Let’s Dive into NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight
The NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight is an entry-level aiming solution designed primarily for AR-15 platform rifles. Manufactured by NcSTAR, it offers a budget-friendly option for those looking to add a backup iron sight or complete their rifle build without breaking the bank. My curiosity was piqued by the price point and the promise of a deployable front sight, something I’ve typically associated with higher-end components.
I had a specific need: a lightweight, low-profile front sight for a dedicated .22LR AR build. The goal was to have a reliable backup sighting system that wouldn’t add significant weight or bulk to the rifle. I unboxed the NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight with admittedly low expectations, but hoping to be pleasantly surprised.
My initial impression was… utilitarian. The sight felt lighter than expected, though the aluminum and steel construction, as advertised, seemed reasonably solid. The finish was a matte black, and the deployment mechanism felt a bit stiff, but functional.
I considered a few other options, including some fixed front sights and higher-end flip-up models from Magpul and Troy. Ultimately, the NcSTAR sight won out due to its incredibly low price and the specific need for a backup on a .22LR plinker. I figured if it failed, the loss would be minimal.
Frankly, I was cautiously optimistic. My experience with budget-priced optics and sights has been mixed. While some have been surprisingly decent, others have been complete disappointments. The price of the NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight set the bar low, so I wasn’t expecting perfection, but I was certainly hoping for functionality.
Real-World Testing: Putting NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight on my dedicated .22LR AR-15 build at an outdoor shooting range. The weather was sunny and dry, perfect conditions for sighting in. Mounting the sight to the Picatinny rail was straightforward, and it secured tightly with the included hardware.
Performance was… interesting. As some users noted, zeroing was a challenge. The sight, when mounted on the receiver’s top rail, sat too high to properly zero with a standard AR-15 rear sight. My shots were consistently high, even with the rear sight adjusted to its lowest setting.
I quickly realized this sight is truly intended for use on AR-15s with railed gas blocks that sit lower than the receiver rail. There were no immediate failures, but the zeroing issue was a significant hurdle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After understanding the height issue, I experimented with shimming the rear sight to compensate. This was not an ideal solution, but it allowed me to get rounds on paper at 50 yards. After several range sessions, the sight has held up surprisingly well, despite the initial zeroing challenges.
There are no obvious signs of wear and tear. The finish is still intact, and the deployment mechanism continues to function. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a cloth and some CLP is all it takes.
Compared to other iron sights I’ve used, the NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight is definitely at the lower end of the spectrum in terms of precision and ease of use. Higher-quality sights offer finer adjustments and a clearer sight picture. However, for a backup sight on a .22LR, it’s adequate once you understand its limitations.
Breaking Down the Features of NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight
Specifications
The NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight is designed for AR-15 rifles and other platforms with Picatinny rail upper receivers. It features a top-mounted design, meaning it sits on the top Picatinny rail of your rifle. The sight is constructed from aluminum and steel, providing a degree of durability.
Key specifications include:
- Color: Black
- Sight Mounting Orientation: Top Mounted
- Sight Position: Front
- Gun Model: AR-15
- Gun Make: AR Platform
- Front Sight Color: Black
- Rear Sight Color: Front Sight Only (This is only a front sight, a rear sight is required)
- Deployable: Yes
- Fabric/Material: Aluminum & Steel
- Gun Type: Rifle
- Mount Type: Picatinny
These specifications matter because they dictate compatibility and functionality. The Picatinny mount ensures it can be attached to most modern AR-15 uppers. The aluminum and steel construction balances weight and durability. The deployable feature allows for quick access to the sight when needed, and keeps it out of the way when using an optic.
Performance & Functionality
The NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight functions adequately as a backup iron sight, provided it’s used on a rifle with a lower-profile railed gas block. Accuracy can be challenging to achieve if mounted on the same plane as the rear sight due to its height. It’s designed for a specific gas block height, a point not clearly emphasized in some product descriptions.
Strengths include its low price and deployable design. Weaknesses include the lack of windage adjustment (despite some advertisements claiming otherwise) and the potential zeroing issues when mounted on a standard upper receiver. It mostly meets expectations, as long as those expectations are tempered by its budget-friendly nature.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price. The materials feel relatively sturdy, but the finish isn’t as refined as higher-end sights. There’s a noticeable amount of play in the deployment mechanism, but it locks into place securely.
The sight is reasonably user-friendly, although the lack of windage adjustment limits its adjustability. The deployment lever is easy to manipulate, even with gloves on. There’s a slight learning curve in understanding its intended use case (lower gas block) to avoid zeroing problems.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its aluminum and steel construction, the NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation. The sight appears relatively easy to maintain and repair, although replacement parts may be difficult to source due to its budget nature.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight doesn’t come with any additional accessories. There aren’t really any customization options available directly for the sight itself. However, it’s compatible with any standard AR-15 rear sight, allowing users to choose a rear sight that suits their preferences. Due to its non-standard height on a flat top, pairing it with standard height sights may lead to issues with zeroing.
Pros and Cons of NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight
Pros
- Extremely affordable price point.
- Deployable design allows for unobstructed optic use.
- Aluminum and steel construction provides decent durability.
- Easy to install on any Picatinny rail.
- Functions adequately as a backup sight when used with a lower railed gas block.
Cons
- Significant zeroing issues when mounted on a standard flattop receiver.
- Lacks windage adjustment, despite some misleading descriptions.
- Build quality is basic; may not withstand heavy use or abuse.
Who Should Buy NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight?
The NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who need a backup iron sight for an AR-15 with a railed gas block that sits lower than the receiver rail. It’s also suitable for those building a .22LR AR-15 or similar plinking rifle where extreme accuracy isn’t paramount.
Those who should skip this product include anyone looking for a precise, adjustable front sight for a primary optic setup on a standard AR-15 upper receiver. If your rifle has a flattop rail on both the receiver and gas block, this sight likely won’t work for you. Anyone who plans to rely on iron sights as their primary sighting system should invest in a higher-quality option.
A must-have accessory for this sight is a compatible AR-15 rear sight. Depending on the height of the front sight relative to the rear sight, you may need shims or a taller rear sight to achieve a proper zero.
Conclusion on NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight
The NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight is a budget-friendly option that delivers basic functionality. It’s not a high-end sight, and it has limitations, particularly regarding zeroing when mounted on a standard flattop receiver. However, when paired with a lower railed gas block, it can serve as an adequate backup sight for the price.
The value proposition is fair. For around $11, you get a deployable front sight that will get you on target in a pinch. Just be aware of its intended use case and potential zeroing challenges.
I would cautiously recommend it to those on a very tight budget or those specifically needing a sight for a lower railed gas block. If you can afford to spend more, a higher-quality sight with better adjustability and a clearer sight picture is a worthwhile investment.
Ultimately, the NcSTAR Top Mounted Deployable Front Sight is a testament to the fact that you often get what you pay for. It’s a functional, affordable option with limitations, but it can be a viable solution for specific needs. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly backup iron sight for a .22LR or a lower railed gas block AR build, give it a try. But be sure to manage your expectations and understand its limitations before heading to the range.