Why You Need a Sling for Your Benelli Supernova
The sharp crack of a shotgun, a sudden adrenaline surge, the immediate demand for precision. Whether it’s defending hearth and home or tracking your prey through dense cover, your Benelli Supernova is a serious tool. But even the best firearm can be hampered by inefficient carry. Imagine needing to navigate a challenging terrain with your shotgun, but constantly wrestling with the weight. Or picture the crucial seconds wasted fumbling for your firearm when you need it most. That’s where the humble sling comes into its own, transforming your Supernova from a tool into an extension of your capabilities. This guide delves into the world of slings, focusing on how to choose the optimal setup for your Benelli Supernova, ensuring both comfort and readiness when it matters most.
The Benelli Supernova is a modern marvel, a workhorse built to withstand the harshest conditions and perform flawlessly when lives – or the hunt – depend on it. This pump-action shotgun is known for its robust construction, utilizing advanced engineering and materials designed for longevity and ease of use. The Supernova’s strong polymer components and Inertia Driven system provide unparalleled reliability. It is a popular choice among law enforcement, military personnel, hunters, and homeowners seeking a reliable and versatile firearm. However, the Supernova, like all firearms, benefits significantly from the addition of a well-chosen sling.
One of the most frequently asked questions is why even bother with a sling? The answer lies in the fundamental benefits it provides:
Freedom of movement
A sling gives you hands-free carry. Imagine hiking through the woods, or navigating a crowded home. Without a sling, you are perpetually occupied with the gun. A sling allows you to utilize your hands for other tasks, freeing you to manage gear, clear a path, or simply maintain balance.
Enhanced readiness
In a defensive scenario, or when hunting, every second counts. A well-positioned sling allows you to quickly and easily bring your Supernova into action. No more fumbling, no more delays – just instant access. The right sling allows for natural shouldering and immediate target acquisition.
Comfort over distance
Carrying a shotgun for extended periods can be physically demanding. A sling distributes the weight of the Supernova across your body, reducing fatigue and strain. This is especially crucial for hunters or anyone who spends considerable time on the move.
Improved Maneuverability
Navigating tight spaces, scaling obstacles, or operating in close-quarters environments becomes far easier with a sling. The sling keeps your shotgun securely in place, preventing it from snagging on objects or interfering with your movements.
Beyond these core advantages, a sling promotes safer gun handling. It minimizes the risk of accidental drops, and provides a more stable platform for carrying your firearm.
Types of Slings
Let’s consider the fundamental choices, which is where the selection of the sling becomes important for your Benelli Supernova. There are different types of slings, each with its own advantages and ideal applications. The key is finding a type that meshes well with your primary uses and your personal preferences.
Single-point slings
Single-point slings attach to the Supernova at a single point, typically the receiver or the stock. This design allows the shotgun to hang freely, easily adjustable and kept close to the body. It’s a favored option for close-quarters combat (CQB) scenarios or tactical applications where rapid weapon transitions are necessary. The biggest appeal of a single-point is the ease with which the gun can be moved around. If you’re clearing a house or navigating a crowded area, this type of sling is an excellent option, as you can easily change shoulders or position the gun. The downside? The gun might swing around a bit more, potentially interfering with your movements or bumping into things. Comfort can also be a factor with the weight concentrated at a single point.
Two-point slings
Two-point slings represent a traditional approach, attaching at two points on the shotgun – typically the forend and the buttstock. This type of sling offers excellent stability and weight distribution, making it a popular choice for hunting, general-purpose use, and patrol duty. Two-point slings typically hang the gun along your side, which allows for easier access. This type is often preferred for those who need to maintain their weapon at the ready for extended periods, or who prioritize comfort. Some two-point slings feature adjustable lengths, allowing you to fine-tune the fit for optimal comfort and carrying.
Material Considerations
The material plays an important role. Nylon slings are popular because of their ruggedness, resistance to weather, and generally lower cost. This makes them a reliable and easily accessible option. Leather slings are a classic choice, adding a touch of style and a comfortable feel. However, they often require more care and may not be as resilient to harsh weather conditions. Neoprene slings, offering a degree of elasticity and often including some amount of padding, provide a high level of comfort, especially when carrying heavier shotguns. Hybrid materials and slings may be found for very specific applications.
Adjustable Features
Along with the basic material of the sling, the presence of adjustable features is key for your particular needs. Slings with adjustable buckles and sliders allow you to customize the length of the sling, accommodating different body types, clothing layers, and carrying preferences. Padding is another feature to consider. It can significantly improve comfort, especially when carrying a heavier shotgun for extended periods.
Mounting Options for the Benelli Supernova
Let’s look at the attachment points for the Benelli Supernova to discuss mounting options. The Supernova may or may not have pre-installed sling swivels or attachment points. If not, you will be looking at adding aftermarket options. Swivels are essentially small, rotating connectors that attach the sling to your shotgun. Standard sling swivels are common, but they may require specific attachment points on your Supernova. Quick-detach (QD) swivels are an increasingly popular option, allowing you to detach the sling from the firearm quickly. They often include a button or lever mechanism for quick removal, and are suitable for situations where you might need to remove the sling without removing the gun. If you want to add new attachment points, the placement of the sling is also essential to consider. Typically, the sling is mounted on the forend and buttstock. For the forend, a sling swivel or rail adapter is usually attached to the magazine tube or forend. On the buttstock, you have more options. You might use a sling swivel stud that replaces the factory stock screw, or if you have a tactical stock, it might already have QD sockets built in.
Choosing the Right Sling
Choosing the right sling for your Benelli Supernova requires careful consideration of your needs and preferences. Start by considering your intended use. Will you be using your shotgun for hunting, home defense, recreational shooting, or a combination of these? This will influence the type of sling and features that are best suited for you. A hunting sling, for instance, might prioritize comfort and quiet operation, while a tactical sling may focus on speed and adjustability.
Once you understand your needs, match the sling type to those needs. Two-point slings are often the most versatile option for general use, offering a good balance of comfort and functionality. Single-point slings excel in close-quarters situations, while three-point slings offer enhanced stability and weapon control.
Budget is also a factor. Slings are available at a wide range of prices, from basic, entry-level options to premium models with advanced features. Establish a budget and focus on the features that are most important to you.
For instance, the Magpul MS1 Sling is a highly regarded option. It’s a two-point sling that can also be configured as a single-point, providing excellent versatility. It is made of durable nylon webbing and features a quick-adjust system for easy length adjustment.
Installation and Adjustment
Installation of a sling on your Benelli Supernova is generally a straightforward process, but it’s crucial to follow instructions carefully. Start by gathering all the necessary components. This typically includes the sling itself, sling swivels or attachment hardware, and any tools required for installation.
If your Supernova doesn’t have pre-installed mounting points, you’ll need to install sling swivels or adapters. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for these accessories. Once the attachment points are in place, attach the sling to the swivels or mounting points. Ensure that the sling is securely attached to prevent accidental detachment.
Once the sling is attached, adjust the length to fit your body type and carrying style. The adjustment mechanisms can vary depending on the sling type. Experiment with different lengths to find the most comfortable and functional setting.
Safety Precautions
Always prioritize safety when handling firearms and installing a sling. Make sure your firearm is unloaded and the action is open before beginning any work. Double-check all attachments to ensure they are secure.
Maintenance and Care
Caring for your sling will help extend its lifespan and ensure it continues to function properly. Regularly inspect the sling for any signs of wear and tear, such as fraying or damage to the stitching. Clean the sling regularly to remove dirt, debris, and moisture. The cleaning method will depend on the sling material.
Conclusion
Choosing a sling for your Benelli Supernova is a crucial decision, which has a direct effect on your firearm’s handling and effectiveness. By understanding the different types of slings, their features, and the mounting options available, you can make an informed choice and find a sling that enhances your experience with your Supernova. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the ideal setup that fits your unique needs and preferences. The investment in a quality sling is an investment in your comfort, readiness, and safety.
