CH,

I don't think the black paint is original. This is basically the same sling that was issued on the Winchester 1895 Contract Musket and other Winchester rifles at the time. Here's one I sold last year, with original bluing on the metal. Plus a photo out of Allied Rifle Contracts.

 

CH,

I don't think the black paint is original.

This started to bugger me a bit. I have dog collars (sadly the sling had been lost and finding a replacement one is just hopeless) which came along with a pristine Remington I aquired and the buckles are indeed painted black. Not blued. And I´m quite sure, that the buckles have not been messed with but they are all original as the rifle is almost in the same condition as it was on that day, when the Red weapons train arrived to Helsinki in 1918.

 

I think that I would install the sling anyway, and just remain cautious about how I handled the gun. How many others are you going to be able to find?

Very nice NEW, too. I remember when you posted it. Gorgeous.

 

I think that I would install the sling anyway, and just remain cautious about how I handled the gun. How many others are you going to be able to find?

Yeah, I believe you're right. This is the first one I've seen live.

 

That is a very cool find and there are a lot of collectors looking for an original walnut handguard.

 

Bones92,

For what it's worth, I've seen some American slings owned in Finland which appear to have black paint on them. Plus, they have the front loop (mine is on backwards) fixed with four rivets.

Here's a couple of them (not mine).

 

Then I may be mistaken. Perhaps the Mosin Nagant contract slings were finished this way.

 

I'd be interested in the Walnut hand guard if you want to sell it to recoup some money. Ray