Let’s Dive into NC Star RB33 1inch Weaver Style All Steel Med-High Rifle Scope Rings
The NC Star RB33 1inch Weaver Style All Steel Med-High Rifle Scope Rings are a budget-friendly option for mounting a 1-inch tube riflescope to a firearm with a Weaver-style rail. These rings, manufactured by NcSTAR, promise an all-steel construction for durability and a medium-high profile suitable for various scope objective lens sizes. Let’s see if they deliver on their promise.
I’ve always been on the lookout for affordable, yet reliable mounting solutions for my optics. As someone who frequently swaps scopes between rifles for different applications – from varmint hunting to casual target practice – a versatile and cost-effective set of rings is a must. My decision was driven by the need for a spare set of rings that wouldn’t break the bank while still providing a secure and stable platform for my scopes.
Upon receiving the NC Star RB33 1inch Weaver Style All Steel Med-High Rifle Scope Rings, I immediately noted their weight. The all-steel construction definitely gives them a solid feel, a departure from the lightweight aluminum rings I often use. My initial impression was that they were a no-frills, utilitarian product, designed for function over form.
I’ve used similar budget rings from brands like UTG and Leapers in the past. While those rings were aluminum, they often provided sufficient performance for the price. I chose the NC Star RB33 1inch Weaver Style All Steel Med-High Rifle Scope Rings due to the promise of superior strength from the steel construction and the slightly higher profile to accommodate a larger objective lens on one of my scopes.
I was cautiously optimistic. The all-steel construction piqued my interest, suggesting a robustness that aluminum rings might lack, but I also had reservations about potential fit and finish issues at this price point. Would they be truly Weaver-compatible? Would the screws hold up? Only time and testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting NC Star RB33 1inch Weaver Style All Steel Med-High Rifle Scope Rings to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the NC Star RB33 1inch Weaver Style All Steel Med-High Rifle Scope Rings on a Savage Axis .223 rifle at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was clear and sunny, providing ideal conditions for sighting in a scope. I mounted a 3-9x40mm scope, a common size, to assess the rings’ performance with a typical optic.
Initially, mounting the rings was straightforward, but I immediately noticed that the screws felt soft and easily stripped. This was a major concern. After about 25 rounds, the scope shifted. Upon disassembling, I discovered the key that sits on the Weaver rail had sheared off!
The rings were relatively easy to use, requiring only a few minutes to mount the scope. However, the aforementioned screw issue and the key shearing off after such short use were significant problems. The rings failed to maintain zero after minimal recoil.
Extended Use & Reliability
Unfortunately, given the initial failure, there wasn’t much extended use to be had. The sheared key rendered the rings unusable after a single range session. These rings did not hold up after minimal recoil from a .223 round.
Given the short lifespan, maintenance wasn’t really a factor. I cleaned the rings after the range session, but the damage was already done. There was no point in further care. I’ve used cheaper aluminum rings that have lasted far longer. The NC Star RB33 1inch Weaver Style All Steel Med-High Rifle Scope Rings proved to be a significant disappointment.
Breaking Down the Features of NC Star RB33 1inch Weaver Style All Steel Med-High Rifle Scope Rings
Specifications
The NC Star RB33 1inch Weaver Style All Steel Med-High Rifle Scope Rings are designed to fit 1-inch diameter scope tubes. They are advertised as having an all-steel construction for increased durability. The rings are designated as “medium-high,” offering a profile suitable for scopes with moderate objective lens sizes.
The manufacturer is listed as NcSTAR, known for producing a wide range of budget-friendly tactical and shooting accessories. The finish is matte, intended to reduce glare and provide a low-profile appearance. They are designed for use on Weaver-style rails and are sold as a pair.
These specifications matter because they dictate the scope compatibility and mounting options. A 1-inch tube diameter is standard, but the “medium-high” designation is crucial for ensuring proper clearance between the scope objective lens and the rifle barrel. The all-steel construction is intended to provide a more robust and reliable mounting solution compared to aluminum rings, enhancing accuracy and repeatability.
Performance & Functionality
In theory, the NC Star RB33 1inch Weaver Style All Steel Med-High Rifle Scope Rings should securely mount a 1-inch scope to a Weaver rail. They should maintain zero even under moderate recoil. However, in my experience, the rings failed to live up to these expectations.
The soft screws and the shearing of the rail key are major weaknesses. These issues directly compromise the rings’ ability to hold zero and maintain a secure connection between the scope and the rifle. These rings do not meet expectations for even basic performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The rings have a basic, functional design. The matte finish is aesthetically pleasing and reduces glare. The weight, due to the steel construction, is noticeable but not excessive.
The design is user-friendly in terms of basic installation, but the poor material quality overshadows any ergonomic advantages. The soft screws and fragile rail key negate any positive aspects of the design. No learning curve exists beyond understanding how to tighten screws – something these rings make difficult.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the NC Star RB33 1inch Weaver Style All Steel Med-High Rifle Scope Rings are unlikely to last long under even moderate use. The rapid failure of the rail key demonstrates a significant lack of durability. Maintenance is irrelevant when the product fails so quickly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NC Star RB33 1inch Weaver Style All Steel Med-High Rifle Scope Rings do not come with any accessories beyond the necessary screws for mounting. There are no customization options available. While designed for Weaver rails, compatibility with Picatinny rails may be possible, but is not guaranteed.
Pros and Cons of NC Star RB33 1inch Weaver Style All Steel Med-High Rifle Scope Rings
Pros
- Budget-friendly price point.
- All-steel construction theoretically offers increased durability.
- Matte finish reduces glare.
Cons
- Soft screws easily strip.
- Rail key is prone to shearing, leading to scope shift.
- Poor overall durability and reliability.
Who Should Buy NC Star RB33 1inch Weaver Style All Steel Med-High Rifle Scope Rings?
These rings are perfect for… No one.
Anyone seeking a reliable and durable scope mounting solution should avoid this product. Someone who should skip these are hunters, competitive shooters, or anyone who relies on their rifle for serious applications. No accessories or modifications can overcome the fundamental flaws in material quality.
Conclusion on NC Star RB33 1inch Weaver Style All Steel Med-High Rifle Scope Rings
The NC Star RB33 1inch Weaver Style All Steel Med-High Rifle Scope Rings promise an affordable and durable mounting solution, but ultimately fail to deliver on that promise. The low price point is tempting, but the poor material quality and subsequent performance issues make them a false economy. The soft screws and fragile rail key are critical flaws that cannot be overlooked.
The price is not justified, considering the rings’ extremely limited lifespan and compromised performance. I would not recommend these rings to anyone seeking a reliable scope mounting solution. Save your money and invest in a higher-quality set of rings from a reputable manufacturer.