Let’s Talk About Lion Gears Picatinny/Weaver Adaptors for Swivel Stud
The Lion Gears Picatinny/Weaver Adaptors for Swivel Stud promises a simple solution to a common problem: mounting modern accessories on older firearms. Many rifles and shotguns, especially those predating the widespread adoption of Picatinny and Weaver rails, rely on swivel studs for sling attachment. The Lion Gears adapter offers a way to bridge that gap, allowing users to easily attach lights, lasers, bipods, and other accessories to these traditional platforms. This seemingly small piece of hardware has the potential to significantly enhance the versatility and usability of your firearm.
I encountered this product while attempting to modernize my grandfather’s old deer rifle. It’s a beautiful rifle with sentimental value, but limited in its tactical application due to the lack of accessory mounting options. I wanted to add a bipod for increased stability during longer shots, but drilling and tapping the stock for a rail seemed sacrilegious. The Lion Gears Picatinny/Weaver Adaptors for Swivel Stud appeared to be the perfect, non-destructive solution.
Upon receiving the adapter, I was immediately impressed by its solid feel. The Aircraft Aluminum construction gave it a reassuring weight, and the black matte finish seemed durable. It didn’t feel like a cheap, flimsy add-on. The design was simple and functional, promising easy installation.
I considered other options like direct-mount bipods, but they were either too specialized or lacked the flexibility of a Picatinny rail. I also looked at universal barrel mounts, but they often felt bulky and affected the rifle’s balance. The Lion Gears adapter seemed like the most elegant and versatile choice.
My initial impression was definitely positive. It seemed like a well-made, practical solution that could breathe new life into my old rifle. I was excited to get it mounted and see how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lion Gears Picatinny/Weaver Adaptors for Swivel Stud to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Lion Gears Picatinny/Weaver Adaptors for Swivel Stud at my local shooting range. I attached it to the front swivel stud of my grandfather’s rifle and mounted a lightweight bipod. The conditions were dry and sunny, perfect for sighting in the rifle with the added stability. Installation was straightforward; the adapter secured firmly to the stud.
The adapter performed reasonably well, providing a stable platform for the bipod. However, I immediately noticed a slight wobble. Even with the adjustable rail-levelness feature, achieving perfect alignment with the barrel proved challenging. This introduced a minor amount of play that affected the bipod’s overall stability.
I was initially surprised by the amount of adjustment required to level the rail. The 10-degree compensation range was necessary, but I worry about the long-term durability of the leveling mechanism.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Lion Gears Picatinny/Weaver Adaptors for Swivel Stud has held up reasonably well. The Aircraft Aluminum construction is showing no signs of wear or corrosion. However, the initial wobble remains a persistent issue. The adapter hasn’t loosened or shifted, but the slight play in the system continues to be a minor annoyance.
Cleaning is easy; a quick wipe-down with a cloth is all that’s needed. The matte finish hides dirt and grime effectively.
Compared to my experiences with directly mounting accessories on rifles with factory-installed rails, this adapter falls short in terms of stability. While it provides a functional solution, it doesn’t offer the same level of rigidity and precision.
Breaking Down the Features of Lion Gears Picatinny/Weaver Adaptors for Swivel Stud
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Lion Gears. They are known for producing affordable tactical accessories.
- Fabric/Material: Aircraft Aluminum. This provides a good balance of strength and weight.
- Length: 2.79 inches. This is a relatively compact size that doesn’t add excessive bulk.
- Color: Black. This blends in well with most firearm finishes.
- Quantity: 1. It’s a single adapter, designed for mounting on a single swivel stud.
- Weight: 1.2 oz. It’s lightweight and doesn’t significantly alter the rifle’s balance.
- Convert the Sling Swivel Stud to Picatinny/Weaver Rail for Accessories. This is the primary function of the adapter.
- Innovative Design Makes it Much More Stable than Regular Sling Swivel Stud Adaptors. While the design is innovative, I found the “much more stable” claim to be a slight exaggeration.
- Adjustable Rail-Levelness Provides Up to 10Degree Angel Compensation in order to Keep the Rail Surface Parallel to the Barrel as Much as Possible. This is a crucial feature for ensuring accurate accessory mounting, but it can be finicky to adjust.
- Low Profile Picatinny/Weaver Mounting Deck with 3 Slots. The 3 slots offer limited but sufficient space for mounting most accessories.
- With Quick Detachable Sling Swivel Mounting Base. This allows you to retain sling functionality while using the adapter.
- Rail Type Picatinny/Weaver. This means it’s compatible with a wide range of accessories.
- Picatinny Slots 3. This dictates the amount of space available for mounting.
- Finish Black Matte. This provides a non-reflective and durable coating.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the adapter’s functionality and usability. The Aircraft Aluminum construction ensures durability, while the adjustable rail-levelness feature allows for accurate accessory mounting. The low weight and compact size minimize any negative impact on the firearm’s handling.
Performance & Functionality
The Lion Gears Picatinny/Weaver Adaptors for Swivel Stud performs its primary function adequately, providing a platform for mounting accessories. However, the inherent wobble is a significant drawback. The adapter’s usability is good, thanks to its simple installation process. It’s reasonably comfortable and doesn’t interfere with the rifle’s ergonomics.
Its strength lies in its ability to adapt older firearms for modern accessories without permanent modifications. The weakness is the slight instability it introduces.
It partially meets expectations. It solves the mounting problem, but the wobble is a compromise.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent, with durable materials. The weight is minimal, ensuring it doesn’t disrupt the firearm’s balance. The black matte finish is aesthetically pleasing and functional.
It’s user-friendly with a simple design. There’s a slight learning curve in adjusting the rail-levelness.
Durability & Maintenance
The Aircraft Aluminum construction suggests good long-term durability. Only time will tell how well the leveling mechanism holds up.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down is all that’s required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The adapter itself doesn’t come with any accessories. However, it’s designed to be compatible with any accessory that mounts to a Picatinny or Weaver rail, including lights, lasers, bipods, and vertical grips.
It is compatible with accessories from various brands, as long as they adhere to the Picatinny/Weaver rail standards.
Pros and Cons of Lion Gears Picatinny/Weaver Adaptors for Swivel Stud
Pros
- Provides a non-destructive way to mount accessories on firearms with swivel studs.
- Made from durable Aircraft Aluminum.
- Features adjustable rail-levelness to compensate for stock angles.
- Includes a quick-detachable sling swivel mounting base for retaining sling functionality.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Introduces a slight wobble or play, affecting overall stability.
- Only has 3 Picatinny slots, limiting mounting options.
Who Should Buy Lion Gears Picatinny/Weaver Adaptors for Swivel Stud?
Perfect for hunters or recreational shooters who want to add accessories like bipods or lights to older rifles or shotguns without permanently altering the firearm. It’s also suitable for those on a budget who need a simple and functional adapter.
Someone looking for a rock-solid, wobble-free mounting solution should skip this product. Also, those needing to mount multiple accessories simultaneously may find the 3 Picatinny slots too limiting.
A must-have modification would be to add shims or threadlocker to the leveling screws to minimize the play and improve stability.
Conclusion on Lion Gears Picatinny/Weaver Adaptors for Swivel Stud
The Lion Gears Picatinny/Weaver Adaptors for Swivel Stud is a decent, affordable solution for mounting accessories on firearms with swivel studs. Its main strength lies in its non-destructive installation and compatibility with a wide range of Picatinny/Weaver accessories. However, the inherent wobble and limited number of slots are significant drawbacks.
The price is justified for what it offers, a simple and functional adapter.
I would recommend it with reservations. If you understand its limitations and are willing to accept a slight wobble, it can be a useful tool. If you demand absolute stability, you should explore other options.
Ultimately, the Lion Gears Picatinny/Weaver Adaptors for Swivel Stud is a compromise between convenience and performance. If you’re looking for an easy and inexpensive way to modernize an older firearm, it’s worth considering. Just be aware of its limitations before you buy.