The Crickett 22LR is a popular choice for young shooters and plinking enthusiasts, but adding a sling can significantly enhance its usability and comfort. A sling makes carrying your rifle easier, provides stability during shooting, and aids in quick transitions. This guide details impactful actions for successfully adding a sling to your Crickett 22LR.
Assessing Your Crickett and Sling Options
Before diving in, let's consider your Crickett and the types of slings available. The Crickett's stock lacks traditional sling swivel studs, requiring a bit of ingenuity. You'll need to choose a sling that accommodates this limitation.
Understanding Sling Types:
- Single-Point Slings: These attach to a single point on the firearm, often the rear. They're simple and allow for quick transitions but offer less stability than two-point slings. Suitable for the Crickett if you can find a secure attachment point.
- Two-Point Slings: These utilize two attachment points, usually the rear and front. They provide superior stability and are generally preferred for carrying and shooting. Requires creative solutions for the Crickett due to the lack of pre-installed studs.
- Tactical Slings: These often feature quick-detach swivels and adjustable lengths, offering versatility and convenience. They could work with the Crickett, depending on your chosen attachment method.
Choosing Your Attachment Method:
Because the Crickett doesn't have sling swivel studs, you'll need to find a way to attach the sling. Here are the most common and effective methods:
- Sling Swivels with Screws: This involves carefully drilling and screwing swivel studs into the stock. Caution: This is the most permanent solution and requires precision to avoid damaging the stock. It’s crucial to measure twice and drill once! Incorrect placement can compromise the structural integrity of the stock. Consider consulting a professional gunsmith if you're not comfortable with this approach.
- Sling Mounts that Clamp onto the Stock: Several companies produce sling mounts that clamp securely onto the stock without requiring any permanent modifications. These are a user-friendly alternative to drilling. Ensure the clamp is compatible with the Crickett's stock material and thickness. Look for strong, well-reviewed options.
- Using existing holes or slots (if available): Some Crickett models might have pre-existing holes or slots that could accommodate paracord or other sling attachments. Carefully inspect your rifle to identify any such possibilities. This requires improvisation and a firm understanding of knotting techniques for secure sling attachment.
Installing Your Sling: Step-by-Step
Once you’ve chosen your sling and attachment method, follow these steps:
Drilling Swivel Studs (If Applicable):
- Precise Marking: Carefully mark the locations for your swivel studs. Consider the balance and ergonomics of the rifle when making this crucial decision.
- Pilot Holes: Drill small pilot holes to guide your larger drill bit and prevent the wood from splitting.
- Drilling Main Holes: Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the diameter of your swivel studs. Drill to the appropriate depth, taking care not to drill through the stock.
- Installing the Swivels: Screw the swivel studs into place, ensuring they are firmly seated and won't easily come loose.
- Attaching the Sling: Attach your sling to the newly installed swivel studs.
Using Clamp-on Mounts:
- Positioning the Mounts: Carefully position the clamp-on mounts on the stock, ensuring they are securely attached and won't interfere with the rifle's operation.
- Tightening the Clamps: Tighten the clamps according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring a firm and secure hold.
- Attaching the Sling: Attach your sling to the clamp-on mounts.
Using Existing Holes or Slots (If Applicable):
- Secure Knotting: Use appropriate knots (such as a bowline or prusik) to securely attach your sling to the available holes or slots. Ensure the knots are tight and won’t easily slip.
- Testing: Carefully test the attachment by applying tension to the sling to verify its strength and security.
Safety First: Always Prioritize Safety
Before using your Crickett 22LR with a newly attached sling, ensure that:
- The sling is securely attached: Double-check all attachments to avoid any accidental detachment during use.
- The sling doesn't interfere with the rifle's operation: Verify that the sling doesn't obstruct the action, trigger, or any other crucial parts.
- You're familiar with sling use: Practice with the sling in a safe environment to become comfortable with its handling and functionality.
Remember, safety is paramount when handling firearms. If you are uncomfortable performing any of these steps yourself, consult a qualified gunsmith. Improper installation could damage your rifle or create a safety hazard.
