My first impression of NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight
In the realm of tactical and outdoor gear, few things are as crucial as accurate sighting. Enter the NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight, a compact optic promising enhanced target acquisition at an accessible price point. NcSTAR, known for offering budget-friendly options, aims to deliver a reliable red dot sight without breaking the bank.
My journey to this particular red dot was born out of a need for a lightweight, low-profile optic for my pistol. I wanted something that wouldn’t add significant bulk, yet would provide a clear and quick aiming solution for both range practice and potential self-defense scenarios. The compact size and integrated weaver-style mount of the NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight immediately caught my attention.
Upon unboxing, I was pleasantly surprised by the solid feel of the anodized aluminum body. Its lightweight nature, a mere 1.30 oz, was immediately apparent and appealing. Compared to bulkier red dots I’ve used in the past, the NcSTAR offering felt refreshingly minimalist. I considered other micro red dots from Trijicon and Holosun, but the NcSTAR won out due to its significantly lower price, making it a compelling option for budget-conscious users like myself.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. Could such an affordable optic truly deliver on its promises of accuracy and durability? Only real-world testing would reveal the answer, but I was eager to put the NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My first foray with the NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight was at my local outdoor shooting range. I mounted it on a 9mm pistol and began zeroing it at 25 yards. The integrated weaver-style mount made attachment straightforward.
The red dot was easy to see in daylight conditions, although the intensity wasn’t adjustable. I ran a few magazines through the pistol, focusing on target acquisition speed and accuracy. Despite being a fixed intensity, the dot remained visible even under the bright afternoon sun.
The lack of adjustable brightness was a minor inconvenience. However, for the price, the performance was satisfactory.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight has proven reasonably reliable. While not subjected to extreme abuse, it has endured typical range sessions and holster draws without issue.
I’ve noticed some minor cosmetic wear on the anodized finish. However, the optic itself remains functional. Maintenance is simple: just wipe the lens with a microfiber cloth.
Compared to higher-end red dots I’ve used, the NcSTAR falls short in terms of robustness and refinement. Yet, considering its price point, it has exceeded my initial expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight
Specifications
The NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight boasts a 1x magnification with a 23.5×16.8mm objective lens. This provides an unlimited field of view and eye relief, making it suitable for rapid target acquisition. The 2 MOA red dot offers a good balance between precision and visibility.
The sight measures 1.80 inches in length and weighs only 1.30 oz, keeping your firearm light and maneuverable. Its black anodized finish provides some degree of protection against the elements. Power is supplied by a single CR2032 3V lithium battery. The NcSTAR offering includes a lens cover, mounting tool, and an extra battery.
These specifications highlight the optic’s primary focus: compactness and ease of use. The lightweight design is perfect for applications where weight is a concern.
Performance & Functionality
The NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight performs its core function adequately. The 2 MOA dot is crisp and clear, facilitating accurate shots at reasonable distances. The unlimited eye relief is a definite plus, allowing for flexible head positioning.
A significant weakness is the lack of adjustable brightness settings. This limits its effectiveness in very bright or low-light conditions. However, for general daytime use, it’s perfectly functional.
It meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly red dot, offering a noticeable improvement over iron sights for many users.
Design & Ergonomics
The anodized aluminum body feels surprisingly solid, giving the NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight a decent level of durability. Its lightweight design ensures it doesn’t upset the balance of the firearm. The integrated weaver-style mount simplifies installation.
There’s a minimal learning curve, as the NcSTAR is essentially point-and-shoot. The standard on/off switch is simple to operate.
Durability & Maintenance
While not as rugged as higher-end optics, the NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight appears reasonably durable for its price. Expect some cosmetic wear over time, but the core functionality should remain intact with proper care.
Maintenance is straightforward: keep the lens clean and replace the battery as needed. Its simple design minimizes potential points of failure.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight comes with a basic set of accessories: a lens cover, mounting tool, and an extra battery. The integrated weaver-style mount limits customization options, as it’s designed for direct attachment to weaver rails.
It’s compatible with any firearm that accepts weaver-style mounts, making it versatile in that regard. However, there are no provisions for adding aftermarket risers or alternative mounting solutions.
Pros and Cons of NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight
Pros
- Extremely Affordable: The most significant advantage is its low price, making it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Lightweight and Compact: Its minimal weight and size make it ideal for pistols and other firearms where bulk is a concern.
- Easy to Install: The integrated weaver-style mount simplifies installation on compatible firearms.
- Unlimited Eye Relief: Provides flexibility in head positioning for rapid target acquisition.
- Crisp 2 MOA Dot: Offers a good balance between precision and visibility for accurate shooting.
Cons
- Lack of Adjustable Brightness: Limits its effectiveness in varying lighting conditions.
- Durability Concerns: Not as robust as higher-end optics.
Who Should Buy NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight?
The NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight is perfect for casual shooters, plinkers, and those new to red dot optics. It’s also a good option for anyone seeking a budget-friendly optic for a dedicated range gun or backup firearm. It is a very good option for users that prefer a Red Dot Sight on their 22LR.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who need an optic for professional use, hunting in varying light conditions, or tactical applications requiring extreme durability.
A must-have accessory would be a higher-quality lens cleaning solution to ensure optimal clarity.
Conclusion on NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight
The NcSTAR Micro RDS 1x 23.5×16.8mm 2 MOA Illuminated Red Dot Sight offers a compelling value proposition for budget-conscious shooters. While it lacks the advanced features and ruggedness of more expensive optics, it delivers adequate performance for casual use.
At a price of $34.99, the price is definitely justified. It provides a noticeable improvement over iron sights at a fraction of the cost of premium red dots.
I would recommend it to anyone looking for an entry-level red dot sight. Give the NcSTAR Micro RDS a try and experience the benefits of red dot optics without breaking the bank!