Sling/Strap for an SMLE

[shotgun sam]

I was wondering if a strap that fits a WW2 Lee Enfield is the same size as would fit an 1917 SMLE?

[Strangely Brown]

Yes the very same, it's a 1937 Pattern.

[saddler]

Yes the very same, it's a 1937 Pattern.

Always thought the web slings were 1908 Pattern

A better sling for an SMLE would be a 1914 Pattern leather one, thy look much nicer and are easier to adjust

[Strangely Brown]

Yes the very same, it's a 1937 Pattern.

Always thought the web slings were 1908 Pattern

Virtually identical, if they are dated it's sometimes the only way to tell them apart.

[saddler]

Yes the very same, it's a 1937 Pattern.

Always thought the web slings were 1908 Pattern

Virtually identical, if they are dated it's sometimes the only way to tell them apart.

...so, aside from the stamped date, what IS the difference?

List of Changes has nothing to show how a "1937 Pattern" sling is nothing but the earlier 1908 Pattern sling, continuing its service with the adoption of the '37 web kit

[Strangely Brown]

...so, aside from the stamped date, what IS the difference?

List of Changes has nothing to show how a "1937 Pattern" sling is nothing but the earlier 1908 Pattern sling, continuing its service with the adoption of the '37 web kit

My point exactly!

Edited to add: The 1908 Patt ones have slightly thicker rolled edges.........but not always!

[huntervixen]

Morning all,

Good point, the canvas sling from both eras is almost identical and only differs in detail, the rivets on WW1 slings are slightly different from later examples.

That said...they do differ from batch to batch and supplier to supplier. From memory the WW1 examples are date and manufacture stamped on the brass buckle, but this might not be the case across the board.

The WW2 and later slings are date and contractor stamped in ink on the canvas.

We need some input from are Full-bore resident Enfield expert Rear Lugs on this one!

I have a Cole Brothers 1916 manufactured leather sling on my 1917 Enfield SMLE, it looks the part.

[shotgun sam]

I got a sling during the week and had the rifle out for a try out this afternoon all I can say is MAGIC.

Sam