The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black Made a Bold First Impression
The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black isn’t the sexiest piece of kit on the market, but sometimes, the simplest solutions are the best. It’s a straightforward, no-frills riser designed to elevate your optics on AR-15 platforms, and other firearms with compatible rails. At a price point that barely dents your wallet, it promises to solve a common problem: getting your optic at the right height for a comfortable cheek weld.
I’ve always struggled with finding the perfect optic height on my AR. Many times, I found myself either craning my neck or using a makeshift cheek riser to achieve a proper sight picture. I was searching for a simple, affordable solution to lift my red dot just enough for comfortable and consistent aiming. I ordered the NcStar riser, hoping it would be the answer.
Out of the box, the riser felt surprisingly solid for its price. The black anodized aluminum finish looked clean and professional, and the weight felt appropriate for its size. It lacked the premium feel of some higher-end risers, but it certainly didn’t feel cheap or flimsy. Compared to some bulkier, more expensive risers I’ve used, the NcStar‘s slim profile was a welcome change. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism.
Real-World Testing: Putting **NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black** to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black to my local shooting range for its initial test. I mounted it on my AR-15 with a red dot sight and got to work zeroing. The difference in optic height was immediately noticeable, and my cheek weld felt far more natural and comfortable. I tested it over a couple of hours, firing several hundred rounds.
The riser performed admirably in the relatively controlled environment of the range. There were no issues with it coming loose or shifting under recoil. The weather was dry and mild, so I didn’t get to test it in adverse conditions during the first session.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the next few months, the NcStar riser became a permanent fixture on my AR. I used it in various shooting scenarios, including a rainy range day and a dusty outdoor competition. It held up surprisingly well. After a few months, there were no significant signs of wear and tear.
I did notice a few minor scratches on the anodized finish, but nothing that impacted performance. Cleaning was simple: a quick wipe-down with a cloth kept it looking good. Compared to other risers I’ve used, the NcStar is certainly not the most robust, but it performs admirably for its price point. It’s a testament to its simple, yet effective design.
Breaking Down the Features of **NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black**
Specifications
The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black boasts a few key specifications worth noting. The riser measures 5.20 inches in length. It weighs in at a mere 4.2 ounces, adding minimal heft to your rifle.
It’s constructed from aluminum and finished with a black anodized coating. It provides a 3/4″ rise for optics, helping with sight alignment. Its compatibility with Weaver/Picatinny/MIL-STD 1913 rails ensures versatility across various firearm platforms. The hollow channel running through its length serves to reduce weight and potentially allows for the use of iron sights in some configurations.
Performance & Functionality
The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black performs its primary function effectively: raising your optic. The increased height allowed for a more natural and comfortable shooting posture, improving accuracy and reducing fatigue. It is reliable in maintaining zero, even after extended use. It does not offer any fancy features, but delivers on its core promise.
The riser’s simple design means there is little to go wrong, ensuring reliability. However, its aluminum construction might not withstand extreme abuse compared to steel risers. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly riser.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is straightforward and functional. Its lightweight aluminum build keeps the overall weight of your rifle down. The black anodized finish gives it a clean look. The rounded edges prevent snagging.
The single-piece construction minimizes the risk of loose parts or failure points. There is no real learning curve to the product. It is simple and easy to install.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction offers decent durability for most shooting applications. It’s not indestructible, but it will hold up to normal use and recoil. The anodized finish provides some resistance to scratches and corrosion. Maintenance is virtually non-existent; a quick wipe-down is all that’s needed.
The longevity of the product will depend on usage and environmental conditions. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black is designed to be compatible with a wide range of optics that use Weaver/Picatinny mounts. This includes red dot sights, holographic sights, and even some low-profile scopes. There are no included accessories with the riser. However, you may need to purchase longer screws if your optic mount uses recessed screw holes.
The riser itself is not really customizable, but it allows you to customize your optic setup. It’s compatible with most AR-15 accessories.
Pros and Cons of **NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black**
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to all shooters.
- Lightweight design adds minimal weight to your rifle.
- Provides a comfortable 3/4″ rise for improved cheek weld and shooting posture.
- Easy to install and requires virtually no maintenance.
- Compatible with Weaver/Picatinny/MIL-STD 1913 rails.
Cons
- Aluminum construction may not be as durable as steel alternatives for extreme conditions.
- The black anodized finish can be prone to scratching with heavy use.
Who Should Buy **NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black**?
The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black is perfect for casual shooters, budget-conscious AR-15 owners, and anyone looking to improve their optic height without breaking the bank. It’s also a great option for new AR-15 owners who are experimenting with different optic setups and want an affordable way to dial in their preferred height. It will allow you to determine the correct riser height for your specific rifle and optic setup.
Those who should skip this product include users looking for maximum durability or those who operate in extremely demanding environments. Also, individuals seeking advanced features or a more premium aesthetic might want to consider higher-end alternatives. There are no must-have accessories, but a torque wrench can help prevent over-tightening the mounting screws.
Conclusion on **NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black**
The NcStar AR15 3/4″ Riser Gen2 Long, Black is a simple, affordable solution for a common problem. While it may not be the most glamorous or feature-rich accessory, it performs its primary function effectively. It’s a solid value proposition for those looking to improve their shooting experience without emptying their wallet.
The price is absolutely justified for what you get. I would definitely recommend this riser to anyone on a budget or just starting out with AR-15s. It just might be the missing piece to completing your AR-15. If you’re tired of struggling with your optic height, give the NcStar riser a try. You might be pleasantly surprised.
