Discussion Forums

Paul Townlian

Hello, as the title states, Im have an issue with my sling swivel studs on my rifles loosening. Initially they were good, then through use and sling tension have loosened to the point of no longer being reliably tight. If I tighten them further, they would be misaligned, and I don't want to potentially damage the stock with too much torque.

How would you suggest reliably securing these renegade, free-wheeling sling swivels?

The materials on the three stocks are different, so Im sure they would warrant different adhesives if that is the solution.

One stock is an HS precision (fiberglass and foam) that comes on the Remington 5r (the black with green webbing version if it makes a difference). One swivel in the back, two in the front. I assume I would need something that bonds to fiber glass/foam; however the front studs may attach to the aluminum bedding block in the front? Not sure, Im trying to avoid disassembling the stock from the action at the moment.

I did talk with a representative from HS precision, and they recommended blue loctite. However I wanted to cross check here. My experience with blue loctite 242 has been far from impressive. Even with a thorough cleaning of the threads before application, it frequently comes loose overtime. Leaving a gunk that's difficult to reclean. Suggesting to me, the more you reapply the less less clean the material surfaces will be and thus the less reliable the bond becomes... But this could be overestimating the potential for loosening on my part. I just know those studs are put under a good deal of tension when slung up to take a shot.

The other 2 stocks are plastic. One is a Ruger scout rifle with the factory polymer furniture. The other a Tikka T3x, also with the factory plastic-fantastic furniture. Im nearly positive loctite wouldn't work for these because if memory serves I don't believe red or blue loctite bonds with plastic unless specified.

For an HS precision Fiberglass stock and two Tupperware stocks of doom, what sort of adhesive would give me the most reliable results? Epoxy, JB weld, Red or Blue loctite (242 or 248)?

Does anyone actually just run the swivels loose? I've read some hethens do this. They are long enough that Im sure they wouldn't come out, and the free rotation would help with sling binding when tightening up for a shot. I wouldn't think its the most secure option, and I don't know... just seems vulgar and wrong to my OCD, but what the hell do I know. That's why Im here asking you fine gents for your advice.

Finally, since the subject has been breeched and the studs are already loose, does anyone recommend QD flush cups as a substitute? They seem like they'd be a versatile solution, having the ability to detach the sling and have a completely flush and flat fore end when desired. As well as provide a swivel point so that the sling will not bind under lateral tension. I love them on ARs. Ive noticed more and more high end stock manufacturers are moving to this option, and it seems to be a cheap and easy enough replacement. Even for a mouth breather like myself. I would assume without a doubt that they should be JB welded or epoxied in place...

Thank you for any help and advise that may be given. I appreciate your time.