Why You Need a Sling on Your Pump Shotgun
Carrying Convenience and Comfort
The primary benefit of a sling is the convenience it offers. Freeing your hands is invaluable. You can use your hands to open doors, clear obstacles, climb, or simply manage other gear. A sling allows you to carry your shotgun comfortably for extended periods, reducing the fatigue associated with supporting its weight directly. Whether you’re patrolling a wooded area for hunting game or maneuvering through a home defense scenario, the ability to comfortably carry your shotgun hands-free is a significant advantage.
Secure Handling and Enhanced Control
Beyond convenience, a sling provides a vital element of security. It prevents the shotgun from being dropped accidentally, especially in challenging or dynamic environments. Imagine stumbling on uneven terrain or needing to quickly address a threat; a well-secured sling will keep your shotgun close at hand, preventing it from falling or becoming lost. This constant accessibility is paramount for situations that demand immediate action. Furthermore, the proper use of a sling can contribute to improved control, enabling smoother transitions between carrying and shouldering the firearm, ensuring that you can get your shotgun into action with speed and precision.
Leveraging Tactical Advantage
In specific applications, a sling can offer a tactical advantage. For those who use shotguns for professional or tactical purposes, a sling facilitates faster transitions to sidearms or other weapons. The ability to quickly disengage the shotgun and transition to another firearm can be critical in a variety of scenarios. Furthermore, a sling improves situational awareness. Keeping your shotgun close allows for a more focused and attentive observation of the surrounding environment.
Exploring the World of Sling Mounts
The Classic Swivel System
This system represents a traditional and reliable method for attaching a sling. The core component is the sling swivel, a small, rotating loop typically made of steel or durable polymer. The swivel attaches to the firearm through dedicated mounting points on the sling mount. The sling itself then connects to the swivels via loops or clips, allowing it to rotate freely, which helps to prevent tangling and allows for greater movement while the sling is deployed.
Quick Detach Swivels: Speed and Efficiency
Quick detach, or QD, swivels offer a significant advantage in terms of speed and flexibility. These swivels feature a button or lever mechanism that allows for rapid attachment and detachment from the firearm. This feature allows for swift removal of the sling if needed or for switching between different sling configurations or firearms easily. QD swivels are generally more expensive than traditional swivels, but their added convenience and the ability to swap the sling quickly can be advantageous. However, it’s vital to note that the QD mechanism is a potential point of failure, so choose high-quality QD swivels from reputable manufacturers.
Understanding Mounting Locations for Swivels
The placement of the sling swivels plays a pivotal role in how well the sling functions. Consider this; a front swivel mounted on the magazine cap, and a rear swivel mounted on the stock will provide the best all around carry. Mounting locations include the magazine cap, the stock, the barrel, or the receiver. The position of the swivels dictates the style of sling to be used and will impact handling, shouldering and overall mobility of the weapon while wearing the sling.
A Deep Dive into Mount Types
Magazine Cap Mounts: The Forward Anchor
Magazine cap mounts are commonly used to attach the front swivel of the sling. They replace the standard magazine cap of the shotgun with a cap featuring a built-in swivel stud or a QD socket. These mounts are usually easy to install, requiring only the removal of the existing magazine cap. This approach offers a convenient and unobtrusive mounting solution.
Stock Mounts: The Rear Securement Point
Stock mounts, on the other hand, are used to secure the rear of the sling to the shotgun. These can come in various forms, including swivel studs that attach directly to the stock or dedicated sling plates that sit between the stock and the receiver. The specific type of stock mount required will depend on the design of your shotgun’s stock and the chosen sling system.
Barrel Clamps: A Versatile Option
Barrel clamps provide another way to mount a swivel or a QD socket. These clamps secure around the barrel, offering a sturdy attachment point for the front or rear of the sling. Barrel clamps are generally easy to install, requiring only clamping the mount around the barrel and tightening the screws. However, it is essential to choose a clamp that is properly sized for your barrel diameter to avoid any damage.
Receiver Mounts: Rock Solid Foundation
Receiver mounts offer a robust and secure attachment point for the sling, mounting directly to the receiver of the shotgun. These mounts often offer exceptional strength and durability. Receiver mounts can be more complex to install, often requiring some degree of disassembly of the shotgun, so it’s important to check the instructions carefully or to consult with a gunsmith if needed.
Sling Mounts Designed for Seamless Integration
Some pump shotguns come with integrated sling mounting points from the factory. These pre-installed attachment points can be located on the stock, receiver, or magazine tube, providing a convenient solution for sling attachment. Integrated mounts are usually the most reliable and aesthetically pleasing option, as they are specifically designed to work with the shotgun’s design.
Key Considerations When Choosing Your Mount
Ensuring Proper Compatibility
The most critical step is verifying the compatibility of the sling mount with your specific pump shotgun model. Shotguns come in various models, and a mount designed for one model may not fit another. Always double-check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure the mount is compatible with your firearm’s make, model, and gauge.
Prioritizing Durability and Material Strength
The durability of your sling mount is paramount for longevity and reliable performance. Look for mounts constructed from high-quality materials, such as hardened steel or aircraft-grade aluminum. These materials can withstand the rigors of regular use and the impacts commonly encountered in the field or during training.
The Role of Sling Type
The type of sling you intend to use is also important. Different slings, such as two-point slings, single-point slings, and three-point slings, have different attachment requirements. Make sure the mount you select is compatible with the attachment method of your chosen sling.
Ease of Installation: A Simpler Life
Opt for a sling mount that is easy to install, ideally with minimal tools and straightforward instructions. Most sling mounts are designed for easy installation. However, more complex installations may require assistance from a gunsmith.
Making an Informed Purchase: Balancing Cost and Value
While price is an important factor, don’t compromise on quality for the sake of cost. A high-quality sling mount is an investment in the safety and convenience of your shotgun setup. Compare prices from different manufacturers, considering the features offered and the overall value.
Practical Installation Tips: A Step-by-Step Approach
Regardless of the mount type, always prioritize safety before installation. Ensure your shotgun is unloaded and clear of any ammunition.
Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Familiarize yourself with the components of the mount and the provided hardware. In general, installation usually involves removing the magazine cap or stock, attaching the mount, and securing it with the included screws or fasteners.
Double-check the security of the mount after installation, ensuring that it is properly tightened and that no components are loose.
Maximizing Your Sling’s Potential: Best Practices
Once your sling mount is properly installed, it’s time to start using it effectively.
Fine-Tuning Your Sling for Optimal Comfort
Adjust the length of the sling to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. The sling should allow you to carry the shotgun comfortably and to quickly and efficiently bring it to a firing position. Experiment with different adjustments to find what best suits your body type, gear, and preferred carrying method.
Practice: The Key to Proficiency
Practice shouldering, transitioning to a firing position, and maneuvering with the sling. Regularly practice these movements to enhance your proficiency and muscle memory, ultimately leading to faster and more reliable deployment of your firearm when needed.
Maintaining Your Gear
Keep your sling and mount clean and well-maintained. Regularly inspect the mount for any signs of wear or damage. Clean and lubricate the moving parts of the mount, such as swivels or QD mechanisms, to ensure smooth operation.
Resolving Common Issues
Even with the best gear, issues may arise.
Slippage Solutions
If the sling slips, ensure the adjustment buckles are secure and that the sling is properly threaded through the mount. Try using a sling with a textured surface or additional friction to improve grip.
Handling Mount Failures
If a mount fails, replace it immediately. Inspect the mount regularly for any signs of damage or wear.
Preventing Sling Interference
Avoid attaching accessories that may interfere with the sling or restrict movement.
In Conclusion
The pump shotgun sling mount is an essential piece of equipment that significantly enhances the usability, safety, and tactical capabilities of your firearm. By understanding the different mount types, considering essential factors, and practicing proper use, you can create a customized system that meets your specific needs.
Ultimately, the best pump shotgun sling mount is the one that best suits your personal requirements. Do your research, read reviews, and consider the conditions you will be using your shotgun in to make an informed decision.
