There are many tools and accessories for assault rifles that can really make the difference in overall performance, but there is one accessory that is so often overlooked. This item may be the most vital of them all. Of course, I am talking about the sling. And when specifically referencing AR's, the sling is the un'slung' hero of them all...
Pardon my bad dad joke, I couldn't help myself.
All kidding aside, AR slings really can make all the difference when it comes to handling, target acquisition, and of course overall performance. It doesn't matter if you need one for combat or hunting. If you can increase how fast you sight your target, it's an applicable accessory. Even for shooting at the range the convenience of having a good sling can be worth it. Then of course in competition shooting having the best AR sling can mean both an increase in weapon exchange speed and an increase in target acquisition speed.
Considering AR's are typically a very versatile weapon they require a versatile sling that will provide all the right things. By "right" things, I simply mean the specific aspects you might require from it based upon your intended uses.
If you are hunting and doing a lot of tracking or hiking you'll probably want one with a little more padding for a more comfortable carry. If you are in a competition shoot then you'll probably require a sling that will give you the best mobility for speedy weapon exchanges.
The 5 Best AR Slings
In no specific order, let's take a look at the top 5 AR slings.
Viking Tactics VTAC
The Viking tactics two-point VTAC sling is a wonderful general purpose sling that offers some great features which are designed to be both efficient and durable. One of those main features is the easy adjust pull strap that gives more freedom in terms of tightness range (only being stopped by the shoulder padding), and ease of use. It has a finger grip and pulls nicely and smoothly to the desired length.
Other notable features include the wider shoulder pad for comfort, along with upgraded hardware. Instead of plastic, this sling has metal parts and elastic stow bands so mounting and adjustment is reliable again and again.
For just under fifty bucks, this is a great sling that is extremely durable and only has one real "flaw" which may not even be a true flaw but more of an inconvenience. When the sling is loosened all the way the tab is behind you so reaching around to find it and shorten its length can be a slight annoyance. Other than that there are little to no reports containing negative feedback.
Magpul Two Point MS1 Sling
The MS1 two-point sling is just another example of a quality product put forth by Magpul. It's most notable feature, aside from being constructed from high-grade material, is the quick and easy adjustment slide. This does away with the annoying loose strap that can interfere with mobility and impede performance.
An equally powerful feature would be the fact this strap can be paired with the best AR sling mount and transform into a strap that can be both a two-point or a one-point sling.
This sling is as versatile as it is durable which makes this a wonderful AR sling, and it's a good price too. Additionally, it comes in multiple colors/packages and has a padded shoulder area for comfort. You will find this to be a suitable AR sling.
Padded Vickers Combat Applications
The Vickers combat sling from Blue Force Gear is arguably the best AR 15 2 point sling, especially considering its price. This sling is made from the highest grade materials for superb durability including Nylon with Metal hardware and an aluminum adjuster that has been machined to thrive even under extreme conditions.
The strap is lighter and stronger than most other two-point slings out there and it still features a padded shoulder area made from high-quality closed-cell foam for additional comfort.
This sling has been designed for combat which makes it also great for competition shooting. This is because of the quick adjustment tab and the fact it has no loose or dangling strap ends. The strap is built in the U.S and will ultimately become your AR's best accessory.
You'll find convenience in the fact there are no loose straps, it's super easy to use, and it provides all the adequate requirements that make up a great AR sling.
Bushnell Black Comfort Stretch Sling
The Bushnell comfort sling is arguably the best AR sling for hunting due to its durability, features, and of course comfortability.
You can walk anywhere with your firearm while using this sling because the flexible waterproof neoprene padding will keep your shoulder from becoming excessively tired. The grippy texture on the shoulder side of the strap will also keep it from slipping off regardless of what you're wearing.
If you are looking for a sling that is the most comfortable while also being affordable then look no further then this Bushnell sling. This sling will get you and your rifle comfortably from one hunting location to the next without excessively tiring you or your shoulder.
AEX 1 Point Bungee Sling Black
The one-point bungee sling from AEX is one of the most affordable slings on the market. It's also possibly the best single point sling for AR 15 rifles because of its design. It has a quick release loop for faster primary weapon changes and the one-point bungee design gives the shooter one of the fastest primary and secondary weapon exchange speeds.
It is made from extremely durable nylon webbing so it will give you a long life, despite what its price might suggest. The dual bungee design also lets the shooter increase their target acquisition speed by always keeping the rifle close but having leeway when it comes to raising and targeting.
Overall this is a great one-point sling at an incredible price that also has some of the same features as more expensive versions.
Main Types of AR Slings
There are four main types of AR slings and each one has their own purpose and unique functionality. There is the one point sling, two point sling, three point sling, and convertible slings. The points simply refer to the areas where the sling actually attaches to the rifle, a.k.a in one spot, two spots, or three spots. The convertible slings can change from one form to another.
One Point Slings
One point slings are great for maneuverability as they allow you to exchange weapons faster or even allow you to operate the rifle easier if you happen to be in a vehicle. There are positives and negatives when it comes to one point slings so be sure to do more research. That way you can make an educated decision if a one point sling is right for you.
Two Point Slings
Two point slings offer some of the best stability but can limit the shooter on maneuverability, especially in tight quarters. They attach at two locations on the rifle, as the name suggests, which is usually at the rear and front of the stock. Of course, depending on the model of your AR there are many locations you can attach a two point sling in order to get the best results.
Three Point Slings
Three point slings became slightly popular several years ago and have since been fading away. They were designed based on the idea that shortening the distance between the body strap points on a rifle would aid in controlling the firearm while slung.
Although this is true, the way three point slings were designed with a strap that ran along the side of the rifle. That strap just seemed to consistently impede rifle function, snag other gear, or become an annoyance to use.
In the recent years there has been a flood of aftermarket parts for AR's, and among them are attachment points designed to shorten the distance between the two points for two-point slings. This essentially renders three point slings useless.
Convertibles
Convertibles are not terribly popular and only a few manufacturers even make them. Their purpose is pure functionality and most will give you the ability to change it into any of the three primary designs. This seems great but in reality, it can be over the top. You can get just about any job done with one point or two point slings quite honestly.
In conclusion:
There are a ton of slings out there to choose from, so narrowing it down to a top 5 list makes for a slightly lopsided argument. There are so many great slings available, and so many who compete with the ones on this list.
Shoot, there may even be slings out there which trump certain slings on this list, but after taking into account things like price, average reviews, material, and functions, this is our list of the top 5 best AR slings.
We hope you enjoyed this article and as always, thanks for reading!
