The NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black Made a Bold First Impression
I’ve spent years helping folks rig their firearms for optimal performance and comfort. Sling swivels are a fundamental piece of that puzzle, often overlooked, but absolutely critical for carrying and maneuvering a rifle or shotgun in the field. The NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black promises a secure and reliable sling attachment point, and at $3.99, it’s hard to ignore. These swivels from NcStar aim to provide a lockable mechanism for added security at a budget-friendly price.
My old hunting shotgun had a set of worn-out swivels that kept slipping. I needed a quick, inexpensive solution to ensure my sling stayed put during long treks through the woods. While other options like Magpul’s QD swivels are known for their bombproof construction, the price point can be prohibitive for some applications. I chose the NcStar swivels hoping to get a functional upgrade without breaking the bank.
Unboxing the NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black, I was initially surprised by the solid feel of the metal construction. The black finish appeared even and durable enough for basic use. I was a bit skeptical about the “lockable” mechanism, but it seemed fairly straightforward.
Compared to a higher-end swivel like the GrovTec Heavy Duty Push Button Swivel, these NcStar swivels lack the refined finish and smooth operation. However, the GrovTecs are significantly more expensive. The NcStar offering seemed a reasonable gamble given the price point versus the basic uncle mikes style swivels.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. For $3.99, these swivels seemed like they could potentially do the job. The real test would be how they perform under actual field conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black on my Mossberg 500 during a weekend pheasant hunt. The terrain was varied, with everything from open fields to dense thickets. The conditions were dry and cool.
Installation was easy, requiring only a few minutes to attach the swivels to the existing sling studs. The locking mechanism felt a little stiff at first, but it functioned as advertised. No time needed to get used to the simplicity, once installed they were very intuitive.
The first surprise was the amount of noise the swivels made when moving through the brush. The metal-on-metal contact created a noticeable rattling sound, which could spook game. Fortunately, this was solved using basic electrical tape to dampen the noise.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black has held up surprisingly well, considering the price. There are a few minor scratches on the finish, but no signs of significant wear or damage. They continue to look and perform very well given the price.
Durability seems adequate for light to moderate use. I wouldn’t trust them for heavy-duty applications or extreme conditions. I clean them with a dry cloth after each use and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.
Compared to my previous, worn-out swivels, the NcStar swivels are a significant improvement. They provide a much more secure and reliable sling attachment, but they don’t quite match the performance or peace of mind of higher-end options. So far, they have exceeded my expectations, especially for the cost.
Breaking Down the Features of NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black
Specifications
The NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black is designed to fit standard sling studs found on most hunting rifles and shotguns. They accommodate slings up to 1″ in width. The swivels are constructed from metal and finished in black.
- Color: Black: A common color choice for firearms accessories, allowing them to blend in seamlessly with most rifles and shotguns.
- Material: Metal Construction: Provides decent durability for basic use, although the specific type of metal isn’t specified.
- Dimensions: 1.25 x 1.60 x 0.30 ounces: Compact and lightweight, minimizing any added bulk to the firearm.
- Weight: 0.8 ounces: Extremely lightweight, ensuring they don’t significantly impact the overall weight of the weapon.
- Origin: China: This indicates a lower cost of production, which is reflected in the product’s affordable price point.
These specifications are important because they dictate the compatibility, durability, and overall usability of the swivels. Their compatibility with standard sling studs means easy installation for most users. The light weight is also nice, it adds no noticeable bulk.
Performance & Functionality
The NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black performs its primary function adequately: securely attaching a sling to a firearm. The locking mechanism adds an extra layer of security, preventing accidental sling detachment. However, the mechanism is not as smooth or refined as higher-end options.
The swivels are easy to install and operate, even with gloves. The locking mechanism requires unscrewing the knurled thumb nut, pushing in and rotating the side arm 90 degrees. It’s a simple but effective design.
The biggest weakness is the noise they generate. The metal-on-metal contact can be quite loud, especially when moving through brush. This can be mitigated with some simple modifications like adding electrical tape.
Design & Ergonomics
The NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black features a simple, functional design. The all-metal construction provides a decent level of durability. The black finish is aesthetically pleasing and helps prevent corrosion.
The swivels are lightweight and don’t add unnecessary bulk to the firearm. The knurled thumb nut is easy to grip and operate, even with gloves. There’s no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black are reasonably durable for the price. I expect them to last for several seasons of moderate use. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help extend their lifespan.
The swivels are easy to maintain. A quick wipe-down with a dry cloth after each use is usually sufficient. Applying a light coat of oil can prevent rust and corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black doesn’t come with any accessories. There are no customization options available. They are designed to be a simple, standalone solution for attaching a sling to a firearm.
They are compatible with any standard 1″ sling. Most aftermarket slings should work without issue.
Pros and Cons of NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black
Pros
- Extremely affordable: At $3.99, these swivels are a steal.
- Lockable design: Provides added security against accidental sling detachment.
- Easy to install: Attaches quickly and easily to standard sling studs.
- Durable metal construction: Offers adequate durability for light to moderate use.
- Lightweight: Adds minimal weight to the firearm.
Cons
- Rattling noise: The metal-on-metal contact can generate a noticeable rattling sound.
- Locking mechanism: The locking mechanism is not as smooth or refined as higher-end options.
Who Should Buy NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black?
The NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black is perfect for budget-conscious hunters, recreational shooters, or anyone needing a simple, functional sling attachment solution. It’s a great option for those who don’t want to spend a lot of money on high-end swivels, or need a quick replacement for worn-out hardware. A lot of first time firearm owners on a budget would get the most out of these swivels.
Someone who demands top-tier performance and durability should skip this product. Those seeking quiet operation or a more refined locking mechanism may also want to consider other options. No one running tactical gear should be looking at this product.
Electrical tape to dampen the rattling noise is a must-have accessory. Also, light oil for corrosion prevention.
Conclusion on NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black
Overall, the NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black offers excellent value for the money. While they’re not the most refined or durable swivels on the market, they perform their primary function adequately and provide a decent level of security.
The price is definitely justified, especially for budget-conscious buyers. They punch way above their weight class.
I would personally recommend these swivels to anyone looking for an affordable and functional sling attachment solution. Just be aware of their limitations and take steps to mitigate the noise issue. If you need new swivels without breaking the bank, give the NcStar 1″ Lockable Sling Swivel (Pair)/Black a shot.