The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC Made a Bold First Impression
The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC promises a simple, effective, and blued steel solution for attaching a sling to your firearm. It’s a seemingly straightforward product, but one that’s crucial for comfortable carry and weapon retention in the field. U. Mike’s name wasn’t immediately recognizable, but the QD (Quick Detach) functionality and the promise of a reliable blued finish were enough to pique my interest.
I’d been looking for a robust sling swivel set for a project rifle, a classic Winchester Model 70 I was resurrecting for deer season. The original sling studs were worn, and I wanted the flexibility of quickly removing the sling when using a bipod or shooting from a rest. After researching countless options and reading user reviews, U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC seemed to strike the right balance between affordability and claimed durability.
Unboxing was uneventful, as expected for sling swivels. The blued steel parts had a decent, if not spectacular, finish. The weight felt reassuring; they weren’t flimsy, suggesting a reasonable level of quality. Compared to some cheaper, pot-metal swivels I’ve used in the past, these felt noticeably more substantial.
My alternatives included sling swivel sets from Magpul and GrovTec. I ultimately chose the U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC because of the lower price point, hoping it would offer comparable performance for a lower cost. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; they seemed well-made for the price, but the real test would be in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially installed the U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC on my rebuilt Winchester Model 70 and took it to the range. I spent the day practicing various shooting positions, focusing on transitioning between slung and unsupported firing. The QD mechanism worked smoothly, allowing me to quickly detach the sling when needed.
The swivels handled the weight of the rifle without issue, and the blued finish held up well to initial handling. I tested them in dry conditions. The initial installation was pretty easy.
There was a small issue with one of the QD buttons being slightly stiff, but a little lubrication solved the problem. The feedback about the Mossberg 500 not fitting the tube cap also lingered in the back of my mind.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including a deer hunting trip and multiple range sessions, the U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC have proven to be generally reliable. There is slight wear on the bluing where the swivels contact the sling attachments. The QD mechanism continues to function smoothly after the initial lubrication.
The durability seems adequate for normal hunting and range use. I clean the swivels periodically with a lightly oiled cloth to prevent rust. The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC performs as well as some more expensive swivels I’ve used in the past, but the long-term durability remains to be seen.
Breaking Down the Features of U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC
Specifications
- Type: Sling Swivels. These are designed to attach a sling to a firearm, allowing for hands-free carry and improved shooting stability.
- Model: QD 115 MC. The model number likely denotes specific design features or dimensions of the swivel.
- Finish: Blued. The blued finish provides a degree of corrosion resistance and a traditional look.
- Size: 1″. This is the loop size for the sling webbing.
- Attachment: Quick Detach (QD). The QD mechanism allows for rapid attachment and detachment of the sling.
The 1″ loop size is crucial for compatibility with most standard slings. The QD feature is essential for quickly transitioning between different carry methods and shooting styles.
Performance & Functionality
The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC performs its job adequately. The QD mechanism works reliably (after initial lubrication), and the swivels rotate freely, preventing sling twist. The overall functionality is satisfactory.
The main strength is its affordability combined with functional reliability. The blued finish is decent, but not exceptional, and could be more durable. It meets expectations for basic sling attachment.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price. The blued steel construction feels solid. The swivels are reasonably lightweight.
The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC is generally user-friendly. The QD buttons are easy to depress, and the swivels rotate smoothly. The simple design minimizes the learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC should last for several years of normal use. The blued finish will likely show wear over time, but the steel construction should withstand typical hunting and range conditions. Regular cleaning and lubrication will extend the lifespan.
The swivels are easy to maintain. A quick wipe-down with an oiled cloth is all that’s typically required. Disassembly for deep cleaning isn’t necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC does not come with any accessories. They are designed to be used with existing sling mounting hardware.
The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC is compatible with most slings that use 1″ webbing. It requires QD mounting points on the firearm, which are often standard on modern rifles or can be added with aftermarket adapters.
Pros and Cons of U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
- Functional QD mechanism allows for quick sling attachment and detachment.
- Durable steel construction provides reliable performance in the field.
- 1″ loop size is compatible with most standard slings.
- Simple design makes it easy to use with no learning curve.
Cons
- The blued finish may not be as durable as more advanced coatings.
- Initial stiffness in the QD mechanism may require lubrication.
- Reported fitment issues with some Mossberg 500 models is concerning.
Who Should Buy U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC?
Perfect for: Hunters looking for an affordable and functional sling swivel option, recreational shooters who need a reliable QD sling system, and anyone building or modifying a firearm on a budget.
Who should skip this product? Those seeking a high-end, extremely durable sling swivel set with advanced coatings or specific fitment requirements for certain firearms.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Ensure your firearm has QD mounting points. A quality 1″ sling is necessary to complete the setup.
Conclusion on U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC
The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC is a solid, budget-friendly option for adding a QD sling system to your firearm. Its strength lies in its affordability and functionality.
The price is certainly justified for what you get. It’s a functional and practical product.
I would recommend the U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 MC to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable sling swivel set. Check your firearm’s compatibility, and don’t hesitate to give these a try.