First Thoughts on the Warne Mountain Tech Howa/Vanguard Rifle Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA
The Warne Mountain Tech Howa/Vanguard Rifle Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA base promises a lightweight, precise scope mounting solution. Warne, a trusted name in optics mounting, aims to deliver accuracy and durability with this product. This base caught my attention because I needed a reliable and lightweight mounting solution for my Howa 1500 hunting rifle.
I’ve been consistently frustrated with scope bases that add unnecessary weight and bulk to my rifle. Many “lightweight” options sacrifice durability. The advertised balance of weight and strength in the Warne Mountain Tech base piqued my interest, along with the promise of a 20 MOA cant for long-range shooting.
Upon unboxing, the Warne Mountain Tech base immediately impressed me with its clean lines and minimalist design. The black hardcoat anodized finish looks incredibly durable. It feels substantial despite its light weight. Compared to the bulky steel base I was previously using, this was a night-and-day difference.
I was also considering a Talley Lightweight Alloy scope mount and a Leupold Backcountry Cross-Slot base. The Talley system is known for its simplicity, but it lacks the flexibility of a Picatinny rail. The Leupold base, while solid, didn’t offer the 20 MOA cant I was seeking for extending my effective range. The Warne Mountain Tech seemed like the best compromise between weight, versatility, and long-range capability.
My first impression was excitement. This base appears to be precisely what I was looking for to optimize my rifle for both weight and long-range accuracy. The quality of the finish and the attention to detail suggest Warne didn’t cut corners.
Real-World Testing: Putting Warne Mountain Tech Howa/Vanguard Rifle Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, specifically targeting distances from 100 to 600 yards. I mounted a Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 scope using quality rings onto the Warne Mountain Tech base. Installation was straightforward, thanks to the precise machining and included T-15 Torx screws.
The conditions were slightly windy, with gusts up to 10 mph, providing a good test of the rifle’s long-range capabilities. The Warne Mountain Tech base performed flawlessly, maintaining zero throughout the testing session. The 20 MOA cant was immediately noticeable, allowing me to dial in significantly less elevation on my scope for longer shots.
The only slight issue I encountered was ensuring proper torque on the base screws. I recommend using a quality torque wrench to avoid over-tightening and potentially damaging the aluminum threads. Once properly torqued, the base remained rock solid.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a challenging elk hunting trip in the Colorado Rockies, the Warne Mountain Tech base continues to impress. It has withstood harsh weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme temperature fluctuations. There are no signs of corrosion or loosening.
The hardcoat anodized finish has proven to be incredibly durable. Despite being bumped and scraped against rocks and trees, the base shows minimal wear and tear. Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes any dirt or debris.
Compared to my previous steel base, the Warne Mountain Tech has significantly reduced the overall weight of my rifle, making it much more comfortable to carry during long hunts. It outperforms my expectations. It inspires confidence in its ability to maintain zero under any condition.
Breaking Down the Features of Warne Mountain Tech Howa/Vanguard Rifle Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA
Specifications
The Warne Mountain Tech Howa/Vanguard Rifle Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA base is specifically designed for Howa and Vanguard short action rifles. It is constructed from lightweight, high-strength aluminum. The finish is a Mil-Spec hardcoat anodized, providing excellent abrasion and corrosion resistance.
The base features a Picatinny/Weaver/STANAG-compatible rail system, offering maximum versatility in scope mounting options. The included hardware is black zinc coated, offering further element-proof protection. The self-centering tapered T-15 Torx screws ensure a secure and reliable mount. Most importantly, the base incorporates a 20 MOA cant.
The 20 MOA cant is critical for long-range shooting. It allows the shooter to utilize more of the scope’s internal elevation adjustment. This results in improved accuracy and the ability to reach targets at extended distances. The lightweight aluminum construction minimizes added weight. This is crucial for hunters and shooters who prioritize mobility.
Performance & Functionality
The Warne Mountain Tech base excels in both performance and functionality. The precise machining and tight tolerances ensure a secure and repeatable scope mount. The 20 MOA cant significantly improves long-range accuracy. The base maintains zero consistently.
One potential improvement would be including a small vial of thread locker with the base. This would further enhance the security of the mounting screws. Overall, the base meets and exceeds expectations. It provides a reliable and accurate platform for long-range shooting.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Warne Mountain Tech base is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The minimalist profile reduces bulk. The hardcoat anodized finish provides excellent grip. The lightweight aluminum construction contributes to overall rifle balance.
The base is extremely user-friendly. Installation is straightforward and requires minimal tools. There is no significant learning curve. Even novice shooters can easily mount a scope using this base.
Durability & Maintenance
The Warne Mountain Tech base is built to last. The high-strength aluminum and hardcoat anodized finish provide excellent resistance to wear and tear. Regular maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe down with a clean cloth is usually sufficient.
The black zinc-coated hardware resists corrosion. This ensures long-term reliability even in harsh environments. With proper care, this base should provide years of dependable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Warne Mountain Tech base is compatible with a wide range of Picatinny and Weaver-style scope rings. This allows for extensive customization options. You can easily choose rings that match your scope’s tube diameter and preferred height.
While no specific accessories come with the base beyond the mounting screws, the compatibility with standard Picatinny rails means you can add various accessories such as bipod adapters or rail-mounted levels. The adaptability makes it a great foundation for building a personalized rifle setup.
Pros and Cons of Warne Mountain Tech Howa/Vanguard Rifle Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA
Pros
- The lightweight aluminum construction significantly reduces overall rifle weight, improving maneuverability.
- The 20 MOA cant extends the effective range of the scope. It allows for easier target acquisition at long distances.
- The Mil-Spec hardcoat anodized finish provides exceptional durability and corrosion resistance in harsh environments.
- Compatibility with Picatinny and Weaver-style rings offers a wide range of scope mounting options.
- The self-centering tapered T-15 Torx screws ensure a secure and reliable mount.
Cons
- The lightweight aluminum construction may be less durable than steel under extreme abuse, although the hardcoat anodizing mitigates this.
- A torque wrench is recommended for proper installation to avoid over-tightening the screws.
Who Should Buy Warne Mountain Tech Howa/Vanguard Rifle Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA?
The Warne Mountain Tech Howa/Vanguard Rifle Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA is perfect for hunters and long-range shooters. Those prioritizing lightweight gear and extended shooting distances will benefit the most. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who need a reliable and accurate scope mounting system.
This base is not ideal for individuals who prioritize absolute bomb-proof durability above all else. A steel base might be a better choice for those users, although the difference in practical durability is minimal. Those who are uncomfortable using a torque wrench might also want to consider a simpler mounting system.
A must-have accessory for this base is a high-quality torque wrench with T-15 Torx bits. Using thread locker on the mounting screws is also highly recommended.
Conclusion on Warne Mountain Tech Howa/Vanguard Rifle Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA
The Warne Mountain Tech Howa/Vanguard Rifle Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA base delivers on its promise of lightweight precision. It’s a well-engineered and durable mounting solution that significantly enhances long-range shooting capabilities. The 20 MOA cant, coupled with the lightweight design, makes it an excellent choice for hunters and competitive shooters.
At $59.00, the price is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and performance. It provides excellent value for the money.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this base to anyone looking to upgrade their Howa or Vanguard rifle. If you value lightweight gear, long-range accuracy, and rugged durability, the Warne Mountain Tech base is an investment you won’t regret. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference!