G/K43 Sling Question

[Mike Josephic]

I understand that the slings for these rifles are about 8 inches longer than the
standard K98 sling.

Have been looking for an original to go with a later war ('45) K43 and can
find nothing but repro's, especially on flea-bay.

Anyone know of a good source for originals? Cost is secondary, originality
is most important to me.

Thanks,

Mike

[Sarge]

Your source of info is 100% WRONG!!!
The K98k and G/K 43 slings are exactly the same sling!
Sarge

[Mike Josephic]

Sarge:

Your info is 100% WRONG.

There indeed was a longer sling make for the G/K43's. It was 8 inches longer than the
standard K98 sling. However, as the war progressed and materials such as leather became
short in supply, the K98 standard sling was substituted. So these originals are scarce.

See the book about the G/K series semiautos called "Hitler's Garrand's" by Darrin Weaver,
page 187 for pictures and details.

Mike

[Sarge]

I don't have the referenced book, some day I'll get around to buying one.
I have been collecting K98ks since 1953 and G/K 43 since 1957 and have never run across a longer sling on any of them. I wonder how long they made them - 3 weeks? I also wonder why they made them? I can see no benifit to a sling that oculd not be tightened up when necessary.
Oh well.
sarge

[dave]

The German slings streached quite allot if used for long periods. I have several on K98k's which are of different lengths, altho not 8".

[Kleanbore 1]

Mike
I have one of these slings. PM sent to you.