Let’s Dive into NcSTAR QD Polymer Gun Sling Picatinny Mount
The NcSTAR QD Polymer Gun Sling Picatinny Mount offers a simple and affordable solution for attaching a sling to your firearm. NcSTAR, known for its budget-friendly tactical accessories, aims to provide a functional mount without breaking the bank. The use of polymer keeps the weight down, and the quick-detach (QD) swivel allows for rapid sling removal. I was looking for an inexpensive way to add a two-point sling to my AR-15 without adding significant weight or bulk to the forend.
I had been running a single-point sling attached to the receiver endplate, but I wanted the stability of a two-point setup for longer range sessions. The NcSTAR mount seemed like a good option to try without investing heavily.
Upon opening the package, the first thing I noticed was the lightweight nature of the mount. The polymer felt reasonably sturdy, though certainly not as robust as a metal alternative. The mounting hardware appeared adequate, and the overall design seemed straightforward enough. I’ve used similar QD sling mounts from Magpul and BCM in the past.
This felt noticeably less refined. I chose the NcSTAR mount primarily for its low price point, accepting that I might be sacrificing some durability and longevity. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. It seemed like a functional piece, but I reserved judgment until I could test its performance and durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting NcSTAR QD Polymer Gun Sling Picatinny Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the NcSTAR QD Polymer Gun Sling Picatinny Mount at an outdoor shooting range during a carbine course. The weather was dry and sunny, typical for a Southern California afternoon. I attached the mount to a section of Picatinny rail on my AR-15’s forend, using the provided hardware. The installation was quick and easy.
The mount held securely during drills involving transitioning between targets and moving between shooting positions. Using the QD swivel was simple, allowing me to detach the sling quickly when needed. I noticed a slight amount of flex in the polymer under load, but it didn’t seem to affect the overall stability of the sling. One surprise was that the mount was slightly wider than expected, taking up more rail space than I anticipated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the NcSTAR QD Polymer Gun Sling Picatinny Mount has held up surprisingly well. There are some minor scratches on the polymer from rubbing against other gear, but no significant signs of wear and tear. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, including a dusty desert environment and a light rain shower, without any issues.
Cleaning the mount is as simple as wiping it down with a damp cloth. Compared to my previous experiences with higher-end metal mounts, the NcSTAR offering does feel less durable. However, it has performed its intended function reliably so far. I wouldn’t trust it for heavy-duty use or in extremely harsh environments, but for recreational shooting and occasional tactical drills, it has proven adequate.
Breaking Down the Features of NcSTAR QD Polymer Gun Sling Picatinny Mount
Specifications
The NcSTAR QD Polymer Gun Sling Picatinny Mount is designed to attach to any standard 1913 MIL-STD Picatinny rail. Its main features include a QD sling swivel socket for quick sling attachment and detachment. The mount is constructed from high-quality polymer to keep the weight down.
The color is black, and all necessary mounting hardware is included in the package. The polymer construction contributes to its light weight and helps to mitigate potential corrosion. The dimensions are compact, but as I mentioned earlier, it takes up slightly more rail space than some comparable mounts.
Performance & Functionality
The NcSTAR QD Polymer Gun Sling Picatinny Mount performs its basic function effectively. It provides a secure attachment point for a sling, allowing for comfortable and stable carrying of the firearm. The QD swivel socket is functional and allows for swift sling removal when necessary.
Its primary strength is its affordability. Its weakness lies in its polymer construction, which is less durable than metal alternatives. For light to moderate use, it meets expectations, but it’s not designed for extreme conditions or heavy loads.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional. The polymer construction keeps the weight down, and the rounded edges prevent snagging on clothing or gear. The mount feels comfortable enough, although the polymer does have a slightly cheap feel compared to metal.
There’s virtually no learning curve. Attaching it to the rail and using the QD swivel is intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The long-term durability is a concern with any polymer accessory. While it has held up well during my testing, I suspect a metal mount would last significantly longer. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcSTAR QD Polymer Gun Sling Picatinny Mount doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Because it is designed to work with standard QD sling swivels, any compatible swivel from other brands will work. There are no real customization options for the mount itself, but the user can choose different sling swivels based on their preferences.
Pros and Cons of NcSTAR QD Polymer Gun Sling Picatinny Mount
Pros
- Affordable price point: Significantly cheaper than metal alternatives.
- Lightweight polymer construction: Adds minimal weight to the firearm.
- QD swivel socket: Allows for quick sling attachment and detachment.
- Easy installation: Simple to mount on any standard Picatinny rail.
- Functional design: Performs its intended purpose effectively for light to moderate use.
Cons
- Lower durability: Polymer is less durable than metal.
- Takes up more rail space: Slightly wider than some comparable mounts.
Who Should Buy NcSTAR QD Polymer Gun Sling Picatinny Mount?
The NcSTAR QD Polymer Gun Sling Picatinny Mount is perfect for recreational shooters, casual airsoft players, or anyone looking for an inexpensive way to add a sling to their firearm. It is also suitable for those who prioritize lightweight gear.
This product should be skipped by those who require maximum durability or operate in demanding environments. Law enforcement, military personnel, and serious tactical users should invest in a more robust metal mount. A must-have accessory would be a high-quality QD sling swivel to ensure secure and reliable sling attachment.
Conclusion on NcSTAR QD Polymer Gun Sling Picatinny Mount
The NcSTAR QD Polymer Gun Sling Picatinny Mount provides a functional and affordable solution for sling attachment. While it lacks the ultimate durability of metal alternatives, it performs adequately for light to moderate use.
The low price point is a major selling point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious shooters. I would recommend it to those looking for a simple and lightweight sling mount for recreational purposes. If you need a bomb-proof mount for serious use, look elsewhere, but for the price, this gets the job done. Don’t hesitate to give it a try if you’re on a tight budget and need a QD sling mount.