NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2 Review

First Thoughts on the NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2

The Ruger 10/22 is arguably one of the most popular .22 rifles ever made, cherished for its reliability, affordability, and immense customization potential. One of the first upgrades many 10/22 owners consider is adding a scope or red dot sight, instantly expanding the rifle’s capabilities. The NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2 offers a seemingly simple solution to mount optics, promising a Picatinny rail interface without requiring permanent modifications to the rifle. At a price point that barely breaks the double-digit mark, this mount presents an intriguing option, but does it deliver on its promise of value and functionality?

My journey to the NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2 was born out of necessity. I had a spare red dot sight sitting unused, and my trusty 10/22 was begging for an upgrade. The factory iron sights are adequate for plinking, but for more serious target shooting or small game hunting, they leave a lot to be desired. I needed a quick, easy, and inexpensive way to mount my optic, and the NcStar mount seemed like the perfect fit.

Upon unboxing, the mount felt surprisingly lightweight, almost disconcertingly so. The black anodized aluminum construction looked clean, but the finish seemed a little thin. Compared to a higher-end, machined steel rail I’d used on a different rifle, this felt…budget. I chose it over a polymer option due to wanting something that would hold zero. Initial impression? Cautiously optimistic.

Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2 at my local outdoor shooting range, a place where the elements can be unpredictable. It was a breezy day with intermittent rain, testing both my patience and the mount’s ability to maintain a zero. Installation was straightforward, using the pre-drilled holes on the 10/22 receiver. The included mounting hardware was adequate, and I appreciated that no rifle modifications were necessary.

The initial zeroing process with my red dot sight went smoothly. However, after about 50 rounds, I noticed a slight shift in my point of impact. It wasn’t drastic, but enough to be noticeable at 50 yards. I tightened the mounting screws, and the zero seemed to hold for another 50 rounds before drifting again. This was concerning.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range trips and approximately 500 rounds fired with the NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2 installed, the mount’s limitations became more apparent. While it initially seemed like a good budget option, its reliability was questionable. The screws required frequent tightening, and the zero would slowly drift over time, especially after being exposed to temperature changes.

There were no significant signs of wear and tear on the mount itself. The black anodized finish held up reasonably well, showing only minor scratches. Cleaning was easy; I simply wiped it down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session. However, the constant need to re-tighten screws and re-zero the optic made it a frustrating experience. It definitely underperformed compared to more robust, albeit pricier, options I’ve used on other rifles.

Breaking Down the Features of NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2

Specifications

The NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2 is designed to provide a Picatinny/MIL-STD 1913 rail interface for mounting optics on a Ruger 10/22 receiver.

• It boasts a sleek design meant to integrate seamlessly with the rifle’s aesthetics.
• The mount attaches to the receiver using existing pre-drilled holes.
• The centerline sight channel allows continued use of factory iron sights even with the rail installed.
• Mounting hardware is included, eliminating the need for rifle modifications.
• The construction consists of black anodized aluminum.
• Length: 4.7 inches.
• Weight: 1.1 oz.

These specifications are crucial because they dictate the mount’s compatibility, weight, and potential durability. The Picatinny rail allows for a wide range of optic mounting options, while the centerline sight channel is a thoughtful feature for maintaining backup iron sights. However, the lightweight aluminum construction raises concerns about long-term durability and zero retention.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2 is to provide a stable platform for mounting optics on a Ruger 10/22 rifle. In this regard, it performs adequately, but not flawlessly. Accuracy is acceptable as long as the mounting screws are properly tightened, and the optic is zeroed frequently.

The mount’s biggest weakness is its tendency to loosen over time, leading to a shifting point of impact. This is likely due to the lightweight aluminum construction and the relatively small mounting surface. However, the centerline sight channel is a definite strength, allowing for continued use of iron sights in case of optic failure. The mount meets the basic expectation of providing a Picatinny rail, but falls short in terms of long-term reliability.

Design & Ergonomics

The NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2 features a low-profile design that blends well with the Ruger 10/22’s aesthetics. The build quality is acceptable for the price point, with a smooth black anodized finish. However, the lightweight aluminum construction feels less robust than steel alternatives.

The mount is relatively user-friendly, requiring only basic tools for installation. The included mounting hardware is sufficient, and the instructions are clear enough for most users. There’s virtually no learning curve involved.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its aluminum construction, the NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2 is unlikely to withstand heavy abuse. While the finish is reasonably durable, the mount itself may be prone to bending or cracking under significant stress.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth. However, the frequent need to re-tighten mounting screws is a recurring maintenance issue. Replacing the included screws with higher-quality alternatives might improve reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2 comes with the necessary mounting hardware (screws). It is compatible with any optic that utilizes a Picatinny or Weaver rail mounting system, including scopes, red dot sights, and magnifiers.

There are no specific customization options for the mount itself. However, users can choose from a wide variety of aftermarket accessories designed for the Ruger 10/22 platform, such as different scopes, red dots and back up iron sights.

Pros and Cons of NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2

Who Should Buy NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2?

The NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2 is perfect for casual plinkers and recreational shooters on a tight budget who want to experiment with optics on their 10/22. It’s also a decent option for those who prioritize the ability to use iron sights as a backup.

Serious target shooters, hunters who require utmost reliability, or anyone who plans on subjecting their rifle to harsh conditions should skip this product. A more robust, steel mount is a worthwhile investment for those applications. A must-have modification would be replacing the included mounting screws with higher-quality, torque-rated screws.

Conclusion on NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2

The NcStar Ruger 10/22 Mount Black/Gen 2 offers an entry-level solution for mounting optics on a Ruger 10/22. While its low price is certainly appealing, its reliability issues are a significant drawback. The constant need to re-tighten screws and re-zero the optic can become frustrating, especially for those seeking consistent accuracy.

The value proposition is questionable. While it’s cheap, the potential for accuracy issues might outweigh the savings in the long run. I would personally recommend saving up a bit more and investing in a higher-quality mount from a reputable manufacturer. It’s a classic case of “you get what you pay for.” If you absolutely must have an optic on your 10/22 and your budget is extremely limited, the NcStar mount might suffice as a temporary solution. But for serious shooters, consider a more robust alternative. Upgrade your Ruger 10/22 experience today – but maybe with a different mount!