First Thoughts on the NcStar 1″ Rings 3/8″ Dovetail, High, Black
The NcStar 1″ Rings 3/8″ Dovetail, High, Black represents an entry point into the world of optics mounting. These rings promise to provide a simple and affordable solution for attaching a 1-inch diameter scope to a firearm with a 3/8″ dovetail rail. The NcStar brand is known for its budget-friendly approach, so I approached this review with cautious optimism, eager to see if the rings could deliver reliable performance despite their low price point.
Years ago, I inherited an old .22 rifle with a 3/8″ dovetail rail. I was looking to mount a simple scope to introduce my niece to the basics of marksmanship. My main requirements were affordability and ease of installation. The NcStar 1″ Rings 3/8″ Dovetail, High, Black seemed like the perfect option, given my limited budget and the straightforward design.
Upon unboxing, the rings felt surprisingly lightweight, a consequence of their aluminum construction. The black finish appeared decent, though not particularly robust. Build quality seemed adequate for the intended purpose, but it was clear that these rings were not designed for heavy-duty applications. Compared to the Leupold rings I usually use on my hunting rifles, these felt significantly less substantial. I chose these over other budget options mainly due to the “high” configuration, which I hoped would provide adequate clearance for the scope objective bell.
My initial impression was a mix of intrigue and reservation. I was excited to see if these budget-friendly rings could perform adequately, but I also anticipated potential issues with stability or durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar 1″ Rings 3/8″ Dovetail, High, Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the NcStar 1″ Rings 3/8″ Dovetail, High, Black at an outdoor shooting range on a clear, sunny day. The rings were mounted on my .22 rifle, which was used for target practice at 25 and 50 yards. Installation was relatively straightforward, requiring only a small screwdriver to tighten the screws. The scope sat securely in the rings after tightening, and the high profile provided ample clearance for the objective bell.
During the initial shooting session, the rings seemed to hold zero reasonably well. However, after about 50 rounds, I noticed a slight shift in the point of impact. Further inspection revealed that the screws securing the rings to the dovetail rail had loosened. Retightening the screws seemed to resolve the issue temporarily, but it was a recurring problem throughout the day.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the NcStar 1″ Rings 3/8″ Dovetail, High, Black have shown a tendency to loosen over time. This requires frequent re-tightening, which can be inconvenient and frustrating. While there are no visible signs of significant wear and tear, the constant tightening has started to strip the screw heads slightly. Cleaning is simple, requiring just a quick wipe with a cloth.
Compared to my experiences with higher-quality rings, these NcStar rings fall short in terms of reliability and stability. While they may be adequate for light-duty applications, I would not trust them on a firearm used for hunting or tactical purposes.
Breaking Down the Features of NcStar 1″ Rings 3/8″ Dovetail, High, Black
Specifications
- These rings are designed to fit scopes with a 1-inch diameter tube. This is a standard size, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of scopes.
- They mount to firearms with a 3/8″ dovetail rail, commonly found on .22 rifles and airguns. This limits their use to specific types of firearms.
- The rings are high profile, providing extra clearance for scopes with larger objective bells. This is important for avoiding interference between the scope and the firearm’s barrel.
- They are constructed from aluminum, making them lightweight but potentially less durable than steel rings. The light weight is a benefit for a small .22 rifle.
- The rings weigh 1.8 oz., contributing minimally to the overall weight of the firearm. This makes them a good choice for weight-conscious shooters.
- Overall height is 1.43″ ensuring enough clearance for larger objective lenses. Adequate clearance is crucial for proper scope function and sighting.
These specifications highlight the rings’ intended use for lightweight rifles with smaller scopes. The aluminum construction and dovetail mount limit their application to less demanding scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The NcStar 1″ Rings 3/8″ Dovetail, High, Black perform adequately for basic target shooting. Their primary function is to securely hold a scope, and they accomplish this to a certain extent. However, their tendency to loosen over time affects their ability to maintain zero consistently. This impacts accuracy and can be frustrating for shooters seeking precise performance.
The major weakness is their inability to maintain a tight hold on the dovetail rail under recoil, even minimal recoil from a .22LR. Improvement needed in screw tightening and or locking mechanism. They do meet the basic expectation of allowing a scope to be mounted, but the loose connection creates inconsistency in accuracy.
Design & Ergonomics
The NcStar 1″ Rings 3/8″ Dovetail, High, Black feature a simple and functional design. The aluminum construction keeps them lightweight, and the black finish is aesthetically pleasing. The high profile provides ample clearance for most scopes. However, the overall build quality feels somewhat cheap, and the screws are prone to stripping.
The rings are relatively user-friendly, requiring minimal effort to install. There is no significant learning curve, making them suitable for beginners.
Durability & Maintenance
The NcStar 1″ Rings 3/8″ Dovetail, High, Black are not designed for heavy-duty use. The aluminum construction and small screws are likely to wear down over time, especially with frequent tightening. The rings are easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning with a cloth. However, the stripped screws may eventually require replacement.
Given their construction, these rings are unlikely to last for many years of regular use. I expect to get a year or two before screws become so damaged they need replacement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcStar 1″ Rings 3/8″ Dovetail, High, Black do not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available, as they are a basic, no-frills product. They are compatible with any 1-inch diameter scope designed for rimfire rifles with a 3/8″ dovetail rail.
Lock-tight may be a viable aftermarket option to increase performance. There are no other modifications that will significantly improve performance.
Pros and Cons of NcStar 1″ Rings 3/8″ Dovetail, High, Black
Pros
- Affordable price point makes them accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Lightweight aluminum construction adds minimal weight to the firearm.
- High profile provides ample clearance for scopes with larger objective bells.
- Simple and easy to install, even for beginners.
- Compatible with a wide range of 1-inch diameter scopes.
Cons
- Tendency to loosen over time, requiring frequent re-tightening.
- Aluminum construction is less durable than steel.
- Screws are prone to stripping.
Who Should Buy NcStar 1″ Rings 3/8″ Dovetail, High, Black?
The NcStar 1″ Rings 3/8″ Dovetail, High, Black are perfect for recreational shooters who are on a tight budget and own a .22 rifle or airgun with a 3/8″ dovetail rail. They are also suitable for beginners who are new to optics mounting and want a simple, inexpensive solution.
Hunters or competitive shooters who require reliable, consistent performance should skip this product. Anyone mounting a scope on a larger caliber rifle should avoid these rings. A must-have accessory is a quality set of gunsmithing screwdrivers to avoid stripping the soft metal screws.
Conclusion on NcStar 1″ Rings 3/8″ Dovetail, High, Black
The NcStar 1″ Rings 3/8″ Dovetail, High, Black offer a budget-friendly option for mounting a scope on a .22 rifle or airgun. While they are not without their flaws, they provide adequate performance for basic target shooting. However, their tendency to loosen over time is a significant drawback.
The price is certainly justified for those who understand the limitations of the product. I would cautiously recommend these rings to recreational shooters on a tight budget, but I would strongly advise against using them for more demanding applications. If you are looking for a reliable and durable scope mounting solution, it is worth investing in a higher-quality product. These rings serve as a starting point, but consider upgrading as your shooting needs evolve.