NcStar 35mm Tri-Color Dot Tube Reflex Optic Review

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Let’s Dive into NcStar 35mm Tri-Color Dot Tube Reflex Optic

The NcStar 35mm Tri-Color Dot Tube Reflex Optic promises rapid target acquisition and versatile mounting, all wrapped in a budget-friendly package. NcStar aims to deliver a reliable optic solution for shooters of all levels. The tri-color dot feature, offering red, green, and blue reticles, is particularly intriguing.

I’ve been searching for an affordable optic to outfit my AR-15 for recreational range use and the occasional varmint hunt. I needed something that wouldn’t break the bank but still provided a clear, easily visible aiming point in various lighting conditions. The NcStar optic’s multi-color dot seemed like a potential solution for my aging eyes.

Out of the box, the NcStar 35mm Tri-Color Dot Tube Reflex Optic felt surprisingly solid. The aluminum body had a reassuring weight, and the included cantilever mount seemed sturdy enough for my needs. Compared to other budget red dots I’ve handled, this one appeared to have a slightly more robust build. I was deciding between this and a similar red dot from a lesser-known brand, as well as a used Bushnell TRS-25. Ultimately, the tri-color option and the included mount swayed my decision.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It wasn’t love at first sight, but I wasn’t disappointed either. I was eager to see how it performed on the range.

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Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar 35mm Tri-Color Dot Tube Reflex Optic to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the NcStar 35mm Tri-Color Dot Tube Reflex Optic at my local outdoor shooting range on a sunny afternoon. I mounted it on my AR-15 using the provided cantilever mount and zeroed it at 50 yards. The initial zeroing process was straightforward, although the adjustment turrets felt a bit mushy.

The optic performed reasonably well in the bright sunlight, with the green and blue dot settings offering better visibility than the red. I did notice a slight distortion around the edges of the sight picture, but it wasn’t overly distracting. However, I also observed a minor issue with parallax, especially at the edges of the sight window.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the NcStar 35mm Tri-Color Dot Tube Reflex Optic has held up better than I initially anticipated, though some quirks remain. The powder-coated finish has proven surprisingly resistant to scratches and scuffs. The optic has largely held its zero, requiring only minor adjustments after a couple of hundred rounds.

However, the battery life seems shorter than advertised. I’ve had to replace the CR2032 battery twice in the last month. Compared to a Holosun optic I own, the NcStar requires significantly more frequent battery changes.

Breaking Down the Features of NcStar 35mm Tri-Color Dot Tube Reflex Optic

Specifications

* Manufacturer:* NcSTAR
* Finish:* Powder Coated
* Fabric/Material:* Aluminum
* Magnification:* 1 x
* Objective Lens Diameter:* 35 mm
* Objective Window Size:* 35 mm
* Illumination Type:* LED
* Illumination Color:* Blue, Green, Red
* Eye Relief:* Unlimited
* Emitter Type:* Enclosed
* Optical Coating:* Platinum
* Battery Type:* CR2032
* Length:* 5 in
* Included Accessories:* Mounting Tools
* Condition:* New
* Magnification Type:* Fixed
* Lens Finish:* Platinum
* Red Dot Sights-Footprint:* Not Applicable
* Mount Type:* Weaver

These specifications reveal an optic designed for quick target acquisition with flexible mounting. The 35mm objective lens provides a decent field of view. The unlimited eye relief makes it forgiving for various shooting positions.

Performance & Functionality

The NcStar 35mm Tri-Color Dot Tube Reflex Optic performs adequately for its intended purpose: recreational shooting and close-range varmint control. Its primary strength is its versatility, thanks to the three reticle colors, which allow users to adapt to different lighting conditions. The different color dots help those with visual impairments.

However, the dot isn’t perfectly crisp, and there’s noticeable parallax, especially at the edges. The adjustment turrets lack tactile feedback, making precise zeroing a bit challenging. It’s a functional optic, but it doesn’t excel in any particular area.

Design & Ergonomics

The NcStar optic features a robust aluminum body with a powder-coated finish. It feels solid and well-built for its price point. The included cantilever mount is a welcome addition, allowing for easy installation on AR-15s and similar platforms.

The flip-up lens covers are a nice touch, protecting the optic from dust and debris. The rheostat knob is easy to access and adjust. However, the overall design is somewhat bulky, and the anodized finish isn’t the most aesthetically pleasing.

Durability & Maintenance

The NcStar 35mm Tri-Color Dot Tube Reflex Optic appears reasonably durable for light to medium use. I don’t expect it to withstand extreme abuse, but it should hold up fine for recreational shooting and hunting. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a lens cloth and occasional wipe-down of the exterior.

However, the short battery life is a concern. I highly recommend carrying spare CR2032 batteries.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NcStar 35mm Tri-Color Dot Tube Reflex Optic comes with a cantilever Weaver/Picatinny mount and basic mounting tools. There are limited customization options. The optic is not compatible with aftermarket lens protectors or kill flashes due to its unique housing design.

You are basically limited to using the included mount and accessories. This limits its versatility compared to other red dot sights with more extensive aftermarket support.

Pros and Cons of NcStar 35mm Tri-Color Dot Tube Reflex Optic

Pros

Budget-friendly price point.
Versatile tri-color reticle (Red, Green, Blue).
Includes a cantilever Weaver/Picatinny mount.
Durable aluminum body with powder-coated finish.
Unlimited eye relief for flexible mounting options.

Cons

Noticeable parallax, especially at the edges.
Short battery life.
Mushy adjustment turrets.
Limited customization options.

Who Should Buy NcStar 35mm Tri-Color Dot Tube Reflex Optic?

The NcStar 35mm Tri-Color Dot Tube Reflex Optic is perfect for budget-conscious shooters. It is ideal for recreational target practice and close-range varmint hunting. It will work well for those who need a simple, functional optic without breaking the bank. Those with color blindness or visual acuity issues may find the multiple reticle colors beneficial.

This product may not be suitable for serious tactical applications. Those who demand exceptional accuracy and reliability should skip this product. A higher-end optic from Aimpoint or EOTech would be a better choice.

A must-have accessory is a supply of CR2032 batteries. A higher-quality mount might also be worth considering for more demanding applications.

Conclusion on NcStar 35mm Tri-Color Dot Tube Reflex Optic

The NcStar 35mm Tri-Color Dot Tube Reflex Optic offers a compelling value proposition for budget-minded shooters. It provides a functional and versatile aiming solution at an affordable price. While it has its shortcomings, such as noticeable parallax and short battery life, it performs adequately for recreational use and close-range applications.

At around $60, the price is justified, considering the included mount and tri-color reticle. If you are looking for a basic red dot sight for casual shooting and aren’t overly concerned with pinpoint accuracy, I would recommend giving it a try. Just remember to keep those extra batteries handy.