First Thoughts on the NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black
The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black is a simple, yet often essential, piece of kit for AR-15 enthusiasts. As someone with over a decade in the tactical gear world, I’ve seen firsthand how proper optic mounting can make or break a shooting experience. This riser promises a straightforward solution to a common problem: achieving optimal cheek weld and eye alignment with your chosen optic.
My journey to this riser began after mounting a new red dot sight on my AR-15 pistol build. The optic sat too low, requiring me to crane my neck uncomfortably to acquire a proper sight picture. I needed an affordable, reliable solution to raise the optic to a more natural and ergonomic height.
The NcStar riser arrived in simple packaging. My initial impression was that it was surprisingly solid for the price. It appeared well-machined, with a smooth, black anodized finish. Compared to other, more expensive risers I’ve used, the weight felt appropriate. I picked this over other, similarly priced risers because of NcStar’s generally positive reputation for providing functional products at a budget-friendly price point. I was cautiously optimistic.
Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black at my local outdoor shooting range. It was a sunny afternoon with a slight breeze – perfect conditions for zeroing my red dot. Installation was simple: the riser mounted easily to the AR’s Picatinny rail, and the optic then secured to the riser itself. The provided screws felt adequate and tightened securely.
The immediate improvement in my shooting posture was noticeable. I could now acquire the red dot sight picture quickly and naturally without straining my neck. My groupings at 50 yards tightened up considerably. No major issues arose during the first 100 rounds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips spanning a couple of months, the NcStar riser has held up reasonably well. There are some minor scratches on the anodized finish from routine handling. I haven’t observed any loosening of the screws or shifting of the optic on the riser.
Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps it looking good. The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black hasn’t disappointed in terms of basic functionality. While it doesn’t offer the rock-solid, bomb-proof feel of higher-end risers, it performs its intended purpose adequately.
Breaking Down the Features of NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black
Specifications
The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black features the following specifications:
- Length: 5.20 inches. This provides ample rail space for most optics and accessories.
- Weight: 4.2 oz. The lightweight design minimizes added bulk to your firearm.
- Material: Aluminum. This keeps the riser light and resistant to corrosion.
- Color: Black Anodized. This provides a durable and non-reflective finish.
- Compatibility: Weaver/Picatinny/MIL-STD 1913 rail. It will work on most modern firearm platforms.
- Riser Height: 3/4 inch. This will lift your optic to improve the sight picture.
The 3/4″ rise is crucial for those needing to correct a low-mounted optic, improving cheek weld. The lightweight aluminum construction prevents adding unnecessary weight to your rifle.
Performance & Functionality
The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black performs its core function well: raising an optic. Once mounted, the optic remains securely in place. The hollow channel is a neat feature. While not a true “see-through” design in my setup, it could potentially allow for the use of iron sights on some rifles with very low-profile front sights.
The strength lies in its simplicity and affordability. The weakness is that it’s a budget-friendly option. One must moderate expectations regarding extreme durability or high-end features. It meets basic expectations for casual range use and some field applications.
Design & Ergonomics
The riser boasts a straightforward, no-frills design. The black anodized finish is aesthetically pleasing and blends well with most AR-15 builds. The rounded edges prevent snagging. The weight is manageable and doesn’t noticeably affect the rifle’s balance.
Mounting the riser is simple and requires only basic tools. The smooth rail surfaces ensure easy installation of optics and accessories. There’s no complex adjustment or learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction is reasonably durable for its price point. The anodized finish helps to protect against scratches and corrosion. Under normal use, the riser should last for several years.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down after each use is usually sufficient. Occasional checks to ensure the screws are tightened are recommended.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black doesn’t come with any accessories. However, it’s designed to be compatible with any optic or accessory that utilizes a Weaver/Picatinny rail system. Red dot sights, holographic sights, and even some magnified optics can be readily mounted.
It’s universally compatible with most AR-15 accessories. There are no specific brand restrictions or proprietary mounting systems.
Pros and Cons of NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black
Pros
- Affordable price: One of the most budget-friendly riser options on the market.
- Simple and easy to install: Requires no special tools or expertise.
- Lightweight design: Adds minimal weight to your firearm.
- Functional and reliable: Securely raises your optic for improved sight picture.
- Universal compatibility: Works with most Weaver/Picatinny optics and accessories.
Cons
- Lacks the robust durability of higher-end risers.
- The finish may be prone to scratching with heavy use.
Who Should Buy NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black?
The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black is perfect for budget-conscious shooters. This also goes for those building their first AR-15, and casual range users. It suits anyone needing a simple solution to correct low-mounted optics.
Serious tactical operators or those who require absolute bombproof reliability should probably skip this product. They would be better served by investing in a higher-end riser from a premium manufacturer. A must-have accessory to go with this would be a threadlocker, such as Loctite, for the mounting screws, ensuring they remain secured under recoil.
Conclusion on NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black
The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black is an honest product. It delivers on its core promise of raising your optic at an incredibly affordable price. It’s not the most durable or feature-rich riser on the market. However, it provides a functional solution for those on a budget.
The price is absolutely justified for what you get. It is a great value for the money.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for an inexpensive and effective way to improve their AR-15 shooting experience. If you need a basic riser that gets the job done without breaking the bank, the NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black is a solid choice. Give it a shot – you might be surprised!