Let’s Dive into Uncle Mike’s Remington 870 QD Swivels
The Uncle Mike’s Remington 870 QD Swivels are a simple yet essential upgrade for any Remington 870 owner looking to add a sling to their shotgun. This kit, made by Uncle Mike’s, provides a straightforward way to attach a sling, improving the shotgun’s carry and overall handling. It replaces the factory magazine cap with one that has a swivel base and includes a buttstock swivel for easy sling attachment.
I’ve always wondered why Remington shotguns, especially the 870, didn’t universally come with sling attachment points pre-installed. Needing a practical way to carry my 870 during long hunts, I searched for a reliable, no-gunsmithing-required solution. I wanted a quick and easy way to attach and detach a sling.
The Uncle Mike’s Remington 870 QD Swivels kit comes in a simple package, including the replacement magazine cap with an integrated swivel stud, a wood screw swivel base for the buttstock, and two 1-inch Super Swivels. My initial impression was that the parts were well-made, especially the swivels themselves, they feel solid and durable. The steel components have a reassuring weight and a clean black finish.
I considered other sling attachment methods, including those requiring gunsmithing, but I wanted a drop-in solution. Options like the Magpul SGA receiver sling mount looked appealing, but for my needs, simplicity and ease of installation were paramount. The Uncle Mike’s kit won out due to its non-permanent nature and positive user feedback.
My first impression was favorable. This kit promises a hassle-free sling attachment, so I was eager to install it and see how it performed in the field. I was cautiously optimistic that it would solve my sling attachment problem without needing to permanently modify my shotgun.
Real-World Testing: Putting Uncle Mike’s Remington 870 QD Swivels to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Uncle Mike’s Remington 870 QD Swivels on my 12-gauge 870 during a week-long upland bird hunting trip in the Montana backcountry. The weather ranged from dry and sunny to wet and drizzly. I needed the sling to be stable while navigating uneven terrain.
The sling attachments worked perfectly in all conditions. Having the shotgun slung across my back freed my hands for navigating rough terrain and carrying gear. The QD swivels made it easy to detach the sling when I needed to shoulder the shotgun quickly for a shot.
Installation was a breeze. The magazine cap swapped out in seconds, and the buttstock swivel screwed in easily with a screwdriver. I did need to drill a pilot hole for the buttstock swivel, though, to avoid splitting the wood.
The only initial concern was whether the magazine cap would stay tight under repeated firing, but it remained secure throughout the entire trip. The sling’s stability and easy detachment were a huge advantage in the field.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Uncle Mike’s Remington 870 QD Swivels are holding up exceptionally well. I’ve used the shotgun on multiple hunting trips, several range sessions, and a few tactical training courses. The swivel attachments have consistently performed without fail.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The steel components are robust, and the black finish is resistant to scratches. The swivels still rotate smoothly and lock securely.
Maintenance is simple. I occasionally wipe down the metal parts with a lightly oiled cloth to prevent rust. I’ve experienced no issues with loosening screws or any other maintenance problems.
Having used other, less reliable sling attachment methods in the past, the Uncle Mike’s kit is a significant upgrade. The solid construction and secure QD system give me confidence in its reliability, far surpassing my previous experiences with cheaper alternatives.
Breaking Down the Features of Uncle Mike’s Remington 870 QD Swivels
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Uncle Mike’s
- Color: Black
- Fabric/Material: Steel
- Condition: New
- Gauge: Available for 12-gauge (Set No. 1801-2) and 20-gauge (Set No. 1801-5) Remington 870 shotguns.
- Swivel Size: 1 inch.
- Buttstock Swivel Screw Length: 0.75 inch.
- Components: Replacement magazine cap with swivel base, wood screw buttstock swivel base, and two Super Swivels.
These specifications are critical for the product’s performance and usability. The steel construction ensures durability, while the 1-inch swivels are compatible with most standard slings. The gauge-specific kits ensure a proper fit on your particular shotgun.
Performance & Functionality
The Uncle Mike’s Remington 870 QD Swivels perform their intended function flawlessly. They provide a secure and convenient way to attach a sling to a Remington 870 shotgun. The QD (Quick Detach) swivels allow for rapid attachment and detachment of the sling, which is essential in dynamic situations.
The key strength is the ease of installation and reliable performance. The only area for potential improvement is perhaps offering the magazine cap in different finishes to match different shotgun models. Overall, the product meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Uncle Mike’s Remington 870 QD Swivels is simple and functional. The steel construction feels solid and durable. The swivels rotate smoothly and lock securely into place.
The kit is user-friendly. Installation requires minimal tools and no gunsmithing skills. The included instructions are clear and easy to follow.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the steel construction, the Uncle Mike’s Remington 870 QD Swivels are expected to last for many years. Regular use and exposure to the elements shouldn’t significantly impact its lifespan.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is sufficient to prevent rust and corrosion. Repair should be straightforward if any parts were to fail, as replacements are readily available.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit includes everything needed for basic sling attachment. There are no additional accessories included beyond the listed components.
While the swivels themselves aren’t customizable, they are compatible with a wide range of 1-inch slings from various manufacturers. You can easily find a sling that suits your specific needs and preferences. The standardized swivel size ensures broad compatibility.
Pros and Cons of Uncle Mike’s Remington 870 QD Swivels
Pros
- Easy to install, requires no gunsmithing.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- QD (Quick Detach) swivels allow for rapid sling attachment and removal.
- Improved carry and handling of the Remington 870 shotgun.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to most shotgun owners.
Cons
- Buttstock swivel requires drilling a pilot hole, which may be intimidating for some users.
- The magazine cap finish may not perfectly match all Remington 870 models.
Who Should Buy Uncle Mike’s Remington 870 QD Swivels?
The Uncle Mike’s Remington 870 QD Swivels are perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and home defense enthusiasts who want to add a sling to their Remington 870 shotgun without permanent modifications. The kit’s ease of installation and reliable performance make it an excellent choice for both experienced and novice gun owners.
This product may not be ideal for those seeking ultra-high-end or custom sling attachment solutions. If you require multiple sling mounting points or have very specific aesthetic preferences, you might explore more specialized options.
A high-quality 1-inch sling is a must-have accessory to complement the Uncle Mike’s Remington 870 QD Swivels. Consider a padded sling for increased comfort during extended carry.
Conclusion on Uncle Mike’s Remington 870 QD Swivels
The Uncle Mike’s Remington 870 QD Swivels provide a simple, effective, and affordable solution for adding a sling to your Remington 870 shotgun. Its ease of installation, durable construction, and reliable QD system make it a worthwhile upgrade for any shotgun owner.
At a price of $19.89, the value proposition is excellent. This kit provides a significant improvement in functionality without breaking the bank.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Uncle Mike’s Remington 870 QD Swivels to anyone looking to enhance the carry and handling of their Remington 870. It’s a no-brainer upgrade that will make your shotgun more versatile and comfortable to use. Get yours today and experience the difference!
