Let’s Dive into NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount
The NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount is a simple yet effective accessory designed to enhance the versatility of your shotgun. Manufactured by NcSTAR, this mount allows you to easily attach lights, lasers, and other tactical accessories. It achieves this without requiring extensive modifications to your firearm.
My shotguns are primarily for home defense and the occasional sporting clays. I needed a reliable and affordable way to mount a flashlight to my Maverick 88. Streamlining my setup for low-light conditions was a priority, but I didn’t want to break the bank on expensive rail systems.
The package arrived in a simple, no-frills manner. The mount itself felt surprisingly solid for its price point, constructed from what appears to be decent-quality aluminum. Its matte black finish blends seamlessly with most shotgun aesthetics.
I considered a few other options, including full-length Picatinny rail systems. However, they seemed like overkill for my needs and added unnecessary bulk and weight. The NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount offered a minimalist, direct solution.
My first impression was positive; it seemed like a well-made, practical accessory. The low price made it even more appealing. I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world use.
Real-World Testing: Putting NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount at my local shooting range. I mounted it on my Maverick 88, securing a Streamlight ProTac HL-X flashlight to one of the side rails. The installation process was straightforward.
Performance was solid; the mount held the flashlight securely during repeated firing of 12-gauge shells. There was no noticeable shifting or loosening of the mount, even with the recoil. The added weight of the flashlight was minimal and didn’t significantly affect the shotgun’s handling.
I did notice that the included screws could benefit from some thread locker. After about 25 rounds, they began to slightly loosen. A quick application of Loctite solved the issue.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount has held up remarkably well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear, aside from some minor scratches on the finish. The aluminum construction appears durable.
Cleaning is a breeze. I simply wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session. Overall, the mount requires minimal maintenance.
In comparison to a more expensive, full-length rail system I’ve used on another shotgun, the NcSTAR mount performs admirably for its intended purpose. While it lacks the versatility of a full rail, its simplicity, low profile, and affordability make it a winner. It definitely exceeded my expectations for a budget-friendly accessory.
Breaking Down the Features of NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount
Specifications
The NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount is designed to fit 1″ diameter shotgun magazine tubes. It is compatible with most 12-gauge shotguns that have magazine extension tubes. The mount itself is constructed from aluminum.
The mount features five angled Picatinny rails for accessory attachment. These are located at the 3, 4-5, 6, 7-8, and 9 o’clock positions. It allows for versatile mounting options for flashlights, lasers, and other tactical accessories. The overall length of the mount is 1.4 inches.
The mount’s matte black finish ensures a low-profile appearance. The condition of the item is new. The choice of aluminum for construction strikes a good balance between weight and durability. This keeps added bulk to a minimum, without sacrificing structural integrity.
Performance & Functionality
The NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount performs its primary function exceptionally well: providing a secure platform for attaching accessories to your shotgun. The five angled rails offer plenty of flexibility in terms of positioning your flashlight or laser. I found the side rails particularly useful for mounting my flashlight, as they allowed me to keep it out of the way of my support hand.
The mount’s simple design makes it incredibly easy to install and use. The only real weakness is the potential for the screws to loosen over time. As mentioned earlier, this can be easily addressed with some thread locker. Despite that minor issue, it meets and exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount is a minimalist design. Its low profile keeps it from adding unnecessary bulk to your shotgun. The aluminum construction keeps the weight down.
The rounded edges of the mount prevent it from snagging on clothing or gear. There is no real learning curve. It’s a simple clamp-on design.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction of the NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount appears to be quite durable. After several months of use, there are no signs of cracks or deformation. The matte black finish has proven to be relatively scratch-resistant.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is all that’s required to keep it clean and functioning properly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount does not come with any included accessories. However, it is compatible with any accessory that utilizes a Picatinny rail mounting system. This includes a wide variety of flashlights, lasers, and foregrips.
The five angled rails provide ample opportunities for customization. Users can choose the mounting position that best suits their needs and preferences. I found it particularly useful for fine-tuning the position of my flashlight to ensure it didn’t interfere with my field of view or grip.
Pros and Cons of NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Easy installation with a simple clamp-on design.
- Durable aluminum construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Versatile five-rail design provides multiple mounting options for accessories.
- Low-profile design adds minimal bulk and weight to the shotgun.
Cons
- Screws may loosen over time without thread locker.
- The tight fit could be problematic on magazine tubes that are not exactly to spec.
Who Should Buy NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount?
The NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount is perfect for budget-minded home defense enthusiasts. It’s also ideal for recreational shooters who want to add a flashlight or laser to their shotgun without spending a fortune. It is also a good fit for those who prefer a minimalist setup over a full-length rail system.
This product might not be the best choice for competitive shooters or tactical operators. They may require a more robust or feature-rich mounting solution. Individuals with magazine tubes that are significantly out of spec should also consider other options.
A must-have accessory for this mount is a high-quality thread locker. This prevents the screws from loosening. A bright, reliable flashlight is also highly recommended to take full advantage of the mount’s capabilities.
Conclusion on NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount
Overall, the NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount is an excellent value for the money. It provides a simple, durable, and versatile solution for mounting accessories to your shotgun. The price is definitely justified.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone looking for an affordable and effective way to enhance their shotgun’s capabilities. It’s a no-frills accessory that gets the job done. Upgrade your shotgun today with the NcSTAR 1″ Shotgun Magazine Tube Mount and experience enhanced versatility and tactical advantage!