CVA Durasight High 1 Inch Scope Rings Review

First Thoughts on the CVA Durasight High 1 Inch Scope Rings

When it comes to mounting optics on a rifle, the rings are arguably as important as the scope itself. A wobbly or unreliable mount can negate even the highest-end glass. I’ve spent years fiddling with various mounting solutions, from budget options to high-dollar setups. When I picked up a CVA Scout for a lightweight, single-shot hunting rifle, I needed a set of rings that wouldn’t break the bank but would hold zero. The CVA Durasight High 1 Inch Scope Rings caught my eye.

I was specifically looking for a cost-effective option that would provide adequate height for scope clearance on the Scout’s barrel. The “see-thru” design was also intriguing as it offered the possibility of using the iron sights as a backup. I’ve seen too many “budget” rings that strip threads or are made from pot metal, so I approached these with cautious optimism.

The CVA Durasight High 1 Inch Scope Rings came in a simple blister pack. My initial impression was that they were surprisingly lightweight. The black finish looked decent enough, but I immediately questioned the “Z-2 Alloy” construction – it felt almost too light to be truly robust. Compared to some heavier steel rings I’ve used, these felt almost insubstantial. I considered a set of Weaver Grand Slam rings, but the price difference made me hesitant for a rifle I wasn’t planning to use for long-range precision. Another option was Leupold Rifleman rings, but I wanted to give the CVA rings a try first, particularly given their specific compatibility with CVA rifles.

My first impression was a mix of curiosity and concern. I was excited to try them out on the Scout, but the lightweight feel had me wondering if they’d hold up to the recoil. At $13.49, my expectations were tempered.

Real-World Testing: Putting CVA Durasight High 1 Inch Scope Rings to the Test

First Use Experience

I mounted the CVA Durasight High 1 Inch Scope Rings on my CVA Scout and installed a simple 3-9×40 scope. The initial mounting process was straightforward. The rings slipped onto the Weaver-style base on the Scout without issue. I torqued the screws to the recommended spec (a light touch is key with inexpensive rings). I headed to my local shooting range, a fairly typical outdoor range with distances out to 200 yards.

I was testing a new load with the Scout. After a few sighting shots, I noticed that the groups were… wandering. At first, I attributed it to the rifle or the ammo, but after closer inspection, I realized that the rings were shifting slightly under recoil. It wasn’t catastrophic, but enough to throw off my zero after every few shots. The weather was pleasant, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with a slight breeze.

The height of the CVA Durasight High 1 Inch Scope Rings was perfect for scope clearance, and the “see-thru” design technically worked, but it was awkward to use the iron sights with the scope mounted so high. I found myself straining to get a proper cheek weld and sight picture. First use highlighted a key problem. The alloy felt too soft to securely hold the scope in place under recoil.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range sessions and a few unsuccessful attempts to tighten the rings further (without stripping the screws), the problem persisted. The CVA Durasight High 1 Inch Scope Rings continued to shift. This made accurate shooting impossible. I even tried using a thread locker, but it only provided a marginal improvement.

After about 200 rounds through the CVA Scout, there were visible signs of wear on the rings. The black finish was starting to chip around the edges, and the screw heads were beginning to show signs of deformation. Cleaning and maintenance were simple. There wasn’t much to do other than wipe them down, but the constant need to re-tighten them was frustrating.

Compared to other rings I’ve used (mostly steel rings from Weaver and Leupold), the CVA Durasight High 1 Inch Scope Rings were a significant disappointment. I understood they were a budget option, but their inability to hold zero made them practically useless. They were outperformed by even the cheapest steel rings I’ve used in the past.

Breaking Down the Features of CVA Durasight High 1 Inch Scope Rings

Specifications

• Material: Z-2 Alloy (a proprietary aluminum alloy). This is the primary material used in the construction of the rings, contributing to their lightweight design.
• Ring Height: High. This provides ample clearance for larger objective lenses and allows for potential use of iron sights underneath the scope.
• Ring Diameter: 1 Inch. Designed to fit scopes with a 1-inch tube diameter, the most common size.
• Mounting Base: Weaver-style. Compatible with Weaver-style scope bases, which are widely available.
• Design: See-Thru. Allows for the potential use of iron sights while the scope is mounted.

These specifications matter because they directly affect the functionality and performance of the rings. The Z-2 Alloy construction contributes to the lightweight, but ultimately compromises its ability to withstand recoil. The High ring height provides versatility but can impact cheek weld. The Weaver-style base ensures compatibility, and the See-Thru design attempts to offer a backup sighting option.

Performance & Functionality

The CVA Durasight High 1 Inch Scope Rings‘ primary job is to securely hold a scope on a rifle. Unfortunately, they failed to do so reliably. Accuracy was significantly compromised due to the rings shifting under recoil. The “see-thru” feature was more of a gimmick than a useful feature. The height made it difficult to obtain a consistent cheek weld when trying to use the iron sights.

The primary weakness is the Z-2 Alloy construction. It simply isn’t strong enough to withstand the recoil of even a relatively mild cartridge like the .44 Magnum I was shooting in the CVA Scout. What works perfectly? The rings do technically fit a 1-inch scope and a Weaver-style base. They definitely need improvement in their material strength and clamping force.

They did not meet my expectations. I expected a basic level of reliability, which they failed to provide.

Design & Ergonomics

The CVA Durasight High 1 Inch Scope Rings have a simple, utilitarian design. The black finish is aesthetically acceptable. They are undeniably lightweight, which can be appealing in certain situations (e.g., when weight is a critical factor).

They are relatively user-friendly in terms of installation. The learning curve is minimal.

Durability & Maintenance

The Z-2 Alloy construction raises concerns about long-term durability. As noted earlier, the finish started to chip after only a few range sessions.

Maintenance is simple: wipe them down. Repair? If they fail, replacement is the only viable option.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CVA Durasight High 1 Inch Scope Rings do not come with any additional accessories. They are what they are: two rings and four screws per ring.

There are no real customization options, other than perhaps painting them a different color. They are compatible with any scope that has a 1-inch tube diameter and any rifle with a Weaver-style base. They are not compatible with Picatinny rails without an adapter.

Pros and Cons of CVA Durasight High 1 Inch Scope Rings

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy CVA Durasight High 1 Inch Scope Rings?

Perfect for: Shooters on an extremely tight budget who are using a very low-recoil rifle (e.g., .22LR).

Who should skip this product? Anyone using a centerfire rifle with any significant recoil, or anyone who values accuracy and reliability.

Must-have accessories or modifications? Avoid these rings altogether and invest in a set of steel rings from a reputable manufacturer.

Conclusion on CVA Durasight High 1 Inch Scope Rings

The CVA Durasight High 1 Inch Scope Rings promise an affordable and lightweight mounting solution. In reality, they deliver a frustrating experience due to their inability to consistently hold zero.

The price is certainly attractive, but the compromised performance isn’t justified. For a few dollars more, you can purchase a set of steel rings that will provide far greater reliability and peace of mind.

I would not personally recommend these rings to anyone who is serious about accuracy or hunts with a centerfire rifle. Spend a bit more and get something that will actually do the job. Save yourself the aggravation and the cost of wasted ammunition.

Check Best Price HERE