Barska 30mm Extra High Rifle Scope Rings Review

What You Should Know About the Barska Rifle Scope Rings – 30mm, Extra High Height – 1 out of 10 models

The Barska Rifle Scope Rings – 30mm, Extra High Height – 1 out of 10 models are designed as a budget-friendly option for mounting 30mm scopes on rifles with Weaver or Picatinny rails. Manufactured by Barska, they aim to provide a secure and elevated platform for shooters seeking greater clearance, particularly when dealing with larger objective lenses or specific rifle configurations. At a price point of just over $12, these rings promise affordability without sacrificing essential functionality, making them a tempting option for budget-conscious shooters or those just starting.

I was looking for a set of rings for a new AR-15 build, and a larger objective lens scope I had laying around. I needed something to clear the front sight post and the larger scope bell, and these extra-high rings seemed like a good option to test on a budget build. The low price and availability were definitely factors.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was that these rings were surprisingly lightweight. The black matte finish appeared decent, though the overall feel suggested a lower-grade aluminum compared to some of my higher-end rings. The included set screws and lock nuts seemed adequate, but I immediately noticed a slight roughness in the threads when assembling them.

Compared to my Leupold and Warne rings, the Barska rings felt noticeably less robust. I also considered a set of Weaver rings at a similar price point, but opted for the Barska due to their extra-high height, which I specifically needed for the scope I was mounting. My initial excitement was tempered by a slight concern about their long-term durability, given the lightweight construction.

Real-World Testing: Putting Barska Rifle Scope Rings – 30mm, Extra High Height – 1 out of 10 models to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Barska Rifle Scope Rings – 30mm, Extra High Height – 1 out of 10 models at an outdoor shooting range, mounting them on my AR-15 flat-top receiver with a 30mm scope and a 50mm objective lens. The weather was clear and sunny, and I was primarily focusing on zeroing the scope at 100 yards. The initial mounting process was straightforward, although I needed to be careful to ensure even torque on the screws to prevent any scope damage or uneven pressure.

The rings performed adequately during the initial zeroing process, holding the scope securely enough to achieve a reasonable group. However, after about 50 rounds, I noticed a slight shift in my zero, indicating a potential issue with the rings slipping or loosening. I checked the screws and found that they had indeed loosened slightly, requiring retightening.

The ease of use was acceptable, but the need for constant monitoring and tightening raised concerns. After the first use, I was somewhat disappointed with the performance. I questioned whether the rings could withstand more rigorous use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including multiple range sessions and a weekend hunting trip, the Barska Rifle Scope Rings – 30mm, Extra High Height – 1 out of 10 models have shown some signs of wear and tear. The black matte finish has started to wear off around the edges, particularly where the rings contact the scope body and the rail. The screws continue to require occasional tightening, especially after extended firing sessions.

The durability is questionable. While they haven’t completely failed, the consistent loosening and finish wear suggests a lower level of robustness compared to higher-quality rings. Maintenance is simple – just wiping them down and occasionally retightening the screws.

Compared to my experiences with more premium rings, the Barska rings have definitely underperformed. My Leupold and Seekins rings have remained secure and stable for years without requiring constant maintenance. The Barska rings feel like a temporary solution rather than a long-term investment.

Breaking Down the Features of Barska Rifle Scope Rings – 30mm, Extra High Height – 1 out of 10 models

Specifications

• Ring Style: Weaver Style / Picatinny Style – These rings are designed to fit both Weaver and Picatinny rails, offering versatility in mounting options. This compatibility is essential for users with different rifle platforms.
• Height: 1.25 inches – The extra-high height provides ample clearance for larger objective lenses or to accommodate specific mounting needs. This is beneficial for scopes with larger bells or for clearing iron sights.
• Diameter: 30mm – These rings are specifically designed for scopes with a 30mm tube diameter. This is a standard size, offering compatibility with a wide range of scopes.
• Overall: 2.02 inches – This gives the rings a sturdy feel in hand. It is the total width of each ring, important for rail space considerations.
• Accessory Rail: None – The rings do not include an accessory rail for attaching additional equipment. This is a common omission in budget-friendly rings.
• Body Material: Aluminum – The rings are constructed from aluminum, balancing weight and strength. This keeps the overall weight down, but at the cost of potential durability.
• Finish: Black Matte – The rings feature a black matte finish for a non-reflective appearance. This helps minimize glare and maintain a low profile.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Barska Rifle Scope Rings – 30mm, Extra High Height – 1 out of 10 models is to securely hold a scope to a rifle. They perform adequately for light to medium use, but the tendency for the screws to loosen can impact accuracy and reliability. The extra height does provide the needed clearance for larger scopes.

The main strength is their affordability and the extra height. The weakness lies in the lower-quality materials and the loosening screws. They meet the basic expectation of holding a scope, but fall short in long-term stability and reliability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Barska rings feature a simple and functional design. The lightweight aluminum construction contributes to a lighter overall rifle setup, which is generally appreciated. The rings are easy to handle during installation.

The user-friendliness is decent, although the screws require careful tightening to avoid over-torquing or stripping. There’s a minimal learning curve; anyone familiar with scope mounting should be able to install these rings without difficulty.

Durability & Maintenance

The long-term durability of the Barska Rifle Scope Rings – 30mm, Extra High Height – 1 out of 10 models is a concern. The finish wears easily, and the screws require frequent attention. They’re easy to wipe down and clean, but the maintenance required to keep them secure is a drawback.

Repair is unlikely. If a screw strips or the aluminum cracks, the rings would likely need to be replaced rather than repaired.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Barska Rifle Scope Rings – 30mm, Extra High Height – 1 out of 10 models come with the necessary set screws and lock nuts for installation. There are no additional accessories included. There aren’t any built in customization options, the rings are what they are.

These rings are compatible with any scope that has a 30mm tube diameter and any rifle with Weaver or Picatinny rails. They’re not brand-specific, so they’ll work with a variety of scopes and rifles from different manufacturers.

Pros and Cons of Barska Rifle Scope Rings – 30mm, Extra High Height – 1 out of 10 models

Who Should Buy Barska Rifle Scope Rings – 30mm, Extra High Height – 1 out of 10 models?

Perfect for: Budget-conscious shooters who need extra-high rings for specific mounting requirements. This is also a good choice for shooters on a .22LR or other very low recoil rifle, where the ring’s flaws will be less of an issue.

Who should skip this product? Shooters who prioritize reliability, durability, and consistent performance. Anyone who needs rings for a high recoil rifle.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality torque wrench to ensure proper screw tightening and prevent stripping. It is also a good idea to use some thread locker on the screws to help prevent loosening.

Conclusion on Barska Rifle Scope Rings – 30mm, Extra High Height – 1 out of 10 models

The Barska Rifle Scope Rings – 30mm, Extra High Height – 1 out of 10 models offer an affordable solution for mounting scopes, especially when extra height is needed. However, their long-term durability and the tendency for screws to loosen are significant drawbacks. The low price is justified by the compromises in material quality and performance.

I would cautiously recommend these rings to shooters on a very tight budget who understand the limitations and are willing to monitor and maintain them. For anyone else, investing in higher-quality rings from a reputable brand like Leupold or Warne is a worthwhile investment for long-term reliability and peace of mind. Before you buy the Barska Rifle Scope Rings – 30mm, Extra High Height – 1 out of 10 models, really consider whether the upfront cost savings are worth the potential headaches down the road.