The EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA Made a Bold First Impression
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade in the field, I’ve seen a lot of optics mounting solutions. The EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA immediately caught my attention. This rail offers a modern optics platform for two classic rifles.
My lever-action Winchester 88, a family heirloom, had been relegated to iron sights for far too long. I wanted to breathe new life into it with a modern optic but needed a reliable mounting solution that wouldn’t compromise the rifle’s integrity. Enter EGW, a company known for precision and quality.
Upon unboxing, the rail felt solid and well-machined. The matte black anodized finish looked professional and durable, promising to withstand the rigors of the field. It was noticeably lighter than some steel rails I’ve used, which is a welcome feature on a rifle already carrying some weight.
I considered other options, including Weaver-style mounts and custom-made solutions. However, the EGW Picatinny rail offered the versatility and standardized platform I needed for easy optic swaps and adjustments. The integrated 20 MOA cant was a significant selling point. It provides added elevation adjustment for long-range shooting. Initial impressions were highly positive. I was eager to get it mounted and see how it performed.
Real-World Testing: Putting EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test involved a trip to the local shooting range. It was a slightly overcast day, perfect for dialing in a new optic without harsh glare. I mounted a Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15×44 scope on the EGW rail. I was immediately impressed with the solid and secure fit.
The installation process was straightforward. The included hardware and T-10 Torx bit made the task easy. I followed the EGW’s recommended torque specs of 20 in/lbs. The rifle felt balanced and the sight picture was clear and consistent. Zeroing the scope was surprisingly quick, thanks to the precise machining of the rail and the added 20 MOA cant.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the EGW rail has proven itself to be a reliable and valuable addition to my Winchester 88. I’ve taken the rifle on a few hunts in varying conditions. The rail remained securely attached, even after bumping it against trees and rocks.
The anodized finish has held up remarkably well. There were no signs of scratches or wear despite the rough handling in the field. Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth is all it takes to keep it clean. The EGW rail significantly outperforms the old Weaver-style mount I previously used on another rifle. The increased stability and flexibility in optic choice are undeniable.
Breaking Down the Features of EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA
Specifications
- Mounting Hardware: Included are the necessary screws for a secure and hassle-free installation. This eliminates the need for a separate trip to the hardware store.
- Compatibility: This mount is specifically designed for the Winchester 88 and Sako Finnwolf rifles. This ensures a precise fit and optimal performance.
- Rail Type: The one-piece Picatinny rail offers maximum versatility for mounting various optics and accessories. This provides a stable and standardized platform.
- Material: It’s machined from domestic 6061 T6 extruded aluminum. This provides a balance of strength and lightweight durability.
- Finish: The matte black anodizing enhances the rail’s resistance to corrosion and wear. This offers a professional look and long-lasting protection.
- Center Spread: The 2.45″ center spread ensures proper alignment with the rifle’s receiver. This facilitates accurate and consistent shooting.
- Overall Length: The 5.882″ length provides ample space for mounting a wide range of optics. This accommodates various scope sizes and eye relief preferences.
- Height: The 0.4″ height (from the top of the receiver to the top of the Picatinny rail) ensures a low-profile mounting solution. This minimizes bulk and maintains a comfortable cheek weld.
- Weight: Weighing in at only 2 oz., this rail adds minimal weight to the rifle. This contributes to better balance and handling.
- Quick Disconnect Ring Compatible: While not specifically designed for quick-disconnect rings, it works perfectly well with most QD mounts. This allows for easy optic swaps.
- Ambidextrous: The design is ambidextrous. This ensures comfortable use for both left- and right-handed shooters.
- Torque Specs: The recommended torque spec is 20 in/lbs. This ensures a secure and damage-free installation.
- Mounting Hardware: It uses #6-48 X 1/4 screws and includes a T-10 Torx bit. This simplifies the installation process.
Performance & Functionality
The EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA performs its job flawlessly. It provides a stable and reliable platform for mounting optics on the Winchester 88 and Sako Finnwolf rifles.
Its primary strength lies in its precise machining and secure fit. The 20 MOA cant is a significant advantage for long-range shooting, allowing for greater elevation adjustment in the scope. There are no notable weaknesses. The rail exceeds expectations in terms of performance and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The EGW rail boasts a simple and functional design. The matte black anodized aluminum offers a balance of durability and lightweight handling. It integrates seamlessly with the rifle’s aesthetics.
The installation process is user-friendly. No specialized tools or gunsmithing skills are required. The low-profile design doesn’t interfere with the rifle’s handling or balance.
Durability & Maintenance
The EGW Picatinny rail is built to last. The 6061 T6 aluminum is known for its strength and resistance to corrosion. Regular cleaning and lubrication are sufficient to maintain its performance.
There are no foreseeable maintenance or repair needs under normal usage conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA primarily serves as a platform for mounting optics. Common accessories include scopes, red dot sights, and magnifiers.
The Picatinny rail standard allows for compatibility with a vast range of accessories from various brands. There aren’t other notable customization options specific to the rail itself.
Pros and Cons of EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA
Pros
- Rock-solid mounting platform: Provides a secure and stable base for optics.
- 20 MOA cant: Enhances long-range shooting capabilities.
- Lightweight and durable: Made from 6061 T6 aluminum with a matte black anodized finish.
- Easy installation: Includes all necessary hardware and a T-10 Torx bit.
- Versatile Picatinny rail: Compatible with a wide range of optics and accessories.
Cons
- Specific rifle compatibility: Only fits Winchester 88 and Sako Finnwolf rifles.
- Non-QD specific: Does not come with a dedicated quick-detach mechanism.
Who Should Buy EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA?
This rail is perfect for:
- Hunters: Who want to modernize their classic Winchester 88 or Sako Finnwolf with a high-performance optic for improved accuracy and range.
- Long-range shooters: The 20 MOA cant provides a significant advantage for reaching distant targets.
- Firearms enthusiasts: Who appreciate quality craftsmanship and want a reliable mounting solution.
Who should skip this product?
- Individuals who do not own a Winchester 88 or Sako Finnwolf.
- Those who prefer iron sights and have no interest in mounting optics.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A high-quality scope suitable for hunting or long-range shooting.
- Scope rings or a one-piece mount to attach the optic to the rail.
- A gunsmith-level torque wrench is preferable for professional mounting.
Conclusion on EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA
The EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA is a well-designed and expertly manufactured product that delivers on its promises. It provides a secure and versatile mounting platform for optics on two classic rifles.
At $35.99, the price is justified given the quality of materials, precise machining, and added benefit of the 20 MOA cant. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking to modernize their Winchester 88 or Sako Finnwolf.
If you’re ready to bring your classic rifle into the 21st century with modern optics, the EGW rail is the ideal solution. Upgrade your shooting experience today!