The CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL Made a Bold First Impression
The CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL, manufactured by CRICK, promises to be an easy solution for mounting optics on the popular KSA 722 rifle. As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade under my belt, I’ve mounted countless scopes and red dots on a variety of platforms. This rail aims to bring that same ease of customization to a youth-oriented rifle.
I was initially drawn to the CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL because I wanted to introduce my niece to the joys of precision shooting. The KSA 722 is a great starter rifle, but the factory sights leave something to be desired. A scope would greatly enhance her accuracy and confidence.
Upon unboxing, the rail appeared well-machined, with a clean, black finish. The weight was negligible, which is a positive given the lightweight nature of the KSA 722. My initial impression was good. It seemed sturdy and ready for installation.
Compared to universal scope mounts or DIY solutions, the CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL offers a dedicated, supposedly hassle-free option. I considered using a generic 22 rail and adapting it. But I chose this one for its promise of a direct fit and simple installation.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The machining looked good, but the proof would be in the fit and performance. I was eager to see if it lived up to the promise of easy scope mounting on the KSA 722.
Real-World Testing: Putting CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL at my local shooting range. The weather was clear and dry. I wanted a controlled environment for the initial setup and zeroing.
Installation was straightforward, using the existing receiver mounting points. I attached a lightweight 4×32 scope to keep the balance point reasonable for a youth rifle. However, even before firing, I noticed the scope sat quite high above the bore.
After the first few shots, my concerns about the height were confirmed. Even with the scope adjusted to its lowest setting, I struggled to get a proper cheek weld. The high rail necessitated a significant adjustment to my shooting form.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions spanning a few weeks, my opinion of the CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL remains mixed. While the rail itself remains securely mounted, the height continues to be a significant drawback. I experimented with different scopes and cheek risers. But I could never achieve a truly comfortable and consistent shooting position.
There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the rail itself. It seems durable enough for the relatively mild recoil of the 22LR cartridge. Cleaning is simple, requiring just a quick wipe down with a cloth.
Compared to other scope mounting solutions I’ve used, this one falls short due to its height. While the CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL offers a solid mounting platform, the resulting scope position hinders accurate and comfortable shooting, particularly for younger shooters. It needs to be lower.
Breaking Down the Features of CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL
Specifications
The CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL is specifically designed for the CRICK KSA 722 rifle. It’s constructed from aluminum. It has a black anodized finish.
The rail provides a standard Picatinny interface for mounting scopes and other accessories. It attaches to the receiver using existing mounting points. No gunsmithing is required. The low weight keeps the overall rifle balance favorable.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL is to provide a stable platform for mounting optics. It achieves this goal in terms of security. Once installed, the rail does not shift or loosen under recoil.
However, the significant height above the bore is a major performance issue. It makes achieving a proper cheek weld difficult. This impacts accuracy and comfort. A lower profile design would drastically improve functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL is decent. The aluminum construction feels robust. The anodized finish provides good protection against corrosion.
The design is simple. The rail bolts directly to the receiver. However, the ergonomics suffer from the excessive height. This forces the shooter to lift their head too high.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its aluminum construction and secure mounting, the CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL should last for many years with proper care. It’s unlikely to break or fail under normal use.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down with a clean cloth is all that’s typically needed. No special tools or cleaning solutions are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL itself is an accessory designed to enable the mounting of other accessories. It is compatible with any optic that uses a standard Picatinny mount.
There are no specific customization options for the rail itself. However, the user can choose from a wide variety of scopes, red dots, and other Picatinny-compatible accessories. Aftermarket cheek risers may be necessary to compensate for the rail’s height.
Pros and Cons of CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAILPros
- Provides a secure Picatinny rail mounting platform for optics.
- Easy to install using existing receiver mounting points.
- Durable aluminum construction with a corrosion-resistant finish.
- Lightweight design doesn’t significantly alter the rifle’s balance.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Excessive height above bore makes achieving a proper cheek weld difficult.
- May require the use of aftermarket cheek risers for comfortable shooting.
- Compromised ergonomics can negatively impact accuracy, especially for younger shooters.
Who Should Buy CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL?
Pros
- Provides a secure Picatinny rail mounting platform for optics.
- Easy to install using existing receiver mounting points.
- Durable aluminum construction with a corrosion-resistant finish.
- Lightweight design doesn’t significantly alter the rifle’s balance.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Excessive height above bore makes achieving a proper cheek weld difficult.
- May require the use of aftermarket cheek risers for comfortable shooting.
- Compromised ergonomics can negatively impact accuracy, especially for younger shooters.
The CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL is potentially perfect for KSA 722 owners who absolutely need a Picatinny rail for mounting a specific optic and are willing to address the height issue with aftermarket accessories. It might also be suitable for experienced shooters who are less sensitive to variations in cheek weld.
However, I would advise anyone sensitive to proper ergonomics, especially younger shooters, to skip this product. The height issue is simply too significant. It hinders the development of good shooting habits.
A must-have accessory if you decide to purchase this rail is a cheek riser. You’ll need one to achieve a comfortable and consistent shooting position.
Conclusion on CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL
The CRICK MODEL 722 PIC SCOPE RAIL is a mixed bag. It provides a secure and easy-to-install mounting platform. However, its excessive height above the bore is a major drawback.
At $22.99, the price is certainly justifiable for the materials and construction. But the compromised ergonomics make it a less-than-ideal solution.
Personally, I cannot recommend this product in its current form. The height issue outweighs its benefits. I’m hoping Keystone will release a lower profile version in the future. For now, explore other scope mounting options or consider a DIY solution to achieve a more comfortable and accurate shooting experience.