Let’s Dive into Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws
The Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws promises enhanced scope mounting precision and reliability, a crucial element for any serious shooter. From the trusted name of Talley, this base aims to provide a rock-solid platform for your optic, ensuring consistent performance in the field. This extended base design seeks to solve a common issue: achieving optimal eye relief with larger scopes on rifles with shorter actions.
My journey to the Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws started with a frustrating realization. I was mounting a high-magnification scope on my custom hunting rifle, but I just couldn’t get the eye relief right, even with the scope pushed as far back as the standard base allowed. The objective lens was looming too close, and my cheek weld felt unnatural, impacting both comfort and accuracy.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the solid feel of the steel. The Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws exudes quality; it’s clearly a well-machined piece with a clean, black finish. The weight, while noticeable, inspires confidence, suggesting robust construction that can withstand the rigors of recoil and harsh environmental conditions.
I considered a few other extended bases before settling on the Talley. Warne offered a similar product, but I was swayed by Talley’s reputation for precision and their commitment to manufacturing in the USA. Leupold also had a contender, but its design felt less substantial than the Talley.
My initial impression was definitely positive. The Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws felt like a serious piece of equipment, a well-engineered solution to my scope mounting woes. I was eager to get it mounted and see if it lived up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was the local shooting range, a controlled environment to assess the base’s primary function. I mounted the Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws on my .308 bolt-action rifle, carefully torquing the included 8-40 screws to the manufacturer’s specification. The scope was then attached using Talley lightweight rings.
During the range session, I subjected the setup to various drills, from slow, deliberate shots to rapid-fire sequences. The base held firm; there was no sign of shifting or movement even after dozens of rounds. I even tried some deliberate bumps and knocks to the rifle, simulating the rough handling it might endure during a hunt.
The Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws performed flawlessly from the start. The extra length allowed me to achieve perfect eye relief, dramatically improving my shooting comfort and consistency. No issues arose, and I immediately noticed a positive impact on my accuracy.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including a challenging deer hunting trip in the rugged terrain of the Colorado Rockies, the Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws continues to impress. The base has proven incredibly durable. It shows no signs of wear or corrosion, despite being exposed to rain, snow, and the occasional accidental bump against rocks.
Maintenance has been minimal. I simply wipe it down with a clean cloth after each shooting session and occasionally check the screw torque to ensure everything remains secure. The steel construction appears impervious to rust, a significant benefit compared to some aluminum bases I’ve used in the past.
In comparison to my previous experience with standard-length bases, the Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws is a clear winner. It provides a more stable and customizable platform, ultimately leading to improved shooting performance and peace of mind. The extended design has resolved my eye relief issues and given me a more comfortable and confident shooting experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws
Specifications
The Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws is constructed from high-quality steel, providing superior strength and resistance to deformation under recoil. This robust material is essential for maintaining consistent zero and accuracy over time.
The base is designed with an extended length, allowing for greater flexibility in scope placement. This is crucial for achieving proper eye relief, especially when using scopes with a long eye box or on rifles with shorter actions.
It utilizes 8-40 screws for secure mounting to the rifle receiver. These screws are stronger and more resistant to stripping than the more common 6-48 screws, ensuring a reliable and long-lasting attachment.
The base features dovetail machining on all four sides, enhancing strength and accuracy by creating a more rigid connection with the scope rings. This dovetail design minimizes the risk of movement or slippage, even under heavy recoil.
The Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws is proudly manufactured in the USA. This is a testament to Talley’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Performance & Functionality
The Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a solid and stable platform for mounting a rifle scope, ensuring consistent accuracy and reliable zero retention. The extended design successfully solves eye relief problems, making it a valuable asset for shooters who struggle with standard base configurations.
One of the strengths of this base is its rock-solid construction. There’s virtually no flex or movement, even when subjected to heavy recoil or rough handling. One area for potential improvement could be offering different finish options to match a wider range of rifle styles.
The base has definitely exceeded my expectations. It has transformed my shooting experience by providing a comfortable and consistent cheek weld. It helps to eliminate any eye strain.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is outstanding. The Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws is made from high-quality steel and features precise machining. The weight, while not insignificant, feels appropriate for the level of durability it provides.
The base is user-friendly. It requires no special tools or modifications for installation. The only learning curve might be in determining the optimal scope placement for achieving proper eye relief.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its steel construction, the Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws should last a lifetime with proper care. The steel is resistant to corrosion and wear, ensuring long-term reliability.
Maintenance is straightforward. Simply wiping down the base with a clean cloth after each use is usually sufficient. Periodically checking the screw torque is also recommended.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws comes with the necessary 8-40 screws for mounting to the rifle. It is designed to be compatible with all Talley dovetail rings on standard spacer / integral mounts.
The base can also be used with any standard base. However, if you need greater flexibility, the Extended Base can be used with any of Talley’s dovetail extensions but may have to be drilled for the dovetail nut on the back / front of the base.
Pros and Cons of Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws
Pros
- Extended length provides greater scope mounting flexibility and solves eye relief issues.
- Robust steel construction ensures long-term durability and resistance to recoil.
- 8-40 screws offer a more secure and reliable attachment to the rifle receiver.
- Dovetail machining enhances strength and accuracy by creating a rigid connection with scope rings.
- Made in the USA, reflecting Talley’s commitment to quality craftsmanship.
Cons
- The all-steel construction adds extra weight compared to aluminum alternatives.
- May require additional drilling for use with certain dovetail extensions.
Who Should Buy Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws?
The Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws is perfect for:
- Hunters who use larger scopes and need to achieve optimal eye relief.
- Competitive shooters who demand a rock-solid and reliable scope mounting system.
- Anyone with a rifle that has a short action or limited scope mounting space.
Who should skip this product? If you are extremely weight-conscious or require a base with integrated Picatinny rails, another option might be a better choice.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality set of Talley lightweight rings to complement the base. Proper torque wrench is also recommended to ensure secure and damage-free installation.
Conclusion on Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws
The Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws is a well-engineered and exceptionally durable product that delivers on its promise of enhanced scope mounting precision. The steel construction provides a rock-solid platform, while the extended design solves a common problem for shooters struggling with eye relief. While it may add slightly more weight than aluminum alternatives, the added durability and stability are well worth the trade-off.
The price is certainly justified. It has a significant positive impact on shooting comfort and accuracy.
I would absolutely recommend the Talley Steel Base Extended, 8-40 Screws to anyone looking for a reliable and customizable scope mounting solution. If you’re tired of compromising on eye relief or worrying about your scope shifting under recoil, this base is a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference that a quality scope base can make!