British leather slings?

[GerryRA]

I have in collection British leather slings of the Pattern 1914 and Pattern 1939 in natural or brown harness leather and both types measure 45” x 1 ¼”.

Photos of Martini Henry rifles seem to show a wider sling, perhaps 1 ½” wide.

What is the correct width and length for the Martini sling? When was the white buff sling and gear replaced with brown leather?

Thanks,

Gerry

[JB White]

You're correct they are wider. I don't have one readily accessible to measure for you...sorry.
From what I've gathered over time: Buff was regulation allowed to go dirty in the field, but blancoed while garrisoned. The brown slings on Martini's are typically thought to be colonial issue.

[GerryRA]

Thanks for the information. Do you know what type of leather was used for the thongs on buff slings. In the US, tie thongs of this period were described as "Elk Hide". and are a yelllow color.