Gear Head Works Tavor/X95 Fullcrum Located Extra Swivel Review

How the Gear Head Works Tavor/X95 Fullcrum Located Extra Swivel Surprised Me

As someone who has spent over a decade immersed in gear and equipment across a wide spectrum of environments, from the dusty chaos of workshops to the controlled precision of labs and the unforgiving realities of field use, I approach new products with a healthy dose of skepticism and a keen eye for detail. My search for a solution to a persistent issue with my IWI Tavor X95 led me to the Gear Head Works Tavor/X95 Fullcrum Located Extra Swivel. This seemingly small accessory promised to address two distinct pain points: the awkward ergonomics of sling attachment and, more critically, the unwelcome gas blowback when shooting suppressed. My initial impressions upon unboxing were positive; the unit felt solid, precisely machined, and clearly built with durability in mind. While I had considered a few other aftermarket solutions, none offered the dual functionality of a dedicated swivel point and a gas-blocking mechanism, making this an easy choice. The immediate sense of relief and curiosity about its performance was palpable.


Real-World Testing: Putting Gear Head Works Tavor/X95 Fullcrum Located Extra Swivel to the Test

My testing grounds for this particular piece of gear were primarily the shooting range and my own garage workbench, environments where the IWI Tavor X95 truly shines and where the limitations of its factory configuration become most apparent. I focused on scenarios that would most directly challenge the product’s claims, particularly regarding gas blowback and sling management.

First Use Experience

The installation process itself was remarkably straightforward. It involved removing the factory ejection port cover and securing the Gear Head Works unit in its place. The fit was impressively snug, with no perceptible wiggle or play, which is always a good sign for firearm accessories. I tested it first in dry fire to get a feel for the swivel’s position and range of motion. Then, I took it to the range, eager to see if it lived up to its promises under live fire conditions.

My initial range session involved firing a variety of ammunition, including both supersonic and subsonic loads, with and without my preferred suppressor attached. The immediate difference was striking. With the suppressor on, the usual puff of gas that would invariably find its way towards my face was significantly reduced, if not entirely eliminated. This alone made the shooting experience infinitely more comfortable. The swivel itself proved to be well-placed, offering a stable point for a single-point sling.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months of regular range visits and a few extended shooting days, the Gear Head Works Tavor/X95 Fullcrum Located Extra Swivel has continued to perform admirably. Despite being exposed to dust, carbon fouling, and the occasional minor bump, it has shown no signs of degradation. The hard-anodized billet aluminum construction certainly lives up to its promise of extreme durability. I haven’t noticed any stiffness in the swivel action, nor any increase in gas blowback, even after hundreds of rounds.

Maintenance has been minimal, as expected for a solid piece of aluminum. A quick wipe-down with a cleaning cloth and occasional application of firearm lubricant to the swivel mechanism has kept it functioning perfectly. Compared to the flimsy plastic factory cover it replaced, the difference in reliability and perceived quality is night and day. It’s held up better than some higher-priced accessories I’ve used on other platforms, solidifying its place as a valuable upgrade.

Breaking Down the Features of Gear Head Works Tavor/X95 Fullcrum Located Extra Swivel

Delving deeper into the specifics of the Gear Head Works Tavor/X95 Fullcrum Located Extra Swivel reveals the thought and engineering that went into this seemingly simple component. It’s a prime example of how a well-designed aftermarket part can dramatically improve an already capable firearm.

Specifications

The core of this accessory is its robust construction, featuring hard anodized billet aluminum for superior strength and resistance to wear. This material choice is crucial for a component that interfaces directly with the firearm’s receiver and is subjected to the rigors of shooting. The unit is engineered to replace the factory ejection port cover, meaning it integrates seamlessly with the Tavor SAR and X95 platforms.

It offers a limited rotation QD socket, mirroring the functionality of the factory sling swivel points but placed in a more advantageous location for balance. This socket is designed to accept standard Quick Detach (QD) sling swivels, providing a secure attachment point. The ability to mount the swivel socket either forward or to the rear offers users flexibility in tailoring their sling setup.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this accessory is twofold, and it excels at both. Firstly, the sling swivel socket provides an excellent anchor point. For a single-point sling, its placement offers a superb balance point, making the rifle feel more manageable when slung. When used as part of a two-point sling system, it provides a stable forward attachment that doesn’t interfere with manipulation of the firearm.

The second, and arguably more significant, function is its role in mitigating gas blowback, particularly for users who shoot suppressed. The factory ejection port cover can leave gaps that allow propellant gases to escape directly towards the shooter’s face, a problem exacerbated by the increased back pressure from a suppressor. The FLEx swivel effectively seals these gaps, directing gases away from the shooter for a more comfortable and safer shooting experience. This gas-blocking capability is present even without a sling swivel inserted, demonstrating the clever design of the sealing mechanism.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Gear Head Works Tavor/X95 Fullcrum Located Extra Swivel is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The billet aluminum construction lends itself to clean lines and a precise fit. The hard anodized finish in black provides a durable and professional look that complements the Tavor’s tactical profile.

Ergonomically, its placement addresses a common Tavor complaint. The addition of the swivel socket in this location feels natural, improving the rifle’s balance when carried or maneuvered. The limited rotation of the QD socket is a thoughtful touch, preventing the sling from twisting excessively and becoming a nuisance. The overall feel is one of solid, integrated quality, as if it were an original part of the rifle rather than an aftermarket addition.

Durability & Maintenance

As mentioned, the hard anodized billet aluminum construction is the cornerstone of this unit’s durability. This material is known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to corrosion and abrasion. The anodizing process further hardens the surface, making it highly resistant to scratches and wear from repeated use or contact with other gear.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. Given that it’s essentially a solid block of aluminum with a QD socket, there are no complex mechanisms to worry about. A basic cleaning with a cloth is usually sufficient, with occasional lubrication of the QD socket ensuring smooth operation. I haven’t encountered any wear points or potential failure issues during my extensive testing, suggesting a long service life.

Accessories and Customization Options

The primary “accessory” integrated into the Gear Head Works Tavor/X95 Fullcrum Located Extra Swivel is its limited rotation QD socket. This is designed to accept any standard QD sling swivel, offering broad compatibility with the vast array of slings available on the market. The unit itself is not something that typically requires further customization beyond selecting a preferred QD sling swivel.

The clever aspect of its design is that you do not need a sling attached for it to perform its gas-blocking function. This means even if you prefer a different sling setup or no sling at all, you still benefit from the improved shooting experience when suppressed. It’s a well-executed design that provides maximum utility.

Pros and Cons of Gear Head Works Tavor/X95 Fullcrum Located Extra Swivel

Pros

  • Significantly reduces gas blowback when shooting suppressed, making for a much more comfortable experience.
  • Provides a well-balanced and sturdy sling attachment point that improves firearm handling.
  • Constructed from hard anodized billet aluminum for exceptional durability and resistance to wear.
  • Extremely easy installation, requiring no specialized tools or extensive knowledge.
  • Ambidextrous design, adaptable to either side of the rifle and swiveling forward or rearward.

Cons

  • Represents an additional cost on top of the rifle’s purchase price.
  • While the QD socket is standard, the unique shape of the unit means it’s specific to the Tavor SAR/X95 and not cross-compatible with other firearms.


Who Should Buy Gear Head Works Tavor/X95 Fullcrum Located Extra Swivel?

The Gear Head Works Tavor/X95 Fullcrum Located Extra Swivel is an absolute must-have for any Tavor SAR or X95 owner who frequently shoots with a suppressor. If you’ve experienced the irritating gas blowback that can make shooting suppressed uncomfortable, this accessory directly addresses that problem. It’s also highly recommended for those who utilize or plan to use single-point slings, as the placement offers superior balance and control.

For users who primarily shoot unsuppressed and don’t use slings, the gas-blocking aspect might still be a compelling reason to upgrade, especially if you ever anticipate attaching a suppressor. Individuals looking for a robust, high-quality aftermarket enhancement that requires minimal effort to install and provides immediate, tangible benefits will find this unit to be an excellent investment. Those who prioritize ergonomics and a cleaner shooting platform should strongly consider this upgrade.

Conclusion on Gear Head Works Tavor/X95 Fullcrum Located Extra Swivel

The Gear Head Works Tavor/X95 Fullcrum Located Extra Swivel is a testament to intelligent design and superior manufacturing. It takes a common ergonomic and functional limitation of the Tavor platform and offers a elegant, robust solution. The dual benefits of an improved sling attachment point and, critically, a significant reduction in gas blowback when shooting suppressed, make this accessory a game-changer for Tavor owners. Its hard anodized billet aluminum construction ensures it will last for years, and the ease of installation means anyone can benefit from its advantages.

Considering its performance, build quality, and the direct impact it has on the shooting experience, the $59.99 price point is more than justified. It transforms a minor annoyance into a non-issue and enhances the overall handling of the firearm. I would unequivocally recommend the Gear Head Works Tavor/X95 Fullcrum Located Extra Swivel to any Tavor SAR or X95 owner, especially those who value a cleaner shooting experience or utilize a suppressor. It’s one of those upgrades that feels essential once you’ve experienced the difference it makes.

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