Nikko Stirling Mountmaster 3-9×40 AO, 1in Tube Rifle Scope, Second Focal Plane Review

Let’s Talk About Nikko Stirling Mountmaster 3-9×40 AO, 1in Tube Rifle Scope, Second Focal Plane

The Nikko Stirling Mountmaster 3-9×40 AO, 1in Tube Rifle Scope, Second Focal Plane is a name that might not immediately ring bells for seasoned long-range competitors, but it holds a special place for many entry-level shooters and .22 LR enthusiasts. Nikko Stirling has built a reputation for providing affordable optics that are surprisingly capable for the price, and the Mountmaster series is a prime example of this. This scope, with its adjustable objective (AO) and versatile 3-9x magnification range, promises a blend of practicality and value that deserves a closer look.

I needed a reliable and clear scope for my .22LR rifle, specifically for small game hunting and informal target shooting. My old scope, a no-name brand, was blurry at higher magnifications and lacked parallax adjustment, making accurate shots beyond 50 yards a frustrating endeavor. I was looking for something that would provide a clearer image and allow me to fine-tune the focus for different distances without breaking the bank.

The Nikko Stirling Mountmaster arrived in a simple but functional box. My initial impression was that it felt solid enough for a budget scope. The matte black finish looked clean, and the adjustments seemed reasonably smooth. It came with basic 3/8″ dovetail rings, which was a pleasant surprise, saving me the immediate cost of purchasing a separate set.

Compared to other scopes I considered, such as the Bushnell Banner or the Simmons Whitetail Classic, the Nikko Stirling seemed to offer a better value proposition due to the included rings and the adjustable objective. While the Bushnell and Simmons scopes might have a slight edge in terms of brand recognition, the Nikko Stirling’s features and price point ultimately swayed my decision. I also considered a fixed power scope but ultimately wanted the flexibility of a variable magnification for various shooting distances.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While I wasn’t expecting a high-end optic, I was hopeful that the Nikko Stirling Mountmaster would provide a significant improvement over my previous scope. I was eager to mount it on my rifle and head to the range to see what it could do.

Real-World Testing: Putting Nikko Stirling Mountmaster 3-9×40 AO, 1in Tube Rifle Scope, Second Focal Plane to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Nikko Stirling Mountmaster at my local outdoor shooting range on a sunny afternoon. The range offered distances from 25 to 100 yards, perfect for evaluating the scope’s performance with my .22 LR. I tested the scope using both paper targets and steel silhouettes.

The scope performed adequately in the bright sunlight, providing a reasonably clear image at all magnification levels. The adjustable objective was particularly useful, allowing me to eliminate parallax and achieve a sharp focus at various distances. The clicks on the turrets were not the most precise, but they were audible and tactile, which made adjusting the scope manageable.

Mounting the scope was straightforward, thanks to the included rings. However, I did notice that the eye relief was somewhat critical, requiring me to position the scope carefully to avoid a darkened image. After getting it sighted in and shooting several groups, I did not experience any real issues, but I was underwhelmed overall.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Nikko Stirling Mountmaster has held up reasonably well. There are no visible signs of significant wear and tear, and the adjustments continue to function as expected. I noticed that the finish is easily scratched, so I would advise being careful in rough environments.

The scope has maintained its zero through several range sessions and a couple of brief hunting trips. Cleaning the lenses is simple, thanks to their smooth surface and multi-coating. The scope is still functioning, but I believe the glass quality limits the potential of the product.

Compared to my previous, cheaper scope, the Nikko Stirling Mountmaster is a noticeable improvement. While it may not outperform higher-end optics, it provides a solid and reliable sighting solution for my .22 LR rifle at a budget-friendly price point. It met my base expectations, however, I would be unlikely to purchase another one.

Breaking Down the Features of Nikko Stirling Mountmaster 3-9×40 AO, 1in Tube Rifle Scope, Second Focal Plane

Specifications

The Nikko Stirling Mountmaster 3-9×40 AO features a 3-9x variable magnification range and a 40mm objective lens. Its 1-inch tube is constructed from alloy and finished with a matte black coating. The reticle is a standard 1/4 MOA type located in the Second Focal Plane (SFP).

The scope offers an exit pupil range of 4.4 – 13.3 mm and provides 3.3 inches of eye relief. It weighs approximately 380 grams and has a length of 12.7 inches. The adjustment click value is 1/4 MOA, with a total adjustment range of 30 MOA.

The parallax is adjustable from 10 yards to infinity, making it suitable for a variety of shooting distances. The lenses are made of glass and feature a multi-coated finish. The scope is advertised as waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof due to being nitrogen-filled. These specifications provide a versatile optic for rimfire rifles and airguns.

Performance & Functionality

The Nikko Stirling Mountmaster performs adequately for its intended purpose: providing a clear and adjustable sighting system for rimfire rifles. Accuracy is decent, and the adjustable objective allows for fine-tuning the focus at different ranges. The glass quality is adequate for good light conditions, but suffers a bit in low-light conditions.

The scope’s strengths lie in its affordability and ease of use. The adjustable objective is a valuable feature for eliminating parallax and improving accuracy at various distances. The weaknesses include the somewhat imprecise turret adjustments and the limited adjustment range. Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly scope, but does not exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The Nikko Stirling Mountmaster has a simple and functional design. The matte black finish is non-reflective and blends well with most rifles. The scope feels reasonably solid for its price point, but the materials used are clearly not high-end.

The adjustments are easily accessible, but the turret clicks could be more defined. The eye relief, while adequate, is somewhat critical and requires careful positioning of the scope. Despite these minor drawbacks, the scope is generally user-friendly and requires minimal learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Nikko Stirling Mountmaster appears to be reasonably durable for a budget-friendly scope. After several months of use, there are no signs of major wear and tear. The waterproof, shockproof, and fog-proof features are welcome additions that should extend the scope’s lifespan.

Maintaining the scope is simple; cleaning the lenses with a microfiber cloth is all that is typically required. Given its price point, it is unlikely that extensive repairs would be cost-effective. Overall, I expect the scope to last for several years with proper care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Nikko Stirling Mountmaster comes with basic 3/8” dovetail mounts, which is a nice bonus for those mounting it on a .22LR or air rifle. No lens covers are included, something to keep in mind.

As a 1-inch tube scope, it is compatible with a variety of aftermarket rings and mounts. There are no other major customization options available for this scope. You may want to consider getting higher quality rings for greater stability.

Pros and Cons of Nikko Stirling Mountmaster 3-9×40 AO, 1in Tube Rifle Scope, Second Focal Plane

Who Should Buy Nikko Stirling Mountmaster 3-9×40 AO, 1in Tube Rifle Scope, Second Focal Plane?

The Nikko Stirling Mountmaster is perfect for beginner shooters, .22 LR enthusiasts, and those on a tight budget. It is a solid choice for plinking, small game hunting, and informal target shooting. If you are shooting air rifles or rimfire, this is a decent choice.

Those seeking high-end optics with exceptional clarity, precise adjustments, or long-range capabilities should skip this product. Serious hunters, competitive shooters, or anyone requiring premium performance in challenging conditions should consider investing in a higher-end optic.

A must-have accessory is a good set of lens covers to protect the glass from scratches and debris. Higher-quality rings may also be a worthwhile upgrade for increased stability.

Conclusion on Nikko Stirling Mountmaster 3-9×40 AO, 1in Tube Rifle Scope, Second Focal Plane

The Nikko Stirling Mountmaster 3-9×40 AO, 1in Tube Rifle Scope, Second Focal Plane offers a commendable balance of functionality and affordability. While it may not rival high-end optics in terms of clarity or precision, it provides a solid and reliable sighting solution for rimfire rifles and airguns at a budget-friendly price point. Its glass limitations are the biggest drawbacks.

At a price of around $60, the Nikko Stirling Mountmaster offers good value for the money, particularly considering the included rings and adjustable objective. The price is justified, as it does fill a niche for budget-minded shooters.

I would cautiously recommend this scope to those who are new to shooting or who need a basic optic for their .22 LR rifle. While there are better options available, the Nikko Stirling Mountmaster is a decent choice for the price. Consider your needs and budget carefully before making a decision.