EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail Review

The EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail Made a Bold First Impression

The EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail is a single-piece base designed to provide a stable and versatile platform for mounting optics on the classic Ruger No. 1 rifle. Its simple design and black finish belie its potential to modernize this iconic firearm, allowing for the use of a wider range of sighting systems than the factory iron sights allow. For years, I’ve appreciated the Ruger No. 1’s elegance and power, but felt limited by its traditional sighting options. I needed a way to mount modern scopes securely and reliably, without sacrificing the rifle’s inherent beauty or functionality.

I had been struggling to achieve consistent accuracy with my Ruger No. 1 in .270 Winchester, especially at longer ranges. The factory iron sights were adequate for close-range hunting, but my aging eyes needed the assistance of a magnified optic to truly reach out and touch targets with confidence. I considered several options, including side-mount scope mounts and custom-drilled receiver options. Ultimately, the EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail seemed like the most straightforward, reversible, and cost-effective solution.

The EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail arrived in a simple, no-frills package. The rail itself felt solid and well-machined, with a smooth, matte black finish. The single-piece design was reassuring, promising a rigid and stable mounting platform. Compared to some of the more complex, multi-piece bases on the market, the EGW rail’s simplicity was immediately appealing. I had also considered a Weaver-style base from another manufacturer, but the Picatinny standard offered greater versatility in terms of optic placement and compatibility with various mounting rings.

My first impression was one of quiet confidence. The EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail felt like a well-made, functional piece of equipment that would solve my sighting problems without adding unnecessary bulk or complexity to my rifle. I was eager to get it mounted and start shooting.

Real-World Testing: Putting EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail at my local shooting range, mounting a Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10×40 scope. The weather was mild and sunny, ideal for sighting in a rifle. The installation process was surprisingly straightforward, requiring only a few minutes and basic tools.

The EGW rail provided a rock-solid platform for the scope, with no noticeable movement or slippage during firing. I fired approximately 50 rounds of various .270 Winchester loads, and the rail held zero perfectly. The increased accuracy and clarity provided by the magnified optic were immediately apparent. I was able to consistently hit targets at 200 yards, something I struggled with using the iron sights. The EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail had successfully modernized my Ruger No. 1.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including a deer hunting trip in moderately wet conditions, the EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail continues to perform flawlessly. There are no signs of rust or corrosion, and the black finish remains intact. I’ve removed and reinstalled the scope several times without any loss of zero.

The EGW rail is easy to clean, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a soft cloth and gun oil. Compared to previous experiences with less robust mounting systems, the EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail has proven to be exceptionally reliable and durable. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of performance and ease of use.

Breaking Down the Features of EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail

Specifications

  • Make: Ruger. This EGW rail is specifically designed to fit Ruger No. 1 rifles, ensuring a proper and secure fit.
  • Model: #1, No. 1. Knowing the specific model fit ensures compatibility and avoids any guesswork during installation.
  • Number of Bases: 1-Piece. The one-piece design enhances rigidity and stability, crucial for maintaining accuracy.
  • Style: Picatinny Rail. The Picatinny rail offers universal compatibility with a wide range of scope mounts and accessories.
  • Color: Black. The black finish provides a sleek and unobtrusive look that complements the Ruger No. 1’s classic lines.

These specifications are vital because they ensure the EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail correctly fits the Ruger No. 1, offers a secure and stable platform for optics, and allows for maximum flexibility in mounting options. The one-piece design minimizes the risk of movement or misalignment, contributing to improved accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail performs its job admirably. It provides a stable and reliable platform for mounting optics on the Ruger No. 1 rifle. The increased accuracy and versatility provided by the rail are undeniable.

The rail’s greatest strength is its simplicity and rock-solid stability. The only minor weakness is that it slightly alters the classic lines of the rifle, although this is a matter of personal preference. Overall, the EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail meets and exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail is a simple and functional design. The materials are high-quality, and the black finish is durable and attractive. The rail is lightweight and does not significantly alter the rifle’s balance.

The installation process is straightforward, and the rail is easy to use with any compatible scope mount. There is no significant learning curve involved.

Durability & Maintenance

The EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail is built to last. Its durable construction and corrosion-resistant black finish should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.

The rail is unlikely to require any repairs under normal use. It’s a simple, robust design that should withstand the rigors of hunting and shooting.

Accessories and Customization Options

The EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail does not come with any accessories beyond the necessary mounting screws. The primary customization option is the choice of scope and mounting rings. The Picatinny rail is compatible with a vast array of optics and accessories from various brands.

This flexibility allows the shooter to tailor their sighting system to their specific needs and preferences. The EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail opens up a world of possibilities for customizing the Ruger No. 1 rifle.

Pros and Cons of EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail

Pros

  • Provides a stable and reliable platform for mounting optics on the Ruger No. 1.
  • Offers universal compatibility with Picatinny-style scope mounts and accessories.
  • Easy to install and maintain.
  • Durable construction with a corrosion-resistant black finish.
  • Significantly enhances the accuracy and versatility of the Ruger No. 1 rifle.

Cons

  • Slightly alters the classic lines of the Ruger No. 1.
  • May require the removal of factory iron sights (depending on scope and ring height).


Who Should Buy EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail?

The EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail is perfect for Ruger No. 1 owners who want to modernize their rifle with a magnified optic or other Picatinny-compatible accessories. It is ideal for hunters seeking improved accuracy at longer ranges, as well as target shooters and competitive shooters who demand the precision and versatility of a modern sighting system.

Anyone who is a purist and wants to maintain the Ruger No. 1’s original appearance should skip this product. This product is also not necessary for shooters who are content with the factory iron sights for close-range shooting.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality scope and appropriate mounting rings.

Conclusion on EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail

The EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail is a well-made, functional, and reliable accessory that significantly enhances the capabilities of the Ruger No. 1 rifle. It provides a stable and versatile platform for mounting optics, allowing shooters to achieve greater accuracy and extend their effective range. At $62.49, the price is justified by the quality of construction and the significant improvement in performance.

I would personally recommend the EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail to any Ruger No. 1 owner who wants to modernize their rifle and take their shooting to the next level. Don’t let your classic rifle be limited by outdated sighting systems. Upgrade to the EGW Ruger NO. 1 Picatinny Rail and experience the difference!


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