First Thoughts on the Strike SIREXRISERBL REX Riser Picatinny Style Blue Finish
The Strike SIREXRISERBL REX Riser Picatinny Style Blue Finish is a low-profile optic riser designed to elevate your red dot or other Picatinny-mounted accessories. Manufactured by Strike Industries, this riser aims to provide a lightweight and aesthetically pleasing solution for achieving a comfortable co-witness height with iron sights. The vibrant blue anodized finish adds a touch of personalization to your firearm, setting it apart from the standard black tactical look.
For years, I’ve struggled with getting the perfect cheek weld when using red dot sights on my AR platform rifles. Most of my optics sat just a bit too low, forcing me to crane my neck or use an awkward cheek placement. I needed a riser that was sturdy, lightweight, and didn’t break the bank. I was searching for a solution that could offer a true co-witness with my existing iron sights.
Upon unboxing the Strike REX Riser, I was immediately struck by the vibrant blue anodized finish and the overall lightweight feel. The machining appeared clean and precise, and the included Loctite was a welcome addition. The riser felt solid in my hand, despite its minimal weight of just 2.58 ounces.
Compared to other risers I’ve used in the past, such as those from Magpul and UTG, the Strike REX Riser stands out due to its lower profile and unique aesthetic. While the Magpul risers are undeniably robust, they can sometimes feel bulky. The UTG risers, while affordable, often lack the refinement and build quality of higher-end options. The Strike offering seemed to strike a good balance between price, weight, and aesthetics.
My initial excitement stemmed from the potential to finally achieve a comfortable and consistent cheek weld with my red dot. The low profile design promised to elevate my optic to the perfect height without adding unnecessary bulk or weight to my rifle. I was eager to see if it would live up to my expectations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike SIREXRISERBL REX Riser Picatinny Style Blue Finish to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Strike SIREXRISERBL REX Riser at my local shooting range, mounting it on my AR-15 platform rifle paired with a Holosun HS503CU red dot. The weather was clear and dry, providing ideal conditions for zeroing and testing the co-witness. Installation was straightforward; after applying a small amount of the included Loctite, the riser mounted securely to my Picatinny rail.
The immediate difference was noticeable; my cheek weld felt much more natural and comfortable. The red dot sight now aligned perfectly with my iron sights, providing a true co-witness. This allowed for quick and intuitive target acquisition. Shooting at 50 yards, I was able to maintain tight groupings, demonstrating that the riser didn’t negatively impact the accuracy of my rifle.
One initial surprise was how well the blue anodized finish stood out. It added a unique touch to my rifle without being overly flashy. There were no noticeable issues or malfunctions after the first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Strike REX Riser has held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of loosening or shifting, and the blue anodized finish remains vibrant. The riser has seen action in various conditions, including a dusty outdoor range and a slightly damp hunting trip.
The durability of the aluminum construction has proven to be reliable. I have not observed any signs of wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic scratches. The riser has been easy to clean. A simple wipe down with a cloth and a bit of gun oil is all that is needed to keep it in good condition.
Compared to my previous experiences with other risers, the Strike REX Riser has consistently outperformed them in terms of weight, aesthetics, and overall stability. It has exceeded my initial expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike SIREXRISERBL REX Riser Picatinny Style Blue Finish
Specifications
- The Strike SIREXRISERBL REX Riser weighs in at a mere 2.58 ounces, making it an incredibly lightweight addition to your firearm setup. This ensures minimal impact on the overall balance and handling of your rifle.
- Its height, with the included spacer, is .63 inches, and .53 inches without, offering versatile co-witnessing options. The height allows users to achieve a comfortable alignment with various iron sight setups.
- The base of the riser is crafted from 6061-T6 Aluminum, known for its strength and durability. This ensures long-lasting reliability and resistance to wear and tear.
- It requires 5 rail sections to properly mount, guaranteeing a secure and stable attachment to your firearm. A solid mount prevents any unwanted shifting or movement during use.
- The total length of the riser is 2.09 inches, providing ample space for mounting various optics and accessories. Its compact design minimizes bulk and keeps your firearm streamlined.
- The Strike REX Riser features a distinct blue anodized finish, adding a touch of visual flair to your setup. The anodized finish enhances its resistance to corrosion and wear.
- The riser is designed for co-witnessing with A2 or Sidewinder sights, providing a versatile sighting solution. This allows for quick transitions between optics and iron sights if needed.
- The package includes medium strength Loctite, ensuring a secure and reliable installation. Proper installation with Loctite prevents loosening and ensures long-term stability.
- The riser utilizes a proprietary Picatinny rail design. It works for most mil-spec 1913 style rail attachments.
- This riser features 3 picatinny slot sections. This provides ample mounting space for a wide variety of optics and accessories
Performance & Functionality
The Strike SIREXRISERBL REX Riser performs its primary function of elevating optics exceptionally well. It provides a stable and secure platform for mounting red dot sights and other Picatinny-compatible accessories.
The riser allows for a comfortable and natural cheek weld, greatly improving shooting ergonomics. The co-witnessing capability with A2 and Sidewinder sights is a major strength. The proprietary Picatinny rail design, while generally compatible, could pose issues with certain accessories. This should be verified prior to purchase.
The riser meets and exceeds expectations. The low weight and aesthetic appeal of the Strike REX Riser further enhance its appeal.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Strike SIREXRISERBL REX Riser is impressive. The use of 6061-T6 aluminum contributes to its lightweight yet sturdy construction.
The riser is relatively user-friendly. Installation is simple. There is no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Strike REX Riser is built to last. The 6061-T6 aluminum and anodized finish provide excellent resistance to wear and corrosion.
Maintaining the riser is simple. Regular cleaning with a cloth and gun oil will keep it in optimal condition for years to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike SIREXRISERBL REX Riser comes with medium strength Loctite for secure installation. The riser is compatible with a wide range of Picatinny-mounted optics.
While there aren’t specific accessories designed solely for this riser, its Picatinny compatibility allows for extensive customization with various sights and lights. Its compatibility with standard Picatinny accessories provides a broad spectrum of customization options.
Pros and Cons of Strike SIREXRISERBL REX Riser Picatinny Style Blue Finish
Pros
- Lightweight Design: Weighing only 2.58 ounces, it adds minimal weight to your rifle.
- Durable Construction: Made from 6061-T6 aluminum for long-lasting reliability.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The blue anodized finish adds a unique and stylish touch.
- Co-Witness Compatibility: Designed for co-witnessing with A2 or Sidewinder sights.
- Easy Installation: Includes Loctite for a secure and straightforward mounting process.
Cons
- Proprietary Picatinny Rail: May not be compatible with all Picatinny accessories without verification.
- Limited Customization: Fewer options for dedicated accessories compared to more common riser designs.
Who Should Buy Strike SIREXRISERBL REX Riser Picatinny Style Blue Finish?
The Strike SIREXRISERBL REX Riser is perfect for AR-15 enthusiasts, recreational shooters, and tactical users who prioritize a lightweight, aesthetically pleasing, and reliable optic riser. It is a great solution for individuals seeking a comfortable co-witness height with their iron sights.
Those who require absolute universal compatibility with all Picatinny accessories or prefer a more standard, less visually distinct look might want to consider alternative options.
A quality red dot sight is a must-have. Consider an optic that will work well with the riser’s height.
Conclusion on Strike SIREXRISERBL REX Riser Picatinny Style Blue Finish
The Strike SIREXRISERBL REX Riser Picatinny Style Blue Finish is a well-designed and functional optic riser that offers a great balance of weight, durability, and aesthetics. The price is more than justified. It delivers on its promise of providing a comfortable co-witness height without adding unnecessary bulk.
I would definitely recommend this riser to anyone looking for a lightweight and stylish solution to improve their shooting ergonomics. If you value both performance and visual appeal, the Strike REX Riser is an excellent choice. Upgrade your rifle today!