U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 RUG Review

The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 RUG Made a Bold First Impression

Sling swivels. Such a small, seemingly insignificant part can make or break the usability of a rifle, shotgun, or even a crossbow. The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 RUG enters the arena as a budget-friendly option promising quick detach functionality and rugged reliability. With a history of relying on more expensive swivel sets, I was keen to see if these could deliver without breaking the bank – or breaking in the field.

I’d been searching for a cost-effective solution to outfit several of my older hunting rifles with quick-detach sling swivels. Switching slings between rifles can be a pain, especially when different game calls for different setups. I needed something that would allow quick and easy sling changes without sacrificing durability or security. The U. Mike’s option seemed like it could fit the bill.

Upon opening the clam pack, the blued finish of the U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 RUG was surprisingly clean and even. They certainly didn’t scream “high-end,” but they also didn’t look cheap or flimsy. The weight felt appropriate for steel swivels, and the quick-detach mechanism clicked positively, instilling some initial confidence.

Compared to some higher-priced brands like Magpul or GrovTec, the U. Mike’s swivels lack the refined machining and smoother action. However, the price difference is significant. I’d also considered some generic, no-name swivels, but the seemingly reputable brand name of U. Mike’s gave me a bit more faith in their longevity.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. They seemed robust enough for moderate use, and the price was definitely right. The true test would be how they perform under real-world conditions.

Real-World Testing: Putting U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 RUG to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 RUG was a weekend deer hunt in the Pennsylvania mountains. I fitted them to my trusty Remington 700 chambered in .30-06, attaching my favorite padded hunting sling. This rifle sees its fair share of abuse, so it was a solid platform to evaluate the swivels.

The conditions were classic late-season deer hunting: cold, damp, and a little muddy. Getting in and out of my stand required some scrambling, and the rifle occasionally bumped against rocks and branches. The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS performed admirably. They remained securely locked in place, and the sling stayed put.

The quick-detach function proved convenient for quickly removing the sling when I settled into my stand. There was no noticeable change in the function or performance. It was intuitive to use, even with gloved hands.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, encompassing a few more hunting trips, a couple of range sessions, and some general outdoor activities, the U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 RUG have held up reasonably well. There’s some minor wear on the blued finish, particularly around the edges, but nothing that impacts their functionality.

The swivels still lock securely, and the quick-detach mechanism remains reliable. I’ve made it a point to clean and lightly oil them after each use, which likely contributes to their continued performance. They haven’t exhibited any signs of rust or corrosion, despite exposure to damp conditions.

Compared to some higher-end swivels I’ve used, the U. Mike’s swivels require a bit more deliberate action to detach. The mechanism is not as smooth. However, given the price point, this is an acceptable trade-off. Overall, I am pleased with their durability and reliability for the cost.

Breaking Down the Features of U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 RUG

Specifications

The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 RUG are designed as a budget-friendly option. They are for quickly attaching and detaching a sling from a firearm equipped with standard 1″ sling mounts.

• Type: Quick Detach (QD) Sling Swivels
• Material: Blued Steel
• Sling Loop Width: 1″
• Mount Type: Ruger-style Mount (likely refers to a common size and interface; verify compatibility with your specific firearm)
• Packaging: Clam Pack

These specifications are important because they dictate compatibility and intended use. The 1″ loop width is standard for most hunting and sporting slings. Blued steel offers a reasonable balance of strength and corrosion resistance. Quick detach functionality adds convenience for users who frequently swap slings.

Performance & Functionality

The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 RUG perform their primary function adequately. The quick-detach mechanism allows for easy sling removal and attachment.

The swivels rotate smoothly, preventing sling twisting. Their steel construction provides sufficient strength for most hunting and recreational shooting applications. The only real drawback is the finish isn’t super durable. With heavy use, the bluing can wear off.

They meet expectations for a budget-priced swivel set. However, they do not exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is basic and functional. The steel construction feels solid and reassuring.

The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 RUG are easy to use, requiring no special tools or skills for installation or operation. The quick-detach buttons are easily accessible, even with gloves. A minor annoyance is the edges of the QD buttons can be a bit sharp.

Durability & Maintenance

The blued steel construction offers reasonable durability. The swivels should last for several years with proper care.

Cleaning and oiling the U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 RUG is straightforward. Regular maintenance will help prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 RUG do not come with any accessories. They are designed to be used with existing 1″ slings.

There are no customization options specific to these swivels. Their compatibility with any firearm that accepts Ruger-style, 1″ sling swivels is a key advantage.

Pros and Cons of U. Mike’s SLING SWIVELS QD 115 RUG