British, Cold War, L1A1 SLR Rifle Sling, Dark Green Nylon Webbing with Brass Rivets, 115 cm

*British, Cold War, L1A1 SLR Rifle Sling, Dark Green Nylon Webbing with Brass Rivets, 115 cm* Original British Army rifle sling for the L1A1 Self-Loading Rifle (SLR), made in dark green woven nylon webbing with blackened steel fittings and brass riveted end tabs. This is the early nylon pattern introduced during the Cold War period as the British Army transitioned from traditional khaki cotton web slings to more durable synthetic materials. The sling retains its correct hooked steel end fittings, allowing it to attach to the standard sling loops used on the L1A1 SLR and other British service rifles. The woven nylon construction is of the heavier early type, and the use of brass rivets suggests production in the late 1960s to early 1970s, before later economy versions with steel rivets became common. These slings were standard issue with the 7.62 mm L1A1 rifle but were also seen in service with reserve units, cadet forces, and occasionally on earlier rifles still in use during the Cold War period. Approx. Measurements – Length: 115 cm. History Note:The L1A1 Self-Loading Rifle was adopted by the British Army in the late 1950s and remained the standard service rifle until the introduction of the SA80 in the 1980s. During the 1960s and 1970s, webbing equipment evolved from the earlier 1937-pattern cotton web to the 1958-pattern system, and rifle slings followed the same progression. Early nylon slings with brass riveted fittings represent the transitional period between traditional web equipment and the later fully synthetic Cold War issue kit. *Condition*Good used condition. Webbing strong and complete with no major fraying. Metal fittings intact with surface wear to the painted finish. Rivets secure. Light service wear consistent with military use. Please see photographs as part of the condition report. RQMGXBE_5452232963