NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount Review

First Thoughts on the NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount

The NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount is a budget-friendly option designed to enhance AR-15 platforms by providing extended eye relief for optics. NcStar, a company known for its affordable tactical gear, aims to provide a simple solution for mounting scopes and red dots on flat-top rifles. I was immediately curious to see if this mount could deliver on its promise of stability and versatility despite its low price point.

I’ve been working on a budget AR build recently and found myself needing a cantilever mount to properly position my new optic. The issue was getting proper eye relief, as the receiver rail wasn’t long enough for comfortable scope placement. After considering other more expensive cantilever mounts, I decided to give the NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount a try to see if it could be a viable low-cost solution.

Upon unboxing, the mount felt surprisingly solid for its price. The hard anodized aluminum construction seemed reasonably durable. The slotted thumb nut looked functional, if not particularly refined. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic – it seemed like a good value for the money, but I remained skeptical about its long-term durability and ability to maintain zero.

I compared the NcStar mount to a similarly designed mount from UTG (a slightly more expensive option) and a higher-end Aero Precision mount that I use on another rifle. The NcStar lacked the fine machining and smooth finish of the Aero Precision, and didn’t have the robust feel of the UTG. However, the price difference was significant enough to warrant giving the NcStar a fair chance.

My first impression was that the NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount offered an accessible entry point for shooters needing a cantilever mount. Whether it could hold up to serious use remained to be seen.

Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount at my local outdoor shooting range. I mounted it on my AR-15 chambered in 5.56 NATO, paired with a budget-friendly red dot optic. The range offered a variety of distances, allowing me to test the mount’s ability to maintain zero at 50, 100, and 200 yards.

The mount performed adequately in the dry, sunny conditions. Installation was straightforward. It secured easily to the Picatinny rail using the thumb nut, and the red dot was relatively easy to zero. After about 50 rounds, however, I noticed a slight shift in my zero.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range trips totaling around 500 rounds, the NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount showed some signs of wear. The anodized finish began to chip in a few spots, and the thumb nut started to loosen more frequently during shooting sessions. Recoil seemed to be the culprit.

Durability is definitely a concern with this mount. While it initially felt solid, extended use revealed its limitations. The threads on the thumb nut aren’t the highest quality, and the aluminum isn’t as robust as more expensive options.

Maintenance is simple – a quick wipe down with a cloth is all that’s needed. However, I found myself constantly checking the tightness of the thumb nut, which became a bit annoying. Compared to my Aero Precision mount, which I rarely have to adjust, the NcStar clearly underperformed in terms of reliability and long-term stability.

Breaking Down the Features of NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount

Specifications

The NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount is designed to provide an elevated and forward-positioned platform for optics. This Weaver-style mount is constructed from hard anodized aluminum, which aims to provide a balance of strength and weight. It accommodates both 30mm and 1-inch optics through the use of included inserts, enhancing its versatility.

• Ring Diameter: 30mm (with 1-inch inserts included) – This allows the mount to accommodate a wide range of optics, making it adaptable to different sighting systems.
• Mounting Style: Weaver/Picatinny – This ensures compatibility with most modern AR-15 and tactical rifle platforms.
• Material: Hard Anodized Aluminum – This offers a lightweight yet reasonably durable construction, enhancing the overall lifespan of the mount.
• Attachment Method: Slotted Thumb Nut – This allows for quick and easy installation and removal, making it user-friendly in the field.
• Height: Designed for co-witnessing with BUIS (Back-Up Iron Sights) – This allows seamless transitions between optics and iron sights, ensuring continued functionality in case of optic failure.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the mount’s performance and suitability for different applications. The 30mm ring diameter with inserts increases its compatibility with various optics. The aluminum construction keeps the weight down while providing adequate strength for light to medium use.

Performance & Functionality

The NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount performs its primary function – mounting an optic and extending eye relief – adequately. Its accuracy and reliability, however, are where it falls short compared to higher-end mounts. The issue with zero shift is a significant concern for serious shooters.

Its strength lies in its affordability and ease of installation. Its weakness is its inability to maintain zero under sustained recoil. It meets basic expectations for a budget mount but doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for the price. The hard anodized aluminum feels relatively solid. At this price point, however, the finish is rough and the machining isn’t precise.

The mount is user-friendly, with a simple design and easy installation. There’s no real learning curve. Tightening the thumb nut is all that’s required.

Durability & Maintenance

The NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount will likely last for a reasonable amount of time with light use. However, heavy use and constant recoil will likely accelerate wear and tear. The finish is prone to scratching.

Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning and occasional tightening of the thumb nut are all that’s required. Repairing it would likely involve replacing the entire unit, given its low cost.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount comes with inserts to accommodate 1-inch optics, increasing its versatility. There are no other included accessories or customization options. This mount is designed for simplicity and basic functionality.

It’s compatible with any optic that has a 30mm or 1-inch tube diameter and is designed for Weaver/Picatinny rails. It is not compatible with accessories that require additional mounting points or rails.

Pros and Cons of NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount

Who Should Buy NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount?

The NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who need a basic cantilever mount for light recreational shooting. It can also be a good option for airsoft enthusiasts or those building a .22LR AR platform. Those using a low-recoil caliber will likely have better results.

Competitive shooters, law enforcement professionals, or anyone who relies on their rifle for serious applications should skip this product. A more robust and reliable mount is essential for those situations.

Must-have modifications would include using thread locker on the thumb nut to help prevent loosening. A higher-quality optic is also recommended to get the most out of the mount’s capabilities.

Conclusion on NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount

The NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount is a budget-friendly option that offers basic functionality. It provides extended eye relief for AR-15 platforms, which is its primary selling point. However, its durability and ability to maintain zero are significant concerns.

The price is justified for those on a tight budget who need a temporary or very light-use solution. The value proposition is directly tied to its low cost.

I would only recommend it to those who understand its limitations and are not relying on it for critical applications. For serious shooters, investing in a higher-quality mount is essential. If you’re building a budget AR and need something to get you started, the NcStar 30mm Cantilevr Ring, Weaver Mount might be worth considering, but be prepared to upgrade in the future.