SINGLE POINT TACTICAL SLING AND HANDS FREE CARRYING DEVICE

Abstract

Disclosed methods, systems, and apparatus provide multiple-position slings and hands-free carrying devices for equipment, hand guns, shoulder weapons, military-style tactical firearms, etc. Systems include adjustably attaching into a garment, a single-point sling with a slider strap and slider for repositioning a detachable lanyard, e.g. to attach a shoulder weapon. Methods for using systems for a single-point sling for a long gun, include holstering the gun supported by a loop of the lanyard detachably attached to the slider in a front-holstering position, e.g. at a user's secondary side under the arm. Embodiments include drawing the long gun forward, the loop of the lanyard supporting the long gun proximate a stock, grip or single-point receiver plate mount of the long gun, and shouldering the gun with the stock against a shoulder, the slider positioned at a shooting position of the slider strap of the single-point sling system.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 14/569,684, filed Dec. 13, 2014, currently pending; which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/916,057, which was filed Dec. 13, 2013, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure generally relates to slings and hands free carrying devices. In particular, the disclosure relates to methods, systems, and apparatus for providing multiple position slings and hands free carrying devices for equipment, hand guns, long guns, shoulder weapons and military style tactical firearms or other devices.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

When one wants to carry and/or shoulder a weapon, in particular a long gun, a sling may be used to support the weapon in a position or positions that do not require both hands to hold the weapon. Typically a rifle sling will provide for carrying the weapon in front of a user or in back of the user. But a weapon positioned in front of the user may inhibit the user's mobility, and clothing articles such as coats or jackets may interfere with, or may be cause for additional concern with regard to the weapon's alternative carrying positions, e.g. in back of the user.

To date, more options for carrying and/or shouldering a weapon, in particular a long gun have not been fully explored.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1A illustrates one embodiment of a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling.

FIG. 1B illustrates rear view alternative embodiments of a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling.

FIG. 2 illustrates another embodiment of a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling.

FIG. 3A illustrates a front view of another embodiment of a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling.

FIG. 3B illustrates a rear view of another embodiment of a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling.

FIG. 3C illustrates an alternative front view of another embodiment of a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling.

FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of a system for a single point sling to facilitate concealed carry of a shoulder weapon or long gun.

FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of shouldering a weapon using a system for a single point sling to facilitate concealed carry of a shoulder weapon or long gun.

FIG. 6A illustrates a rear view of an alternative embodiment of a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling.

FIG. 6B illustrates a front view of an alternative embodiment of a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling.

FIG. 7A illustrates one embodiment of drawing a weapon using a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling.

FIG. 7B illustrates one embodiment of shouldering a weapon using a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling.

FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a detachable lanyard for use with a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling.

FIG. 9A illustrates one embodiment of holstering a weapon using a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling.

FIG. 9B illustrates one embodiment of drawing a weapon using a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling.

FIG. 9C illustrates one embodiment of shouldering a weapon using a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling.

FIG. 10A illustrates one embodiment of a process using a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling.

FIG. 10B illustrates an alternative embodiment of a process using a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling.

FIG. 11 illustrates one embodiment of a process for adjustably attaching a system for a shoulder weapon single point sling into a garment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description discloses methods, systems, and apparatus provide multiple-position slings and hands-free carrying devices for equipment, hand guns, long guns, shoulder weapons and military style tactical firearms or other devices. Embodiments of disclosed systems include adjustably attaching into a garment, a single-point sling with a slider strap and slider for repositioning a detachable lanyard, e.g. to attach a shoulder weapon. Methods for using embodiments of disclosed single-point sling systems for a long gun, include holstering the gun supported by a loop of the lanyard detachably attached to the slider in a front-holstering position, e.g. at secondary side of the user under the arm. Embodiments include drawing the long gun forward, the loop of the lanyard supporting the long gun proximate a stock, grip or single-point receiver plate mount of the long gun, and shouldering the gun with the stock against a shoulder of the user, the slider positioned at a shooting position of the slider strap of the single-point sling system.

Embodiments of the systems and apparatus herein disclosed for a long gun single point sling may be used to facilitate concealed carry of a shoulder weapon or long gun under a coat or jacket of a user. Embodiments of systems and apparatus herein disclosed may provide for holstering of a long gun in a hands-free carrying position on the back behind the wearer's shoulder. Some embodiments of the systems and apparatus for a long gun single point sling may support cross-draw capabilities of the user. Some embodiments of the systems and apparatus herein disclosed may also serve as functional suspenders to support the weight of a duty belt. Some embodiments of systems and apparatus herein disclosed for a long gun single point sling may be sewn into or otherwise integrated into a coat, vest or jacket and therefore, may also provide for holstering of the shoulder weapon or long gun at a hands-free carrying position on the back of the coat, vest or jacket behind the wearer's shoulder. It will also be appreciated that through embodiments of systems and apparatus herein disclosed for a long gun single point sling, a uniform process for using some variety of shoulder weapons and/or long guns may be established.

In the following description, numerous specific details such as multiple-position slings and hands-free carrying devices, detachable lanyards having swivels of flexible materials coupled to a keeper, quick release attachment mechanism, and the like are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of embodiments of the present invention. It will be appreciated, however, by one skilled in the art that the invention may be practiced without such specific details. Additionally, some well known structures, and the like have not been shown in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 1A illustrates one embodiment of a system 101 for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling. The system 101 comprises an elongate extendible first strap portion 110 having an extendible first end and a first end attachment mechanism (e.g. clip 180) coupled with said extendible first end for detachably attaching first strap portion 110 proximate a front belt loop on a support side of a wearer. Embodiments of the system 101 may also comprise an elongate central strap portion 115 interconnected with said first strap portion 110. A slider strap 120 is attached to the first strap portion 110 (e.g. via central strap portion 115) at a first point proximate the wearer's shoulder and at a second point proximate the wearer's chest. In some embodiments central strap portion 115 may comprise a plastic covered nylon such as BIOTHANE coated webbing as a non-slip backing (BioThane® is a registered trademark of BioThane Coated Webbing). A slider 130 is functionally coupled to slider strap 120 for detachably attaching (e.g. via buckle 160) to a lanyard 150 and for repositioning lanyard 150 on the slider strap 120 between said first point and said second point.

Embodiments of a detachable lanyard 150 may also comprise a length of flexible material in the form of a loop to attach the detachable lanyard to a shoulder weapon or long gun 190 proximate a stock of the shoulder weapon or long gun 190. A swivel 140 is coupled with the length of flexible material, wherein said length of flexible material in some embodiments is being deployed through a flexible tubing conduit (e.g. as shown below in FIG. 8, 845). A keeper 170 is coupled to the swivel 140. A quick release attachment mechanism (e.g. buckle 160) is coupled with keeper 170 for detachably attaching the detachable lanyard 150 to slider 130 of a sling.

FIG. 1B illustrates rear view alternative embodiments of a system 102 for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling. Embodiments of the system 102 may also further comprise an elongate extendible rear second strap portion 125 having a fixed end and an extendible second end, a first length portion extending from said fixed end to said extendible second end and a second end attachment mechanism 185 coupled with the extendible second end for detachably attaching second strap portion 125 proximate a back belt loop on a strong side of the wearer.

Embodiments of the systems 101 and/or 102 may also comprise an elongate central strap portion 115 (or shoulder strap portion) interconnected with rear second strap portion 125 and front first strap portion 110 between rear second strap portion 125 and front first strap portion 110, to be positioned proximate the wearer's chest and shoulder. Slider strap 120 is attached to the second strap portion 125 (e.g. via central strap portion 115) at the wearer's chest and shoulder. Slider 130 is functionally coupled to slider strap 120 for detachably attaching (e.g. via buckle 160) to a lanyard 150 and for repositioning lanyard 150 on the slider strap 120 between the wearer's chest and shoulder. In some embodiments the systems 102, the central strap portion 115 (or shoulder strap portion) may also be one of the shoulder straps of a back crossing pair of shoulder straps of a hands-free carrying apparatus.

It will be appreciated that embodiments of the systems 101 and/or 102 may provide for holstering of a long gun in a hands-free carrying position on the back behind the wearer's shoulder. It will also be appreciated that some embodiments of the systems 101 and/or 102 may also serve as functional suspenders to support the weight of a duty belt.

FIG. 2 illustrates another embodiment of a system 201 for a shoulder weapon or long gun 290 single point sling. In some embodiments the system 201 may be combined with or integrated into system 101 and/or system 102. Embodiments of the system 201 may also further comprise a second slider strap 220 attached to an other one of the shoulder straps at a third point proximate the wearer's shoulder and at a fourth point proximate the wearer's chest on an opposite side of the wearer. A second slider 230 is functionally coupled to second slider strap 220 for detachably attaching (e.g. via buckle 260 coupled to keeper 270) to a second holder (e.g. lanyard 850 as described below with regard to FIG. 8) for repositioning the second holder on the second slider strap 220 between said third point proximate the wearer's shoulder and said fourth point proximate the wearer's chest on an opposite side of the wearer.

FIG. 3A illustrates a front view of another embodiment of a system 301 for a shoulder weapon or long gun 390 single point sling. The system 301 comprises an elongate extendible first strap portion 110 having an extendible first end and a first end attachment mechanism (e.g. clip 180) coupled with said extendible first end for detachably attaching first strap portion 110 proximate a front belt loop on a support side of a wearer. Embodiments of the system 301 may also comprise an elongate central strap portion 115 (or shoulder strap portion) interconnected with said first strap portion 110. In some embodiments of the system 301, the central strap portion 115 (or shoulder strap portion) may also be one of the shoulder straps of a rear torso crossing shoulder strap portion (e.g. as shown in FIG. 3B) of a system for a single point sling or hands-free carrying apparatus. A second end attachment mechanism (e.g. clip 185) is coupled with an extendible second end for detachably attaching the shoulder strap portion proximate a belt loop on a strong side of the wearer.

A slider strap 120 is attached to the first strap portion 110 (e.g. via central strap portion 115) at a first point proximate the wearer's shoulder and at a second point proximate the wearer's chest. A slider 130 is functionally coupled to slider strap 120 for detachably attaching (e.g. via buckle 160) to a lanyard (e.g. lanyard 150) and for repositioning the lanyard on the slider strap 120 between said first point proximate the wearer's shoulder and said second point proximate the wearer's chest.

FIG. 3B illustrates a rear view of another embodiment of a system 301 for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling. A rear torso crossing shoulder strap portion comprises as one of the shoulder straps the central strap portion 115. Embodiments of the system 301 may also further comprise an elongate extendible rear second strap portion 125 having a fixed end, an extendible second end and second end attachment mechanism (e.g. clip 185) for detachably attaching said shoulder strap portion proximate a belt loop on a strong side of the wearer (e.g. as seen in FIG. 3A).

FIG. 3C illustrates an alternative front view of another embodiment of a system 303 for a shoulder weapon or long gun 390 single point sling apparatus. The system 303 comprises a back crossing pair of shoulder straps (not shown in this view) with a first slider strap 320 attached to one of the shoulder straps at a first point proximate a wearer's shoulder and at a second point proximate the wearer's chest. A slider 330 is coupled to the first slider strap 320 and a quick release attachment mechanism (e.g. buckle 360) coupled with keeper 170 for detachably attaching a holder and for repositioning said holder on the slider strap 320 between said first and said second points. A second slider strap (e.g. slider strap 220) is attached to an other one of the shoulder straps at a third point proximate the wearer's shoulder and at a fourth point proximate the wearer's chest on an opposite side of the wearer. A second slider (e.g. slider 230) is functionally coupled to the second slider strap for detachably attaching (e.g. via a buckle 260) to a second holder (e.g. a detachable lanyard 850 as described below with regard to FIG. 8) and for repositioning said second holder on the second slider strap between said third point and said fourth point. In some embodiments a holder for detachably attaching to the slider (e.g. slider 230) may have a loop to attach the holder to a shoulder weapon (e.g. long gun 290) proximate a stock of the shoulder weapon. In some embodiments a holder for detachably attaching to the slider (e.g. slider 230) may have an attachment mechanism to attach the holder to a hand gun 395. In some embodiments a holder for detachably attaching to the slider (e.g. slider 230) may have a loop to attach the holder to a camera or to a tool proximate a grip of the tool.

FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of a system 401 for a single point sling to facilitate concealed carry of a shoulder weapon or long gun 490. The system 401 comprises an elongate extendible first strap portion 410 having an extendible first end and a first end attachment mechanism (e.g. clip 480) coupled with said extendible first end for detachably attaching first strap portion 410 proximate a front belt loop on a support side of a wearer. Embodiments of the system 401 may also comprise a slider strap 420 attached to the first strap portion 410 at a first point proximate the wearer's shoulder and at a second point proximate the wearer's chest. A slider 430 is functionally coupled to slider strap 420 for detachably attaching (e.g. via buckle 460) to a lanyard 450 and for repositioning lanyard 450 on the slider strap 420 between said first point and said second point.

Embodiments of a detachable lanyard 450 may also comprise a length of flexible material in the form of a loop to attach the detachable lanyard to a shoulder weapon or long gun 490 proximate a stock of the shoulder weapon or long gun 490. A swivel 440 is coupled with the length of flexible material, wherein said length of flexible material in some embodiments is being deployed through a flexible tubing conduit (e.g. as described below with regard to FIG. 8, 845). A keeper 470 is coupled to the swivel 440. A quick release attachment mechanism (e.g. buckle 460) is coupled with keeper 470 for detachably attaching the detachable lanyard 450 to slider 430 of a single point sling. Some embodiments of a detachable lanyard 450 may be detachably attached to the slider 430 in a front holstering position to support the shoulder weapon or long gun 490 at the wearer's secondary side under the wearer's arm. Alternatively embodiments of detachable lanyard 450 may be detachably attached to the slider 430 in a back holstering position to support the shoulder weapon proximate the wearer's back.

FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of shouldering a weapon using a system 501 for a single point sling to facilitate concealed carry of a shoulder weapon or long gun 590. Embodiments of the system 501 comprises an elongate extendible first strap portion 510 having a first end attachment mechanism (e.g. clip 580) for detachably attaching first strap portion 510 proximate a front belt loop on a secondary side of a user. Embodiments of the system 501 may also comprise a slider strap 520 attached to the first strap portion 510 at a first point proximate the wearer's shoulder and at a second point proximate the wearer's chest. A slider 530 is functionally coupled to slider strap 520 for detachably attaching (e.g. via buckle 560) to a lanyard 550 and for repositioning lanyard 550 on the slider strap 520 between said first point and said second point. Detachable lanyard 550 may comprise a length of flexible material in the form of a loop to attach the detachable lanyard to a shoulder weapon or long gun 590 proximate a stock of the shoulder weapon or long gun 590. A swivel 540 is coupled with the length of flexible material and a keeper 570 is coupled to the swivel 540. A quick release attachment mechanism (e.g. buckle 560) is coupled with keeper 570 for detachably attaching the detachable lanyard 550 to slider 530 of a single point sling.

In one embodiment a system 501 for a long gun 590 single point sling may be used by first holstering the long gun 590 supported by a loop of lanyard 550 detachably attached (e.g. via buckle 560) to slider 530 in a front holstering position at a secondary side of a user under the user's arm, then drawing the long gun 590 forward, the loop of the lanyard 550 supporting the long gun 590 proximate a stock, a grip or a single point receiver plate mount of the long gun, and shouldering the long gun 590 with the stock against a shoulder of the user, the slider 530 positioned at a shooting position of a slider strap 520 of the single point sling system 501. In some embodiments of system 501 for a long gun single point sling shouldering of the long gun 590 is with the stock against the shoulder at the primary side of the user. In alternative embodiments shouldering of the long gun 590 may be with the stock against the shoulder at the secondary side of the user.

Thus, it will be appreciated that embodiments of the system 501 for a long gun single point sling can support cross-draw capabilities of the user. It will also be appreciated that embodiments of the system 501 may be used to facilitate concealed carry of a shoulder weapon or long gun 590 under a coat or jacket of the user, and that through use of a custom designed collar or lapel, or through being sewn into or integrated into the coat or jacket, may also provide for holstering of the shoulder weapon or long gun 590 in a hands-free carrying position on the back behind the wearer's shoulder.

FIG. 6A illustrates a rear view of an alternative embodiment of a system 601 for a shoulder weapon or long gun 690 single point sling. Embodiments of the system 601 may comprise an elongate extendible rear strap portion 625 having a fixed end and an extendible second end, a first length portion extending from said fixed end to said extendible second end and a second end attachment mechanism coupled with the extendible second end for detachably attaching rear strap portion 625 proximate a back strong side of the wearer. Slider strap 620 is attached to the rear strap portion 625 (e.g. via a central strap portion 115) at the wearer's shoulder.

FIG. 6B illustrates a front view of an alternative embodiment of a system 601 for a shoulder weapon or long gun 690 single point sling. In embodiments of the system 601 slider strap 620 may be attached both at a first point proximate the wearer's shoulder and at a second point proximate the wearer's chest. A slider 630 is functionally coupled to slider strap 620 for detachably attaching (e.g. via buckle 660) to a lanyard (e.g. lanyard 850 as described below with regard to FIG. 8) and for repositioning the lanyard on the slider strap 620 between said first point and said second point. A detachable lanyard may comprise a length of flexible material in the form of a loop to attach the detachable lanyard to a shoulder weapon or long gun 690 proximate a stock of the shoulder weapon or long gun 690. A swivel coupled with the length of flexible material and a keeper 670 is coupled to a quick release attachment mechanism (e.g. buckle 660) for detachably attaching the detachable lanyard to slider 630 of a single point sling.

It will be appreciated that embodiments of the system 601 may be sewn into or otherwise integrated into a vest or jacket and therefore, may also provide for holstering of the shoulder weapon or long gun 690 at a hands-free carrying position of slider strap 620 on the back behind the wearer's shoulder.

FIG. 7A illustrates one embodiment of drawing a weapon using a system 701 for a shoulder weapon or long gun 790 single point sling. Embodiments of the system 701 comprises an elongate extendible first strap portion having a slider strap 720 attached to the first strap portion at a first point proximate the wearer's shoulder and at a second point proximate the wearer's chest. A slider 730 is functionally coupled to slider strap 720 for detachably attaching (e.g. Vita buckle 760) to a lanyard and for repositioning the lanyard on the slider strap 720 between said first point and said second point. A detachable lanyard (e.g. lanyard 850 as described below with regard to FIG. 8) may comprise a length of flexible material in the form of a loop to attach the detachable lanyard to a shoulder weapon or long gun 790 proximate a stock of the shoulder weapon or long gun 790. In some embodiments a loop of the detachable lanyard as shown may comprise a polyarylate superfiber such as VECTRAN (Vectran® is a registered trademark of Kuraray America Inc.). A swivel coupled with the length of flexible material and a keeper 770 is coupled to a quick release attachment mechanism (e.g. buckle 760) for detachably attaching the detachable lanyard to slider 730 of a single point sling.

In one embodiment a system 701 for a long gun 790 single point sling may be used by first holstering the long gun 790 supported by a loop of the lanyard detachably attached (e.g. Vita buckle 760) to slider 730 in a front holstering position at a secondary side of a user under the user's arm, and then drawing the long gun 790 forward, the loop of the lanyard supporting the long gun 790 proximate a stock, a grip or a single point receiver plate mount of the long gun.

FIG. 7B illustrates one embodiment of shouldering a weapon using a system 701 for a shoulder weapon or long gun 790 single point sling. Shouldering the long gun 790 is performed with the stock against a shoulder of the user, the slider 730 positioned at a shooting position of a slider strap 720 of the single point sling system 701. In some embodiments of system 701 for a long gun single point sling, shouldering of the long gun 790 is with the stock against the shoulder at the primary side of the user. In alternative embodiments, shouldering of the long gun 790 may be with the stock against the shoulder at the secondary side of the user. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that embodiments of the system 701 for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling can support cross-draw capabilities of the user.

FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a detachable lanyard 850 for use with a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling. Embodiments of a detachable lanyard 850 may also comprise a length of flexible material in the form of a loop to attach the detachable lanyard to a shoulder weapon or long gun (e.g. long gun 790) proximate a stock of the shoulder weapon or long gun. In some embodiments a loop of the detachable lanyard 850 may comprise, for example, a polypropylene covered nylon cord or cable. A swivel 840 is coupled with the length of flexible material by a second flexible material, wherein said length of flexible material in some embodiments is being deployed through a flexible tubing conduit 845. In some embodiments swivel 840 comprises a plastic rectangular loop, and the second flexible material may comprise, for example, a stretch elastic webbing, a stretch lycra webbing, a stretch polyester webbing, a stretch canvas webbing, polypropylene webbing or nylon webbing. In some embodiments flexible tubing conduit 845 may comprise, for example, a heat-shrink flexible tubing. A keeper 870 is coupled to the swivel 840. A quick release attachment mechanism (e.g. male or female buckle 860) is coupled with keeper 870 for detachably attaching the detachable lanyard 850 to a slider (e.g. slider 730) of a single point sling apparatus.

In some embodiments detachable lanyard 850 may comprise a length of flexible material, wherein said flexible material is a plastic covered nylon such as BIOTHANE coated webbing (BioThane® is a registered trademark of BioThane Coated Webbing). In some embodiments a loop of the detachable lanyard 850 may comprise a polyarylate superfiber such as VECTRAN (Vectran® is a registered trademark of Kuraray America Inc.).

FIG. 9A illustrates one embodiment of holstering 901 a weapon using a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun 990 single point sling. Embodiments of the system comprise an elongate extendible first strap portion having a slider strap 920 attached to the first strap portion at a first point proximate the wearer's shoulder and at a second point proximate the wearer's chest. A slider 930 is functionally coupled to slider strap 920 for detachably attaching to a lanyard and for repositioning the lanyard on the slider strap 920 between said first point and said second point. Some embodiments of detachable lanyard 950 may comprise a length of flexible material in the form of a loop to attach the detachable lanyard to a shoulder weapon or long gun 990 proximate a stock of the shoulder weapon or long gun 990. In one embodiment a system for a long gun 990 single point sling may be used by first holstering 901 the long gun 990 supported by a loop of the lanyard 950 detachably attached to slider 930 in a front holstering position at a secondary side of a user under the user's arm. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments of a system for a long gun single point sling, holstering 901 of the long gun 990 is in a front holstering position at the secondary side of the user, wherein holstering of a hand gun (e.g. hand gun 395 shown in FIG. 9C) may be at the primary side of the user.

FIG. 9B illustrates one embodiment of drawing 902 a weapon using a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun 990 single point sling. Embodiments of the system comprise a swivel coupled with the length of flexible material and a keeper 970 is coupled to a quick release attachment mechanism (e.g. buckle 960) for detachably attaching the detachable lanyard to slider 930 on slider strap 920 of the single point sling apparatus. In one embodiment the system for a long gun 990 single point sling may further be used by next drawing 902 the long gun 990 forward, the loop of the lanyard 950 supporting the long gun 990 proximate a stock, a grip or a single point receiver plate mount of the long gun.

FIG. 9C illustrates one embodiment of shouldering 903 a weapon using a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun 990 single point sling. In one embodiment the system for a long gun 990 single point sling may further be used by next shouldering 903 the long gun 990 with the stock against a shoulder of the user, the slider 930 positioned at a shooting position of slider strap 920 of the single point sling apparatus. In some embodiments of a system for a long gun single point sling, shouldering 903 of the long gun 990 is with the stock against the shoulder at the primary side of the user. In alternative embodiments, shouldering of the long gun 990 may be with the stock against the shoulder at the secondary side of the user. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that embodiments of the system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling herein disclosed can support cross-draw capabilities of the user.

In some embodiments detachable lanyard 950 may comprise a length of flexible material, wherein said flexible material is a plastic covered nylon such as BIOTHANE coated webbing (BioThane® is a registered trademark of BioThane Coated Webbing). It will also be appreciated that a uniform process for using some variety of shoulder weapons and/or long guns may be established through embodiments of the single point sling systems herein disclosed.

FIG. 10A illustrates one embodiment of a process 1001 using a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling. In one embodiment a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling may be used, in step 1010, by holstering (e.g. as shown in FIG. 9A, 901) the long gun (e.g. long gun 790 or 990) supported by a loop of a lanyard detachably attached to a slider (e.g. slider 730 or 930) in a front holstering position at a secondary side of a user under the user's arm. Next in step 1020, drawing (e.g. as shown in FIG. 7A or FIG. 9B, 902) the long gun forward may be performed, with the loop of the lanyard supporting the long gun proximate a stock (or a grip or a single point receiver plate mount) of the long gun. Next in step 1030, shouldering (e.g. as shown in FIG. 7B or FIG. 9C, 903) the long gun may be performed, with the stock against a shoulder of the user, the slider positioned at a shooting position of a slider strap (e.g. slider strap 720 or 920) of the single point sling. In some embodiments of step 1030, shouldering of the long gun is with the stock against the shoulder at the primary side of the user. Finally in step 1040, holstering the long gun (e.g. long gun 790 or 990) may be performed, supported by the lanyard with the slider positioned at a back holstering position proximate the user's shoulder. It will be appreciated that while additional holstering equipment is not shown in embodiments of single point sling systems herein disclosed, and may not be necessary for the use of single point sling systems herein disclosed, inclusion of such additional holstering equipment is anticipated and the invention is not to be limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described herein.

FIG. 10B illustrates an alternative embodiment of a process using a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling. In one embodiment a system for a shoulder weapon or long gun single point sling may be used, in step 1010, by holstering (e.g. as shown in FIG. 9A, 901) the long gun supported by a loop of a lanyard detachably attached to a slider in a front holstering position at a secondary side of a user under the user's arm. Next in step 1020, drawing (e.g. as shown in FIG. 7A or FIG. 9B, 902) the long gun forward may be performed, with the loop of the lanyard supporting the long gun proximate a stock (or a grip or a single point receiver plate mount) of the long gun. Next in step 1035, shouldering the long gun may be performed, with the stock against a shoulder of the user, the slider positioned at a shooting position of a slider strap of the single point sling. In embodiments of step 1035 shouldering of the long gun may be with the stock against the secondary side shoulder of the user. Finally in step 1040, holstering the long gun may be performed, supported by the lanyard with the slider positioned at a back holstering position proximate the user's shoulder.

FIG. 11 illustrates one embodiment of a process 1101 for adjustably attaching a system for a shoulder weapon single point sling into a garment. At step 1110 a first detachable end fastening mechanism, coupled with a first strap of a first flexible material, is attached to a first component of a garment. At step 1120 a second detachable end fastening mechanism, coupled with a second strap of a second flexible material, is attached to a second component of the garment. Then at step 1130 a central strap portion interconnected with said first or second straps to the other of said first or second straps, is adjusted to be positioned proximate the wearer's chest and shoulder, the central strap portion having: a slider strap attached to the central strap portion at a first point proximate the wearer's shoulder and at a second point proximate the wearer's chest, and a slider coupled to the slider strap for detachably attaching to a lanyard.

It will also be appreciated that embodiments of the process 1101 for adjustably attaching a system for a shoulder weapon single point sling into a garment may be used to facilitate concealed carry of a shoulder weapon or long gun under a coat or jacket of the wearer. It will also be appreciated that some embodiments of the process 1101 for adjustably attaching a system for a shoulder weapon single point sling into a garment may also serve to provide functional suspenders to support the weight of a duty belt.

Methods, systems, and apparatus have been disclosed to provide multiple-position slings and hands-free carrying devices for equipment, hand guns, long guns, shoulder weapons and military style tactical firearms or other devices. For example, embodiments of systems and apparatus herein disclosed may provide for holstering of a long gun in a hands-free carrying position on the back behind the wearer's shoulder. Some embodiments of the systems and apparatus for a long gun single point sling herein disclosed may support the cross-draw capabilities of a user. Some embodiments of the systems and apparatus herein disclosed may also serve as functional suspenders to support the weight of a duty belt. Some embodiments of systems and apparatus herein disclosed for a long gun single point sling may be sewn into or otherwise integrated into a coat, vest or jacket and therefore, may also provide for holstering of the shoulder weapon or long gun at a hands-free carrying position on the back of the coat, vest or jacket behind the wearer's shoulder. It will also be appreciated that through embodiments of systems and apparatus herein disclosed for a long gun single point sling, uniform processes for using some variety of shoulder weapons and/or long guns may be established and taught with applicability to some variety of shoulder weapons and/or long guns.

While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad invention, and that this invention not be limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other modifications may occur to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon studying this disclosure. Thus, the disclosed embodiments may be readily modifiable in arrangement and detail without departing from the principles of the present disclosure or the scope of the accompanying claims.

Claims

1. A single point sling and hands free carrying system comprising:

an elongate extendible rear strap portion, said rear strap portion having a fixed first end and an extendible second end, a first length portion extending from said fixed first end to said extendible second end;

a second end attachment mechanism coupled with said extendible second end for detachably attaching said rear strap portion to a belt or garment of a wearer proximate and nearest to one or more of the wearer's posterior hips;

an elongate extendible first front strap portion, said first front strap portion having a fixed third end and an extendible fourth end, a second length portion extending from said fixed third end to said extendible fourth end;

a fourth end attachment mechanism coupled with said extendible fourth end for detachably attaching said first front strap portion to said belt or garment of the wearer proximate and nearest to a first of the wearer's anterior hips;

an elongate first central strap portion having a third length portion interconnected with said rear strap portion and said front strap portion between said rear strap portion and said first front strap portion, to be positioned proximate a first side of the wearer's chest and a first shoulder;

a first slider strap attached to the first central strap portion at a first point proximate and nearest to said wearer's first shoulder and at a second point proximate and nearest to said first side of the wearer's chest; and

a slider coupled to the first slider strap for detachably attaching to a holder and for repositioning said holder on the first slider strap during use between said first point and said second point.

2. The single point sling and hands free carrying system of claim 1, comprising:

an elongate extendible second front strap portion, said second front strap portion having a fixed fifth end and an extendible sixth end, a fourth length portion extending from said fixed fifth end to said extendible sixth end;

a sixth end attachment mechanism coupled with said extendible sixth end for detachably attaching said second front strap portion to said belt or garment of the wearer proximate and nearest to a second of the wearer's anterior hips;

an elongate second central strap portion having a fifth length portion interconnected with said rear strap portion and said second front strap portion between said rear strap portion and said second front strap portion, to be positioned proximate a second side of the wearer's chest and a second shoulder;

a second slider strap attached to the second central strap portion at a third point proximate and nearest to the wearer's second shoulder and at a fourth point proximate and nearest to said second side of the wearer's chest; and

a second slider coupled to the second slider strap for detachably attaching to a second holder and for repositioning said holder on the second slider strap during use between said third point and said fourth point.

3. The single point sling and hands free carrying system of claim 2, comprising:

a rear torso crossing coupled to the first central strap portion to interconnect it with said rear strap portion between said rear strap portion and said third length portion operatively coupled with said first front strap portion for detachably attaching said first central strap portion proximate a belt loop on a support side of the wearer; and

said rear torso crossing coupled to the second central strap portion to interconnect it with said rear strap portion between said rear strap portion and said fifth length portion operatively coupled with said second front strap portion for detachably attaching said second central strap portion proximate a belt loop on a strong side of the wearer.

4. The single point sling and hands free carrying system of claim 2, wherein said second holder is a detachable lanyard comprising:

a first length of a first flexible material in the form of a loop for attaching the detachable lanyard to hold an object;

a swivel coupled with the first length of the first flexible material, said first length of the first flexible material being deployed through a flexible tubing conduit;

a keeper to couple to the swivel; and

a quick release attachment mechanism coupled with said keeper for detachably attaching the detachable lanyard to a slider of a sling.

5. The single point sling and hands free carrying system of claim 4, wherein said first length of a first flexible material in the form of a loop is to attach the detachable lanyard to a hand gun.

6. The single point sling and hands free carrying system of claim 4, wherein said first length of a first flexible material in the form of a loop is to attach the detachable lanyard to a camera.

7. The single point sling and hands free carrying system of claim 4, wherein said first length of a first flexible material in the form of a loop is to attach the detachable lanyard to a tool proximate a grip of the tool.

8. The single point sling and hands free carrying system of claim 1, wherein said holder is a detachable lanyard comprising:

a first length of a first flexible material in the form of a loop to attach the detachable lanyard to a shoulder weapon proximate a stock of the shoulder weapon;

a swivel coupled with the first length of the first flexible material, said first length of the first flexible material being deployed through a flexible tubing conduit;

a keeper to couple to the swivel; and

a quick release attachment mechanism coupled with said keeper for detachably attaching the detachable lanyard to a slider of a sling.

9. The hands free carrying apparatus of claim 8, wherein said first flexible material comprises a polyarylate superfiber.

10. The hands free carrying apparatus of claim 8, wherein said first flexible material comprises a polypropylene covered nylon cord or cable.

11. The hands free carrying apparatus of claim 8, wherein said flexible tubing conduit comprises a heat-shrink flexible tubing.

12. The hands free carrying apparatus of claim 8 comprising:

a plastic covered nylon such as BIOTHANE coated webbing.

13. A method for using a system for a long gun single point sling, comprising:

holstering a long gun supported by a loop of a lanyard detachably attached to a slider in a front holstering position at a secondary side of a user under the user's arm;

drawing the long gun forward, the loop of the lanyard supporting the long gun proximate a stock, a grip or a single point receiver plate mount of the long gun;

shouldering the long gun with the stock against a shoulder of the user, the slider positioned at a shooting position of a slider strap of the single point sling system.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein said lanyard comprises:

a first length of a first flexible material in the form of a loop to attach to the long gun proximate a stock of the long gun;

a swivel coupled with the first length of the first flexible material, said first length of the first flexible material being deployed through a flexible tubing conduit;

a keeper to couple to the swivel; and

a quick release attachment mechanism coupled with said keeper for detachably attaching to the slider of said long gun single point sling.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein said shouldering of the long gun is with the stock against the shoulder at the primary side of the user.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein said shouldering of the long gun is with the stock against the shoulder at the secondary side of the user.

17. The method of claim 13, comprising:

holstering the long gun at a back side of the user, the slider positioned on the slider strap proximate the user's shoulder on the secondary side of the user.

18. A method for using a detachable lanyard in a single point sling system, the method comprising:

coupling a keeper and a swivel with a first length of a first flexible material to form a portion of a detachable lanyard, said first length of the first flexible material being deployed through a flexible tubing conduit;

attaching the detachable lanyard with said first length of the first flexible material in the form of a loop to a shoulder weapon proximate a stock, a grip or a single point receiver plate mount of the shoulder weapon;

attaching the detachable lanyard to a slider of a single point sling system with a quick release attachment mechanism coupled to said keeper; and

holstering the shoulder weapon supported by the loop of first flexible material of the detachable lanyard attached to the slider in a front holstering position at a secondary side of a user under the user's arm.

19. The method of claim 18, comprising:

drawing the shoulder weapon forward, the loop of first flexible material of the detachable lanyard supporting the shoulder weapon proximate the stock, grip or single point receiver plate mount of the shoulder weapon; and

shouldering the stock of the shoulder weapon against a shoulder at the primary side of the user, with the slider positioned at a shooting position of a slider strap of the single point sling system.

20. The method of claim 18, comprising:

drawing the shoulder weapon forward, the loop of first flexible material of the detachable lanyard supporting the shoulder weapon proximate the stock, grip or single point receiver plate mount of the shoulder weapon; and

shouldering the stock of the shoulder weapon against a shoulder at the secondary side of the user, with the slider positioned at a shooting position of a slider strap of the single point sling system.