Since this thread is about swivels, I hope it is not OT to ask about using shotgun slings in the field. I once saw a photo of hunters (in Germany, I think) carrying slinged shotguns in an unusual way. Rather than the military "barrel up behind the shoulder" they had the buttstock behind the left shoulder with the barrel down. This seemed awkward and dangerous to me. However, I later acquired an older Sauer double with sling swivels and tried that carry. The barrels point enough ahead of your feet that there is no danger there. This carry is completely inappropriate in heavy cover or if dogs are present, IMO. That said, with your left hand on the forearm of the slinged shotgun, it is possible to "swing up" into shooting position with surprising speed. I've tried this informally with my "step on" clay thrower and find it is possible to get the shotgun up, safety off, and dust singles starting from slinged position on release. I'm not fast enough for doubles, though. With a little practice, this carry should be comfortable for open cover. I have not tried this while hunting, since I usually hunt with dogs and often seek pheasants in waist deep cover. Does anyone use this method of shotgun sling carry? - Bill
