How to Use a Marching Snare Drum Sling

A marching snare drum sling has a few parts and if they are set up correctly, will provide for a comfortable and effective way to play the snare drum while marching. Most slings are about 2 inches wide and 25 to 45 inches long. They can be made of leather, fabric, or nylon. Each has adjustable buckles for length and clasps to fit onto the drum.

Things You'll Need

• Snare drum with hook attachments
• Snare drum sling

Instructions

1. Attach the snare drum sling to the drum. This is done by hooking the two clasps of the sling to the clasp attachments of the drum. The clasps should hook under the lip of the attachments with a snap. If this is not done the sling could become loose and send the drum swinging in the breeze.

2. Adjust the sling for comfort and use. The buckles allow you to shorten or lengthen the straps of the sling. The sling can be adjusted not only for length but also for position. Some snare drum marching slings have two straps some have one. It all comes down to which works best for you.

3. Make sure the clasps are on the hooks firmly. The top of the sling should have a collar pad. This will make the task of using the drum in a march more comfortable. Place the collar pad at the back of your neck.

4. See if you have the drum at the correct level. Ideally the drum should be at a point where you can easily play the drum without strain and carry it while marching with little effort. The drum should not move too much as you march.

5. Practice playing and marching. If needed make small adjustments to the buckles to vary the length of the sling.