NcStar 12 Gauge Shotgun Tri-Rail, Weaver Mount for 1″ Mag Tube Review

First Thoughts on the NcStar 12 Gauge Shotgun Tri-Rail, Weaver Mount for 1″ Mag Tube

The NcStar 12 Gauge Shotgun Tri-Rail, Weaver Mount for 1″ Mag Tube promises to be a simple, effective way to add versatility to your shotgun. NcStar aims to offer an affordable solution for mounting accessories like lights and lasers. This little add-on aims to transform your plain-Jane shotgun into a tactical powerhouse.

I’ve always been a fan of modularity, and my old pump-action has been feeling a little…underdressed. I was looking for a simple way to mount a flashlight for nighttime varmint control around the property. I wanted something that wouldn’t break the bank, and that was relatively easy to install without needing gunsmithing skills.

Out of the box, the NcStar Tri-Rail is surprisingly lightweight. The aluminum construction feels decent for the price, and the black finish is acceptable. Compared to some pricier, full-length rail systems, it’s definitely a budget option. I considered some other options from brands like Mesa Tactical, but those were significantly more expensive.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. At $13.99, my expectations weren’t sky-high, but I was hoping for a functional, no-frills solution. I was eager to see how it held up under recoil.

Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar 12 Gauge Shotgun Tri-Rail, Weaver Mount for 1″ Mag Tube to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the NcStar Tri-Rail on my trusty Mossberg 500 at my local outdoor range. The weather was sunny, with a slight breeze, perfect for a bit of target practice. Installation was surprisingly easy.

It took only a few minutes to disassemble the magazine tube, slide on the Tri-Rail, and tighten the Allen head bolts. The fit was snug on my 1″ magazine tube. The first few shots with a standard 12-gauge load felt solid.

However, after about 20 rounds, I noticed the Tri-Rail had shifted slightly forward. I had to retighten the bolts, which was a little concerning.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, I’ve put about 200 rounds through my shotgun with the NcStar Tri-Rail installed. I have used a range of loads from light target loads to heavier buckshot. The Tri-Rail continues to perform adequately. I’ve had to tighten the bolts after each range session.

There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the aluminum itself. The black finish is holding up surprisingly well. Cleaning is simple; just wipe it down with a cloth. I previously used a more robust, but much pricier, rail system on another shotgun. The NcStar doesn’t compare in terms of sheer ruggedness, but it’s a decent budget-friendly alternative.

Breaking Down the Features of NcStar 12 Gauge Shotgun Tri-Rail, Weaver Mount for 1″ Mag Tube

Specifications

• Fits 1″ Diameter Tubes: This is a crucial specification, as it determines compatibility with most extended shotgun magazine tubes. Measure your tube carefully!
• Aluminum Construction: This keeps the weight down while providing adequate strength. Aluminum is a good choice for its balance of weight and durability at this price point.
• Black Finish: A simple, matte black finish helps to reduce glare and provides a tactical look. The finish seems relatively durable.
• Overall Height: 1.5″: This dimension indicates how much the Tri-Rail will raise any mounted accessories. Ensure that accessories won’t interfere with your sight picture.
• Overall Length: 1.4″: This compact length keeps the added bulk to a minimum. It allows for mounting smaller accessories without significantly affecting the shotgun’s balance.
• Overall Width: 1.5″: This width provides ample space for mounting accessories on either side of the magazine tube. Consider how this width will affect your grip and handling.
• Weight: 1.2 oz.: The lightweight design keeps the shotgun from becoming excessively heavy. This is a significant advantage for maneuverability and extended use.

Performance & Functionality

The NcStar 12 Gauge Shotgun Tri-Rail performs adequately for its intended purpose. It allows you to mount accessories like flashlights and lasers securely. The 5 rail angles offer a decent amount of versatility.

However, the need to frequently retighten the bolts is a significant weakness. The design could benefit from a more robust locking mechanism. For the price, it meets basic expectations, but it’s not a high-performance product.

Design & Ergonomics

The Tri-Rail is constructed from aluminum and feels reasonably solid in hand. The weight is minimal, which is a plus. The simple design makes it relatively easy to install, but the lack of any knurling or texturing on the rail itself is a missed opportunity.

There’s a slight learning curve in terms of finding the optimal accessory placement. The 5 angled rails provide options, but require some experimentation.

Durability & Maintenance

The aluminum construction should provide reasonable durability for light to moderate use. The black finish seems resistant to scratches. Cleaning is easy, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a cloth.

However, given the loosening bolts, long-term durability is a concern, especially with heavier shotgun loads.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NcStar 12 Gauge Shotgun Tri-Rail itself is an accessory that enables further customization. You can mount any Weaver or Picatinny-style accessory, such as lights, lasers, and vertical grips. It is compatible with most standard accessories.

However, the limited rail space restricts the number and size of accessories you can mount. Full-length rail systems offer greater customization options, but at a significantly higher price.

Pros and Cons of NcStar 12 Gauge Shotgun Tri-Rail, Weaver Mount for 1″ Mag Tube