HP Sling Question (NRA/CMP)

[Grump]

My rulebook is something like 12 years hold and I haven't fired a match in 8 or so...

I used to use a double-sling clamp system on an M1 Garand to allow sort of a "handstop" inside the web sling because my short arms didn't work well with the hand all the way forward against the front sling swivel. My support hand would actually stop inside the sling, against a clamp I used about 2-3 inches behind the swivel.

Is that legal? Are the the rules still somewhat silent on that?

Yes, I did learn with the leather sling but I prefer how tight I can get the web slings on my arm, and how much easier it is to keep the loop tight.

 

[Steve Smith]

Grump, that isn't legal for Service Rifle. As far as I know clamps were never legal for Service Rifle competition. You must use either a standard 1907 style sling "as issued" with leather keepers (or biothane keepers in the case of the biothane sling) or the web sling.

Unfortunately I can't find the online NRA Rulebook that I usually use for just such occasions. The NRA can supply you wit one for free.

Many of the ranges that do not have enough competitors to take Service Rifle and Match Rifle classes seriously won't say anything, but whether they do or not it is more fun and more challenging to play by the exact rules.

 

[Grump]

Well, Steve, this is using a GI web sling, just with an extra clamp on the arm loop (I clamp the "tail" end on my arm to an index mark so sling length from arm to rifle is predictable with the "buckle" thingie and its index marks, regardless of how thick my sweatshirt/jacket combo is that day). I've even used an M60 extra-long web sling, looped around a bunch like an leather one, so I never had to disconnect from the rear sling swivel.

Guess I'll hafta get a rulebook.

 

[BlindRat]

The sling set-up as described is not legal for Service Rifle.
The applicable rules would be NRA 3.1
"...with standard type stock and standard type leather or web sling. External alterations to the assembled arm will not be allowed."
...and CMP 6.1(3)
"...Must be standard-issue leather or web slings..."

Your addition of an "extra clamp" makes the sling non-standard. In years past, we've gone so far as to request a ruling on whether extra parts such as extra spring clips to attach to the swivel were allowable and were advised they were not.

You may have received some latitude in the past, but as I read your post, it was not within the rules and would probably not withstand closer examination. I personally try not to give folk any cause to challenge my equipment...sorts of messes with your day.

Several options come to mind;
1) Learn to use the sling in a Service Rifle configuration. I face similar problems to you and have overcome them.
2) Shoot in the Match Rifle class which opens up even more and better sling options for you.
3) Advise the Match Director of what you're doing. Many times, informal competitors are given more "slack". By virtue of your question, I suspect you'd like to do things properly and this won't be an option.

And yes...getting a current NRA and CMP Rulebook is a very good idea.

 

[Grump]

And all this rule-breaking because I don't believe in using firm-grip...which was then (izzitnow still?) allowed by the rules. I really was trying to be a purist. Even used to load RF from the belt, not the mat.

Does all that make me old?

 

[Steve Smith]

Well, I have been told by a good friend that the NRA made the guy take the site down so no more online rulebook. THANK YOU NRA FOR HAVING YOUR HEAD UP YOUR ASS YET AGAIN!


Ahem, anyway...As Blind Rat stated, even a clip or a round stuck through the 1907 sling to tension it is considered non-standard.

Also, by "firm-grip" you mean a shooter's adhesive, yes, that is still allowed. The only people I know that use it shoot Garands or M14s.

Have we answered your question adequately?

 

[30Cal]

A decent full fingered glove will help out--that's what I use for the M1/M14 and I don't need adhesive. Otherwise, hang on tight!

Ty

 

[milanuk]

Steve,

I agree w/ you about the NRA and the rather ill-thought out decision to harass the guy who had a copy of the rule book online. In the meantime though, there is a copy of the CMP rulebook online at their website:

http://www.odcmp.com/Competitions/Rulebook.pdf

Can't access it myself (at work and the filters classify it as 'mature'), but maybe it'll be of use for future discussions.

Oh, and if you like Firm Grip, try 3M Scotch 77 spray. Easy to find at your local hardware store. I'm debating going w/ spray for this coming season since I kind of have to short-stock my AR so I don't have to squeeze the fore-end (I've caught myself squeezing a little more/less trying to control elevation... not consistent from shot to shot... shots not on call).



Monte