The Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU MT – See Thru Ring Height Made a Bold First Impression
The Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU MT – See Thru Ring Height promises an affordable and lightweight mounting solution for .22 rimfire rifles. Leupold is a name synonymous with quality optics, and these rings aim to bring that reputation to a rimfire platform without breaking the bank. They feature a see-through design, allowing for the simultaneous use of iron sights and a mounted optic, a feature that caters to versatility in the field.
My old rimfire rifle, a trusty companion for small game hunting and casual target practice, had always felt limited by its rudimentary iron sights. I longed for the enhanced accuracy and target acquisition a scope could provide, but I also appreciated the simplicity and reliability of the iron sights. The promise of a see-through mounting system, allowing me to switch between optics and iron sights instantly, seemed like the perfect solution.
The Leupold RIFLEMAN rings arrived in a simple, no-frills package. Holding them, I was immediately struck by their light weight – a definite plus. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction felt reasonably solid, though naturally not as robust as steel rings I’ve handled on larger caliber rifles. I’ve used similar rings from Weaver and UTG in the past. The Leupold rings immediately felt more refined, despite their budget-friendly price point.
Initial impressions were positive. The rings seemed well-machined for the price. I was eager to mount them and see if they lived up to the promise of a seamless transition between optics and iron sights.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU MT – See Thru Ring Height to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Leupold RIFLEMAN rings came during a squirrel hunting trip in the Appalachian foothills. The mixed terrain, ranging from dense forest to open fields, presented a perfect scenario for evaluating the versatility of the see-through design. I mounted a compact 4×32 rimfire scope on the rings and headed out.
The rings mounted easily to the 3/8″ dovetail rail on my rifle. Sighting in the scope at the range was straightforward, and the rings held zero consistently during the initial session. In the field, the ability to quickly transition between the scope for longer shots in open areas and the iron sights for close-range encounters in the woods was a game-changer. The see-through design functioned as advertised, offering a clear sight picture through the rings when using the iron sights.
However, the first snag I encountered was the height of the scope above the bore. While the see-through design allowed me to use the iron sights, it also meant that the scope sat significantly higher than it would with standard rings. This higher mounting position required a noticeable adjustment to my cheek weld, making it less comfortable and potentially impacting accuracy at longer ranges.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Leupold RIFLEMAN rings have held up reasonably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The finish has proven resistant to scratches and minor abrasions.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a dry cloth to remove dirt and debris. I’ve periodically checked the tightness of the mounting screws, and they have remained secure. Compared to some cheaper rings I’ve used in the past, the Leupold rings have definitely proven more reliable in holding zero.
The initial cheek weld issue persisted, and eventually, I found myself primarily using the scope. I appreciated the option of the iron sights as a backup. However, I believe a lower mounting solution would be preferable for my personal shooting style.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU MT – See Thru Ring Height
Specifications
The Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU MT – See Thru Ring Height rings are specifically designed for mounting optics on rifles with a 3/8″ dovetail rail, commonly found on .22 rimfire rifles. They are constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, ensuring a lightweight yet durable platform. The see-through design allows for the simultaneous use of iron sights and a mounted optic.
The “See Thru Ring Height” indicates that these rings provide sufficient clearance for most standard iron sights to be used without obstruction. The rings are designed for a secure and repeatable mounting, ensuring consistent accuracy. They are sold as a matched pair.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Leupold RIFLEMAN rings is to provide a stable and reliable mounting platform for an optic on a .22 rifle. They perform this task adequately, holding zero reasonably well under normal shooting conditions. The see-through design offers a unique advantage. It allows for quick transitions between optics and iron sights.
However, the trade-off for this versatility is the increased height of the scope above the bore. This can impact cheek weld and potentially reduce accuracy, particularly at longer ranges. For users who prioritize a comfortable and consistent cheek weld, lower rings might be a better option.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Leupold RIFLEMAN rings is simple and functional. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction keeps the weight to a minimum. Installation is straightforward, requiring only a few basic tools.
The increased height due to the see-through design does negatively impact the rifle’s ergonomics. A cheek riser might be needed to achieve a comfortable shooting position, especially when using the scope.
Durability & Maintenance
The aircraft-grade aluminum construction of the Leupold RIFLEMAN rings provides adequate durability for rimfire applications. They are not designed for heavy recoil or harsh environments. Regular cleaning and occasional tightening of the mounting screws are all that’s needed to maintain them.
With proper care, these rings should provide years of reliable service. Their finish is reasonably resistant to scratching.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU MT – See Thru Ring Height rings do not come with any specific accessories. However, they are compatible with a wide range of rimfire scopes that have a 1-inch tube diameter. Due to the 3/8″ dovetail mount, customization options are limited to optics.
The see-through design inherently limits the need for further customization. Some users might consider adding a cheek riser to improve cheek weld when using a scope.
Pros and Cons of Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU MT – See Thru Ring Height
Pros
- Affordable price point from a reputable brand like Leupold.
- See-through design allows for simultaneous use of iron sights and a mounted optic.
- Lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum construction.
- Easy to install on rifles with a 3/8″ dovetail rail.
- Holds zero reasonably well under normal shooting conditions.
Cons
- Increased scope height can negatively impact cheek weld and accuracy.
- Not ideal for users who prioritize a low-profile mounting solution.
- Aluminum construction is less robust than steel rings.
Who Should Buy Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU MT – See Thru Ring Height?
The Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU MT – See Thru Ring Height rings are perfect for casual plinkers, small game hunters, or anyone who wants the versatility of both optics and iron sights on their .22 rimfire rifle. They are also a good option for beginners who are new to using scopes.
Those who prioritize maximum accuracy or who prefer a low-profile, streamlined setup should skip this product. Those shooters would likely find lower profile, non-see-through rings more suitable for their needs. A must-have accessory to consider might be a cheek riser to improve cheek weld when using the scope.
Conclusion on Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU MT – See Thru Ring Height
The Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU MT – See Thru Ring Height rings offer a unique blend of affordability and versatility. The see-through design is a standout feature, providing the option to quickly switch between optics and iron sights. However, the increased scope height can impact ergonomics and accuracy.
For the price of $13.49, the Leupold RIFLEMAN rings represent a decent value proposition. They provide a functional and reliable mounting solution for rimfire rifles. I would recommend these rings to anyone looking for an affordable and versatile option, with the caveat that they should be aware of the potential cheek weld issues.
If you’re looking to add a scope to your .22 and want the flexibility of retaining your iron sights, give the Leupold RIFLEMAN 22RF 3/8 SEETHRU MT – See Thru Ring Height a try. You might just find that it’s the perfect solution for your shooting needs.