This is a leather rifle sling made by Emanual Metzger of Philadelphia, Pa. Metzger had contracts though out the Civil War for all things leather, from naval cap boxes, saddles, bridles and infantry accoutrements, including slings. The Ordnance Manual of 1861 states that the slings "was to be made of russet leather, measure 1.25" wide, 46" in length, have one standing and one sliding loop, a brass hook attached by two brass rivets made of #15 wire and sewn with white shoe thread." This sling is made of brown russet leather that has seen some use! The leather is still supple and flexible. While it meets the 1.25" width requirement, this one is 61" in length. It looks to have been lengthened in the field by splicing two slings together. Both adjustment loops are still present, one fixed and the other sliding. The brass hook is securely attached to the sling by the original brass rivets. All stitching is rock solid. On the fixed loop end of the sling is the makers stamps of E METZGER in an arc over PHILA. Beside the makers mark is an oval sub inspectors stamp. I can only make out the last three letter of the inspectors name, ONE. These leather slings are becoming difficult to come by. This one will make a fine addition to your collection, and it will definitely fit any long arm out there!

Item # AA1098

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