First Thoughts on the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte base is a simple, yet critical component for mounting optics on one of the most popular bolt-action rifles ever made. Leupold, a name synonymous with quality and precision, has crafted a base that promises a secure and reliable platform for your scope. The fact that it’s machined from aircraft-grade aluminum signals a focus on lightweight durability, a characteristic I always appreciate in my gear.
My need for this base arose from a recent Savage 110 build project. I wanted to mount a new scope and needed a reliable, low-profile mounting solution. The market is saturated with options, but the Leupold name and the cross-slot design, compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings, stood out.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the clean, matte black finish. It felt robust and well-machined. The lightweight nature of the base was also immediately apparent.
I considered a few other options, including a two-piece base from Warne and a Picatinny rail from EGW. I ultimately chose the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte because I preferred the simplicity and potentially increased rigidity of a one-piece design. Plus, the reputation of Leupold for quality influenced my decision.
My initial impression was one of quiet confidence. It wasn’t flashy or over-engineered; it simply looked like a well-made, functional piece of gear that would get the job done. I was eager to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte at my local shooting range, mounting it on my newly built Savage 110 short action rifle chambered in .308 Winchester. The weather was clear and mild, ideal for sighting in a new scope setup. Installation was straightforward, and the base aligned perfectly with the receiver’s mounting holes.
I experienced zero issues with the base shifting or loosening during the initial zeroing process. The cross-slot design made it easy to find the optimal eye relief with my scope. After about 50 rounds, the base remained solid and secure.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte has proven to be remarkably reliable. It has withstood the recoil of numerous range sessions and has even been subjected to a few rainy hunting trips. There are no signs of wear or tear.
Cleaning is simple, usually just requiring a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth. The matte finish has held up well, resisting scratches and maintaining its appearance. Compared to some cheaper bases I’ve used in the past, this one definitely stands out for its durability and consistent performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte
Specifications
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte is designed specifically for Savage 110/10 rifles with a round receiver and short action. It’s machined from 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum. The base features a matte black finish and utilizes a cross-slot design compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings.
The fact that it’s made from aircraft-grade aluminum is crucial because it offers an excellent balance of strength and weight. This prevents the base from adding unnecessary bulk to the rifle. The cross-slot design provides versatility in mounting various types of optics.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte performs its job flawlessly. It provides a secure and stable platform for mounting optics, ensuring consistent accuracy. The base is precisely machined, allowing for easy and repeatable scope mounting.
The primary strength is its rock-solid stability. I’ve experienced no issues with scope shift, even with heavy recoil calibers. One area that could be improved is the inclusion of torque specifications in the packaging. Providing these would ensure proper installation and prevent over-tightening.
Design & Ergonomics
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte boasts a clean and functional design. The matte black finish blends seamlessly with most rifles. The low-profile design keeps the scope close to the bore, which can improve accuracy.
The base is lightweight and adds minimal weight to the rifle. Installation is straightforward, although having the correct torque wrench is recommended for optimal results. The design doesn’t introduce any unnecessary complexity.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction from aircraft-grade aluminum and its simple design, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte is built to last. It’s resistant to corrosion and wear, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions. Minimal maintenance is required; a simple wipe-down after use is typically sufficient.
With proper care, this base should easily last the lifetime of the rifle. Its robust construction and high-quality materials ensure it can withstand the rigors of regular use and harsh environments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the mounting screws. It’s designed to be compatible with a wide range of Picatinny and Weaver-style scope rings. This allows for extensive customization options.
It is compatible with popular brands like Leupold, Nightforce, Seekins Precision, and Badger Ordnance scope rings. This versatility makes it easy to tailor the optic mounting system to individual preferences and needs.
Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte
Pros
- Provides a rock-solid mounting platform for optics.
- Made from lightweight, yet durable, 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum.
- Compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings.
- Simple and easy to install.
- The Leupold name guarantees quality and reliability.
Cons
- Torque specifications are not included in the packaging.
- Limited customization options beyond scope ring selection.
Who Should Buy Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte?
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte is perfect for hunters and target shooters who own a Savage 110/10 with a round receiver and short action and want a reliable, lightweight, and versatile base for mounting their scopes. It’s also a good choice for anyone building a custom Savage 110 rifle and seeking a high-quality mounting solution.
Those seeking more advanced features, such as built-in elevation adjustments or quick-detach mechanisms, should skip this product. Consider alternative Picatinny rails with these features if needed. A must-have accessory is a quality torque wrench to ensure proper installation and prevent damage.
Conclusion on Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte is a well-made, reliable, and functional scope base. It provides a secure and stable platform for mounting optics on Savage 110 rifles. The price is justified by the quality of materials, precision machining, and the reputation of Leupold.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone looking for a solid and dependable scope base for their Savage 110/10 rifle. If you value simplicity, reliability, and quality, this base is an excellent choice. Upgrade your Savage 110 with the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot and experience the difference a quality base can make!