First Impressions of Crickett 80044 Cricket/Chipmunk Rifle Scope Mount (Left Hand) Matte Black
The Crickett 80044 Cricket/Chipmunk Rifle Scope Mount (Left Hand) Matte Black promises to open up a whole new world of shooting for young, left-handed marksmen. This simple, matte black scope mount offers a straightforward way to add optics to a Davey Crickett or Chipmunk rifle, specifically the left-handed models. Its compatibility with standard 3/8″ dovetail rings is a major plus, allowing for a wide range of scope options.
My journey to finding this particular scope mount was born out of frustration. I’ve been teaching my left-handed daughter to shoot with a Crickett rifle, and the iron sights were proving challenging for her developing eyesight. I needed a reliable, easy-to-install mount that wouldn’t break the bank, and that catered specifically to her left-handed setup.
Upon unboxing, the mount felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The matte black finish appeared even and durable, and the aluminum construction seemed robust enough to handle the recoil of a .22LR. My initial impression was that this was a no-frills, functional piece of kit, designed to do one job and do it well.
Compared to universal dovetail mounts I’ve used in the past, this one stood out because of its left-hand specific design. Other mounts would likely work, but this promised a better fit and potentially improved eye relief for a left-handed shooter. Honestly, I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would live up to its promise of simple installation and reliable performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Crickett 80044 Cricket/Chipmunk Rifle Scope Mount (Left Hand) Matte Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Crickett 80044 Cricket/Chipmunk Rifle Scope Mount (Left Hand) Matte Black was at our local outdoor shooting range. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal conditions for sighting in my daughter’s Crickett rifle. Installation was surprisingly easy; the mount slid onto the dovetail receiver with minimal effort.
Once secured, I mounted a small, lightweight 4×32 scope. The eye relief felt natural and comfortable for my left-handed daughter. We spent the afternoon shooting at paper targets, and the mount held the scope securely throughout, even after dozens of rounds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Crickett 80044 Cricket/Chipmunk Rifle Scope Mount (Left Hand) Matte Black continues to perform admirably. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the mount itself. The finish is still intact, and the scope remains firmly in place.
Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove any residue or grime. Compared to other scope mounts I’ve used, this one has proven to be exceptionally reliable, especially considering its budget-friendly price tag. It definitely outperformed my expectations given the low cost.
Breaking Down the Features of Crickett 80044 Cricket/Chipmunk Rifle Scope Mount (Left Hand) Matte Black
Specifications
The Crickett 80044 Cricket/Chipmunk Rifle Scope Mount (Left Hand) Matte Black is designed specifically for left-handed Davey Crickett Alloy 6061 and Chipmunk 00001LH rifles. It is constructed from aluminum and finished with a matte black coating. It utilizes a standard 3/8″ dovetail ring mounting system and is a one-piece design that attaches directly to the receiver.
- Aluminum Construction: The choice of aluminum helps keep the mount lightweight, which is critical for a youth rifle. It also contributes to decent durability without adding excessive weight, making it manageable for smaller shooters.
- 3/8″ Dovetail Mount: The compatibility with standard 3/8″ dovetail rings opens up a wide range of scope options. This allows users to choose a scope that fits their specific needs and budget, without being limited to proprietary mounting systems.
- Left-Hand Specific Design: This is arguably the most important feature, providing optimal eye relief and positioning for left-handed shooters. This is particularly crucial for young shooters who are still developing their shooting form.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Crickett 80044 Cricket/Chipmunk Rifle Scope Mount (Left Hand) Matte Black is to provide a stable and secure platform for mounting a scope. It achieves this remarkably well, maintaining zero even after extended shooting sessions. The mount’s simple design makes it incredibly easy to install, requiring no specialized tools or gunsmithing skills.
The biggest strength is its simplicity and effectiveness. There aren’t any complex adjustments or intricate parts that could fail. However, it’s important to note that the mount is designed specifically for the mentioned rifles, which may be a limitation for some.
Design & Ergonomics
The Crickett 80044 Cricket/Chipmunk Rifle Scope Mount (Left Hand) Matte Black features a straightforward, no-nonsense design. The matte black finish blends seamlessly with the rifle’s aesthetics. The low profile of the mount keeps the scope close to the bore, which can improve accuracy.
The mount is designed to be user-friendly, with a simple dovetail attachment mechanism that requires minimal effort to install. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from aluminum, the mount is reasonably durable and capable of withstanding the recoil of a .22LR. It seems likely to last for many years with proper care. Maintenance is simple; regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Crickett 80044 Cricket/Chipmunk Rifle Scope Mount (Left Hand) Matte Black doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, its compatibility with standard 3/8″ dovetail rings means that users can choose from a wide variety of scopes. There are no other major customization options available for the mount itself, as it’s a simple, functional piece.
Pros and Cons of Crickett 80044 Cricket/Chipmunk Rifle Scope Mount (Left Hand) Matte Black
Pros
- Easy to install on compatible rifles.
- Provides a stable and secure platform for scopes.
- Affordable price point.
- Left-hand specific design optimizes eye relief for left-handed shooters.
- Durable aluminum construction.
Cons
- Only compatible with specific Davey Crickett and Chipmunk left-hand rifles.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Crickett 80044 Cricket/Chipmunk Rifle Scope Mount (Left Hand) Matte Black?
The Crickett 80044 Cricket/Chipmunk Rifle Scope Mount (Left Hand) Matte Black is perfect for parents or guardians teaching young, left-handed shooters to use a scoped rifle. It’s ideal for anyone who owns a compatible Davey Crickett or Chipmunk rifle and wants to improve accuracy with an optic. This mount is also a great choice for those seeking an affordable and reliable way to mount a scope without requiring gunsmithing skills.
This product might not be the best fit for those who own right-handed rifles or prefer more advanced mounting systems with extensive customization options. A must-have accessory is a good quality set of 3/8″ dovetail rings and a lightweight scope to match.
Conclusion on Crickett 80044 Cricket/Chipmunk Rifle Scope Mount (Left Hand) Matte Black
The Crickett 80044 Cricket/Chipmunk Rifle Scope Mount (Left Hand) Matte Black is a simple, affordable, and effective solution for mounting a scope on compatible left-handed rifles. At a price of $33.99, it delivers excellent value for money. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking to enhance the shooting experience for their young, left-handed marksmen.
If you’re in the market for a scope mount that’s easy to install, reliable, and specifically designed for left-handed Crickett or Chipmunk rifles, then look no further. It’s a great investment that will undoubtedly improve your accuracy and overall shooting enjoyment.