Tier One 11mm Dovetail Rings Review

First Impressions of Tier One 11mm Dovetail Rings

The world of precision shooting demands unwavering stability and pinpoint accuracy, and that’s where quality scope rings come into play. The Tier One 11mm Dovetail Rings promise just that: a rock-solid foundation for mounting your optic. Tier One is a name synonymous with precision engineering, and their reputation certainly piqued my interest when looking for rings to mount a new scope on my Anschütz .22LR target rifle. These rings immediately stood out due to their high-grade aluminum construction and meticulous manufacturing process.

I’ve been using various scope mounting solutions for over a decade, from budget-friendly options to high-end Picatinny rail systems. However, the 11mm dovetail remains a popular mounting style, especially on rimfire and some older European rifles. I needed a set of rings that could handle the specific demands of rimfire target shooting, providing consistent zero and unwavering reliability.

Unboxing the Tier One 11mm Dovetail Rings, I was immediately impressed by the sleek, understated design and the evident quality of the materials. The hard black anodized finish felt smooth and durable, and the overall weight suggested a robust construction without being overly bulky. The rings felt solid in hand, a testament to the precision machining Tier One employs.

Compared to other 11mm dovetail rings I’ve used, such as those from Hawke or BKL, the Tier One rings exuded a higher level of refinement. While the Hawke rings served adequately, they always felt a bit rough around the edges. The BKL rings, known for their clamping power, sometimes seemed overkill for rimfire applications, potentially stressing the dovetail. These Tier One rings promised a more balanced approach. I chose these over other options due to the promise of superior manufacturing tolerances and the specific use of aerospace-grade aluminum.

My first impression of the Tier One 11mm Dovetail Rings was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to see if they would live up to Tier One’s reputation for precision and durability in real-world conditions. The level of quality and attention to detail was immediately apparent, generating confidence that these rings would provide a stable and accurate platform for my scope.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Tier One 11mm Dovetail Rings to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Tier One 11mm Dovetail Rings was my local indoor shooting range, where I zeroed my Anschütz .22LR. I used SK Standard Plus ammunition, a favorite for its consistent performance. The rings were easy to install using the provided screws, and they clamped securely onto the 11mm dovetail rail.

The weather conditions were controlled indoors, of course, but I still paid close attention to how the rings held zero after repeated shots. I fired approximately 200 rounds, focusing on group sizes at 50 yards. There was no shift in zero, and the scope remained firmly in place. The ease of initial setup and the rock-solid performance provided immediate confidence.

The rings required no getting used to, as they functioned exactly as intended. They were installed, tightened and forgotten. After the first use, I noticed no issues and was extremely impressed with the solid mounting platform.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Tier One 11mm Dovetail Rings continue to perform flawlessly. I have since used the rifle in various outdoor conditions, including damp mornings and dusty afternoons at a local outdoor range. The anodized finish has resisted scratches and wear, maintaining its clean appearance.

I’ve put several hundred more rounds through the rifle. The rings continue to hold zero without any signs of slippage or loosening. Maintenance has been minimal; simply wiping them down with a clean cloth after each range session is all that’s required.

Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper rings that often required frequent adjustments and re-tightening, the Tier One rings have been a revelation. They outperform any other 11mm dovetail rings I have used, providing a noticeable improvement in accuracy and consistency. The stability and reliability of these rings instill confidence and have allowed me to focus solely on my shooting.

Breaking Down the Features of Tier One 11mm Dovetail Rings

Specifications

The Tier One 11mm Dovetail Rings are constructed from aerospace Aluminum 7075T6, known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. They are available in Medium and High configurations to accommodate different scope sizes and objective lens diameters. The finish is a hard black anodize to a mil-spec 30 microns, providing excellent corrosion resistance and durability.

The rings utilize stainless steel hardware, including in-house manufactured screws, ensuring precise and consistent clamping force. They are precision-engineered on advanced 5 axis CNC machinery, minimizing tolerances and maximizing accuracy. The fact that they’re machined from a single billet is huge for consistency. The rings are designed for 11mm dovetail mounts and are sold as a pair (Quantity: 1).

These specifications matter because they directly impact the performance and reliability of the rings. The high-strength aluminum ensures the rings can withstand recoil and maintain their shape. The precise machining guarantees a perfect fit and optimal scope alignment. Finally, the durable finish protects the rings from the elements and prevents corrosion.

Performance & Functionality

The Tier One 11mm Dovetail Rings excel in their primary function: providing a rock-solid and reliable platform for mounting a scope. They maintain zero consistently, even after extended use and exposure to varying conditions. Accuracy is noticeably improved compared to using lower-quality rings.

The rings are designed to not require lapping, saving time and effort during installation. One strength is their consistent clamping force, which prevents slippage without damaging the scope tube. A potential weakness is that they are not recommended for magnum or high-recoil calibers, limiting their versatility to smaller calibers.

The Tier One 11mm Dovetail Rings meet and exceed expectations for a high-quality scope mounting solution. Their performance is exceptional, providing a significant upgrade over cheaper alternatives.

Design & Ergonomics

The Tier One 11mm Dovetail Rings feature a sleek and understated design. The hard black anodized finish provides a professional and durable appearance. The materials used are top-notch.

The rings are easy to install and require no special tools or expertise. There is virtually no learning curve, making them user-friendly for both experienced shooters and beginners.

Durability & Maintenance

The Tier One 11mm Dovetail Rings, made from aerospace-grade aluminum and finished with a durable anodized coating, are built to last. With proper care, they should provide years of reliable service. These rings should last a lifetime.

Maintenance is simple: regular cleaning with a soft cloth to remove dirt and debris is all that is needed. The durable finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion, ensuring long-term performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Tier One 11mm Dovetail Rings do not come with any additional accessories beyond the necessary mounting screws. They are designed to be compatible with a wide range of scopes with a 1-inch tube diameter (standard for most rimfire scopes).

While there are no specific customization options offered by Tier One for these rings, users can choose from different height configurations (Medium or High) to accommodate various scope sizes and mounting preferences. As far as the rings themselves, there are no customization options.

Pros and Cons of Tier One 11mm Dovetail Rings