Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS Review

Let’s Dive into Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS

The Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS are a pair of steel rings designed to mount a 1-inch tube scope onto a .22 rifle with a 3/8-inch grooved receiver. At a price point of $12.95, they promise a sturdy and reliable base for your optic without breaking the bank. My interest in these rings stemmed from needing a budget-friendly yet dependable mounting solution for a vintage .22 I recently acquired.

The scope I intended to mount was a classic Weaver rimfire scope, perfectly suited to the rifle’s intended use: plinking and small game hunting. Many modern scope rings are over-engineered for this application, and I was looking for something simple, durable, and appropriate for the rifle’s era. Upon unboxing the Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS, my initial impression was that they were exactly as advertised: basic, functional, and seemingly well-made for the price.

I considered a few alternatives, including some aluminum rings and a couple of more expensive steel options. Ultimately, the Traditions rings won out due to their simplicity and the positive reviews I found regarding their durability in relation to their cost. The other options seemed either too flimsy or overpriced for a .22 setup.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The finish appeared even and well-applied, and the steel construction felt solid. While they lacked the refinement of more expensive rings, they seemed perfectly adequate for the task at hand. I was eager to see how they would perform once mounted and subjected to the recoil of the .22 rifle.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS at my local outdoor shooting range, mounting them on a Marlin Model 60 .22 rifle. The weather was dry and mild, around 65 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect for an afternoon of target practice. Mounting the scope using these rings was straightforward; the 3/8-inch grooved receiver design made the installation process quick and easy.

The rings held the scope securely throughout the initial shooting session. I fired approximately 200 rounds of various .22 LR ammunition, and the rings showed no signs of loosening or shifting. The ease of use was a pleasant surprise, as I’ve encountered more expensive rings that were far more finicky to install.

My only slight concern after the first use was the height of the rings. With my particular scope and rifle combination, the medium height resulted in a cheek weld that was a touch lower than ideal. However, this was a minor issue and didn’t significantly impact my shooting.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS have held up remarkably well. The baked-on finish has proven to be quite durable, showing minimal signs of wear despite being subjected to the elements and occasional bumps. I’ve used the rifle in various conditions, including damp mornings and dusty afternoons, and the rings have remained rust-free and secure.

Maintenance has been minimal, requiring only an occasional wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth. I’ve checked the screws periodically to ensure they remain tight, and I haven’t had to re-tighten them once since the initial installation. Compared to previous experiences with cheaper rings that would constantly loosen, the Traditions rings have been a welcome surprise.

They have definitely outperformed my expectations, especially considering the price. I was initially concerned that they might not be robust enough for extended use, but they have proven to be surprisingly durable and reliable. The consistency in holding zero after repeated shooting sessions is a testament to their quality.

Breaking Down the Features of Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS

Specifications

The Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS are designed for mounting a 1-inch tube scope. They are specifically designed for .22 rifles with a 3/8-inch grooved receiver, a very common mounting system for rimfire rifles. These rings have a matte finish, which helps to reduce glare and blend in with most rifle finishes.

These are medium height rings, which is a common compromise suitable for many scope and rifle combinations. The ring set includes two rings, enough to mount one scope, and the ring type is a standard split ring design, easy to install and adjust. The manufacturer is Traditions, a well-known name in the shooting sports industry, and they are constructed from solid steel.

These specifications are important because they determine the compatibility and functionality of the rings. The 1-inch tube diameter is the most common size for rifle scopes, ensuring broad compatibility. The 3/8-inch grooved receiver mount makes them ideal for most .22 rifles.

Performance & Functionality

The Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS perform their primary job admirably: securely holding a scope on a .22 rifle. They maintain zero consistently, even after repeated shooting sessions, contributing to accurate and reliable shooting. Their strength lies in their simplicity and robust construction.

A potential weakness is the medium height, which may not be optimal for all scope and rifle combinations. Some shooters may find the cheek weld too high or too low, depending on their individual preferences and the dimensions of their rifle and scope. However, this is a common issue with medium-height rings in general, not necessarily a specific flaw of this product.

The Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS exceeded my expectations for their price point. They provide a level of performance and reliability that is typically found in more expensive rings.

Design & Ergonomics

The Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS feature a simple, no-frills design. The all-steel construction gives them a solid, durable feel, and the matte finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. While they lack the intricate machining and lightweight materials of more expensive rings, they are well-made for their intended purpose.

They are user-friendly and require no special tools or expertise to install. The split ring design allows for easy scope placement and adjustment, and the included screws are of good quality. There is virtually no learning curve associated with using these rings; anyone with basic knowledge of scope mounting should be able to install them without difficulty.

Durability & Maintenance

The Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS are built to last. The steel construction and baked-on finish provide excellent resistance to wear and tear. They should withstand years of use under normal conditions.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and inspection. The steel construction is resistant to rust, and the baked-on finish provides an additional layer of protection. With proper care, these rings should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS do not come with any accessories beyond the rings themselves and the necessary mounting screws. There are no customization options available directly from Traditions. However, because they are standard 1-inch rings with a 3/8-inch dovetail mount, they are compatible with a wide range of accessories from other brands.

For example, you could use different mounting screws if you prefer a different head style or finish. You could also add shims between the rings and the scope tube to correct for any misalignment issues. However, for most users, the rings will work perfectly well as they come from the factory.

Pros and Cons of Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS

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Who Should Buy Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS?

The Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS are perfect for anyone looking for a budget-friendly and reliable scope mounting solution for their .22 rifle. They are ideal for casual plinkers, small game hunters, and anyone who wants a simple and durable set of rings without breaking the bank. These rings are also a great choice for beginners who are just getting started with shooting and don’t want to invest in expensive accessories.

Those who should skip this product are competitive shooters or hunters using high-powered rifles. These rings are not designed to withstand the heavy recoil of larger calibers. Also, shooters who prioritize aesthetics or require a very specific ring height may want to consider more expensive options.

A must-have accessory is a good quality torque wrench to ensure the mounting screws are tightened to the correct specification. Over-tightening can damage the scope tube, while under-tightening can cause the scope to shift.

Conclusion on Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS

The Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS are a surprisingly capable and reliable set of scope rings for the price. They offer excellent value for the money, providing a secure and durable mounting solution for .22 rifles. While they may lack some of the refinements of more expensive rings, they perform their primary job admirably and are built to last.

The price is definitely justified. For around $13, you get a set of steel rings that will hold your scope securely and reliably. You can’t ask for much more than that.

I would personally recommend the Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS to anyone looking for a budget-friendly and dependable scope mounting solution for their .22 rifle. They are a great choice for casual shooters, small game hunters, and beginners. If you’re looking for a simple, durable, and affordable set of rings, look no further! Pick up a set of Traditions Rifle Scope Rings A797DS and get your rifle sighted in today!