Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail Review

First Impressions of Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail

The Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail promises a robust and reliable mounting solution for optics on the venerable Winchester Model 70. This two-piece design caught my eye because it offers a Picatinny rail system without completely obscuring the action, something crucial for those who prefer to top-load their rifles. After years of struggling with less-than-ideal mounting solutions, I was eager to see if this rail could finally provide a stable and versatile platform for my optics.

My quest for the perfect mounting solution began with a need for greater versatility in optic choices for my Winchester Model 70. I wanted the ability to quickly swap between different scopes depending on the hunt or range session. The factory mounting system limited my options, and I found myself constantly frustrated with the lack of flexibility.

Upon unboxing the Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail, I was immediately impressed by its solid feel. The black anodized finish looked durable, and the machining appeared precise. The rails felt substantial in hand, hinting at the ruggedness that Talley is known for.

Compared to some of the cheaper aluminum rails I’ve used in the past, the Talley immediately felt like a significant upgrade. I had considered a one-piece rail, but I was concerned about losing the ability to easily top-load cartridges. Ultimately, the two-piece design of the Talley rail won me over.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. While the quality seemed excellent, the true test would be how it performed in the field. I was excited to get it mounted and see if it lived up to its promise of providing a stable and versatile platform for my optics.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail at my local shooting range. The installation was straightforward, and the rails mounted securely to my Winchester Model 70 long action. I mounted a trusted 3-9×40 scope using Talley Picatinny rings and proceeded to zero the rifle.

The performance was impressive, even in the somewhat dusty environment of the outdoor range. The rifle held zero flawlessly through several strings of fire. The stability provided by the rail allowed for consistent and accurate shots, giving me confidence in its capabilities.

I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to get used to the new mounting system. Despite the addition of the rails, the rifle still felt comfortable and balanced. I experienced no issues with the rail interfering with the bolt operation or cartridge ejection.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my rifle. It has endured multiple trips to the range, as well as a week-long hunting trip in the rugged backcountry of Montana. It has not disappointed.

The rail shows no signs of wear and tear, even after being exposed to harsh weather conditions and the bumps and scrapes of hunting. The hard-coat anodizing has held up remarkably well, resisting scratches and maintaining its sleek black finish.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use. The rails have remained tight and secure, requiring no adjustments or re-tightening. The reliability is second to none.

Compared to previous mounting systems I’ve used, the Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail far exceeds my expectations. It provides a more stable and versatile platform, and its durability is unmatched. This rail has become an indispensable part of my rifle setup.

Breaking Down the Features of Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail

Specifications

• The Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail is machined from high-grade 7000 series alloy for exceptional strength and durability. This material choice ensures that the rail can withstand the recoil and abuse associated with long-action rifles.
• It features a hard-coat anodized finish to 65 Rockwell, providing excellent resistance to scratches, corrosion, and wear. This durable finish keeps the rail looking good and functioning properly, even in harsh conditions.
• Designed specifically for the Winchester Model 70 long action, it ensures a precise and secure fit. The rail’s dimensions are carefully tailored to match the receiver, eliminating any wobble or movement.
• The two-piece design allows for easy top-loading of cartridges without the obstruction of a full-length rail. This feature is crucial for hunters and shooters who prefer the speed and convenience of top-loading.
• Each rail section is 1.35 inches in length, providing ample space for mounting various Picatinny-compatible optics and accessories. This generous length allows for flexibility in optic placement and eye relief adjustment.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the rail’s performance, reliability, and user experience. The strong alloy, durable finish, and precise fit ensure that the rail will withstand the rigors of shooting and hunting.

Performance & Functionality

The Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail performs its job flawlessly, providing a stable and secure platform for mounting optics. It allows for consistent and accurate shooting, even with heavy-recoiling cartridges. The rail’s functionality is enhanced by its two-piece design, which preserves the ability to top-load the rifle.

One of its strengths is its rock-solid stability. The rail eliminates any movement or wobble, ensuring that the optic remains securely mounted. A minor weakness is that the two-piece design may require more careful alignment during installation compared to a one-piece rail, but Talley‘s precision machining minimizes this issue.

The rail meets and exceeds my expectations for a Picatinny mounting system. It provides the versatility and stability that I was looking for, and its durable construction gives me confidence in its long-term performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail features a sleek and functional design. The black anodized finish looks great on any rifle. The rail’s weight is minimal, adding little extra bulk to the rifle.

The build quality is exceptional, with precise machining and a durable finish. The edges are smooth and rounded, preventing any discomfort or snagging. The rail’s low profile design ensures that it does not interfere with the rifle’s handling or balance.

The installation process is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a few minutes of time. No gunsmithing is required, making it easy for anyone to install.

Durability & Maintenance

The Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail is built to last. Its high-grade alloy and durable finish ensure that it can withstand years of use and abuse. With proper care, this rail will likely outlast the rifle it’s mounted on.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use. There are no moving parts or intricate mechanisms that require special attention.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail itself does not come with any accessories, as it is primarily a mounting platform. It is compatible with any Picatinny-style rings or mounts, providing a wide range of optic choices. The rail is also compatible with various Picatinny accessories, such as bipod adapters and laser mounts.

It works perfectly with Talley‘s own line of Picatinny scope mounts, providing a seamless and reliable mounting solution. The rail’s compatibility with popular accessories from other brands expands its versatility and allows for customization to suit individual needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail

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Who Should Buy Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail?

The Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail is perfect for hunters, competitive shooters, and recreational shooters who want a versatile and reliable mounting solution for their Winchester Model 70 long action rifles. It is ideal for those who value stability, durability, and the ability to easily top-load cartridges.

Those who prefer a full-length, one-piece rail system, or those who do not require the ability to top-load, might want to consider other options. Anyone looking for integrated features beyond a basic mounting platform might also look elsewhere.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality set of Picatinny rings from a reputable brand such as Talley. A torque wrench is also recommended for ensuring proper tightening of the mounting screws.

Conclusion on Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail

The Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail is an excellent mounting solution that combines exceptional stability, durability, and user-friendly design. Its two-piece configuration cleverly maintains the ability to top-load cartridges, making it a standout choice for Winchester Model 70 owners. The Talley rail delivers on all fronts.

The price is justified by the quality of materials and construction, as well as the improved shooting experience it provides. At around $40, the value is hard to ignore.

I would highly recommend the Talley Winchester 70 .330 Long Action Picatinny Rail to anyone looking to upgrade their Winchester Model 70’s mounting system. It’s a worthwhile investment that will enhance your rifle’s performance and versatility. Upgrade your Winchester 70 today with the Talley rail and experience the difference a quality mounting system can make.