NcStar 30mm Hunter Rings 1.5″ Height Review

The NcStar 30mm Hunter Rings 1.5″ Height Made a Bold First Impression

In the world of optics mounting, finding the right rings can be a frustrating game of trial and error. The NcStar 30mm Hunter Rings 1.5″ Height promise a cost-effective solution for mounting 30mm and 1″ tube scopes on Weaver/Picatinny rails. The NcStar name isn’t always synonymous with high-end precision, but their accessibility and price point often make them a starting point for many shooters.

I was looking for a set of rings to mount a new scope on my .30-06 hunting rifle. I needed something that could provide a secure hold and a clear sight picture, all without breaking the bank. I’d heard mixed reviews of NcStar products, but the price of these rings was compelling enough to give them a shot.

Upon unboxing, the rings felt surprisingly solid for their price. The black anodized aluminum finish looked decent, and the included 1″ inserts seemed like a thoughtful addition. However, the hexagon mounting nuts appeared a bit rough around the edges, lacking the refined finish of higher-end rings.

Compared to my Leupold rings on my AR-15, the NcStar rings felt noticeably less refined. My Burris rings on my .22LR feel more precisely machined. Ultimately, the low price point made the NcStar rings an intriguing option if they could perform well.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The rings didn’t scream “high-end,” but they also didn’t feel flimsy or cheap. The real test would be how they performed on the rifle.

Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar 30mm Hunter Rings 1.5″ Height to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the NcStar 30mm Hunter Rings 1.5″ Height at my local shooting range. The rifle I mounted them on was a Remington 700 in .30-06. The scope was a Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44.

The rings seemed to hold zero initially. However, after about 20 rounds, I noticed a slight shift in my point of impact. The rings held up decently in dry conditions.

Mounting the rings required a bit more effort than expected. The hexagon mounting nuts were a little awkward to tighten evenly, and I had to be careful not to overtighten them. The included “mounting tool” was a basic Allen wrench, which felt a little inadequate for the task.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range sessions and a deer hunt, the NcStar 30mm Hunter Rings 1.5″ Height started to show their limitations. While they initially seemed secure, I found myself constantly checking the mounting nuts. The original point of impact seemed to drift, and I had to re-tighten the nuts between shooting sessions.

The anodized finish held up reasonably well, with minimal signs of wear. The rings themselves showed no signs of cracking or bending. However, I noticed some slight crushing of the scope tube where the rings made contact.

Cleaning the rings was simple, requiring only a quick wipe with a cloth. However, the need to constantly check and re-tighten the mounting nuts became a recurring maintenance task. My previous experience with Leupold and Burris rings had been far more reliable.

Breaking Down the Features of NcStar 30mm Hunter Rings 1.5″ Height

Specifications

• Rings for 30mm & 1″ Tube Scopes: These rings accommodate both common scope tube diameters, increasing versatility. The included 1″ inserts allow use of older or less expensive scopes.
• 1.5″ High See Thru Scope Rings: The 1.5″ height provides clearance for larger objective lenses. The “see-thru” design allows the use of iron sights.
• Fits Weaver / Picatinny Style MIL-STD 1913 rails: This ensures compatibility with a wide range of modern rifles. Weaver and Picatinny rails are common, standard mounting platforms.
• Precision Machined From Aircraft Grade Aluminum: This contributes to the ring’s overall strength and lightweight design. Aircraft grade aluminum is a common material for scope rings due to its balance of strength and weight.
• Heavy Duty Hexagon Shape Steel Mounting Nut With Holes For Torquing With Allan key Wrench: This provides a secure mounting point on the rail. The hexagon shape allows for easy tightening with a wrench.
• Black Hard Anodized HD Construction: This finish helps to protect against corrosion and wear. Hard anodization improves surface hardness and durability.
• Optic Centerline Height: 1.5″: Provides the height from rail to the centerline of the optic. This is critical for cheek weld and proper eye relief.
• Ring Overall Height: 2.5″: The total height of the ring. Knowing this dimension is essential for ensuring adequate clearance for your scope.
• Weight: 2.1 oz.: Lightweight design that doesn’t add significant weight to your rifle setup. The low weight is advantageous for maintaining rifle balance.
• Mounting tool included: While basic, the inclusion of a mounting tool is a convenience. An Allen wrench, while functional, may not be ideal for precise torque.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of scope rings is to securely hold a scope in place and maintain zero. While the NcStar 30mm Hunter Rings 1.5″ Height initially seemed to perform this function adequately, their reliability over time was questionable. The drifting zero and the need to frequently re-tighten the mounting nuts were significant drawbacks.

The strength of these rings is their versatility. They’re budget-friendly, and they support both 30mm and 1″ scopes. The biggest weakness is their tendency to loosen over time.

These rings meet expectations for an inexpensive option. However, they fall short when compared to higher-quality rings.

Design & Ergonomics

The NcStar 30mm Hunter Rings 1.5″ Height have a functional design. The black anodized aluminum finish is aesthetically pleasing, and the rings are relatively lightweight. However, the hexagon mounting nuts are not the most ergonomic design.

The build quality is acceptable for the price, but the materials and machining are not on par with higher-end rings. The weight is minimal, which is beneficial for overall rifle balance. The ergonomics are not exceptional, but they are adequate for basic use.

Durability & Maintenance

The NcStar 30mm Hunter Rings 1.5″ Height are reasonably durable. The aluminum construction should withstand normal wear and tear. However, the frequent need to re-tighten the mounting nuts suggests a potential long-term reliability issue.

Maintaining these rings is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning. However, the need for frequent torque checks increases the maintenance burden. Long-term reliability is questionable due to the loosening issue.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NcStar 30mm Hunter Rings 1.5″ Height come with 1″ inserts, allowing them to be used with scopes that have either a 30mm or a 1″ tube diameter. There are no other customization options or included accessories beyond the basic Allen wrench. The rings are compatible with any Weaver/Picatinny rail-mounted scope.

Pros and Cons of NcStar 30mm Hunter Rings 1.5″ Height

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Who Should Buy NcStar 30mm Hunter Rings 1.5″ Height?

The NcStar 30mm Hunter Rings 1.5″ Height are perfect for budget-conscious shooters who need a functional set of rings for occasional use. They are suitable for rimfire rifles, airguns, or hunting rifles where extreme precision is not critical. Beginners who want a cheap set of rings as a starting point can benefit.

Those who demand absolute precision and reliability should skip this product. Competitive shooters, long-range shooters, or hunters who rely on their rifles in demanding conditions should invest in higher-quality rings. A torque wrench would be a must-have accessory for these rings to ensure proper and consistent tightening.

Conclusion on NcStar 30mm Hunter Rings 1.5″ Height

The NcStar 30mm Hunter Rings 1.5″ Height offer a budget-friendly option for mounting scopes, but their limitations should be considered. The low price point is appealing. The questionable reliability is a significant drawback.

The value proposition is questionable. The rings are affordable, but the potential for zero drift and the need for frequent maintenance may outweigh the savings. I would recommend these rings only for casual shooters or those on a very tight budget.

Ultimately, I would personally recommend spending a bit more on higher-quality rings for serious applications. If you need reliable scope mounting solution, look elsewhere.

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