Mil-Spec to Quick-Detach Sling Swivel Adapter System

Abstract

A mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system is provided. The system enables conversion of standard Mil-Spec fixed sling swivel interfaces on AR-15 rifles to quick-detach (QD) compatible interfaces. A front mounting structure integrates with the A2 front sight post, featuring a first end that fits between the sight post's vertical members and aligns with existing holes for pin-based fastening. A second end receives a front QD sling swivel. A second mounting structure engages with the buttstock and includes a tab that fits into the internal cavity left by the removed fixed sling swivel. The tab is secured using a mechanical fastener inserted through the buttstock into a threaded or captive nut opening. A perpendicular extension at the second end includes a through-opening for accepting a rear QD sling swivel, enabling tool-less attachment and removal similar to the front mounting structure.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 780,572, which was filed on Mar. 31, 2025, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of AR-15 rifle swing swivels. More specifically, the present invention relates to a system configured to convert standard Mil-Spec fixed sling swivel interfaces on AR-15 rifles to quick-detach (QD) compatible swing swivel interfaces by utilizing front and rear mounting structures that integrate with the A2 front sight post and the internal cavity of the buttstock. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.BACKGROUND

[0003] In the field of firearms, particularly in the design and operation of AR-15 style rifles, the integration and management of sling attachment systems present ongoing technical challenges. Standard military specification (Mil-Spec) rifles are typically outfitted with fixed sling swivels, which require the user to manually thread nylon webbing through fixed loops, then secure the webbing with buckles. This process can be slow and prone to user error. Improper threading of the sling through these fixed swivels may result in loosening or detachment, posing operational hazards such as unintentional dropping of the firearm. In dynamic or high-stress environments, the inability to quickly and reliably secure or remove a sling can negatively impact user performance and safety. Additionally, converting a rifle from a fixed sling swivel configuration to one that accommodates modern quick-detach (QD) swivels is generally not straightforward. Many existing solutions require permanent modifications or the replacement of factory components. These processes often involve tools, specialized knowledge, or the procurement of entirely new mounting interfaces. Consequently, a reliable and reversible method for adapting existing Mil-Spec sling swivel architecture to QD-compatible systems is highly desirable, particularly one that simplifies installation and supports quick transitions between sling types.

[0004] Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system that enables rapid conversion of fixed Mil-Spec sling swivels to QD-compatible swing swivels using the existing fixed Mil-Spec sling swivel architecture of a rifle. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system that provides tool-less attachment and removal capabilities of QD swing swivels once the system is installed on a rifle.

[0005] The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system. The system is configured to convert standard Mil-Spec fixed sling swivel interfaces on AR-15 rifles to quick-detach (QD) compatible swing swivel interfaces. The system comprises a front mounting structure adapted to integrate with the A2 front sight post of the AR-15 platform, wherein a first end is dimensioned to fit between the parallel vertical members of the sight post and includes a through-opening aligned with the existing holes of the sight post to accept a roll pin or comparable fastener. A second end of the front mounting structure is configured to receive a QD sling swivel point. The system further comprises a second mounting structure adapted for integration with the buttstock of the rifle that includes a tab dimensioned to occupy the internal cavity vacated by the existing fixed sling swivel that has been removed. The tab is secured in place with a mechanical fastener passing through the buttstock and into a captive nut or threaded opening in the tab. A second end of the rear mounting structure extends perpendicularly and includes a through-opening designed to receive a rear QD sling swivel in the same tool-less manner as the front component.

[0006] In this manner, the mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of the present invention accomplishes all the foregoing objectives and provides a system that enables the conversion of existing fixed Mil-Spec sling swivel interfaces to QD-compatible configurations without the need for permanent modifications to the rifle. More specifically, the use of existing architecture in both the A2 front sight post and buttstock cavities allows the system to integrate seamlessly into Mil-Spec AR-15 rifles. This results in faster sling changes and a reduced risk of user error associated with traditional webbing-based attachment methods. By eliminating the need to thread nylon slings through fixed loops and offering a reversible, non-permanent, system that significantly enhances modularity, adaptability, and ease of use for modern firearm users.SUMMARY

[0007] The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key / critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0008] The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system. The system is comprised of a quick-detach (QD) sling swivel adapter configured to convert standard military specification (Mil-Spec) fixed sling swivel interfaces on an AR-15 rifle to support QD sling swivels.

[0009] More specifically, the system is comprised of a front mounting structure configured to interface with an A2 front sight post of an AR-15 rifle. A first end of the front mounting structure is shaped for insertion between the vertical members of the A2 front sight post and includes a through-opening aligned with preexisting openings in the sight post. A fastener, such as a roll pin, secures the front mounting structure to the sight post by passing through the aligned openings.

[0010] A second end of the front mounting structure is configured to interface with an existing QD sling attachment point located below or adjacent to the A2 front sight post. This second end includes a through-opening that receives a threaded push pin from the QD sling attachment point. A swiveling arm connected to the push pin allows the pin to be retracted or locked into place through rotation, securing the QD sling point to the mounting structure. The configuration enables tool-less installation and removal while enhancing retention.

[0011] The system is further comprised of a second mounting structure configured to engage with the buttstock of an AR-15 rifle. A first end of the second mounting structure includes a tab that inserts into the internal cavity of the buttstock, previously occupied by a fixed sling swivel. The tab is secured with a mechanical fastener inserted through an opening in the buttstock and into a threaded or captive nut opening in the tab. The tab is dimensioned to fill most of the cavity for improved stability.

[0012] A second end of the second mounting structure extends perpendicularly from the tab and includes a through-opening that receives a threaded push pin from a rear QD sling attachment point. A swiveling arm allows retraction or locking of the pin after insertion, securing the QD sling point to the rear mounting structure. The configuration also allows for tool-less installation and enhanced retention.

[0013] Accordingly, the mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides a system that enables the conversion of existing fixed Mil-Spec sling swivel interfaces to QD-compatible configurations without the need for permanent modifications to the rifle. More specifically, the use of existing architecture in both the A2 front sight post and buttstock cavities allows the system to integrate seamlessly into Mil-Spec AR-15 rifles. This results in faster sling changes and a reduced risk of user error associated with traditional webbing-based attachment methods. By eliminating the need to thread nylon slings through fixed loops and offering a reversible, non-permanent, system that significantly enhances modularity, adaptability, and ease of use for modern firearm users.

[0014] To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

[0016] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0017] FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of one potential embodiment of a mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of the present invention wherein the front mounting interface is attached to an A2 front sight post in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0018] FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of one potential embodiment of a mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of the present invention wherein the front mounting interface is attached to an A2 front sight post and a quick-detach sling attachment point is attached to the front mounting interface in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0019] FIG. 4 illustrates a side perspective view of one potential embodiment of a mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of the present invention wherein the rear mounting interface is attached to a buttstock in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0020] FIG. 5 illustrates a side perspective view of one potential embodiment of a mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of the present invention wherein the rear mounting interface is attached to a buttstock and a quick-detach sling attachment point is attached to the rear mounting interface in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

[0021] FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of a mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

[0023] As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system that enables rapid conversion of fixed Mil-Spec sling swivels to QD-compatible swing swivels using the existing fixed Mil-Spec sling swivel architecture of a rifle. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system that provides tool-less attachment and removal capabilities of QD swing swivels once the system is installed on a rifle.

[0024] The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system. The system is configured to convert standard Mil-Spec fixed sling swivel interfaces on AR-15 rifles to quick-detach (QD) compatible swing swivel interfaces. More specifically, the system comprises a front mounting structure adapted to integrate with the A2 front sight post of the AR-15 platform, wherein a first end is dimensioned to fit between the parallel vertical members of the sight post and includes a through-opening aligned with the existing holes of the sight post to accept a roll pin or comparable fastener. A second end of the front mounting structure is configured to receive a QD sling swivel point. The system further comprises a second mounting structure adapted for integration with the buttstock of the rifle that includes a tab dimensioned to occupy the internal cavity vacated by the existing fixed sling swivel that has been removed. The tab is secured in place with a mechanical fastener passing through the buttstock and into a captive nut or threaded opening in the tab. A second end of the rear mounting structure extends perpendicularly and includes a through-opening designed to receive a rear QD sling swivel in the same tool-less manner as the front component.

[0025] As a result, the system offers a notable advantage by converting existing fixed Mil-Spec sling swivel interfaces into QD-compatible configurations without requiring permanent modifications to the rifle. Specifically, the ability to utilize the existing features of the A2 front sight post and buttstock cavities allows for seamless integration into Mil-Spec AR-15 platforms. The system enables quicker sling transitions and minimizes errors linked to traditional webbing-based attachments. Furthermore, by eliminating the need to thread nylon slings through fixed loops, the system provides a reversible, non-permanent solution that increases modularity, adaptability, and ease of use for modern firearm users.

[0026] Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The system 100 is comprised of a quick-detach (QD) sling swivel adapter system configured to convert a standard military specification (Mil-Spec) fixed sling swivel interfaces on an existing AR-15 rifle to support a QD sling swivel system.

[0027] More specifically, the system 100 is comprised of a front mounting structure 110 configured to interface with the A2 front sight post 101 of an AR-15 rifle. A first end 111 of the mounting structure 110 may be shaped to insert between the two generally parallel vertical members 102 of an A2 front sight post 101 (that allow for attachment of an existing non-QD sling point), as seen in FIG. 2. The first end 111 may include a through-opening 112 aligned to match the preexisting openings 103 in the vertical members 102 of the A2 front sight post 101. A fastener 113, such as but not limited to a roll pin or similar fastener may be inserted through the aligned openings 103,112 of the first end 111 and vertical members 102 to secure the front mounting structure 110 to the front sight post 101, as seen in FIG. 2.

[0028] A second end 114 of the front mounting structure 110 may be configured to insert between the parallel vertical members 106 of an existing QD sling attachment point 105 and is located below or adjacent to the A2 front sight post 101, as seen in FIG. 3. The second end 114 may be comprised of a second through-opening 115 that receives a pin 107 that is part of the front QD sling attachment point 105 the structure 110 is being used to attach to the rifle. More specifically, the QD sling swivel point 105 is of the type comprised of a threaded push pin 108 with a swiveling arm 109. The swiveling arm 109 may be rotated to retract or expose the threaded push pin 108, allowing the pin 108 to be passed through the second end opening 115 of the front mounting structure 110. Once inserted through the opening 115, the swiveling arm 109 may be rotated to lock the pin 108 in place, thereby securing the QD sling swivel point 105 to the front mounting structure 110. This design may provide enhanced retention and tool-less installation and removal capabilities.

[0029] The system 110 may further be comprised of a second mounting structure 120 configured to engage with the buttstock 150 of an AR-15 rifle. A first end 121 of the second mounting structure 120 may be comprised of a tab 122 configured to insert into the existing internal cavity 151 of a buttstock 150, as seen in FIG. 4, where a fixed sling swivel attachment is normally housed and has been removed. The tab 122 may be retained in place by a mechanical fastener 123 inserted through an opening 152 in the buttstock 150 and into a threaded or captive nut opening 126 in the tab 122. The shape and dimensions of the tab 122 may be configured to occupy the majority of the internal cavity space 151 for enhanced stability.

[0030] A second end 124 of the second mounting structure 120 may extend perpendicularly from the tab 122 and may include a through-opening 125. The through-opening 125 receives a pin 108 that is part of the rear QD sling attachment point 105 that the structure 120 is being used to attach to the rifle. More specifically, the QD sling swivel point 105 is of the type comprised of a threaded push pin 108 with a swiveling arm 109. The swiveling arm 109 may be rotated to retract or expose the threaded push pin 108, allowing the pin 108 to be passed through the second end opening 115 of the front mounting structure 110. Once inserted through the opening 115, the swiveling arm 109 may be rotated to lock the pin 108 in place, thereby securing the QD sling swivel point 105 to the rear mounting structure 120, as seen in FIG. 5. This design may provide enhanced retention and tool-less installation and removal capabilities.

[0031] The front mounting structure 110 and second mounting structure 120 may be made from a variety of materials that may include but are not limited to steel alloys such as stainless steel or carbon steel, 6061 or 7075 series aluminum, titanium, high-strength polymer composites and fiber-reinforced plastics, etc.

[0032] The present invention is also comprised of a method of using 200 the system 100, as seen in FIG. 6. First, a system 100 is provided comprised of a front mounting structure 110 and a second mounting structure 120 configured to convert Mil-Spec fixed sling swivel interfaces on an AR-15 rifle to a QD sling swivel system [Step 202]. Then, the first end 111 of the front mounting structure 110 can be inserted between the vertical members 102 of an A2 front sight post 101 on the AR-15 rifle, such that the through-opening 112 of the first end 111 aligns with the preexisting openings 103 in the vertical members 102 [Step 204]. Next, a fastener 113 can be inserted through the aligned openings 103,112 to secure the front mounting structure 110 to the A2 front sight post 101 [Step 206]. Then, the second end 114 of the front mounting structure 110 can be inserted between the vertical members 106 of a front QD sling attachment point 105 such that the second through-opening 115 aligns with a threaded push pin 108 of the QD sling attachment point 105 [Step 208]. Next, the swiveling arm 109 of the QD sling attachment point 105 can be rotated to retract the threaded push pin 108, the push pin 108 can be inserted through the second through-opening 115, and the swiveling arm 109 can then be rotated to lock the pin 108 in place, thereby securing the QD sling attachment point 105 to the front mounting structure 110 [Step 210]. Then, the first end 121 of the second mounting structure 120 can be inserted into the internal cavity 151 of a buttstock 150 of the AR-15 rifle such that a tab 122 of the first end 121 fits within the cavity 151 [Step 212]. A mechanical fastener 123 can then be inserted through an opening 152 in the buttstock 150 and into a threaded opening 126 in the tab 122 to secure the second mounting structure 120 within the buttstock 150 [Step 214]. Next, the second end 124 of the second mounting structure 120 can be positioned to receive a rear QD sling attachment point 105 such that a through-opening 125 of the second end 124 aligns with a threaded push pin 108 of the rear QD sling attachment point 105 [Step 216]. Finally, the swiveling arm of the rear QD sling attachment point 105 can be rotated to retract the push pin 108, the push pin 108 can be inserted through the through-opening 125, and the swiveling arm can be rotated to lock the pin 108 in place, thereby securing the rear QD sling attachment point 105 to the second mounting structure 120 [Step 218].

[0033] Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system” and “system” are interchangeable and refer to the mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system 100 of the present invention.

[0034] Notwithstanding the foregoing, the mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system 100 may be of any size, shape, and / or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and / or that suits the user's needs and / or preferences.

[0035] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

[0036] What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Claims

1. A mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system comprising:a front mounting structure comprised of a first end comprising a first through-opening and a second end comprised of a second through-opening; anda rear mounting structure comprised of a first end comprised of a tab comprised of an opening and a second end comprised of a third through-opening.

2. The mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of claim 1, wherein the opening is comprised of a threaded opening.

3. The mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of claim 1, wherein the second end extends perpendicularly from the tab.

4. The mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of claim 1 further comprised of a QD sling swivel attachment point.

5. The mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of claim 4, wherein the QD sling swivel attachment point is comprised of a threaded push pin.

6. The mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of claim 4, wherein the QD sling swivel attachment point is comprised of a swiveling arm.

7. The mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of claim 4, wherein the QD sling swivel attachment point is comprised of a pin.

8. The mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of claim 7, wherein the pin is positioned through the third through-opening.

9. A mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system comprising:a front mounting structure comprised of a first end comprising a first through-opening and a second end comprised of a second through-opening;a fastener; anda rear mounting structure comprised of a first end comprised of a tab comprised of an opening and a second end comprised of a third through-opening.

10. The mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of claim 9, wherein the fastener is comprised of a machine screw.

11. The mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of claim 9, wherein the fastener is positioned within the opening.

12. The mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of claim 11, wherein the opening is comprised of a threaded opening.

13. The mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of claim 9, wherein the second end extends perpendicularly from the tab.

14. The mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of claim 11 further comprised of a QD sling swivel attachment point.

15. The mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of claim 14, wherein the QD sling swivel attachment point is comprised of a threaded push pin.

16. The mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of claim 14, wherein the QD sling swivel attachment point is comprised of a swiveling arm.

17. The mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of claim 14, wherein the QD sling swivel attachment point is comprised of a pin.

18. The mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of claim 17, wherein the pin is positioned through the second through-opening.

19. The mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system of claim 17, wherein the pin is positioned through the third through-opening.

20. A method of using a mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system, the method comprising the following steps:providing a mil-spec to quick-detach sling swivel adapter system comprised of a front mounting structure and a second mounting structure;inserting a first end of the front mounting structure between a pair of vertical members of an A2 front sight post of an AR-15 rifle such that a first through-opening of the front mounting structure aligns with a pair of preexisting openings in the pair of vertical members;securing the front mounting structure to the front sight post by inserting a fastener through the first through-opening and the pair of preexisting openings;attaching a first pin of a first quick-detach sling attachment point through a second through-opening of the front mounting structure;inserting a first end of the second mounting structure into an internal cavity of a buttstock of the AR-15 rifle;securing the second mounting structure within the buttstock by inserting a mechanical fastener through an opening in the buttstock and into an opening in a tab of the second mounting structure; andattaching a second pin of a rear quick-detach sling attachment point through a third through-opening of the second mounting structure.

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