet conditions and ease of maintenance. Ultimately, I chose this sling because of its simplicity, durability, and historical accuracy for the M1A rifle platform.

My first impression was positive. It was exactly what I was looking for to complete my M1A. The initial stiffness gave me confidence in its long-term durability, and I was excited to get it installed and put it to use.

Real-World Testing: Putting Springfield Armory M1A Sling to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Springfield Armory M1A Sling primarily at the range, where I ran drills involving transitioning between standing, kneeling, and prone positions. I also used it during a weekend camping trip where I carried the M1A for security purposes. The sling performed admirably in both scenarios.

The sling was tested in both dry and slightly damp conditions. While the cotton material can absorb moisture, it didn’t become overly saturated or uncomfortable during light rain. The ease of adjustment was also appreciated, allowing me to quickly adapt the sling length to different shooting positions.

There was a small learning curve involved in getting the sling adjusted just right. The metal clip can be a little tricky to manipulate at first, but with a few practice runs, it became second nature. After a short break-in period, the sling was very comfortable to use.

The only minor issue I noticed during the first use was the initial stiffness of the cotton, which caused a slight bit of noise when moving. However, this dissipated after washing it as another user suggested.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a month of consistent use, the Springfield Armory M1A Sling has held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of fraying or damage to the cotton material. The metal hardware remains secure and shows no signs of corrosion.

The sling has proven to be quite durable. Even after being subjected to rough handling during training exercises and outdoor activities, it shows no significant wear and tear. The cotton material has become more pliable and comfortable over time.

Cleaning the sling is straightforward. A simple hand wash with mild soap and water is sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. The sling dries quickly and retains its shape after washing.

Compared to some of the cheaper nylon slings I’ve used in the past, the Springfield Armory M1A Sling is far superior in terms of durability and comfort. It provides a more stable and secure platform for carrying and shooting the M1A rifle. It exceeds my expectations for a simple, traditional sling.

Breaking Down the Features of Springfield Armory M1A Sling

Specifications

The Springfield Armory M1A Sling is constructed from durable cotton, ensuring both comfort and longevity. It features an olive drab finish for a classic, mil-spec aesthetic. The sling is designed specifically for use with the Springfield Armory M1A rifle.

The sling’s metal hardware is simple yet robust, providing secure attachment points. The cotton construction offers a traditional look and feel, while remaining strong and reliable in various conditions. The olive drab color ensures that it blends in well in outdoor environments.

These specifications are important because they contribute to the sling’s overall functionality and durability. The cotton material provides a comfortable carrying experience. While the sturdy metal hardware guarantees secure attachment to the rifle.

Performance & Functionality

The Springfield Armory M1A Sling excels at its primary function: securely carrying and stabilizing the M1A rifle. It allows for hands-free carry. It aids in steadying the rifle in shooting positions.

The sling’s strengths lie in its simplicity and durability. Its design allows for quick and easy adjustments, and its robust construction ensures long-lasting performance. The weakness of the sling is that it does not offer the same level of adjustability and versatility as some modern tactical slings.

The Springfield Armory M1A Sling meets expectations for a basic, reliable sling. It is not packed with features. It fulfills its intended purpose effectively.

Design & Ergonomics

The Springfield Armory M1A Sling boasts a classic, no-frills design. It is focused on functionality and durability over aesthetics. The cotton material feels comfortable against the body, even during extended periods of use.

The sling is relatively user-friendly, but requires a bit of practice to master the adjustment mechanism. Once properly adjusted, it provides a secure and comfortable fit. The learning curve is minimal for anyone familiar with traditional rifle slings.

Durability & Maintenance

The Springfield Armory M1A Sling, with its durable cotton construction and robust metal hardware, is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. The simple design minimizes potential failure points.

Maintaining the sling is easy. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water will keep it in good condition. The cotton material is resistant to most common wear and tear, and the metal hardware is treated to prevent corrosion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Springfield Armory M1A Sling comes with no additional accessories. Its simple design does not lend itself to extensive customization. While there are no direct customization options, some users may choose to add aftermarket sling swivels or quick-detach (QD) attachments to the rifle to improve compatibility.

The sling is compatible with any M1A rifle equipped with standard sling swivel mounts. There are numerous aftermarket sling swivels and QD attachments available from various brands. These can be used to enhance the sling’s functionality.

Pros and Cons of Springfield Armory M1A Sling

Pros

• Durable Cotton Construction: Provides long-lasting performance and comfort.
• Simple and Reliable Design: Easy to use and maintain, with minimal potential failure points.
• Classic Olive Drab Finish: Offers a traditional, mil-spec aesthetic.
• Secure and Stable Carry: Allows for hands-free carry and aids in steadying the rifle.
• Affordable Price Point: Excellent value for the money.

Cons

• Can be initially stiff before washing/breaking in.
• Lacks the advanced adjustability of modern tactical slings.

Who Should Buy Springfield Armory M1A Sling?