At Forward Controls, we have always valued simplicity and believe that any added complexities to a system should offer benefits rather than liabilities. While Sling QDs have their advantages, they can also add bulk and liability if used unnecessarily. The fore-end of the AR is one area where we see redundancy. Although we appreciate QD functionality, not everyone requires or desires quick detach capability, especially on both ends of the sling. For those who don’t need or want QD, it’s best to avoid adding a QD swivel that only increases the weight and bulk of the rifle. Additionally, the quality of QD swivels can vary, so it doesn’t make sense to include QD where it’s not necessary and risks introducing a potential point of failure. Forward Controls is happy to Introduce the RSA-H, and in collaboration with Rooftop Defense, the MFH. Both of these sling adapters are designed to be attached to the handguard of your carbine. They both feature a curved 1.25 wide sling loop that does away with a QD swivel and places the sling closer to the bore.
The RSA-H (Rail mounted Sling Adapter, Heavy) is a fixed loop sling adapter designed for Picatinny railed handguards. It is machined from a solid 4140 block of steel. The bolt is partially threaded and also serves as a recoil lug. The clamp dovetails into the RSA-H body. The Picatinny bolt clamp has a unique shape that allows it to be installed only one way, ensuring correct installation. When connected to the RSA-H, they fit together seamlessly. The RSA-H is compatible with BFG’s ULoop, but not with HK hooks. It is designed with a curved loop that allows the sling to pass through without the need for additional attachments.
The loop of the RSA-H can accommodate sling widths of up to 1.25″. Additionally, it serves as an equipment tethering point for high-value scopes, CNVDs, and thermal optics. The recommended torque value for the RSA-H Picatinny bolt is 40 in lb.
MFH is a collaboration between Sol Lehnerd at Rooftop Defense and Forward Controls, it was an idea Sol brought up in the summer of 2022 and wanted to bring to reality. “As a shooter, I have found that QD swivels at the front of the gun like to meet Mr. Murphy and sometimes detach themselves at the most inopportune times. By removing the QD swivel and QD socket, we achieve a simpler setup that’s more robust and better retains the weapon.” -Sol stated during development.
Sol has found the optimal setup for him to be a fixed loop at the front of the gun using MFH and a QD sling swivel mounted on the buttstock. This allows the user to reap the benefits of fixed sling retention on the gun’s forend, but still able to quickly remove the weapon when wearing full kit or fully separate an AR upper and lower for maintenance purposes. MFH is also made from 4140. Recommended torque value is 35in/lbs for attaching to metal hand guards, and 15in/lbs for attaching to polymer hand guards.
RSA-H can be purchased from
MFH Can be purchased from