Original sling repair

[Major Tom]

The original sling on my 1889 trapdoor broke where the 2 strap adjustment holes are. Is there a way to repair this?

[Dick Hosmer]

At the holes, so as to appear whole, not that I am aware of. I suppose, for display - from one side only- use ONLY, allowing NO handling at all, some sort of little plastic strips and epoxy might be used.

Back in the day, breaks were repaired (or two damaged slings were united) by skiving (tapering) the leather and making a lap joint, secured with rectangular and criss-cross stitching. Interesting sign of more thrifty times when such an inexpensive item would be repaired rather than chucked.

[Allen]

If you use your gun much you may want to consider a reproduction sling. I see a bunch on ebay for around $30 that may fit your 1889.

Save your original as a wall hanger after you get it repaired?

[Major Tom]

I will be going the repro way. Ebay has many to chose from. Al Frasca has some for sale too. Originals are too pricey for me right now.