First Thoughts on the Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve mounted countless optics onto various firearms. Choosing the right rings is crucial for accuracy and reliability. The Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish promise a blend of classic design and robust construction, aimed at rimfire and airgun enthusiasts seeking a secure and aesthetically pleasing mounting solution. My initial curiosity stems from the reputation of Burris for producing quality optics and accessories, coupled with the need for dependable rings on my dedicated .22LR rifle.
What sparked my interest in these rings was a nagging accuracy issue with my squirrel gun. The previous rings, a budget-friendly aluminum set, were constantly loosening, leading to inconsistent zero. I needed something more robust and reliable, and the Burris name kept popping up in online forums and discussions. These rings were said to be far superior.
Upon unboxing, the Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish exuded a sense of quality. The steel construction felt solid and the black finish was smooth and even. Their heft surprised me, a welcome change from the flimsy feel of the aluminum rings I was replacing.
Compared to Weaver Grand Slam Steel Rings and Leupold Rifleman rings, the Burris rings seemed to offer a good balance between price and performance. Weaver rings often come with a higher price tag, while Leupold Rifleman rings, while dependable, sometimes lack the refined finish I was looking for. The solid steel construction also made these an instant choice over any aluminum offering in this price range.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. They looked and felt the part of quality rings. I was excited to see if they lived up to their promise of providing a stable and accurate platform for my rimfire scope.
Real-World Testing: Putting Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish came at my local outdoor shooting range. I mounted them on my Ruger 10/22, pairing them with a Burris Droptine 3-9×40 scope. The mounting process was straightforward, with the rings fitting snugly onto the grooved receiver.
The weather conditions were slightly damp with a light drizzle, not ideal, but typical for my area. I zeroed the rifle at 50 yards. Initially, the setup seemed solid and I was achieving consistent groupings. There were no immediate signs of slippage or movement despite the less than favorable weather.
The initial range session revealed no obvious flaws, which was a relief. I was pleased with the overall stability, but more rigorous testing was needed to truly assess their long-term performance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple trips to the range and a few squirrel hunts, the Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish have held up exceptionally well. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through my rifle with these rings installed. The zero has remained consistent throughout, a testament to their secure grip.
There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the rings. The black finish has proven to be durable, resisting scratches and dings even after being exposed to brush and branches during my hunts. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is all that’s needed to keep them in pristine condition.
Compared to my previous aluminum rings, the difference is night and day. Those required constant tightening and were prone to shifting. The Burris rings have been a set-it-and-forget-it solution, providing a level of confidence I didn’t have before. This vastly outperforms my previous experiences with budget options.
Breaking Down the Features of Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish
Specifications
- Type: Deluxe Rimfire. This indicates the rings are specifically designed for rimfire rifles and airguns.
- Size: 1″. This signifies they are made to accommodate scopes with a one-inch tube diameter.
- Height: 0.95″. The height is measured from the top of the receiver to the bottom of the scope tube, providing adequate clearance for most scope objectives.
- Tube Diameter: .22 & Airguns w/Grooved Rvcr. These rings are designed for .22 caliber rifles and airguns equipped with a grooved receiver.
- Finish: Gloss. The gloss finish adds a touch of classic aesthetic to the rifle.
These specifications are important because they ensure compatibility with specific firearms and scopes. The 0.95″ height is particularly crucial for achieving proper eye alignment and avoiding any interference between the scope and the rifle’s barrel or action.
Performance & Functionality
The Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish perform their primary function exceptionally well: securely holding a scope in place. Accuracy is maintained even after extended use, which is paramount.
The rings’ robust construction and precise fit contribute to their reliability. They eliminate the common issue of scope slippage. A slight weakness is the gloss finish, which might not be ideal for tactical applications where a matte finish is preferred to reduce glare. The Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish exceed expectations for rings in their price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish feature a classic design with a clean, unadorned aesthetic. The all-steel construction provides exceptional strength and rigidity.
The rings are straightforward to install and require minimal effort to tighten properly. The gloss black finish offers a classic, clean look. There is no real learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The all-steel construction of the Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish suggests a long lifespan. These rings are designed to withstand the rigors of regular use.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. The durable finish helps prevent rust and corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish do not come with any additional accessories beyond the necessary mounting hardware. However, their standard 1-inch size means they are compatible with a wide range of scopes from various manufacturers.
The rings do not offer any specific customization options. However, their classic design makes them a versatile choice for various rifle configurations and personal preferences. Aftermarket scope levels can be used to ensure perfect alignment.
Pros and Cons of Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish
Pros
- Solid Steel Construction: Provides exceptional strength and durability for a lifetime of reliable use.
- Precise Fit: Ensures a secure and stable scope mounting platform, maintaining zero even with repeated shooting.
- Easy Installation: Straightforward design allows for quick and hassle-free mounting on grooved receivers.
- Classic Aesthetic: The gloss black finish complements a wide range of rifles and scopes.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for money compared to higher-priced options, without compromising on quality.
Cons
- Gloss Finish: May not be ideal for tactical applications where a matte finish is preferred.
- Limited Customization: No available options for different finishes or heights beyond the specified 0.95″.
Who Should Buy Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish?
The Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish are perfect for rimfire enthusiasts and airgun users seeking a dependable and affordable scope mounting solution. These rings are an excellent choice for recreational shooters, small game hunters, and target practice enthusiasts.
Those prioritizing tactical applications or requiring a matte finish might want to consider alternative options. Those needing greater adjustability in ring height should also look elsewhere.
A must-have accessory would be a proper torque wrench to ensure the screws are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications, preventing over-tightening and potential damage. Using a thread-locking compound like Loctite can also help ensure the screws stay secure over time.
Conclusion on Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish
The Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish are a solid choice for anyone looking for reliable and affordable scope mounting rings for their rimfire rifle or airgun. These rings deliver on their promise of providing a secure and stable platform, contributing to improved accuracy and shooting confidence.
At a price of $34.99, the value proposition is excellent. The steel construction and precise fit far outweigh the minor drawbacks of the gloss finish and lack of customization options.
I would absolutely recommend the Burris High Deluxe Steel Rings w/Black Finish to anyone seeking a dependable and budget-friendly scope mounting solution. Ditch those cheap aluminum rings and upgrade to these – you won’t regret it. Get yours today and experience the difference a quality set of rings can make!