The XS SIGHTS GSR Rail Ruger Gunsite Scout Made a Bold First Impression
The XS SIGHTS GSR Rail Ruger Gunsite Scout promises enhanced sighting options and improved versatility for the already capable Ruger Gunsite Scout rifle. XS Sights is a reputable manufacturer known for their durable and practical sighting solutions. I was eager to see if this rail lived up to the hype.
My journey to the XS SIGHTS GSR Rail Ruger Gunsite Scout started with a desire to modernize my Ruger Gunsite Scout. While the factory iron sights are functional, I wanted the flexibility to easily mount a red dot optic or a scout scope. A forward-mounted optic increases field of view.
Unboxing revealed a cleanly machined rail, the ghost-ring rear sight, and mounting hardware. The rail felt robust and the finish was a matte black that seemed durable and non-reflective. The ghost-ring aperture, at .15″, looked ideal for quick target acquisition.
Compared to other rail options, like those requiring gunsmithing, the XS SIGHTS GSR Rail Ruger Gunsite Scout stood out due to its claimed ease of installation. It appeared to be a drop-in replacement for the factory rear sight. I chose it for its simplicity and reputation for holding zero, unlike some cheaper alternatives I’d seen online.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The design seemed solid, but I was eager to test its real-world performance and see if it truly lived up to its promise of easy installation and improved sighting capabilities.
Real-World Testing: Putting XS SIGHTS GSR Rail Ruger Gunsite Scout to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at my local shooting range, under bright daylight conditions. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, taking only about 15 minutes with basic tools. The rail mounted securely and felt rock solid.
The ghost-ring sight proved remarkably quick to acquire targets. I was able to transition between targets faster compared to the stock sights. While the ghost ring took a few shots to get used to, it offered a much wider field of view and better situational awareness.
The only slight hiccup was adjusting the rear sight for windage; it required a bit more effort than anticipated. However, once zeroed, it held steady through several magazines.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the XS SIGHTS GSR Rail Ruger Gunsite Scout has proven to be incredibly reliable. It has endured multiple range trips and even a weekend hunting trip in mixed weather conditions. The rail remains firmly attached.
There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being exposed to rain, dust, and the occasional bump against branches. Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps it looking and functioning like new.
Compared to my previous setup with only the factory sights, the XS SIGHTS GSR Rail Ruger Gunsite Scout is a massive improvement. It offers significantly greater versatility for mounting optics and has demonstrably improved my speed and accuracy at closer ranges.
Breaking Down the Features of XS SIGHTS GSR Rail Ruger Gunsite Scout
Specifications
The XS SIGHTS GSR Rail Ruger Gunsite Scout is specifically designed for the Ruger Gunsite Scout rifle. It replaces the factory rear sight with a Picatinny rail, allowing for the mounting of various optics. The integrated ghost-ring rear sight features a .15″ inside diameter aperture.
The rail is constructed from steel, ensuring durability and resistance to recoil. It comes with all necessary mounting hardware for a straightforward installation. The Picatinny rail provides ample space for mounting red dot sights, scout scopes, or other accessories, greatly enhancing the rifle’s versatility.
Performance & Functionality
The XS SIGHTS GSR Rail Ruger Gunsite Scout excels at providing a stable and versatile platform for optics. The ghost-ring sight offers fast target acquisition at close to medium ranges. The rail holds zero consistently, even with repeated firing and handling.
The main strength is the increased flexibility it provides for sighting options. A minor weakness might be the limited adjustment range of the ghost-ring sight for extreme long-range shooting. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with a robust steel construction that feels solid and reliable. The matte black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and practical, minimizing glare. The rail’s low profile doesn’t interfere with the rifle’s handling or balance.
Installation is remarkably user-friendly, requiring only basic tools and minimal gunsmithing knowledge. There is virtually no learning curve involved in using the ghost-ring sight.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction ensures excellent durability. The rail is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use and exposure to the elements. Maintenance is simple and straightforward.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary function of the XS SIGHTS GSR Rail Ruger Gunsite Scout is to allow for the mounting of various optics. This includes red dot sights, scout scopes, and even traditional rifle scopes with the appropriate mounting hardware. The Picatinny rail is compatible with a wide range of accessories from various brands, providing ample customization options.
Pros and Cons of XS SIGHTS GSR Rail Ruger Gunsite Scout
Pros
- Easy installation makes this an accessible upgrade for most shooters.
- Enhanced versatility allows for mounting a variety of optics.
- The ghost-ring sight provides fast target acquisition.
- Durable steel construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Improved accuracy and speed compared to factory iron sights.
Cons
- The ghost-ring sight adjustment range could be more extensive.
- Windage adjustments on the rear sight can be a bit stiff initially.
Who Should Buy XS SIGHTS GSR Rail Ruger Gunsite Scout?
The XS SIGHTS GSR Rail Ruger Gunsite Scout is perfect for Ruger Gunsite Scout owners looking to modernize their rifle and improve their sighting options. It is especially well-suited for hunters who want the flexibility to switch between iron sights and optics. Tactical shooters and those seeking faster target acquisition will also benefit greatly.
Those primarily focused on extreme long-range precision shooting might find the ghost-ring sight less ideal. Someone looking for a purely aesthetic upgrade might find the focus on functionality over form less appealing.
A red dot sight or a scout scope is a must-have accessory to fully utilize the rail’s capabilities. A quality gunsmithing screwdriver set will help with the installation.
Conclusion on XS SIGHTS GSR Rail Ruger Gunsite Scout
The XS SIGHTS GSR Rail Ruger Gunsite Scout is a well-designed, durable, and highly functional upgrade for the Ruger Gunsite Scout rifle. It delivers on its promise of easy installation and increased versatility. The ghost-ring sight is a valuable addition for close-to-medium range shooting.
At $94.99, the price is justified by the quality of construction and the significant improvement in sighting options. I would wholeheartedly recommend the XS SIGHTS GSR Rail Ruger Gunsite Scout to any Ruger Gunsite Scout owner seeking to enhance their rifle’s capabilities. Upgrade your Ruger Gunsite Scout today and experience the difference!