NcSTAR STR 3-9x 40mm P4 Sniper Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.80″-3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60-13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.20″ Length Review

First Thoughts on the NcSTAR STR 3-9x 40mm P4 Sniper Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.80″-3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60-13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.20″ Length

The NcSTAR STR 3-9x 40mm P4 Sniper Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.80″-3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60-13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.20″ Length from NcSTAR promises a blend of affordability and functionality, targeting shooters who need a versatile optic without breaking the bank. It boasts adjustable 3-9x magnification, a P4 sniper reticle, and a weatherproof design, all packaged in a relatively compact 12.20″ length. I’ve seen a lot of budget scopes come and go, so I’m always curious if a new one can genuinely deliver on its promises.

I’ve been searching for a budget-friendly scope to mount on a .22LR rifle that I use for small game hunting and target practice. The distances I typically shoot at are within 100 yards, so I didn’t need something with extreme long-range capabilities, but I wanted adjustable magnification for different scenarios. The NcSTAR seemed to fit the bill, offering basic features at an attractive price.

Upon unboxing, the scope felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The finish was a matte black, and the turrets seemed functional, though a bit stiff. Compared to my Leupold VX-3i, this scope certainly felt less refined, but given the price difference, that’s to be expected. I was particularly drawn to the P4 sniper reticle, as I prefer that style for quick target acquisition.

I chose this over a similarly priced Simmons scope because of the reticle design and the reported eye relief. I was cautiously optimistic. I was curious to see if the “crystal clear” glass, as the description stated, would hold up in real-world conditions or if it was just marketing hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting NcSTAR STR 3-9x 40mm P4 Sniper Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.80″-3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60-13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.20″ Length to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the NcSTAR scope to my local shooting range to test it on my .22LR. I mounted it using a set of Weaver rings, which fit perfectly. The first shots were taken at 50 yards, and I immediately noticed the clarity wasn’t quite as “crystal clear” as advertised, especially at higher magnifications.

The weather was overcast, and the scope performed adequately, though I suspect bright sunlight might create more glare. The eye relief of 2.80″-3.30″ was indeed comfortable, preventing any scope bite. However, the adjustments felt a little mushy and lacked definitive clicks.

After the first 50 rounds, the zero held surprisingly well, despite the less-than-precise adjustments. I encountered no major issues, but the image quality was noticeably less impressive than more expensive scopes.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the NcSTAR STR 3-9x 40mm P4 Sniper Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.80″-3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60-13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.20″ Length continues to perform adequately for its intended purpose. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, and the finish seems durable.

The scope has held zero consistently during my range sessions. Cleaning is simple, requiring just a microfiber cloth to wipe down the lenses. Compared to my higher-end optics, the image quality and adjustment precision are definitely inferior, but for casual target shooting and small game hunting within 100 yards, it gets the job done.

Breaking Down the Features of NcSTAR STR 3-9x 40mm P4 Sniper Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.80″-3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60-13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.20″ Length

Specifications

The NcSTAR STR 3-9x 40mm P4 Sniper Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.80″-3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60-13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.20″ Length features a variable 3-9x magnification, providing versatility for different ranges. The 40mm objective lens gathers ample light for decent visibility.

• Eye Relief: 2.80″-3.30″ – This provides a comfortable distance between the eye and the scope, reducing the risk of recoil-related injury.
• Field of View: 36.60-13.60 ft @ 100 yds – This refers to the width of the area you can see through the scope at 100 yards, changing as you adjust magnification.
• Length: 12.20″ – This is a relatively compact size, making it suitable for various rifles without adding excessive bulk.
• Reticle: P4 Sniper – The P4 reticle is a popular design for its ranging capabilities and multiple aiming points.
• Adjustable Magnification: 3-9x – This allows users to zoom in or out depending on the target distance and size.

The specifications are generally adequate for a budget-friendly scope, but the limited information available can be a drawback. The field of view is acceptable, and the eye relief is functional, contributing to a safer shooting experience.

Performance & Functionality

The NcSTAR STR 3-9x 40mm P4 Sniper Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.80″-3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60-13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.20″ Length performs its basic function adequately, providing magnified target views. The accuracy is acceptable once properly zeroed.

The main strength lies in its affordability and versatility. The weaknesses include image clarity at higher magnifications and less-than-precise adjustments. It meets expectations for a budget scope but doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is acceptable for the price. The scope feels relatively solid in hand, though the materials used are obviously not high-end.

It’s user-friendly, with standard turrets for elevation and windage adjustments. There is a minor learning curve associated with understanding the P4 reticle, but it’s generally intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The scope seems reasonably durable based on my experiences. I expect it to last for several years with proper care and use.

Maintenance is simple, requiring just cleaning the lenses and occasionally checking the mounting hardware.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NcSTAR STR 3-9x 40mm P4 Sniper Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.80″-3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60-13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.20″ Length doesn’t come with many accessories, typically just lens covers. It’s compatible with standard Weaver or Picatinny scope rings.

There are no specific customization options offered by NcSTAR. However, the scope can be paired with various aftermarket rings and bases.

Pros and Cons of NcSTAR STR 3-9x 40mm P4 Sniper Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.80″-3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60-13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.20″ Length

Who Should Buy NcSTAR STR 3-9x 40mm P4 Sniper Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.80″-3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60-13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.20″ Length?

The NcSTAR STR 3-9x 40mm P4 Sniper Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.80″-3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60-13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.20″ Length is perfect for casual shooters, plinkers, and small game hunters who need an affordable optic for short-range shooting. It’s ideal for mounting on .22LR rifles or airguns.

This product is not suitable for long-range precision shooters or those who require exceptional image clarity and precise adjustments. It’s also not ideal for use in very low light conditions.

A must-have accessory would be a set of quality scope rings to ensure a secure and stable mount. Lens cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth are also recommended for maintaining optimal image clarity.

Conclusion on NcSTAR STR 3-9x 40mm P4 Sniper Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.80″-3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60-13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.20″ Length

The NcSTAR STR 3-9x 40mm P4 Sniper Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.80″-3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60-13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.20″ Length offers a decent value proposition for shooters on a tight budget. The price is definitely justified for what you get: adjustable magnification, a functional reticle, and acceptable durability.

I would personally recommend this scope to beginners or those who need a basic optic for recreational shooting. While it has its limitations, it’s a reliable and affordable option that will get the job done. If you’re looking for an entry-level scope that won’t break the bank, give the NcSTAR STR 3-9x 40mm P4 Sniper Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.80″-3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60-13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.20″ Length a try. You might be surprised at how much performance you can get for such a low price.