Let’s Dive into NcSTAR Scope Mount – AR15 Trimount Flattop Mount MTRIF
The NcSTAR Scope Mount – AR15 Trimount Flattop Mount MTRIF is a budget-friendly option for AR-15 owners looking to add some versatility to their flat top rifles. NcSTAR aims to provide affordable tactical accessories, and this mount seeks to offer a simple, no-frills solution for mounting optics and accessories. It boasts a tri-mount design, allowing for the attachment of scopes, red dots, lasers, or flashlights.
I was looking for an inexpensive way to mount a red dot on a dedicated .22LR AR-15 build I was putting together for training. I didn’t want to spend a fortune on a high-end mount for a rifle that would primarily be used for plinking and practicing fundamentals. This NcSTAR mount seemed like a good option to test out given its low price point and the added versatility of the tri-rail system.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was that the mount was surprisingly lightweight. The aluminum construction felt adequate, but the finish was a bit rough around the edges. The three Weaver-style rails appeared functional, although I could tell the machining wasn’t exactly top-tier.
Compared to a Burris PEPR mount I have on my 5.56 AR, the NcSTAR mount felt significantly less robust. Similarly, a Midwest Industries QD mount I use on another rifle offered a much cleaner, more precise fit and finish. I chose to try the NcSTAR due to the low price and the trimount feature, hoping it could provide a cost-effective solution for my .22LR AR.
My initial excitement was tempered by the somewhat crude finish, but I remained optimistic that it would perform its intended function adequately. I was curious to see how well it would hold zero and whether the side rails would prove useful for mounting a light or laser.
Real-World Testing: Putting NcSTAR Scope Mount – AR15 Trimount Flattop Mount MTRIF to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the NcSTAR Scope Mount – AR15 Trimount Flattop Mount MTRIF at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing the mount with a red dot optic. I mounted a Sig Sauer Romeo5 on the top rail and a small tactical light on one of the side rails.
The mount performed adequately during my initial testing, holding the red dot relatively steady through several magazines. The side rail proved useful for mounting the light, allowing me to experiment with different lighting configurations. The mount functioned as intended but after about 100 rounds, I noticed the screws had started to loosen and I needed to re-tighten the mount to maintain zero.
The installation process was relatively straightforward, but required some fiddling to ensure the mount was properly aligned on the Picatinny rail. I didn’t need significant time to get used to the mount, but the looseness of the screws were an unwelcome surprise.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the NcSTAR Scope Mount – AR15 Trimount Flattop Mount MTRIF showed signs of wear and tear. The finish began to wear off around the edges, and the screws required frequent tightening to maintain zero. I had concerns that the mount was not performing well.
The mount held up decently overall, but the constant need to tighten the screws was a significant drawback. The anodized finish scratched easily, revealing the bare aluminum underneath. Cleaning was simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a cloth, but the loosening screws were a recurring issue.
Compared to my experiences with higher-end mounts, the NcSTAR mount definitely disappointed in terms of long-term reliability and durability. The Burris and Midwest Industries mounts I own have held zero consistently and shown minimal wear, even after extensive use. The NcSTAR mount, while functional, felt like a compromise in terms of quality.
Breaking Down the Features of NcSTAR Scope Mount – AR15 Trimount Flattop Mount MTRIF
Specifications
The NcSTAR Scope Mount – AR15 Trimount Flattop Mount MTRIF is designed for AR-15 flat top receivers. It features a tri-mount Weaver-style rail system for attaching optics and accessories. The mount is constructed from hard-anodized aluminum.
Adjustable side tabs allow for the attachment of additional accessories such as a laser or flashlight. The NcSTAR mount is designed to be customizable.
Performance & Functionality
The NcSTAR Scope Mount – AR15 Trimount Flattop Mount MTRIF performs its primary function of mounting optics adequately. The main strength of this mount is its affordability and the added versatility of the tri-rail system.
However, the mount’s weakness lies in its tendency for the screws to loosen over time, impacting its ability to hold zero consistently. The budget-friendly price is appealing, but the mount falls short of expectations in terms of long-term reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the NcSTAR Scope Mount – AR15 Trimount Flattop Mount MTRIF reflects its affordable price point. The materials used are functional but lack the refined finish and robust feel of higher-end mounts. It is lightweight but the lightweight nature of the design introduces doubt when considering the recoil of larger calibers.
The design is user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools for installation. The side rails add versatility, but the overall fit and finish could be improved.
Durability & Maintenance
The long-term durability of the NcSTAR Scope Mount – AR15 Trimount Flattop Mount MTRIF is questionable. The finish wears easily, and the loosening screws indicate potential long-term reliability issues. Maintenance is simple, but the need for frequent screw tightening is a drawback.
Repairing the mount is not feasible; it’s likely more cost-effective to replace it if it fails. The overall lifespan of the mount is likely shorter compared to higher-quality alternatives.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcSTAR Scope Mount – AR15 Trimount Flattop Mount MTRIF doesn’t come with any included accessories beyond the mounting screws. Customization options are limited to the choice of optics and accessories attached to the Weaver-style rails.
The mount is compatible with most Weaver-style accessories, including scopes, red dots, lasers, and flashlights. There are no specific NcSTAR accessories designed specifically for this mount.
Pros and Cons of NcSTAR Scope Mount – AR15 Trimount Flattop Mount MTRIF
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for budget-conscious users.
- Tri-rail design provides versatility for mounting multiple accessories.
- Lightweight construction adds minimal weight to the rifle.
- Easy to install with basic tools.
- Compatible with most Weaver-style optics and accessories.
Cons
- Screws tend to loosen over time, affecting the ability to hold zero.
- The finish is prone to wear and scratching.
- The overall build quality is not as robust as higher-end mounts.
Who Should Buy NcSTAR Scope Mount – AR15 Trimount Flattop Mount MTRIF?
The NcSTAR Scope Mount – AR15 Trimount Flattop Mount MTRIF is perfect for casual shooters or those building budget-friendly AR-15s for plinking or training. It’s also suitable for those who want to experiment with different accessory configurations without investing in expensive mounts.
This product isn’t recommended for serious competitive shooters or those who require absolute reliability in demanding conditions. Anyone using high powered rifle cartridges should avoid this product. For serious applications, consider higher-quality mounts from reputable brands like LaRue, American Defense, or Nightforce.
A must-have modification would be to apply Loc-tite to the threads of the mounting screws to prevent them from loosening over time. Consider purchasing higher-quality mounting screws for improved reliability.
Conclusion on NcSTAR Scope Mount – AR15 Trimount Flattop Mount MTRIF
The NcSTAR Scope Mount – AR15 Trimount Flattop Mount MTRIF is a budget-friendly option that provides basic functionality for mounting optics and accessories on an AR-15. It’s an okay product. The tri-rail design offers versatility, but the loosening screws and questionable durability are significant drawbacks.
The price is certainly justified for what you get, but buyers should be aware of the limitations before purchasing. While I personally wouldn’t recommend it for serious applications, it can be a decent option for casual shooters on a tight budget.
If you’re looking for an affordable way to mount a red dot or accessories on your AR-15 and don’t mind the occasional screw tightening, the NcSTAR mount might be worth considering. However, be prepared to potentially upgrade to a higher-quality mount in the future for improved reliability.