MP38/40 leather sling

This is a reproduction of the leather carrying sling used with the German MP38 and MP40submachine guns. These compact automatic weapons were widely associated with mechanized infantry, armoured crews, paratroopers and other German units during the Second World War. The sling allowed the weapon to be carried securely while keeping it accessible during movement, transport and field use.

Original MP38/40 slings were generally made from dark brown leather, often with a distinctive cross-hatch embossed texture and border lines, visually similar to the sling used on the Karabiner 98k, but adapted to the mounting system of the submachine gun. Accurate reproductions are often described with a width of about 22–23 mm, fitted with metal hardware such as an adjustment slide, retaining stud and keeper.  

The sling attached to the dedicated front and rear sling points of the weapon. Official manuals described the correct mounting arrangement, but period photographs show that soldiers sometimes attached the sling in different ways, probably due to field practice, wear, or personal preference. This makes the MP38/40 sling an interesting accessory not only technically, but also historically, because it reflects how equipment was actually used in service.  

From a collecting and display perspective, the sling is a small but essential component. It gives an MP38 or MP40 reproduction a complete and realistic appearance, whether used on a mannequin, in a display cabinet, for reenactment, or as part of a uniform setup. The leather construction provides the correct historical look and a more convincing finish than synthetic alternatives, while the metal fittings reproduce the practical functions of adjustment and secure attachment.

Curiosity: MP38/40 slings are often compared to K98k rifle slings because of their similar leather, embossing and general length. One important difference, however, is the arrangement of holes and fittings, adapted specifically to the compact layout of the submachine gun.