The 1″ Black Scope Rings/1.3 Made a Bold First Impression
I’ve been mounting scopes on rifles for over a decade, from high-dollar tactical builds to budget-friendly hunting setups. So, when I saw the 1″ Black Scope Rings/1.3 advertised at such a low price, I was skeptical but intrigued. Could these rings deliver reliable performance without breaking the bank?
Recently, I decided to refurbish an old .22LR rifle for my nephew’s first shooting experience. I needed a set of rings that were dependable, easy to install, and wouldn’t cost more than the scope itself. The 1″ Black Scope Rings/1.3 seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
Unboxing the rings, I was immediately surprised by their solid feel. They have a decent weight and the black finish seemed evenly applied, even if it lacked the polished look of more expensive rings. I was curious if the finish would hold up to weather.
Compared to a set of Leupold rings I typically use, these felt less refined, but noticeably more robust than some generic, no-name rings I had gathering dust. I chose the 1″ Black Scope Rings/1.3 for their advertised height of 1.3 inches, which I needed to clear the bolt action on the .22LR. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; they seemed like a good value for the money, but the real test would be in the mounting and zeroing process.
Real-World Testing: Putting 1″ Black Scope Rings/1.3 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test involved mounting a 3-9×40 scope onto the .22LR rifle at an outdoor shooting range. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, providing fair conditions.
Installation was surprisingly straightforward. The rings clamped securely to the rifle’s Picatinny rail, and the scope fit snugly within the 1-inch diameter. I used a torque wrench to ensure the screws were properly tightened, preventing any slippage. The rings held strong through various loads.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and a couple of informal plinking outings in the woods, the 1″ Black Scope Rings/1.3 continued to perform well. They showed no signs of loosening or shifting, even after repeated firing.
While the black finish has held up nicely, I did notice a few minor scratches from handling during cleaning. Routine cleaning involves wiping down the rings with a lightly oiled cloth after each use, a standard practice I follow for all my firearms accessories. Overall, the 1″ Black Scope Rings/1.3 have exceeded my expectations. They reliably held zero and performed better than other budget-friendly options I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of 1″ Black Scope Rings/1.3
Specifications
The 1″ Black Scope Rings/1.3 are designed for scopes with a 1-inch tube diameter. Their advertised height is 1.3 inches, providing sufficient clearance for many rifle setups. The rings are constructed from what appears to be aluminum, finished with a matte black coating. They’re designed to mount on Picatinny rails.
The specifications are important because they directly affect the scope’s compatibility with the rifle and the shooter’s eye relief. A proper ring height ensures the scope clears the rifle’s action and allows for a comfortable and consistent cheek weld, improving accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The 1″ Black Scope Rings/1.3 perform their primary function admirably: securely holding a scope in place. They maintained zero even after repeated firing, indicating a solid clamping force and resistance to movement.
One strength is their simplicity and ease of installation. A potential weakness is the finish, which, while aesthetically pleasing, might not be as durable as a more premium coating. They’ve met my expectations for a budget-friendly option and given me more confidence that they’ll hold the set up.
Design & Ergonomics
The rings have a functional, no-frills design. Their weight is reasonable, neither adding excessive bulk nor feeling flimsy.
The installation is relatively user-friendly, requiring only basic tools and a bit of know-how. While there’s no complex engineering involved, proper tightening of the screws is crucial. Novice users might need to consult online resources or seek guidance from experienced shooters to ensure correct installation.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my testing, I expect the 1″ Black Scope Rings/1.3 to last several years with proper care. The aluminum construction should withstand normal wear and tear, but the finish may show signs of use over time.
Maintenance is straightforward, involving routine cleaning and occasional checks to ensure the screws remain properly torqued. While I don’t foresee the need for repairs, replacing the rings would be a cost-effective option if they were to fail.
Accessories and Customization Options
The 1″ Black Scope Rings/1.3 do not come with any additional accessories. Their primary function is to provide a stable mounting platform for a scope.
These rings are compatible with any scope that has a 1-inch tube diameter and any rifle equipped with a Picatinny rail. There are no specific customization options available for these rings, but users can choose from a wide variety of scopes to pair with them. Be sure to verify all measurements before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.
Pros and Cons of 1″ Black Scope Rings/1.3
Pros
- Affordable Price: At $13.99, these rings offer exceptional value for budget-conscious shooters.
- Solid Construction: Despite the low price, the rings feel robust and well-made.
- Easy Installation: The straightforward design makes mounting the scope simple and quick.
- Reliable Performance: They securely hold zero, ensuring consistent accuracy.
- Versatile Compatibility: Suitable for a wide range of rifles with Picatinny rails and scopes with 1-inch tubes.
Cons
- The finish is relatively fragile and can scratch easily.
- There are no advanced features, such as quick-detach levers.
Who Should Buy 1″ Black Scope Rings/1.3?
The 1″ Black Scope Rings/1.3 are perfect for budget-minded shooters, beginners building their first rifle, or anyone needing a reliable set of rings for a .22LR or similar low-recoil firearm.
Those looking for high-end features like quick-detach levers, extreme durability, or a refined aesthetic should skip this product.
A torque wrench is a must-have accessory for ensuring proper installation and preventing damage to the rings or scope.
Conclusion on 1″ Black Scope Rings/1.3
Overall, the 1″ Black Scope Rings/1.3 offer excellent performance and value for the price. They are a dependable choice for anyone seeking an affordable and functional scope mounting solution.
The price is definitely justified, especially considering their solid construction and reliable performance. For those on a budget, or looking for basic but reliable performance, this should be your first selection.
I would personally recommend these rings to anyone looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on performance. Give these rings a shot! You won’t be disappointed!