First Thoughts on the Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel
The Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel is a seemingly simple piece of gear, but in the world of tactical equipment, it’s these small components that often make the biggest difference in functionality and overall experience. Troy Industries has a solid reputation, and I was eager to see if this sling swivel lived up to the hype. I’ve been through my fair share of questionable sling attachments, so I approach each new one with a healthy dose of skepticism coupled with a desire for reliable performance.
My old sling swivel on my go-to AR had finally given up the ghost, the push button release sticking more often than not. I needed a replacement that was both durable and offered smooth, reliable operation, especially under stress. The Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel promised both with its blackened stainless steel construction, and industry standard sizing.
Out of the package, the swivel felt solid and well-made. The black finish was even and appeared durable, and the push-button mechanism had a satisfying, positive click. The stainless steel construction gave it a reassuring weight, suggesting it could withstand some serious abuse.
I considered several other options, including offerings from Magpul and Blue Force Gear. However, I chose the Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel due to its all-steel construction and the reputation of Troy Industries for producing high-quality, no-nonsense tactical gear. I was hoping for a straightforward, reliable solution, and my initial impression was positive. It felt like a product built to last.
Real-World Testing: Putting Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel was during a carbine course at a local shooting range. This course involved a lot of movement, transitioning between shooting positions, and rapid sling adjustments, all of which put significant stress on the sling attachment points. The weather was surprisingly wet that day, adding another element to the test.
The Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel performed flawlessly. The push-button release was easy to operate, even with wet and gloved hands. The swivel rotated smoothly, allowing for quick and efficient sling adjustments without any binding or sticking.
I didn’t need any time to get used to it; the industry-standard size and straightforward design made it intuitive to use right away. There were no unexpected issues; it simply worked as advertised, providing a secure and reliable sling attachment point.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including multiple range trips and a weekend-long tactical training exercise, the Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of wear and tear on the black finish, and the push-button mechanism still operates smoothly and reliably. I’ve used it in dusty environments and even dropped my rifle a couple of times (accidentally, of course), and the swivel hasn’t shown any signs of weakness.
Cleaning and maintaining the swivel is simple. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth is all it takes to keep it in good working order. Compared to my previous experiences with less robust sling swivels, the Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel has far exceeded my expectations. It’s a testament to the quality of materials and construction.
Breaking Down the Features of Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel
Specifications
The Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel boasts a straightforward yet effective design built around a few key specifications. The loop size is a standard 1 inch, making it compatible with a wide variety of slings. Its blackened stainless steel construction offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability.
The stainless steel material is crucial, as it ensures the swivel can withstand harsh environments and repeated use without failing. The 1-inch loop size is an industry standard, ensuring compatibility with most slings, so I’m not stuck buying some proprietary attachment. The black finish provides a low-profile look and adds another layer of protection against the elements.
Performance & Functionality
The Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel excels at its primary function: providing a secure and reliable sling attachment point. The push-button release mechanism is smooth and positive, allowing for quick and easy sling detachment. The swivel rotates freely, preventing sling twist and allowing for comfortable carry in various positions.
Its strengths lie in its simplicity, durability, and reliability. A potential area for improvement would be offering the swivel in different loop sizes to accommodate narrower slings, but that’s a minor quibble. It definitely meets my expectations, offering a significant upgrade over cheaper, less reliable sling swivels.
Design & Ergonomics
The Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel features a no-frills, functional design. The blackened stainless steel gives it a durable and professional look. The swivel is lightweight and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the rifle.
The design is very user-friendly. The push-button is easily accessible and requires minimal pressure to operate. There is no real learning curve involved. It simply works.
Durability & Maintenance
Thanks to its stainless steel construction, the Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel is built to last. I expect it to provide years of reliable service with minimal maintenance. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a cloth is all that’s needed.
The stainless steel is resistant to corrosion, and the black finish appears to be quite durable. There are no small parts that are likely to break or wear out, making it a very low-maintenance item.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel itself doesn’t require any accessories. It’s designed to be a direct replacement for existing sling swivels. It is compatible with any sling that uses a 1-inch loop attachment.
It works perfectly with my Magpul MS1 sling and my Vickers Combat Applications Sling. Because it’s an industry-standard size, compatibility with other brands isn’t an issue.
Pros and Cons of Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel
Pros
- Extremely durable stainless steel construction: Ensures long-lasting performance in harsh conditions.
- Smooth and reliable push-button release: Allows for quick and easy sling detachment.
- Industry-standard 1-inch loop size: Compatible with a wide variety of slings.
- Corrosion-resistant black finish: Provides a low-profile look and protects against the elements.
- Simple and user-friendly design: Easy to install and operate.
Cons
- Limited loop size options: Only available in 1-inch.
- Some might prefer lighter materials: Stainless steel adds some weight.
Who Should Buy Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel?
The Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel is perfect for anyone who needs a reliable and durable sling attachment for their rifle or other firearm. This includes tactical shooters, law enforcement officers, hunters, and recreational shooters. It is especially well-suited for those who operate in harsh environments or who demand the highest level of reliability from their gear.
Someone looking for the absolute lightest possible option might want to consider alternatives made from aluminum, but they will sacrifice some durability. There aren’t really any must-have accessories; it’s ready to go right out of the package.
Conclusion on Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel
The Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel is a simple yet highly effective piece of gear that delivers on its promises. The build quality is excellent, the operation is smooth and reliable, and the durability is top-notch. At $14.99, the price is more than justified given the quality and performance.
I would absolutely recommend the Troy Black S.S. Q.D. Swivel to anyone looking for a dependable sling attachment. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference in the functionality and comfort of your firearm. Upgrade your setup today!