NcSTAR is a well-known player in the optic scopes market and has gained popularity due to its economical range of optic scopes. These scopes have spruced up as a preferred choice for casual shooters and occasional hunters. Here we will elaborate more about their optics and also review the best ones from their long product line.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best NCStar Scopes
- OUR TOP PICK: NcSTAR Pistolero NC-RS-SPB2732B
- RUNNER-UP: NcSTAR Mark III Tactical Series
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: NcSTAR Pistolero NC-RS-SPB2530B
Comparison of the Best NcSTAR Scopes
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Who is NcSTAR?
The company was founded in 1997 in Southern California, where it is still headquartered. The company’s mission is to provide quality optics and accessories with an affordable price tag. In 2010 the company started a new division with the name VISM to launch its new line of products.
The company offers a limited lifetime warranty on all their optics and a limited one year warranty on their other products. Most damages are covered in their warranty and some cases, you may be charged a nominal shipping and handling fee of $10.
Why Are NcSTAR Scopes So Popular?
Pricing, quality, warranty, and prompt customer support. These are the four pillars that have held Ncstar’s position in the market for the past two decades. The company offers some of the most economical scopes on the market that mostly cost around $200. That can save you a lot of money if you’re not after a high-end advanced technology scope.
The company covers all its optics by a limited lifetime warranty and their customer support is just awesome. The return time for warranty-claimed products is usually two weeks or less. Additionally, NcSTAR scopes generally come with their mounting setup so you don’t have to spend extra money afterward.
Review of the Best NcSTAR Scopes
We have handpicked some of the best scopes from the extensive product line of NcSTAR. This list is a mix of scopes suiting different firearms and applications.
Best Overall:
NcSTAR Pistolero NC-RS-SPB2732B
Pros
Cons
NcSTAR Pistolero NC-RS-SPB2732B Specs
- Type of Optic: Pistol/rifle Scope
- Reticle Style: Duplex
- Magnification Level: 2-7x
- Weight: 9.6oz
- Objective Lens Diameter: 32mm
- Field of View: 14 - 4.5 ft at 100 yds
Best Uses For the NcSTAR Pistolero NC-RS-SPB2732B
Since this is a rifle plus handgun scope, it can be mounted on most firearms available. The magnification is variable but low and the long eye relief makes it a suitable scout scope. People have been successfully using it on Mosin Nagant and even Henry .45-70’s. The scope is great for short-range brush hunting due to the wide field of view and low magnification.
This is a great scope for the money and will cover almost all short-range shooting applications.
Is the NcSTAR Pistolero NC-RS-SPB2732B Compatible With Any Rifle?
The scope works with both handguns and rifles. Including airguns. However, the scope isn’t great for assault rifles. It is suitable for single-shot modes and not full-auto fire. It will work with any firearm that can accept a weaver base.
What Do I Need to Know About Mounting the NcSTAR Pistolero NC-RS-SPB2732B?
The scope comes with a weaver base in the package. So all you need is a pre-drilled and tapped receiver. It is 11 inches in length and will work with most short rifles and magnum handguns. It should be kept in mind that the turrets do not have fingertip adjustments. So you have to carry a quarter or flathead screwdriver to make adjustments.
Some people may not like the included weaver mount and may consider purchasing another one for precision applications.
Runner-up:
NcSTAR Mark III Tactical Series
Pros
Cons
NcSTAR Mark III Tactical Series Specs
- Type of Optic: Tactical Riflescope
- Reticle Style: P4 Sniper Mm, Mil-Dot Illuminated
- Magnification Level: 3-9x
- Weight: 17.3oz
- Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm
- Field of View: 36.8 - 12.0 ft at 100 yds
Best Uses For the NcSTAR Mark III Tactical Series
This is a compact, medium-range scope that is perfect for mounting over AR-style assault rifles and other tactical rifles. The scope has a P4 sniper reticle that makes estimations easy for quick sighting and accuracy. It is an illuminated scope suitable for low light action. Additionally, it can be used with BUIS without any issues.
This is a great alternative scope to those expensive $800+ scopes for beginner and basic applications.
Is the NcSTAR Mark III Tactical Series Compatible With Any Rifle?
Yes. It is best suited for .223 rifles. Especially the AR-15. You can use it for calibers like the .308. But beyond that, you should opt for a more advanced high-end scope. A great overall scope for most rifles that can be switched easily and quickly.
What Do I Need to Know About Mounting the NcSTAR Mark III Tactical Series?
Mounting this scope is a child’s play if you have a weaver rail already present on your receiver. It uses a quick-detach lever-operated base that is very simple and fast to switch. If you are planning on using BUIS, you may opt for high weaver bases.
The scope has a single point attachment base and is prone to wobbling under extreme conditions. If you prefer more stability, you can also purchase a double point attachment base separately.
Best for the Money:
NcSTAR Pistolero NC-RS-SPB2530B
Pros
Cons
NcSTAR Pistolero NC-RS-SPB2530B Specs
- Type of Optic: Pistol/rifle fixed magnification Scope
- Reticle Style: Duplex
- Magnification Level: 2.5x
- Weight: 11.4oz
- Objective Lens Diameter: 30mm
- Field of View: 19.5 ft at 100 yds
Best Uses For the NcSTAR Pistolero NC-RS-SPB2530B
It is marketed as a pistol scope and works fine as one. But people have also been found mounting it on rifles. Anyways, the scope is ideal for revolvers and pistols of all calibers that have a suitable base. The scope is great for scouting and close-range shooting/hunting. You can use it on the range, or to eradicate pesky varmints around your premises.
The adjustments work great and the scope is very lightweight to be used with ease.
Is the NcSTAR Pistolero NC-RS-SPB2530B Compatible With Any Rifle?
You can mount it on a rifle if you want. But that really won’t resolve any issues except for plinking. This scope has been exclusively designed for pistols/revolvers and will work flawlessly with them. Eventually, there’s no limit for curiosity and experiments.
What Do I Need to Know About Mounting the NcSTAR Pistolero NC-RS-SPB2530B?
The scope comes with a pair of 1-inch rings to be mounted on a Weaver-style base. However, you may also replace them with another set of better quality rings. Or any other rings you prefer. The scope is easy to install and more stable rings should be preferred when being mounted on heavy caliber magnum revolvers.
For ring replacement, you must choose medium to high weaver style rings to accommodate the 30mm objective properly.
Best NcSTAR Spotting Scope:
NcSTAR VSAFS251050G Safari
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Pros
Cons
NcSTAR VSAFS251050G Safari Specs
- Type of Optic: Rifle Scope
- Reticle Style: Dot plex or cross plex
- Magnification Level: 1.1-4X, 1.5-6X, or 2.5-10X
- Weight: 16oz
- Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm, 42mm, 50mm
- Field of View: 3.7-3.3 feet at 100 yards for 24mm
Best Uses For the NcSTAR VSAFS251050G Safari
The VISM safari scope is available in three different magnification options. It has illuminated reticles and is great for short to mid-range hunting. Especially for games like hogs and whitetails that have to be taken down under 150 yards.
The scope can also be used for scouting, range use, and other precision applications. It is a great scope for assault rifles as well.
Is the NcSTAR VSAFS251050G Safari Compatible With Any Rifle?
Yes. The Safari scope has been exclusively designed for short to medium range and will be perfect for .22cal and above rifles. Mostly upto .308. The scope is fully adjustable and has a glass etched reticle to eliminate bending. Additionally, the glass is scratch-resistant.
What Do I Need to Know About Mounting the NcSTAR VSAFS251050G Safari?
As with all other NcSTAR scopes, the Safari scope also comes with weaver style rings and has to be mounted on an appropriate base. Mounting the scope is fairly easy and follows the exact standard procedure as with other scopes.
The scope has been designed to be used with on-the-go rifles. Additionally, the scope doesn’t come with lens covers and you must invest in a good pair for its long service life.
Best NcSTAR Red Dot Scope:
NcSTAR 1x42 B-Style Red Dot
Pros
Cons
NcSTAR 1x42 B-Style Red Dot Specs
- Type of Optic: Red-dot Scope
- Reticle Style: B-style Red dot
- Magnification Level: 1x
- Weight: 6.8oz
- Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm
- Field of View: unlimited
Best Uses For the NcSTAR 1x42 B-Style Red Dot
This is an accurate and inexpensive scope perfect for shooting distances of 100 yards or less. It is great for hunting fast-moving targets like hogs in broad daylight or low light conditions. The red dot is great for assault rifles, handguns, and pistol submachine guns. The brightness adjustment is also a good feature.
Is the NcSTAR 1x42 B-Style Red Dot Compatible With Any Rifle?
The scope is great for all firearms except bolt actions and long-range rifles. Or in other words, it is great for close quarter applications. CQB rifles cover most assault rifles on the market, along with other more compact but powerful weapons like the AR-15 pistol.
What Do I Need to Know About Mounting the NcSTAR 1x42 B-Style Red Dot?
The red dot comes with a mounting base bracket that has to be tightened over the weaver rail. With some specific calibers, the brackets may come loose. So you may want to get a new pair. However, that problem is occasional and not for every firearm you use these sights on.
Since this is a red dot, mounting and using the scope is fairly easy.
Best NcSTAR Scope 3 9x40:
NcSTAR GEN3 Ultimate Sighting System
Pros
Cons
NcSTAR GEN3 Ultimate Sighting System Specs
- Type of Optic: Dual Optic
- Reticle Style: P4 sniper Mil dot
- Magnification Level: 3-9x
- Weight: 19.7oz
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm
- Field of View: 36.8 to 12.0ft at 100yds
Best Uses For the NcSTAR GEN3 Ultimate Sighting System
This is a dual optic scope from NcSTAR that is a great add-on for tactical applications. Or if you are developing a rifle with a sci-fi look. The scope can be mounted/dismounted instantly and has an illuminated reticle with an electronic control panel. Another great feature is that this scope holds zero through hundreds of rounds. So you can definitely use it for use on rugged terrain or shooting on-the-move
Is the NcSTAR GEN3 Ultimate Sighting System Compatible With Any Rifle?
This scope works best with .223 caliber rifles. However, it can also handle the recoil of a 50BMG. Since it has a red dot and a QD system, it is perfect for assault rifles and SMGs. Bolt action rifles won’t really find it useful since they already have enough weight in them.
What Do I Need to Know About Mounting the NcSTAR GEN3 Ultimate Sighting System?
Mounting the model is very easy. It has a quick detach base that works with weaver and Picatinny rail bases. So if you already have a rail on top of your gun’s receiver, just position the scope and lock the lever.
The eye relief is only 2.5 inches so make sure you position and mount it properly, or it may dig into your eye socket. Also, remember that the scope is a tad heavy and may alter the overall balance. So make sure you level it properly.
Best NcSTAR Tactical Scope:
NcSTAR 3-9X42 Compact SEECR3942R
Pros
Cons
NcSTAR 3-9X42 Compact SEECR3942R Specs
- Type of Optic: Compact Riflescope
- Reticle Style: Illuminated Red/Green
- Magnification Level: 3-9x
- Weight: 17.3oz
- Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm
- Field of View: 12.5 - 37.7ft at 100yds
Best Uses For the NcSTAR 3-9X42 Compact SEECR3942R
This is an ultra-compact and lightweight scope with an outer rubber coating. This protective coating prevents any scratches or damages to the scope so it can be used for hunting. Plus, the compact size also qualifies it for small caliber rifles for varmint hunting.
The red and green illuminated reticle with brightness adjustment makes the scope useful for low light use. Overall, this scope is best for lightweight and compact rifles.
Is the NcSTAR 3-9X42 Compact SEECR3942R Compatible With Any Rifle?
Yes. The scope works best with .22lr and .223 caliber rifles. .30 cal rifles can be used but are not recommended for this scope. Anything above that is certainly impossible for this scope to handle.
What Do I Need to Know About Mounting the NcSTAR 3-9X42 Compact SEECR3942R?
The scope comes pre-installed with weaver/Picatinny compatible mounting rings. But be sure to use some Loctite to tighten the screws. This scope is very lightweight and won’t add any bulk to your rifle. The compact design allows you to mount it on short rails as well.
Best NcSTAR Scout Scope:
NcSTAR Pistolero Illuminated SEPB2732B
Pros
Cons
NcSTAR Pistolero Illuminated SEPB2732B Specs
- Type of Optic: Pistol/rifle Scope
- Reticle Style: Plex
- Magnification Level: 2-7x
- Weight: 9.6oz
- Objective Lens Diameter: 32mm
- Field of View: 14 - 4.5 ft at 100 yds
Best Uses For the NcSTAR Pistolero Illuminated SEPB2732B
This scope is perfect for scouting and hunting. It is a pistol/rifle scope with generous eye relief and handles recoil very well. This is a great scope for the money and will be beneficial for varmint hunting. It can also be switched with magnum pistols as it handles recoil very well.
Is the NcSTAR Pistolero Illuminated SEPB2732B Compatible With Any Rifle?
The scope works with rifles as well as appropriate handguns. It can be mounted on rifles upto 30 calibers and offers generous adjustment in fore and aft placement. So overall, this scope can be practically mounted on most firearms.
What Do I Need to Know About Mounting the NcSTAR Pistolero Illuminated SEPB2732B?
Mounting this scope is no big deal since you don’t have to find appropriate mounting rings on the market. The scope comes with two weaver style rings that hold the scope firmly in place. The eye relief offers ample scope for adjustment so you may use a new quick detach base for mounting this scope.
This is a great scope for old-style military rifles if they have their receiver tapped to accept optics.
Types of Scopes From NcSTAR
NcSTAR has a very balanced product line and manufactures most types of optic scopes except thermal scopes. Let’s find out more about them.
Rifle Scope
NcSTAR has variable magnification riflescopes up to 16x. These are the most economical scopes on the market and also compact and lightweight in their size. You can also find low magnification, illuminated, and scout scopes in their product line.
Reflex Scope
NcSTAR also has some very affordable and compact reflex optics in their line for assault rifles and handguns. These include red dots, microdots, solar dots, magnifiers, small tubes, and more. These also include foldable reflex sights that conserve space and allow BUIS to be used when needed.
Dual Optic Scopes
These are very innovative and budget-friendly offerings from the company. These scopes feature a reflex sight mounted over a rifle scope and allows the user to switch between the two. Allowing quick target acquisition and accuracy at both long and short-range.
Conclusion
NcSTAR is an American company that is renowned for producing good quality and affordable rifle scopes. Their long product line has inexpensive alternatives to expensive scopes on the market. These scopes are great for newbies and casual use, mostly with assault rifles, scout rifles, and pistols.
People Also Ask
NcSTAR scopes have been around for more than two decades now. Due to their unbelievable pricing, many people doubt their quality and performance. Let’s find a resolution to these doubts in this FAQ section.
Are NcSTAR Scopes Expensive?
Absolutely not. NcSTAR is in fact known to offer some of the most affordable optic scopes on the market. You can find scopes for as low as $50 and to a maximum of about $250. These scopes are great for newbies and occasional shooters.
How Long Do NcSTAR Scopes Last?
That really shouldn’t be a question since all their scopes are covered by a limited lifetime warranty. Unless you modify the scope or break it on purpose, you can avail of this scheme for as long as the company is in business.
How Heavy Are NcSTAR Scopes?
NcSTAR scopes are fairly lightweight and won’t add much weight to the rifle. Their biggest scopes are also quite low in weight and compare to scopes from other manufacturers with lesser features. For example, the NcSTAR advanced dual optic 3-9x42 scope weighs only 21oz.
Are NcSTAR Scopes Any Good?
Yes. These scopes offer good versatility and an amazing lifetime warranty on a price that’s absolutely unimaginable. These scopes are great for casual users who want a low-priced but optimal quality scope for their occasional shooting needs.
