Let’s Dive into Choate Tool Sling Swivel Base Clamp Remington or Winchester 1 Inch CMT-55-08-01
The Choate Tool Sling Swivel Base Clamp Remington or Winchester 1 Inch CMT-55-08-01 is a simple, yet vital, accessory for any shotgun owner looking to add sling capability without permanent modification. Manufactured by Choate Tool, this clamp-on sling swivel base offers a no-gunsmithing solution for attaching a sling to your Remington or Winchester 12-gauge shotgun. The ease of installation and affordability make it an attractive option, but does it hold up under real-world use?
I’ve always been a proponent of slings on long guns, whether for hunting, tactical applications, or simply carrying the firearm comfortably in the field. I needed a way to reliably mount a sling to my old Remington 870 without drilling and tapping the receiver or magazine tube, a procedure I was hesitant to perform on a sentimental firearm. After researching various options, the Choate Tool Sling Swivel Base Clamp seemed like the perfect balance of cost, convenience, and functionality.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was that the clamp was robustly built, particularly for its price. The 14-gauge steel felt solid, and the included sling swivel appeared adequately sturdy. Compared to some nylon strap-on sling mounts, the Choate Tool clamp seemed significantly more durable and secure.
My first impression was positive, pleasantly surprised by the quality and functionality offered for under $11. It’s a far cry from the precision machined parts I sometimes work with, but for its intended purpose, it felt fit for duty.
Real-World Testing: Putting Choate Tool Sling Swivel Base Clamp Remington or Winchester 1 Inch CMT-55-08-01 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Choate Tool Sling Swivel Base Clamp at my local shooting range, where I put about 100 rounds through my Remington 870. I was particularly interested in seeing if the clamp would shift or loosen under recoil. The installation was incredibly straightforward, requiring only a screwdriver and a few minutes of my time.
The performance was adequate in dry conditions, and the sling felt secure while moving between shooting stations. There were no immediate signs of slippage or movement of the clamp on the magazine tube after the initial volley of fire.
However, I did notice that the sling swivel itself would occasionally rattle slightly during rapid firing, a minor annoyance but something to consider.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a dove hunting trip in humid conditions and a few muddy upland bird hunts, the Choate Tool Sling Swivel Base Clamp has held up remarkably well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear. The steel clamp shows no evidence of rust, and the sling swivel continues to function smoothly.
I have made it a habit to check the clamp screws periodically, and I’ve found that they do loosen slightly after extended use. A little thread locker could probably fix the problem permanently.
Compared to my previous experience with adhesive-backed sling mounts (which failed miserably), the Choate Tool clamp has proven to be a much more reliable and durable solution. While a professionally installed, drilled, and tapped swivel mount would undoubtedly be more secure, the Choate Tool clamp provides a commendable balance of convenience and functionality for the price.
Breaking Down the Features of Choate Tool Sling Swivel Base Clamp Remington or Winchester 1 Inch CMT-55-08-01
Specifications
- The Choate Tool Sling Swivel Base Clamp is made from solid 14-gauge steel, offering good strength and durability. This is important because it needs to withstand recoil and field use.
- It’s designed to clamp onto the barrel and magazine extension, providing a stable platform for sling attachment. This two-point contact enhances stability compared to single-point attachments.
- The clamp includes a 1-inch sling swivel, allowing for compatibility with most standard slings. The swivel allows for free movement of the sling.
- The package includes a wood screw swivel for the butt stock. This helps to facilitate a full sling setup.
- It is specifically designed for 12-gauge shotguns. Compatibility is therefore limited to the correct gauge.
Performance & Functionality
The Choate Tool Sling Swivel Base Clamp performs its intended function effectively, providing a secure and convenient way to attach a sling to your shotgun. The clamp holds firmly to the barrel and magazine extension, preventing slippage under normal use.
The main strength is its ease of installation and removal without any permanent modifications to the firearm. A potential weakness is the need for periodic tightening of the clamp screws to ensure continued stability. Overall, it meets expectations for a low-cost, no-gunsmithing sling mounting solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The clamp is designed with simplicity and functionality in mind. The 14-gauge steel construction provides a solid feel, and the clamp’s profile is relatively low, minimizing interference with the shotgun’s handling. While not the most aesthetically pleasing accessory, it blends in adequately with the overall look of a utilitarian shotgun.
There is no learning curve to installation, and the clamp’s simple design makes it user-friendly even for novice gun owners. The fit is nice and snug.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction should provide years of reliable service with proper care. As previously mentioned, periodic tightening of the clamp screws is necessary.
Cleaning the clamp is straightforward; simply wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth to prevent rust. Given the low cost, replacement is a viable option if the clamp eventually wears out.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Choate Tool Sling Swivel Base Clamp package includes the clamp with a pre-installed 1-inch sling swivel and a wood screw swivel for attaching a sling to the buttstock. There are no further customization options directly related to the clamp itself.
It’s compatible with any standard 1-inch sling. Owners can choose slings of different materials, widths, and attachment styles to suit their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Choate Tool Sling Swivel Base Clamp Remington or Winchester 1 Inch CMT-55-08-01
Pros
- Easy installation with no gunsmithing required.
- Affordable price makes it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Provides a secure sling attachment point for enhanced firearm handling and carry.
- Allows for easy removal and re-installation if needed.
Cons
- Requires periodic tightening of clamp screws to prevent slippage.
- May rattle slightly during rapid firing.
Who Should Buy Choate Tool Sling Swivel Base Clamp Remington or Winchester 1 Inch CMT-55-08-01?
This product is perfect for shotgun owners who want to add a sling without permanently altering their firearm. This is a must-have for hunters needing to carry their shotgun through the field. It’s also a great option for tactical shooters who want a simple and reliable sling attachment method.
Those who prioritize absolute security and are willing to invest in professional gunsmithing services should skip this product. Individuals who require exceptionally low-noise operation (e.g., for stealth hunting) may also want to consider alternative sling mounting solutions.
A must-have accessory is a quality sling compatible with 1-inch swivels. Some users may also want to apply thread locker to the clamp screws to prevent loosening.
Conclusion on Choate Tool Sling Swivel Base Clamp Remington or Winchester 1 Inch CMT-55-08-01
The Choate Tool Sling Swivel Base Clamp Remington or Winchester 1 Inch CMT-55-08-01 offers an excellent value proposition for shotgun owners seeking a simple, affordable, and non-permanent sling mounting solution. While it may not be the most refined or robust option available, it delivers reliable performance and ease of use at a very reasonable price point.
The price is absolutely justified given its functionality and durability. For under $11, it represents a significant upgrade over makeshift sling attachment methods.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone looking for a budget-friendly way to add a sling to their Remington or Winchester 12-gauge shotgun. If you need a sling, this simple, effective tool is a good place to start.
