Let’s Dive into NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount
The NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount promises to be a versatile solution for mounting optics and accessories on your shotgun. Marketed by NcSTAR as a rugged and customizable platform, it aims to bridge the gap between traditional shotgun setups and modern tactical needs. The allure of easily adding a micro-dot sight and other accessories without gunsmithing is what initially grabbed my attention.
My interest in this product stemmed from a desire to modernize my trusty Remington 870 for home defense scenarios. I wanted a way to quickly acquire targets with a red dot, but also retain the option to mount a light for low-light situations. I had been looking at other options, including replacing the entire forend, but the NcSTAR mount seemed like a less invasive and more cost-effective starting point.
Upon unboxing, the NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount felt surprisingly solid. The hard anodized aluminum construction gave it a reassuring heft. The initial impression was positive.
I considered the GG&G Mossberg 590 Accessory Rail and the Mesa Tactical Barrel Clamp with Rails before settling on the NcSTAR. The GG&G seemed excessively bulky and the Mesa Tactical was significantly more expensive. This mount offered a middle ground in terms of price and features.
My first impression was a mix of excitement and apprehension. The build quality seemed promising, but I worried about the potential for it to shift under recoil and the overall impact on the shotgun’s balance. I was eager to see if it would live up to its claims of ruggedness and versatility.
Real-World Testing: Putting NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range, where I subjected my Remington 870, equipped with the NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount, to a variety of scenarios. These included rapid target acquisition drills and low-light simulations. I shot approximately 100 rounds of mixed birdshot and buckshot. The conditions were dry and mild.
The initial installation proved straightforward. However, after only about 20 rounds, I noticed the mount had begun to shift slightly on the barrel. This meant I had to retighten the screws, which was not ideal. The micro-dot held zero initially.
Despite the initial shifting, the NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount was manageable to use and functioned as it should. The cantilevered micro dot mount was easy to see and use. I tested the mount using a flashlight as well.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and approximately 300 more rounds, the shifting issue persisted. I attempted to use thread locker, but that only marginally improved the situation. Wear and tear was evident on the finish where the mount contacted the barrel and magazine tube.
Cleaning the shotgun with the mount installed is significantly more cumbersome. It requires complete removal of the assembly for a thorough cleaning. This process is time-consuming.
Compared to other mounting solutions I have used, the NcSTAR falls short in terms of reliability and ease of maintenance. I was hoping for a more robust and user-friendly solution. The mount needs to be removed in multiple steps, which is not conducive to frequent cleaning.
Breaking Down the Features of NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount
Specifications
The NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount features:
- Length: 2.7 inches
- Height: 3 inches
- Weight: 5.2 oz.
- Construction: Aluminum with black anodized finish
The mount’s relatively short length keeps it compact, while the 3-inch height accommodates various optic sizes. The weight, at 5.2 oz., is noticeable but not overly burdensome. The aluminum construction is lightweight but durability under heavy recoil is questionable.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount is to provide a stable platform for mounting optics and accessories. The dedicated cantilevered micro dot mount is compatible with NcSTAR micro-dot reflex optics. The two side Weaver/Picatinny rails allow for attaching flashlights or laser sights.
The mount performs adequately for light use, but the shifting issue under recoil is a significant drawback. Accuracy can be compromised if the mount is not consistently tightened. The mount’s design somewhat limits compatibility with certain extended magazine tubes, causing fitment issues reported by some users.
Design & Ergonomics
The NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount features a simple, utilitarian design. The aluminum construction keeps the weight reasonable, but the finish is prone to wear. The mount’s height can interfere with some traditional shotgun sighting methods.
The mount is relatively easy to install, but the need for frequent retightening detracts from its user-friendliness. There is a noticeable learning curve in consistently achieving proper torque to prevent slippage without overtightening.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction of the NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount is susceptible to wear and tear, particularly under the stress of repeated recoil. The finish is prone to scratching and chipping. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to prevent corrosion and ensure proper function.
The mount is not particularly easy to maintain due to its multiple components and the need for complete disassembly for thorough cleaning. The shifting issue also necessitates frequent checks and adjustments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount comes with a rail adapter for mounting Weaver/Picatinny type accessories on top of the cantilever mount. It includes two side Weaver/Picatinny type rails for attaching accessories. Compatibility is primarily geared toward NcSTAR micro-dot reflex optics, but standard Weaver/Picatinny accessories should fit.
The level of customization is decent, allowing for various optic and accessory configurations. However, compatibility issues with certain extended magazine tubes may limit options for some users. The mount is designed to work with NcSTAR Micro-Dot Reflex Optics: DDAB, DDABG, DDABL, DGAB, DXDAB, and DXGAB.
Pros and Cons of NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount
Pros
- Provides a platform for mounting optics and accessories.
- Affordable compared to other mounting solutions.
- Dedicated cantilevered micro-dot mount for quick target acquisition.
- Relatively easy to install.
- Adds tactical versatility to traditional shotguns.
Cons
- Mount shifts under recoil, requiring frequent retightening.
- Incompatible with some extended magazine tubes.
- Cumbersome to remove for cleaning.
- Finish is prone to wear and tear.
Who Should Buy NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount?
The NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who want to add basic optics and accessories to their shotgun. It may be useful for casual recreational shooting or home defense scenarios where extreme reliability is not paramount. It’s suitable for those who own compatible NcSTAR micro-dot optics.
Those who require a rock-solid, reliable mounting solution for heavy use or tactical applications should skip this product. This includes law enforcement professionals or serious competitors. Someone looking for easy cleaning should avoid this product as well.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality thread locker to mitigate the shifting issue. A more robust set of screws could also improve stability. It may also be beneficial to pair this mount with a lighter-weight micro dot to further reduce any shifting.
Conclusion on NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount
The NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount offers an affordable entry point into the world of tactical shotgun accessories. However, its primary flaw – the tendency to shift under recoil – significantly detracts from its overall value. The shifting makes the reliability questionable.
At a price of $68.93, the price is justified if you understand its limitations. It is not a premium product. This is a budget option for light use.
I would cautiously recommend it to those who understand its limitations and are willing to accept the need for frequent adjustments. For those seeking a truly reliable and robust mounting solution, investing in a higher-quality alternative is advisable. The NcSTAR Shotgun Barrel/Mag Tube Micro-Dot/Rail Mount offers a glimpse into the potential of tactical shotguns, but falls short of delivering a truly confidence-inspiring experience.