Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Short Action 20 MOA Rifle Base Review

First Thoughts on the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Short Action 20 MOA Rifle Base

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve mounted my fair share of optics. My experience often involves struggling with bases that are either too heavy, poorly machined, or simply don’t provide enough flexibility for optimal eye relief. The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Short Action 20 MOA Rifle Base promises to solve these common issues with its lightweight construction and versatile cross-slot design.

What drew me to this particular base was the need for a reliable and lightweight mounting solution for my custom Winchester 70 short action rifle. I was looking to improve my long-range accuracy. My current setup lacked sufficient MOA for dialing in shots at distances beyond 600 yards. The Leupold base’s integrated 20 MOA elevation was a key selling point.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the weight – or rather, the lack thereof. The 7075-T6 aluminum felt incredibly light yet solid. The matte black finish was clean and consistent, indicating good quality control.

Compared to the steel base I was previously using (a heavier, generic Picatinny rail), the Leupold offered a significant weight reduction. Other bases I considered were from Nightforce and Badger Ordnance, both reputable brands, but I chose the Leupold for its balance of lightweight design and integrated MOA at a more affordable price point. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited to see if this lightweight base could deliver on its promises of accuracy and reliability.

Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Short Action 20 MOA Rifle Base to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local range, which offers shooting distances out to 1,000 yards. I mounted a Leupold Mark 4 LR/T 6.5-20x50mm scope using Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot rings (as recommended). The installation was straightforward and the base fit perfectly onto my Winchester 70 short action receiver.

The weather conditions were typical for early spring – a mix of sun and intermittent showers with a moderate crosswind. Right away, I appreciated the increased elevation provided by the 20 MOA base. It allowed me to zero my scope at 100 yards with plenty of upward adjustment remaining for long-range shooting. No issues were observed during the initial 100 rounds fired.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple range sessions and a week-long hunting trip in the rugged backcountry of Montana, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Short Action 20 MOA Rifle Base has proven to be remarkably durable. I’ve subjected the rifle to various conditions. This includes exposure to rain, mud, and temperature fluctuations.

There are no signs of wear or loosening. The matte black finish has held up well. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a clean cloth. The base has consistently maintained zero. This inspires confidence in its reliability.

Compared to my previous steel base, the Leupold has noticeably improved the overall balance of my rifle. The reduced weight is especially welcome during long days in the field. It definitely outperforms my old setup in terms of both weight and long-range accuracy.

Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Short Action 20 MOA Rifle Base

Specifications

• The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Short Action 20 MOA Rifle Base is a one-piece Picatinny-style rail designed specifically for Winchester 70 short action rifles. The one-piece design enhances rigidity and improves accuracy potential.
• It is constructed from 7075-T6 aluminum, a high-strength alloy known for its lightweight properties and resistance to corrosion. This ensures that the base can withstand the rigors of field use without adding unnecessary weight to the rifle.
• The base features a 20 MOA (Minute of Angle) elevation, which provides additional vertical adjustment for long-range shooting. This is crucial for dialing in accurate shots at extended distances.
• The finish is a matte black, which reduces glare and blends seamlessly with most rifle finishes. The matte finish also provides a degree of corrosion resistance.
• It utilizes a cross-slot design, offering versatile ring placement options to achieve optimal eye relief. This allows shooters to fine-tune the scope position for maximum comfort and accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Short Action 20 MOA Rifle Base performs its job admirably. The 20 MOA elevation greatly enhances long-range shooting capabilities. Its secure mounting and rigid construction ensures consistent accuracy.

Its strength lies in its lightweight design and integrated MOA. Its weakness is that it is only compatible with Winchester 70 short action rifles. It definitely exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. The 7075-T6 aluminum feels both lightweight and robust. Its matte black finish provides a clean and professional look.

The base is exceptionally user-friendly. Installation is straightforward with basic tools. There is practically no learning curve involved.

Durability & Maintenance

The 7075-T6 aluminum construction ensures a long lifespan. The matte black finish provides good corrosion resistance. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth is sufficient to maintain the base’s appearance and performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Short Action 20 MOA Rifle Base does not come with any additional accessories. However, it is designed to be compatible with any Picatinny-style scope rings. Leupold recommends using their BackCountry Cross-Slot Rings or Mark 4 Aluminum rings for optimal performance and weight savings.

Due to its Picatinny rail design, it’s compatible with a vast range of accessories. This includes bipods, night vision devices, and other Picatinny-mounted accessories. This allows for a high degree of customization.

Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Short Action 20 MOA Rifle Base

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Who Should Buy Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Short Action 20 MOA Rifle Base?

The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Short Action 20 MOA Rifle Base is perfect for hunters and long-range shooters who own a Winchester 70 short action rifle and are looking to improve their long-range accuracy without adding unnecessary weight. It’s also ideal for those who prioritize durability and reliability in their equipment.

Those who do not own a Winchester 70 short action rifle or do not require the additional elevation of a 20 MOA base should skip this product.

Must-have accessories include high-quality Picatinny-style scope rings. Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rings or Mark 4 Aluminum rings are recommended.

Conclusion on Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Short Action 20 MOA Rifle Base

In summary, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Short Action 20 MOA Rifle Base is a well-designed and highly functional mounting solution that delivers on its promises. The lightweight construction, integrated MOA, and durable build quality make it an excellent choice for Winchester 70 short action rifle owners who are serious about long-range shooting.

At a price of $33.99, the value proposition is excellent. The performance and features justify the cost.

I would highly recommend this base to anyone looking to upgrade their Winchester 70 short action rifle. Don’t let a subpar base hold back your rifle’s potential – invest in the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Short Action 20 MOA Rifle Base and experience the difference for yourself.

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