The Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt Made a Bold First Impression
As someone who’s spent over a decade knee-deep in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve seen countless solutions for storing and transporting firearms. But the Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt immediately caught my eye. It promised a secure, accessible, and versatile way to keep firearms safe, especially in non-traditional vehicles like golf carts or ATVs. This innovative mount system from Rugged Gear, boasting a robust design and a swing arm for easy access, presented a unique approach to firearm security that I was eager to explore.
My journey to this product stemmed from a very specific need. I often use my golf cart to navigate my property for hunting and range maintenance. The constant bouncing and jostling made me uneasy about simply laying my rifle across the seat. I needed a secure mounting solution that wouldn’t damage my firearm or pose a safety risk.
Unboxing the Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt, I was immediately impressed by the solid construction. The steel components felt hefty and durable, promising a long service life. The U-bolt looked ready to clamp onto a variety of surfaces. The swing arm moved smoothly, suggesting a well-engineered mechanism.
I considered a few other options before settling on the Rugged Gear mount. There were simpler, cheaper rubber clamp systems, but they lacked the security and adjustability I needed. I also looked at some more elaborate, permanent mounting solutions, but they were overkill for my needs and would require drilling into my golf cart’s frame – something I wanted to avoid. The Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt struck the perfect balance between security, convenience, and ease of installation.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The design looked promising, but the real test would be how it performed in the field. Would it truly hold my firearms securely? Would the swing arm remain stable during bumpy rides? Only time and testing would tell, but I was definitely excited to give it a try.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt to the Test
First Use Experience
The primary testing ground for the Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt was, as mentioned, my trusty golf cart. I installed the mount in the floorboard, utilizing the U-bolt to secure it to the cart’s frame. Installation was straightforward and took about 15 minutes. I then secured my hunting rifle within the mount and set off for a day of property maintenance.
The mount performed admirably. Even over rough terrain and unexpected potholes, my rifle remained securely in place. The swing arm allowed me to quickly and easily access my rifle when needed, a significant improvement over having it unsecured in the seat. The mount also proved its worth during a brief rain shower. The powder-coated finish protected the steel components from corrosion.
The only minor issue I encountered was that I needed to tighten the U-bolt after the initial ride. The vibrations had caused it to loosen slightly. A quick adjustment with a wrench solved the problem, and it hasn’t recurred since.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt continues to impress. It has become an indispensable part of my golf cart setup. The mount shows no signs of wear and tear despite the daily exposure to sun, dirt, and occasional rain.
The durability of the steel construction is evident. The powder-coated finish remains intact, preventing rust and corrosion. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean.
Compared to my previous experiences with makeshift firearm storage solutions, the Rugged Gear mount is a revelation. It offers a level of security and convenience that simply can’t be matched by bungee cords or leaning a rifle against the seat. It has exceeded my expectations and provided peace of mind knowing my firearms are safely and securely transported.
Breaking Down the Features of Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt
Specifications
The Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt, Part Number 15502, is designed for securing firearms in vehicles like golf carts, ATVs, and UTVs.
- Construction: Primarily constructed from steel, providing robust durability.
- Finish: Features a powder-coated finish for resistance to rust and corrosion.
- Mounting: Uses a U-bolt system for secure attachment to various surfaces.
- Swing Arm: Allows for easy access to the firearm.
- Compatibility: Designed to accommodate a wide range of firearms.
- Price: Retails for $79.99.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the mount’s performance and reliability. The steel construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of off-road use. The powder-coated finish protects it from the elements, and the swing arm provides convenient access to the firearm when needed.
Performance & Functionality
The Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt excels at its primary job: securing firearms. Its U-bolt system provides a strong and stable attachment point. The swing arm mechanism operates smoothly. It allows for quick and easy access to the firearm while keeping it safely out of the way during transport.
The mount’s strengths lie in its simplicity and durability. It’s easy to install, easy to use, and built to last. The only area for potential improvement might be the addition of a locking mechanism for added security.
Overall, the Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt meets and even exceeds expectations. It provides a secure and convenient solution for transporting firearms in non-traditional vehicles.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rugged Gear mount boasts a simple yet effective design. The steel construction feels solid and well-built. The swing arm moves smoothly and effortlessly. The mount is relatively lightweight, adding minimal bulk to the vehicle.
The design is user-friendly. There’s virtually no learning curve. Installation is straightforward. Securing and accessing the firearm is simple and intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction and powder-coated finish suggest the Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt will last for many years. Even with regular use and exposure to the elements, it shows no signs of weakness or deterioration.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean and functioning properly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt doesn’t come with a wide array of accessories. The focus is on providing a solid and reliable mounting solution. The U-bolt system allows for compatibility with various vehicle frames and surfaces.
The mount itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options. However, users can adjust the position and angle of the mount to suit their individual needs. Some users might choose to add padding or cushioning to the mount to further protect their firearms.
Pros and Cons of Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt
Pros
- Durable steel construction: Built to withstand the rigors of off-road use.
- Secure U-bolt mounting: Provides a stable and reliable attachment point.
- Convenient swing arm: Allows for easy access to the firearm.
- Easy installation: Can be installed quickly and easily with basic tools.
- Affordable price: Offers excellent value for the money.
Cons
- No locking mechanism: Lacks a locking mechanism for added security (can be addressed with after market solutions).
- U-bolt may require occasional tightening: Vibrations can cause the U-bolt to loosen slightly (easily rectified).
Who Should Buy Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt?
The Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt is perfect for hunters, ranchers, and outdoor enthusiasts. These people often use golf carts, ATVs, and UTVs to navigate their property. It provides a secure and convenient way to transport firearms safely.
Anyone who needs a reliable mounting solution for their firearms in a non-traditional vehicle will benefit from this product.
Those who prioritize ultimate security and require a locking mechanism might consider alternatives or adapt a locking solution. Likewise, if you intend to use a soft case for your firearm, this may not be the correct item.
A must-have accessory for this mount is a set of tools for tightening the U-bolt. Additionally, some users might want to add padding or cushioning to protect their firearms.
Conclusion on Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt
The Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt is a well-designed and affordable solution. It meets the need for securely transporting firearms in non-traditional vehicles. Its durable construction, secure mounting system, and convenient swing arm make it an excellent choice for hunters, ranchers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
At a price of $79.99, the Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt offers excellent value. It provides a level of security and convenience that simply can’t be matched by cheaper alternatives.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt to anyone. If you need a reliable mounting solution for your firearms in a golf cart, ATV, or UTV, you cannot go wrong. Invest in your peace of mind today and secure your firearms with the Rugged Gear Swing Arm Floor Mount w/UBolt!