The U. Mike’s MAG CAP/SWIVEL SET 870 12G Made a Bold First Impression
There’s a certain satisfaction in upgrading a dependable workhorse like the Remington 870. I was looking for a simple, reliable way to attach a sling to my 870 without requiring any major gunsmithing or permanent modifications when I came across the U. Mike’s MAG CAP/SWIVEL SET 870 12G. My old sling setup was cumbersome and involved a makeshift paracord attachment, so this seemed like a great solution.
The U. Mike’s MAG CAP/SWIVEL SET 870 12G arrived in a simple clamshell package, nothing fancy, which aligns with its budget-friendly price point. Initially, I was pleased with the solid feel of the metal components, giving me confidence in their durability. It felt significantly more robust than some other aftermarket sling attachment options I’ve seen, some of which rely on plastic parts that quickly wear down.
I’ve looked at similar products like the GG&G Remington 870 Sling and Flashlight Mount Combo, which offers a more tactical approach, and the Magpul Forward Sling Mount, which requires a different installation location. Ultimately, I chose the U. Mike’s MAG CAP/SWIVEL SET 870 12G for its simplicity, ease of installation, and the fact that it utilizes existing attachment points on the shotgun. I was cautiously optimistic – eager to see if it would live up to its promise of a simple, secure sling attachment.
Real-World Testing: Putting U. Mike’s MAG CAP/SWIVEL SET 870 12G to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the U. Mike’s MAG CAP/SWIVEL SET 870 12G during a weekend of clay shooting and some casual field walking on my family farm. The conditions were fairly mild, with only a slight drizzle on Saturday afternoon. The initial installation was straightforward, as others have noted, but pre-drilling a pilot hole in the stock screw location is crucial for a clean and secure fit.
The sling attachment points felt secure and allowed for a comfortable carry while walking between shooting stations. I appreciated the freedom of movement it afforded, keeping my hands free when not actively shooting. There were no immediately noticeable issues, and the sling stayed firmly in place throughout the day.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a dove hunting trip and a few more range sessions, the U. Mike’s MAG CAP/SWIVEL SET 870 12G has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the swivels or the magazine cap. The blued finish has resisted rust, even after exposure to moisture during some rainy outings.
Maintenance is minimal; I simply wipe down the components with a lightly oiled cloth after each use. Compared to my previous setup with paracord, the U. Mike’s MAG CAP/SWIVEL SET 870 12G is a significant improvement in both comfort and reliability. It has exceeded my expectations for a product in this price range, offering a dependable and secure sling attachment solution.
Breaking Down the Features of U. Mike’s MAG CAP/SWIVEL SET 870 12G
Specifications
- Sling Swivels: These are QD (Quick Detach) swivels, which allow for rapid attachment and detachment of the sling. The 1″ width accommodates most standard slings.
- REM 870 Compatibility: Specifically designed for the Remington 870 12 gauge shotgun, ensuring a proper fit.
- Blued Finish: The blued finish provides a protective coating and a classic aesthetic. This helps to resist rust and corrosion.
- External Ratchet Cap Set: This utilizes an external ratchet system for secure magazine cap retention. This is a crucial component for ensuring the magazine cap stays firmly in place.
- Easy Installation: Installation is designed to be straightforward, requiring only basic tools. The user reviews confirm that this product allows for easy installation.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and durability of the sling attachment system. The QD swivels provide versatility, the 870 compatibility ensures proper fitment, and the blued finish offers corrosion resistance. A secure magazine cap is essential for firearm safety and reliable operation.
Performance & Functionality
The U. Mike’s MAG CAP/SWIVEL SET 870 12G performs its job admirably, providing a secure and reliable sling attachment point. The QD swivels function smoothly, allowing for quick sling adjustments or removal. The magazine cap stays firmly in place, even under heavy recoil.
The main strength is its simplicity and ease of installation, while a minor weakness could be the lack of a more robust recoil buffer for the magazine cap. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly sling attachment solution, providing a noticeable upgrade over makeshift or unreliable alternatives.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for the price, with metal components that feel solid and well-made. The weight is minimal, adding negligible bulk to the shotgun. It has a straightforward design and is easy to install, with no complex mechanisms or confusing instructions.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the U. Mike’s MAG CAP/SWIVEL SET 870 12G should last for years. The blued finish helps to prevent rust, and the simple design minimizes potential failure points. Maintenance involves only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the swivels.
Accessories and Customization Options
The set includes the magazine cap with a swivel stud and the stock swivel. There aren’t many customization options directly related to the product itself, but it is compatible with any 1″ sling. It’s designed to integrate seamlessly with the Remington 870 platform without requiring any permanent modifications.
Pros and Cons of U. Mike’s MAG CAP/SWIVEL SET 870 12G
Pros
- Simple and easy to install.
- QD (Quick Detach) swivels offer versatility.
- Durable metal construction.
- Affordable price.
- Provides a secure sling attachment point.
Cons
- Requires pre-drilling a pilot hole in the stock.
- Blued finish can be susceptible to scratching if not properly cared for.
Who Should Buy U. Mike’s MAG CAP/SWIVEL SET 870 12G?
The U. Mike’s MAG CAP/SWIVEL SET 870 12G is perfect for Remington 870 owners looking for an affordable and reliable way to attach a sling. It’s ideal for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who wants to improve the handling and carrying of their shotgun. It’s especially useful for those who prefer a traditional blued finish.
This product might not be the best choice for those who require extremely heavy-duty or tactical sling attachment options, or for those unwilling to drill a small pilot hole in their stock. A quality sling is a must-have accessory to fully utilize this product.
Conclusion on U. Mike’s MAG CAP/SWIVEL SET 870 12G
The U. Mike’s MAG CAP/SWIVEL SET 870 12G is an excellent value for the money. It provides a simple, effective, and affordable solution for attaching a sling to your Remington 870 12 gauge shotgun. At a price of $14.49, it’s hard to argue with the value proposition.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone looking for a budget-friendly and reliable sling attachment solution. Upgrade your 870 today and experience the improved handling and carrying comfort that a quality sling provides.
