EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA Review

First Thoughts on the EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA

The EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA is a critical component for any shooter looking to extend their effective range with a vintage Winchester lever-action rifle. EGW (Evolution Gun Works) is known for producing high-quality, precision-machined scope mounts, and this offering for the classic Winchester 88 and 100 promises to bring modern optic capabilities to these historically significant firearms. The key feature that immediately grabs attention is the built-in 20 MOA (Minutes of Angle) elevation, designed to provide additional vertical adjustment for long-range shooting.

I’ve been a long-time fan of lever-action rifles, especially the Winchester 88, for its unique blend of traditional aesthetics and modern, short-action cartridge compatibility. My biggest issue has been the limited options for mounting modern optics; the iron sights are fine for close-range work, but they fall short when trying to reach out to longer distances. The EGW rail aims to solve this problem.

Upon unboxing, the EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA exudes quality. The matte black anodized finish is smooth and consistent, and the machining is clean and precise. The weight feels appropriate, adding a touch of heft without making the rifle feel unbalanced. Compared to other universal rails I’ve used in the past, this one feels specifically designed and meticulously crafted for the Winchester 88 and 100 receivers, which is a definite plus.

I considered other options, including some custom-made solutions, but the price point and reputation of EGW made this rail the most appealing. I was also considering some other universal picatinny rails that gunsmithing might be required for, but I wanted something designed specifically for the 88 & 100. My initial impression is positive; the EGW rail seems robust and well-made, and I’m excited to see how it performs in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA to the Test

First Use Experience

My first range session with the EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA was at my local outdoor shooting range, under clear and sunny conditions. I paired the rail with a Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15×44 scope, a solid mid-range optic that I’m familiar with. Installation was straightforward, using the included mounting hardware and T-10 bit.

The rail felt rock-solid once mounted, and the added height wasn’t an issue with my cheek weld. The 20 MOA of built-in elevation proved immediately beneficial. I was able to zero the scope at 100 yards with plenty of upward adjustment remaining. This made it significantly easier to dial in longer-range shots. I was easily hitting steel out to 400 yards, which I would not have been able to do using iron sights.

I encountered no issues during the first range session. The rail held zero perfectly, and the scope remained securely mounted. I was surprised at how much of a difference the added elevation made in extending my range.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including multiple range trips and a deer hunting trip in moderately wet conditions, the EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of loosening or shifting, and the anodized finish shows no wear or corrosion. I have taken the rifle in and out of a soft case, as well as carried it in the field, without damaging the mount.

Maintenance has been minimal. I simply wipe down the rail with a lightly oiled cloth after each use. The rail remains securely attached to the receiver, even after repeated firing sessions. The rail is as solid as the day I installed it.

Compared to previous attempts to mount optics on older rifles using less-than-ideal solutions, this EGW rail is a game-changer. It provides a stable and reliable platform for modern optics, allowing me to fully realize the potential of my Winchester 88. It far exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA

Specifications

• Mounting Hardware: Included, simplifying the installation process and ensuring proper fit. This eliminates the need to source compatible screws.
• Compatibility: Fits Winchester 88 and Sako Finnwolf rifles, offering versatility for owners of these classic firearms. The limited compatibility may disappoint some, but the focus allows for a precise fit.
• Rail Type: One Piece Picatinny, providing a standardized platform for mounting a wide range of optics. This offers maximum flexibility for optic choices.
• Material: Domestic 6061 T6 Extruded Aluminum, offering a balance of strength and lightweight properties. The aluminum makes for a durable and long-lasting mount.
• Finish: Matte Black Anodizing, providing corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface. This helps to avoid glint in the field.
• Center Spread: 2.45″, a crucial measurement for ensuring proper alignment with the receiver. This ensures solid contact across the entire surface.
• Overall Length: 5.882″, providing ample space for mounting various optic configurations. This is generally long enough for most common scopes.
• Height: .4″ (Top of Receiver to Top of Picatinny), a relatively low profile that minimizes interference with the rifle’s handling. This height allows for the use of a standard cheek weld.
• Weight: 2 oz., adding minimal weight to the rifle. This helps to maintain the rifle’s balance.
• Quick Disconnect Ring Compatible: No, a minor drawback for users who prefer quick detach systems. This is not a major issue for most users.
• Ambidextrous: Yes, a practical feature for both right- and left-handed shooters. This is a great bonus for left-handed shooters.
• Torque Specs: 20 in/lbs, ensuring proper and safe installation. This is important for proper fitment and prevents stripping of the screws.
• Mounting Hardware: #6-48 X 1/4 Screws and T-10 Bit Included, providing everything needed for installation. This makes installation easy and foolproof.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA‘s performance and usability. The quality materials and precise machining ensure a stable and reliable platform for mounting optics, while the 20 MOA elevation significantly extends the effective range of the rifle. The thoughtful design and included hardware make installation easy and straightforward.

Performance & Functionality

The EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a stable and secure platform for mounting optics on the Winchester 88 and Sako Finnwolf rifles. The 20 MOA elevation is a significant advantage, especially for long-range shooting.

Its strengths are its rock-solid construction, precise fit, and the added elevation. The only area for improvement would be the addition of quick-disconnect compatibility. Overall, it exceeded expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with the EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA crafted from durable aluminum with a matte black anodized finish. The rail feels solid and well-made. It adds minimal weight to the rifle and does not interfere with its handling.

The design is user-friendly, with no learning curve required. Installation is straightforward, and the included hardware is a welcome addition.

Durability & Maintenance

The EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA is built to last. The aluminum construction and anodized finish provide excellent corrosion resistance. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning.

Accessories and Customization Options

The rail itself does not offer many customization options beyond the choice of optics that can be mounted. The compatibility with standard Picatinny rings and bases allows for a wide range of scopes and red dot sights to be used. The absence of integrated accessories keeps the design simple and focused.

Pros and Cons of EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA

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Who Should Buy EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA?

The EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA is perfect for:

• Hunters who want to extend the range of their Winchester 88 or Sako Finnwolf.
• Shooters who want to modernize their classic rifles with modern optics.
• Anyone looking for a reliable and durable scope mounting solution for these rifles.

Those who should skip this product:

• Owners of rifles other than the Winchester 88 or Sako Finnwolf.
• Shooters who do not need or want the added elevation of a 20 MOA rail.

A must-have accessory is a quality set of Picatinny rings or a one-piece scope mount. Consider also a cheek riser if the scope sits too high for comfortable use.

Conclusion on EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA

The EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA is an excellent product that delivers on its promise of providing a stable and reliable platform for mounting optics on classic Winchester rifles. The added 20 MOA elevation is a significant advantage for long-range shooting, and the quality construction ensures that this rail will last for years to come.

The price is justified by the quality of the product and the performance it provides. I would highly recommend this rail to anyone looking to modernize their Winchester 88 or Sako Finnwolf with modern optics. If you want to bring your classic rifle into the 21st century, look no further than the EGW Winchester 88 & 100 Picatinny Rail 20 MOA.

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