Before we discuss the different types of patrol slings, it is important to first understand that this type of sling differs from a shooting sling and a carry strap. A dedicated shooting sling is designed to anchor your rifle more firmly to your body whilst shooting, improving stability and therefore improving accuracy also. A carry strap, being the most common type of sling, usually has a padded section and is designed purely to help ease the discomfort that comes with carrying a rifle over long periods of time. The patrol sling on the other hand has a different purpose all together. This sling was designed to retain the rifle on the shooter's front side, providing excellent weapon retention while also allowing the shooter to bring the rifle up onto aim in the fastest time. This sling also allows the operator to keep both hands free for other tasks, when need be.
Single Point
The single point, or one-point sling attaches to the rifle at the rear of the receiver, and makes manoeuvering the rifle a breeze. This type of sling has become very popular amongst owners of modern assault rifles and tactical carbines.
Advantages
Weapon retention, meaning the rifle cannot be snatched from the operator unintentionally
Very flexible in accommodating different firing positions and makes manoeuverability easy
Easiest to use when switching from your dominant to non-dominant shoulder
Great when operating from within vehicles or areas where movement is limited or confined
Disadvantages
It cannot be used as a traditional shooting brace for support, as some patrol slings can to a certain degree
The rifle swings freely and uncontrollably when the operator needs both hands free
The muzzle points downwards towards your feet, hitting your legs as you move about and often nose-diving into the dirt when kneeling
Two-Point
The two-point sling looks very much like a carry strap, except that it attaches to the side of the rifle and allows for quick adjustments. This type of sling has far greater stability when slung compared to the single point sling, and it also allows the rifle to be slung over the back.
Advantages
Weapon retention, meaning the rifle cannot be snatched from the operator unintentionally
It provides far greater stability than a single point sling, and when left to hang free, the rifle positions itself diagonally allowing ease of movement and staying clear from the ground
Can be carried across the front and back of the body comfortably and securely
It provides some off hand shooting support when used correctly
Disadvantages
Transition from supported to unsupported firing is far more difficult than a single point sling
Use in confined areas is limited
Three-Point
The three-point sling was designed to allow for ease of maneuverability similar to that of a sing point, while allowing greater stability when slung. Although it has the advantages of both the single point and two-point sling, it also has entirely new complications of its own.
Advantages
Weapon retention, meaning the rifle cannot be snatched from the operator unintentionally
It provides great stability than a single point sling, and when left to hang free, the rifle positions itself diagonally allowing ease of movement and staying clear from the ground
Can be carried across the front and back of the body comfortably and securely
Ease of use when switching from your dominant to non-dominant shoulder
Good operating from within vehicles or areas where movement is limited or confined
Disadvantages
The webbing that runs along the length of the rifle can interfere with the operation of the charging handle, the bolt release, and sometimes block the ejection port if used by a left-handed shooter
Sometimes they are bulky, and can appear complicated if they are not fully understood
It has a tendency to get tangled with personal equipment when carried over load bearing vests
Your choice of sling really depends on your own preference, your equipment and your role. Figuring out how you will be using the sling and what mounting options are available are the first steps to getting a sling that works for you.
