ID this sling.

[A. F Medic]

Presently it is on a Vetterli Vitali model 1870/89.
It came with the rifle and I am hesitant to remove it since is has aging problems.

The only way it connects to itself is by two brass hooks as shown in one photo. Thanks....

Information

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[gew8805]

It is a US Indian War/Spanish-American War period sling for the canteen or haversack, can't remember the Model year, but used by the US up until about 1903 and by State forces into the 1920s. Definitely not a rifle sling but collectible. And nice Vetterli-Vitali, BTW.

[gew8805]

Forgot to mention, do not be afraid to remove it, just go slowly. You are wise not to have a lot of strain on it, it will not stand it as it is pretty well gone and needs great care.

If you decide it needs cleaning, lay it flat on a level surface and brush with a soft brush to remove dust and any loose, flaking leather.

Once you have it off and it is clean, use a light coat of PURE Neatsfoot Oil to replace some of the lost moisture and help preserve it, do not overdo it, less is better. Neither neatsfoot oil nor anything else should be used to "soften" leather, it is to restore flexibility and natural oils lost with handling, use and time as well as bad storage conditions. Sadly, nothing will restore strength, so keep it lightly loaded in future as you already have.

Do not use neatsfoot oil compound (mostly mineral oil) or anything containing petroleum products. Read the labels carefully on all leather treatments, you will be surprised how many will actually have long term negative effects though they will not tell you that, just pay attention to what they contain.

The best thing to do with old leather is nothing whenever possible, just keep it at a steady, 50% - 60% humidity and at a constant, comfortable temperature - if you are comfortable, so is leather. Also, keep it out of direct sunlight and allow good, clean air circulation.

Sorry to ramble.....

[A. F Medic]

That is not a ramble. That is good information!

I kept looking at that "sling" and could not figure out how it could be used with out poking the owner or comfortable carry. I never would of figured out what it was..... Thanks again....