The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Short, Black Made a Bold First Impression
Sometimes, even after a decade in the tactical and outdoor gear world, the smallest, most unassuming piece of kit can completely change your shooting experience. This was precisely the case when I encountered the NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Short, Black. I’d been experiencing persistent issues with obtaining a proper cheek weld on some of my AR platform builds when using certain optics, leading to inconsistent accuracy.
The problem stemmed from a frustratingly low optic height relative to the stock. Scouring online forums and consulting fellow enthusiasts pointed towards risers as a potential solution. I wanted something low-profile, lightweight, and budget-friendly, leading me to this product from NcStar.
Upon unboxing, I was pleasantly surprised by the solid feel of the NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Short, Black. The black anodized aluminum finish looked clean and durable. The riser’s weight was also impressively minimal, a critical factor considering the builds I planned to use it on were already pushing the limits of comfortable carry weight. It was noticeably more compact than some of the bulkier risers I’d seen, a definite plus.
I considered several other risers from brands like UTG and Leapers, but ultimately, the NcStar stood out due to its compact design and incredibly attractive price point. Other options seemed either too bulky or significantly more expensive without offering demonstrably better features. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. Could such a small, affordable piece of kit actually solve my cheek weld woes? Time would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting **NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Short, Black** to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Short, Black occurred at my local shooting range, situated in the arid, often dusty conditions of the Mojave Desert. I mounted it on my lightweight AR-15 build paired with a red dot sight. Immediately, the improved cheek weld was noticeable. Acquiring the target was now significantly faster and more natural.
The dust didn’t seem to affect the riser’s performance. I did, however, ensure the mounting screws remained tightened throughout the session. The ease of use was a significant selling point. It required no specialized tools to install and sat securely on the rail. After about 100 rounds, I experienced no loosening or shifting.
The initial surprise was how much of a difference just 3/4″ of height could make. It completely transformed the shooting experience with that particular optic.
<h3>Extended Use & Reliability</h3>After several months of consistent use across multiple range trips and even a weekend backcountry camping excursion, the NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Short, Black has proven surprisingly resilient. There are some minor cosmetic scratches on the anodized finish, but the riser itself remains structurally sound. The mounting screws still hold firm, and there’s been no sign of loosening despite repeated use and exposure to varying weather conditions.
Maintaining the riser is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use keeps it clean and prevents corrosion. This riser has outperformed my expectations for a budget-friendly product. It addresses a common problem with a simple, effective solution.
Breaking Down the Features of **NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Short, Black**
Specifications
- Material: Aluminum. The use of aluminum contributes to the riser’s lightweight design while providing sufficient strength for its intended purpose.
- Length: 2″. Its compact length allows for easy integration without significantly increasing the overall footprint on the rail.
- Weight: 1.90 oz. This is remarkably light, making it ideal for builds where weight is a critical concern.
- Color: Black Anodized. The black anodized finish not only provides a sleek aesthetic but also enhances durability and corrosion resistance.
- Improved 3/4″ Picatinny Rail Riser. The 3/4″ height increase addresses the specific need to raise the optic for improved cheek weld and shooting posture.
- Picatinny / MIL-STD 1913 profile. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of firearms and accessories.
- Hollow channel through the length. The hollow channel reduces weight and, in some setups, allows for the use of iron sights underneath the riser.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the usability and versatility of the riser. The lightweight aluminum construction ensures it doesn’t add unnecessary weight to the firearm. The precise Picatinny rail dimensions guarantee compatibility with a wide array of optics and rail systems.
<h3>Performance & Functionality</h3>The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Short, Black excels at its primary task: raising the optic to a more comfortable height for improved shooting posture and faster target acquisition. The riser provides a stable and secure platform for mounting optics. It has not exhibited any signs of wobble or shifting during testing.
The strengths lie in its simplicity, lightweight design, and ease of installation. One potential improvement could be the inclusion of torque specifications for the mounting screws to ensure optimal securement without over-tightening. It definitely meets expectations, especially considering its price.
<h3>Design & Ergonomics</h3>The build quality is decent for the price point. The aluminum construction feels robust, and the black anodized finish provides a reasonable level of protection against wear and tear. The low weight is a major advantage, and the compact design ensures it doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the firearm.
It’s incredibly user-friendly. No specialized tools are required for installation, and the low-profile design integrates seamlessly with most AR-15 platforms.
<h3>Durability & Maintenance</h3>Given its aluminum construction and black anodized finish, the riser should withstand regular use without significant degradation. Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe down with a clean cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and debris.
<h3>Accessories and Customization Options</h3>The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Short, Black itself does not come with any included accessories. The riser’s primary function is to provide a raised Picatinny rail surface for mounting optics such as red dot sights, holographic sights, and scopes. It is compatible with any standard Picatinny rail-mounted accessory.
Pros and Cons of **NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Short, Black**
Pros
- It’s incredibly lightweight. It adds minimal weight to your setup.
- Very affordable. It offers exceptional value for the price.
- Easy to install. It requires no specialized tools.
- Provides noticeable improvement in cheek weld. Improving shooting comfort and accuracy.
- Durable construction. It provides good resistance to wear and tear.
Cons
- The anodized finish is prone to scratching. Cosmetic wear may occur with use.
- No torque specifications are provided. This can make it difficult to determine optimal screw tightness.
Who Should Buy **NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Short, Black**?
The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Short, Black is perfect for:
- Budget-conscious shooters seeking a simple and effective way to improve their optic height.
- AR-15 owners experiencing difficulty achieving a proper cheek weld with their existing optics.
- Hobbyists and casual range shooters.
- Airsoft players.
- Anyone looking for a lightweight, low-profile riser solution.
Who should skip this product? Those seeking a high-end, ultra-durable riser for extreme conditions or professional use might consider alternatives with more robust construction and enhanced features.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality torque wrench to ensure proper screw tightness during installation is recommended.
Conclusion on **NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Short, Black**
The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Short, Black is a surprisingly effective and affordable solution for improving optic height and cheek weld on AR-15 platforms. While it may not boast the premium features or ultra-durable construction of higher-end risers, it delivers excellent value for its modest price point. Its lightweight design, ease of installation, and noticeable improvement in shooting comfort make it a worthwhile addition for any budget-conscious shooter seeking to optimize their AR-15 setup.
The price is definitely justified for the performance and functionality it provides. I would absolutely recommend the NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Short, Black to anyone looking for a simple, affordable way to enhance their shooting experience. If you’re tired of struggling to get a proper sight picture, give this little riser a try. You might be surprised at how much of a difference it makes.
