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How to Tell If You Have an Authentic Kerr Nobuckl Rifle Sling

The original Kerr Nobuckl sling, also known as the M1917 sling, was a replacement sling for the M1917 Enfield rifle, implemented during World War I by the U.S. Army in 1917. Original slings are collector's items, generally worth between $20 and $175.

Things You'll Need

Ketchup

Instructions

- 1
  Discern the color of the canvas. Replica slings usually will have darker canvas compared to the original light tan, light green or light gray.
- 2
  Identify the fittings, located on either end of the sling, that have markings on them.
- 3
  Discern whether the fittings are made of blackened brass or copper and contain the Nobuckl seal--the word "Nobuckl" outlined in a box. Replicas will have thinner, steel fittings, and they will not have this marking.
- 4
  Look underneath the Nobuckl seal for the patent date. Rub ketchup on the brass to remove tarnish if the date is obscured. If the date reads "7-21-14 / NOBUCKL / REG.U.S.PAT.OFF," then you have an authentic sling.

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