Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount Review

The Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount Made a Bold First Impression

The world of crossbow hunting has evolved dramatically, demanding precision and extended range capabilities. The Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount promises to deliver just that: long-range accuracy with a simple, intuitive adjustment system. As someone with over a decade dedicated to outdoor and tactical gear, I was eager to see if this mount could live up to the hype and whether its design genuinely translated into improved performance in the field.

For years, I have struggled with the limitations of fixed-mount scopes when pushing my crossbow’s effective range. Holdover estimations are imprecise and frustrating, leading to missed opportunities and wounded game. I was specifically seeking a solution that provided rapid, reliable elevation adjustments without the need for complex calculations or cumbersome external devices. This led me directly to the Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount, touted for its 250 MOA (minutes of angle) adjustability, allowing shots from 20 to 200 yards.

Upon unboxing, the Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount made a solid first impression. The all-metal construction felt robust and well-machined, hinting at the durability needed for rugged hunting conditions. Its weight was noticeable but not excessive, suggesting a balance between sturdiness and manageable carry. Compared to simpler fixed mounts I’ve used, the Jack Plate looked and felt like a significant upgrade in terms of quality and engineering.

Initially, I had considered a couple of other adjustable mounts from different manufacturers. However, those models seemed to rely on overly complicated mechanisms, adding potential failure points and weight. I chose the Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount because of its seemingly simple yet effective design, combined with Ravin’s reputation for producing high-quality crossbows and accessories. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; the design looked promising, but the real test would come in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial field test took place at a local shooting range, where I had ample space to experiment with different distances. Conditions were relatively calm and dry, ideal for sighting in the Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount and familiarizing myself with its adjustment mechanism. The Jack Plate mounted easily onto my Ravin crossbow, and the scope attached securely.

The adjustment dial was smooth and responsive, allowing for precise elevation changes. It took a few shots to establish a solid zero at 20 yards. After this, I began experimenting with longer distances. The Jack Plate allowed me to quickly dial in the necessary elevation for each range increment. Using a laser rangefinder, I was consistently hitting targets out to 100 yards with impressive accuracy.

There was a brief period of acclimation required to master the dial and its association with the various distances. However, after roughly an hour of usage, it began to feel natural. Initially, I feared the dial might move inadvertently during transport, but this proved unfounded.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount has proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my crossbow setup. I’ve used it in various conditions, including damp mornings and dusty afternoons, without any noticeable degradation in performance. The anodized finish shows no signs of wear, and the adjustment dial remains smooth and precise.

Maintenance has been minimal, requiring only an occasional wipe-down with a clean cloth. I’ve intentionally subjected the Jack Plate to some rough handling, simulating the bumps and jostles it might experience during a hunt, and it has held up admirably. Compared to previous experiences with less robust mounts, the Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount offers a significant improvement in durability and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount

Specifications

• The Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount is an elevation scope mount designed for crossbows. It allows for shooting at distances of 20 to 200 yards.
• The mount offers 250 (M.O.A.) minutes on an angle adjustment, providing a significant range of elevation correction.

These specifications are critical because they directly address the primary challenge of long-range crossbow shooting: compensating for arrow drop. The extensive MOA adjustment range allows for accurate shots at varying distances without relying on holdover or guessing. This enhances the hunter’s precision and confidence in the field.

Performance & Functionality

The Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount performs its core function exceptionally well. The elevation adjustments are precise, repeatable, and easy to use, allowing for quick and accurate target acquisition at different ranges. Its biggest strength lies in its simplicity and reliability.

While the adjustment markings could be more finely graduated for even greater precision, the current system is more than adequate for most hunting scenarios. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a long-range crossbow scope mount.

Design & Ergonomics

The Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount features an all-metal construction, offering a solid and durable feel. It’s heavy enough to inspire confidence but not so heavy as to make the crossbow unwieldy. The adjustment dial is ergonomically designed, providing a comfortable grip and smooth rotation.

The Jack Plate is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. Even a novice crossbow shooter should be able to master the adjustments with a little practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The all-metal construction suggests a long lifespan, even under demanding conditions. The anodized finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion, further enhancing its durability. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the adjustment dial.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount itself doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, it’s designed to be compatible with most standard scope rings, allowing users to choose their preferred optic. The Jack Plate integrates seamlessly with Ravin crossbows. It can likely be adapted to other crossbow models with appropriate mounting hardware.

Pros and Cons of Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount

Who Should Buy Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount?

The Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount is perfect for serious crossbow hunters. It allows them to consistently and accurately shoot at longer ranges. It is also ideal for those who hunt in varied terrain, where target distances are unpredictable. This would include hunters seeking to ethically harvest game at extended ranges.

Hunters who primarily shoot at fixed distances or are on a tight budget might find the Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount to be overkill. This is especially true if they’re accustomed to using holdover techniques.

A high-quality rangefinder is a must-have accessory to pair with the Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount. Accurate range estimation is essential for making precise elevation adjustments.

Conclusion on Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount

The Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount is a well-designed and highly effective tool for extending the range of your crossbow. Its robust construction, simple operation, and precise adjustments make it a valuable asset for any serious crossbow hunter. While the price point is higher than fixed scope mounts, the increased accuracy and ethical hunting opportunities it provides are well worth the investment.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount to any crossbow hunter looking to improve their long-range capabilities. This mount is a game-changer, offering unmatched precision and confidence in the field. If you’re ready to take your crossbow hunting to the next level, the Ravin Jack Plate Adjustable Elevation Mount is the tool to get you there.