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Posted: 6/12/2014 2:56:56 PM EDT
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We generally refer to the web slings with a "folded/stitched" end as "601" slings. Does anyone know exactly when they came into being and how long they were made before going to the longer design with the adjustable buckle?
I have a few, and have seen some others, and there appear to be a couple variants. One (like the one in the photos below) has the end of the web "rolled under" before stitching--makes for a nice clean finish. Another leaves the stitched end "raw" which tended to fray a bit over time. I don't know if that's due to multiple manufacturers, or a change that occurred over time. I even have one--an old one I've had for quite a while and am confident it's original--that has the end clip stitched on "backwards" (the clips usually open on the same side as the folded-over web). Anyway, I just picked up this one cheap. Note it is 45" long, has the typical "601" stitch pattern on the sewn flap, has the "hump" on the keeper, and has a different web "weave" than later slings. Can anyone offer any insight? How much do we collectively know about this generation of sling? 
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Gunner,,,according to Bill Ricca,,the 601 sling supplied with the 601 package was ONLY made by 1 Mom and Pop company out of either Mass or New Hampshire (I forget) by Colt contract,,not GI contract....Colt wanted to supply the 601 as a complete package deal to include the lightweight cleaning rod,bipod,bayo,energa sight,sling,etc,,,complete package deal.
It can be assumed however that damaged regular M1 slings may have been repaired and end up looking like the 601 slings. As for the fold, we know that some have what appears to be some sort of parafin coating on the end of the webbing to prevent fraying. PrivateSnafu had one he sold but has posted pics for us in the past.. As far as the "double fold and sew" slings,I have no definite info,it's possible it was a change by the "Mom/Pop" company for faster production by eliminating that step of dipping into the parafin??? I have no proof positive about that tho. I'll pick Bills brain and see if he knows anything more. |
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Thanks, M1Sniper. I'll be interested in anything else Bill has to say.
The newer sling is very clean cotton. No loose thread to burn, but it'll absorb a drop of water like a sponge. I also noticed the differences between the old and new keepers so figured I'd document them just for general interest (old is on the left in these pics). 
"601" sling is on the upper one below. 
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