A sling bag is the everyday carry answer for people who have outgrown their pockets and do not want a backpack: one strap, worn across the chest or back, swung to the front when you need something. The good ones hold a multitool, a flashlight, a phone, keys, a wallet and a notebook without looking like luggage. This guide covers the four we sell, two for everyday gear and two built to carry a pistol, and how to pick between them.
For everyday gear
Kodiak Leather Cedar Sling
18-ounce waxed canvas with top-grain water buffalo leather trim and brass hardware, a main compartment for daily gear, two exterior pockets and one interior pocket, and an adjustable shoulder strap. It ages the way waxed canvas does, which is well. $149.
Steel Horse Leather Soren Sling
Full-grain leather, 9.8 by 7.1 by 2.8 inches and 1.5 pounds, compact enough to wear all day and structured enough to hold a tablet mini, a multitool and a light. Develops a patina. $149.
For a pistol
Elite Survival Systems Microguard Mini Crossbody
8 by 6 by 1.5 inches and 6 ounces, with a concealed carry compartment holding an adjustable ambidextrous holster and elastic magazine loops, YKK zippers and metal hardware. Sized for a compact or micro pistol and made to be worn to the front. $43.46.
Elite Survival Systems Avenger Concealment Gun Pack
1000-denier nylon, 6.5 by 9 by 4 inches, a main compartment that is the holster, an accessory compartment with magazine loops, and a shoulder strap, handle, and belt option. Fits most handguns. $67.95.
Choosing
| Bag | Material | Size | Gun | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Sling | Waxed canvas, leather | Medium | No dedicated compartment | $149 |
| Soren Sling | Full-grain leather | Small | No dedicated compartment | $149 |
| Microguard Mini | Nylon, metal hardware | Small | Compact / micro | $43.46 |
| Avenger Gun Pack | 1000D nylon | Small | Most handguns | $67.95 |
Carrying a multitool on a sling
A sheath with a MOLLE clip mounts to any webbing on the strap or bag, which puts a Leatherman on the outside of the sling where you can reach it without opening anything.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a sling bag and a crossbody?
Mostly size and how it is worn. A sling is worn tight across the back or chest and swung around; a crossbody hangs at the hip.
Can I carry a gun in the Cedar or Soren sling?
They have no dedicated compartment or holster. For a pistol use the Microguard or Avenger.
Which is best for everyday carry gear?
The Cedar Sling for more gear, the Soren for less and a leather look.
Is a sling bag good for concealed carry?
Worn to the front and kept on, yes. It is slower than a holster and needs practice.
Left-handed?
The Microguard and Avenger holsters are ambidextrous.
The bottom line
The Cedar Sling for gear, the Microguard Mini for a pistol. Both wear to the front and stay on.
Related reading
Best tactical sling bags for a pistol
Best concealed carry backpacks
EDC organizer ideas
