Rehashing the Spencer rifle (not carbine) sling question.

[Roscoe Coles]

Since picking up a Spencer rifle, I have been looking into accessories including a sling.  I did a search of the forum and found some posts and pictures purporting to be original rifle slings.  The interesting thing is that none of the slings I found on the forum are anything like the slings shown in Marcott's book (sorry no picture at the moment).  One of the ones shown on the forum several times looks more like a trapdoor sling, longer than the Springfield of Enfield Sling with a loop on one end and a single hook. 

http://www.cascity.com/forumhall/index.php/topic,40479.0.html

and

http://www.cascity.com/forumhall/index.php/topic,41955.0.html

Another post on the forum quotes the ordinance manual description for a Civil War rifle sling, which does not appear to conform to the one shown above (primarily because of length) or the slings shown in Marcott's book. 

http://www.cascity.com/forumhall/index.php/topic,42958.0.html

The ones shown in Marcott appear to be longer, with a hook on both ends. 

A search of the interweb does not show anyone making a reproduction Spencer rifle sling and I don't see any drawings or measurements for one. 

So what the heck, lets talk period rifle slings.  Does anyone have period photos of Spencer rifles with slings that would shed light on the question?

[Blair]

Roscoe,

Just a suggestion on my part, but, you might try your search under Sharps Military Rifle Sling. You might have more luck finding what you want?
The sling for the Sharps and Spencer Rifles would be identical, and the 46 to 48 inch length should be correct.
I would also suggest you go with 7 to 8 oz. russet bridle leather instead of "bag" leather.
My best,
Blair

[Blair]

A friend of mine just gave the measurements between the swivels on his original Spencer Army M-1860 Rifle.
They are 29 inches.
Now, add 18 inches to that to allow for adjustment of the sling. Those two measurement come up to a total of 47 inches.

Two Flints, as a side note on this Army type Rifle... has SS# is 1802. Would you please check your records to see where this might fit?
I know it was not accepted by the Army.
Thank you so much!
My best,
Blair