U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 SG-2 Review

First Thoughts on the U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 SG-2

The world of tactical and outdoor gear is filled with specialized components, each playing a vital role in the overall functionality and performance of a setup. Among these, sling swivels often get overlooked, yet they are essential for securely attaching a sling to a firearm, allowing for comfortable carry and improved stability. The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 SG-2 from U. Mike’s promises a reliable and quick-detach solution for sling attachment, with a blued steel construction and a 1-inch loop. For just $15.99, it’s a price point that begs the question: does it deliver on quality and durability, or are we sacrificing crucial reliability for affordability?

As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve dealt with countless sling systems, from simple webbing straps to complex, multi-point configurations. My primary need was finding a durable and easily detachable sling swivel for a hunting rifle I was setting up for an upcoming elk hunt. The existing swivels were flimsy and prone to slipping, creating a safety hazard and making it difficult to quickly shoulder the rifle.

Upon receiving the U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 SG-2, the initial impression was fairly standard. The blued finish appeared even and well-applied, and the steel construction felt solid enough. Compared to some high-end, stainless steel swivels I’ve used in the past (like those from GrovTec or Magpul), these lacked the refined finish and premium feel. However, those options come with a significantly higher price tag. I chose the U. Mike’s swivels for their blend of affordability and the promise of quick-detach functionality, hoping they would provide a reliable alternative without breaking the bank. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; excited to see how they performed under field conditions, but with a healthy dose of skepticism.

Real-World Testing: Putting U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 SG-2 to the Test

First Use Experience

The initial field test took place during a weekend shooting competition at a local range. I mounted the U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 SG-2 on my AR-15, attaching a two-point tactical sling. Right away, the QD (Quick Detach) mechanism proved easy to operate, allowing for swift removal and attachment of the sling. This was particularly useful when transitioning between different shooting positions and during breaks.

The weather was mild and dry, so there were no immediate environmental challenges. However, the repetitive action of shouldering and un-shouldering the rifle throughout the day did put the swivels through a fair amount of stress. The ease of use was definitely a plus. I did notice a slight “grittiness” in the swivel action itself, which I attributed to the blued steel rubbing against each other. Hopefully, this would smooth out over time with continued use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, including multiple range trips and a rigorous hiking expedition, the U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 SG-2 have held up reasonably well. There are some noticeable signs of wear on the blued finish, especially around the QD button and the swivel loop, where it rubs against the sling webbing. However, the steel itself shows no signs of bending or deformation.

Maintenance is straightforward: a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use seems to be sufficient to prevent rust and keep the swivel mechanism functioning smoothly. The initial “grittiness” has indeed lessened with use. Compared to some cheaper, polymer swivels I’ve used in the past, the U. Mike’s offering is significantly more durable and inspires greater confidence. However, they do not quite match the longevity and smooth operation of higher-end, stainless steel models.

Breaking Down the Features of U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 SG-2

Specifications

• Type: Sling Swivels. This clearly defines the intended use of the product, eliminating any ambiguity.
• Loop Size: 1″. This is a critical specification, as it determines the compatibility with different sling webbing widths.
• Color: Blued. The blued finish provides a level of corrosion resistance and a traditional aesthetic.
• Material: Steel. Steel construction offers superior strength and durability compared to polymer alternatives.
• Cap Size: None. This indicates there are no additional caps or covers on the swivels.

The choice of steel as the primary material is crucial for durability, ensuring the swivels can withstand the stresses of regular use and heavy loads. The 1-inch loop size is a standard dimension, making these swivels compatible with a wide range of slings. The blued finish, while providing some corrosion resistance, is primarily for aesthetic purposes and can show wear over time.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 SG-2 is to securely attach a sling to a firearm and allow for quick detachment when needed. In this regard, they perform admirably. The QD mechanism is reliable and easy to operate, even with gloved hands. The swivel action, while not the smoothest on the market, is functional and allows for comfortable carrying.

A key strength is the robust steel construction, which inspires confidence in its ability to withstand heavy use. A potential weakness is the blued finish, which is prone to wear and may require regular maintenance to prevent rust in humid environments. Overall, the swivels meet expectations for their price point, providing a functional and reasonably durable sling attachment solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 SG-2 is simple and functional. The blued steel construction provides a classic aesthetic, while the QD button is easily accessible and intuitively operated. The swivels are relatively lightweight and do not add significant bulk to the firearm.

The build quality is decent for the price. The steel components are well-machined, and the blued finish is evenly applied (although, as mentioned, prone to wear). There’s no significant learning curve; anyone familiar with QD sling swivels will be able to use these immediately.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the steel construction, these swivels are expected to last a reasonable amount of time with proper care. The blued finish is the primary point of concern regarding durability, as it can scratch and wear relatively easily. Regular cleaning and lubrication with a light oil are recommended to prevent rust and maintain smooth operation.

Repairing these swivels is generally not feasible. If a component fails, it’s more cost-effective to replace the entire unit.

Accessories and Customization Options

The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 SG-2 are designed to be compatible with any firearm that accepts standard QD sling swivels. There are no included accessories beyond the swivels themselves.

They are compatible with a wide range of sling types and brands, as long as the sling webbing is 1 inch or less in width. There are no specific customization options beyond choosing different sling types and mounting locations on the firearm.

Pros and Cons of U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 SG-2

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Who Should Buy U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 SG-2?

The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 SG-2 are perfect for:

• Hunters who need a reliable and affordable sling attachment for their rifles or shotguns.
• Recreational shooters who want a quick and easy way to attach a sling to their firearms for improved carrying comfort.
• Airsoft and paintball enthusiasts looking for a durable and functional sling swivel option.
• Budget-conscious individuals who need a functional sling swivel without breaking the bank.

Who should skip this product?

• Individuals who require the absolute highest level of durability and corrosion resistance, and are willing to pay a premium for stainless steel or other high-end materials.
• Those seeking an exceptionally smooth swivel action may find these slightly lacking.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• A high-quality sling with 1-inch webbing for optimal compatibility.
• A gun oil or protectant to maintain the blued finish and prevent rust.

Conclusion on U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 SG-2

The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 SG-2 offer a solid and affordable solution for anyone needing a reliable quick-detach sling attachment. While the blued finish may show wear over time, the steel construction provides the necessary durability for most applications.

The price is definitely justified, offering excellent value for the functionality and build quality. I would personally recommend these swivels to anyone looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on essential performance. If you need a dependable sling attachment without breaking the bank, the U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 SG-2 are definitely worth considering. Upgrade your carry today and experience the convenience of quick-detach sling technology!

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