NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope Review

Let’s Dive into NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope

The NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope is a budget-friendly optic designed for a variety of shooting applications. Manufactured by NcSTAR, this scope offers variable magnification, an illuminated reticle, and a compact design, making it an appealing option for those seeking an affordable entry into the world of rifle scopes. It aims to provide a functional optic for recreational shooting, hunting small game, or plinking, without breaking the bank.

My journey to find this scope was driven by a need for a lightweight optic for my .22LR rifle. I wanted something more than basic iron sights, but didn’t want to invest in a high-end scope for a rifle primarily used for casual target practice and pest control. The compact size and illuminated reticle of the NcSTAR scope seemed like a potentially good fit.

Unboxing the NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope, my initial impression was… mixed. The scope felt surprisingly solid for its price point, though the finish was a bit rough. The weight was definitely a plus; it felt light and wouldn’t add much bulk to my rifle.

I considered the Simmons Whitetail Classic and the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn as alternatives. Both are similarly priced, but the NcSTAR offered the illuminated reticle, which I thought could be useful in low-light conditions. The smaller size of the NcSTAR, as compared to the Bushnell, was also a factor.

My first impression leaned towards cautious optimism. The price was right, and the features seemed promising, but I was also aware that budget optics often have compromises in quality and performance. It remained to be seen if the NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope could deliver a satisfactory experience.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope was at my local shooting range. I mounted it on my .22LR rifle and zeroed it at 50 yards. The initial zeroing process was straightforward, although the turrets felt a bit mushy and lacked distinct clicks.

The scope performed reasonably well in good lighting conditions. The image was clear enough for casual target shooting. However, in the late afternoon, as the light faded, the “ruby” coating on the lens gave the image a noticeable reddish tint, and the image quality degraded noticeably.

Using the illumination at dusk was helpful for target acquisition. The red dot was easily visible against the darkening background, but the brightness settings were not very granular, with some settings being too dim and others too bright. There were no major issues, but the optical quality wasn’t stellar.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope has held up reasonably well, considering its price. There are a few minor scratches on the finish, but the scope still functions. The windage and elevation turrets still feel imprecise, but they hold zero adequately for .22LR shooting.

I have noticed a shift in point of impact after a few particularly bumpy trips to the range. It seems the scope is sensitive to rough handling. The illuminated reticle still works, though the battery cover feels a bit flimsy and I’m concerned about its long-term durability.

Compared to a higher-quality Leupold scope I own, the NcSTAR falls short in terms of optical clarity, durability, and overall build quality. However, considering the significant price difference, the NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope offers acceptable performance for its intended use. I clean the exterior lens with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner as needed, and I remove the scope from the rifle during long periods of storage to reduce stress on the mounting rings.

Breaking Down the Features of NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope

Specifications

• Objective Lens Diameter: 42 mm. The 42mm objective lens gathers a decent amount of light for a relatively compact scope.
• Magnification: 3 – 9 x. This variable magnification range is suitable for a variety of shooting distances.
• Reticle: Illuminated P4 Sniper. The P4 Sniper reticle offers multiple aiming points, and the illumination can be useful in low-light conditions.
• Tube Diameter: 1 in. A one-inch tube is a common size, making it compatible with a wide range of mounting rings.
• Exit Pupil: 4.7 – 14 mm. This refers to the size of the beam of light that exits the scope and enters your eye.
• Illumination Color: Red. The red illumination helps to highlight the reticle against dark backgrounds.
• Field of View, Linear: 12.5 – 37.7 ft at 100 yds. The field of view represents the width of the area you can see through the scope at a given distance.
• Eye Relief: 3 in. Three inches of eye relief is sufficient for most shooters, but it might be tight for those with longer necks.
• Color: Black. The black finish is standard for most rifle scopes.
• Weight: 12.1 oz. The lightweight design makes it suitable for mounting on various rifles without adding excessive weight.
• Length: 7.52 in. The compact length is ideal for smaller rifles or situations where space is limited.
• Illumination Type: LED. LED illumination provides efficient and bright reticle visibility.
• Optical Coating: Ruby. The NcSTAR’s Ruby lens coating is intended to reduce glare and improve image contrast.
• Brightness Settings: 7. Seven brightness settings allow you to adjust the reticle’s intensity to suit various lighting conditions.
• Magnification Type: Variable. The variable magnification allows you to zoom in or out to adjust for different shooting distances.
• Condition: New. It comes brand new from the manufacturer.

Performance & Functionality

The NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope performs adequately for recreational shooting. Accuracy is acceptable at moderate ranges, and the illuminated reticle aids in target acquisition in low light. The variable magnification provides flexibility for different shooting scenarios.

However, the optical clarity is not exceptional, and the turrets lack precise adjustments. The ruby lens coating introduces a color cast, which can be distracting. I found the scope’s performance adequate for casual target shooting, but I would not recommend it for serious hunting or precision shooting.

Design & Ergonomics

The NcSTAR scope features a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to handle and mount on various rifles. The build quality is acceptable for its price range, although the materials feel somewhat cheap. The scope is comfortable to use, although the eye relief may be a bit short for some shooters.

The brightness adjustment knob is easy to access, but the turrets are mushy and lack distinct clicks. The rubber eyepiece provides a comfortable viewing experience. The design is functional but lacks the refinement of higher-end optics.

Durability & Maintenance

The NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope is not built for extreme durability. It will likely withstand light use, but it may not hold up well under harsh conditions. Maintenance is minimal; simply cleaning the lenses with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner is sufficient.

Long-term reliability may be questionable, given the price point and materials used. However, with proper care and moderate use, the scope should last for a reasonable period. I would recommend storing it in a padded case when not in use to protect it from damage.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope typically includes lens caps and a battery for the illuminated reticle. It is compatible with standard one-inch scope rings, allowing for a variety of mounting options. There are no significant customization options available for this particular scope.

You can add aftermarket lens covers or sunshades, but the core functionality remains the same. The scope is not designed for extensive modification. Given its budget-friendly nature, most users will likely use it as-is rather than investing in upgrades.

Pros and Cons of NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope?

The NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope is perfect for recreational shooters, plinkers, and those looking for an affordable optic for their .22LR rifles. It’s also suitable for beginners who want to experiment with scopes without making a significant investment. It can be a good option for pest control on a hobby farm as well, or for a very light recoiling rifle like a .17HMR.

Those who should skip this product include serious hunters, competitive shooters, or anyone requiring high levels of accuracy and durability. If you need a scope that can withstand harsh conditions or provide crystal-clear optics, you’ll need to invest in a higher-end model. The scope may also be unsuitable for larger caliber rifles.

A must-have accessory would be a decent set of scope rings to ensure a secure and stable mount. Also, keeping a spare battery for the illuminated reticle on hand is recommended. Lens cleaning cloths are always important.

Conclusion on NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope

The NcSTAR Illuminated Compact Rifle Scope – 3-9x42E Ill. Scope / Ruby SEC3942R Rifle Scope offers a budget-friendly entry into the world of rifle optics. It provides acceptable performance for recreational shooting and plinking, with the added benefit of an illuminated reticle. However, it’s essential to understand its limitations in terms of optical clarity, durability, and turret adjustments.

The price is justified for what it offers, but it’s crucial to have realistic expectations. If you’re on a tight budget and need a basic scope for casual use, the NcSTAR might be a viable option. However, if you require high-quality optics and rugged durability, you’ll need to invest in a more expensive model.

I would personally recommend this scope to budget-conscious shooters who understand its limitations. For its intended purpose, it’s a functional and affordable option. However, be aware that you’re getting what you pay for, and don’t expect it to perform like a high-end optic. If you’re on the fence, consider giving it a try – just remember to temper your expectations accordingly!