The Talley Light Weight Ring/Base Combo Low 2-Piece Base/Rings For Marlin 336-1895 Black Matte Anodized Finish 1″ Diameter Made a Bold First Impression
The Talley Light Weight Ring/Base Combo Low 2-Piece Base/Rings For Marlin 336-1895 Black Matte Anodized Finish 1″ Diameter promised a streamlined, strong, and lightweight solution for mounting optics on my trusty Marlin lever-action. As a long-time fan of lever guns, particularly the venerable Marlin 336, I’ve always sought ways to enhance their accuracy and versatility without compromising their classic feel. I needed a scope mounting system that wouldn’t add unnecessary bulk or weight, and the Talley rings seemed to tick all the boxes.
My quest for these Talley rings started with a persistent issue: scope slippage on my 336 during a backcountry deer hunt. The existing steel rings, while robust, were heavy and didn’t maintain a consistent zero after a few hard knocks in the dense brush. When I saw these Talley rings, advertising their lightweight design and one-piece construction, I knew I had to give them a try.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the minimalist design and the smooth, matte black anodized finish. The rings felt remarkably light, a welcome change from the hefty steel alternatives I was used to. The machining looked clean and precise, inspiring confidence in their ability to hold my scope securely.
I considered other options like the Weaver Grand Slam steel rings and the Leupold QRW rings. I chose the Talley rings because of their purported one-piece construction and weight savings. The one-piece design promised superior strength and alignment. My first impression was excitement mixed with a bit of skepticism; could something this lightweight really stand up to the recoil of a .30-30 in the field?
Real-World Testing: Putting Talley Light Weight Ring/Base Combo Low 2-Piece Base/Rings For Marlin 336-1895 Black Matte Anodized Finish 1″ Diameter to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Talley Light Weight Ring/Base Combo Low 2-Piece Base/Rings For Marlin 336-1895 Black Matte Anodized Finish 1″ Diameter extensively at my local shooting range and during a week-long hunting trip in the rugged terrain of the Cascade Mountains. The range session allowed me to zero my scope and evaluate the ring’s ability to maintain accuracy. The hunting trip tested their durability under real-world conditions, including exposure to rain, mud, and rough handling.
Performance was impressive, even when temperatures dropped and light rain persisted during my hunting trip. The rings held zero throughout the week, despite the rifle being bumped and jostled while traversing steep slopes. Installation was straightforward, though I did need to be careful to ensure proper scope alignment and torque the screws to the recommended specification.
Initially, I wondered if the low ring height would cause clearance issues with the scope’s objective lens, but it proved to be a perfect fit for my 40mm scope. After the initial sight-in, the groups stayed tight and consistent. No issues were encountered after the first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Talley rings have proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of loosening or shifting, even after hundreds of rounds fired. The black matte anodized finish shows minimal wear, despite being exposed to the elements.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove dirt and grime. The rings have outperformed my previous steel rings in terms of weight, ease of use, and ability to maintain zero. These are definitely an upgrade.
Compared to my previous experiences, the Talley rings have been a significant improvement. My previous rings required frequent re-tightening and would occasionally shift under heavy recoil. The Talley rings have eliminated these issues, providing a more stable and reliable platform for my scope.
Breaking Down the Features of Talley Light Weight Ring/Base Combo Low 2-Piece Base/Rings For Marlin 336-1895 Black Matte Anodized Finish 1″ Diameter
Specifications
- The Talley Light Weight Ring/Base Combo Low 2-Piece Base/Rings For Marlin 336-1895 Black Matte Anodized Finish 1″ Diameter is designed specifically for Marlin 336 and 1895 lever-action rifles. This ensures a perfect fit and proper alignment with the receiver.
- The rings are machined from a single piece of 7000 series alloy. This construction method eliminates joints and weak points, resulting in superior strength and rigidity.
- The low ring height is ideal for scopes with smaller objective lenses (up to 40mm). This keeps the scope close to the bore, promoting better cheek weld and improved accuracy.
- The rings are designed to accommodate scopes with a 1-inch diameter tube. This is a standard size for many popular rifle scopes.
- The black matte anodized finish provides excellent corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface. This helps to prevent glare and maintain a low profile in the field.
These specifications contribute significantly to the ring’s performance. The one-piece construction ensures maximum strength and eliminates the possibility of screws loosening or shifting. The low ring height allows for a more natural shooting position, which translates to better accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Talley Light Weight Ring/Base Combo Low 2-Piece Base/Rings For Marlin 336-1895 Black Matte Anodized Finish 1″ Diameter performs exceptionally well, providing a stable and secure platform for my scope. The rings hold zero reliably, even under heavy recoil and rough handling. The lightweight design minimizes added weight to the rifle.
The rings excel at maintaining accuracy and repeatability. The solid construction and precise machining ensure that the scope remains securely mounted and aligned. A slight improvement could be made to the included instructions, as a more detailed torque specification would be helpful.
The Talley rings meet and exceed my expectations. The rings have addressed the issues I experienced with my previous steel rings, providing a more stable and reliable platform for my scope. These have proven to be a smart purchase.
Design & Ergonomics
The Talley rings boast a minimalist, functional design. The lightweight construction and low profile enhance the rifle’s handling and balance.
The build quality is excellent. The 7000 series alloy feels strong and durable, and the matte black anodized finish is both attractive and practical. Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a bit of patience.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the materials and contstruction, these will last a lifetime. The Talley rings are designed to withstand the rigors of hunting and shooting.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep them clean and functioning properly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Talley Light Weight Ring/Base Combo Low 2-Piece Base/Rings For Marlin 336-1895 Black Matte Anodized Finish 1″ Diameter do not come with any additional accessories, but they are compatible with a wide range of 1-inch diameter scopes. No customization options are directly available for the rings themselves, but users can choose from a variety of scope models to suit their individual needs.
The rings are compatible with most 1-inch diameter scopes from brands like Leupold, Vortex, and Nikon. The compatibility allows users to select the scope that best meets their specific requirements.
Pros and Cons of Talley Light Weight Ring/Base Combo Low 2-Piece Base/Rings For Marlin 336-1895 Black Matte Anodized Finish 1″ Diameter
Pros
- Lightweight design significantly reduces added weight to the rifle.
- One-piece construction provides superior strength and stability.
- Low ring height promotes better cheek weld and accuracy.
- Durable 7000 series alloy ensures long-lasting performance.
- Black matte anodized finish resists corrosion and minimizes glare.
Cons
- Instructions could benefit from more detailed torque specifications.
- Low ring height may not be suitable for scopes with large objective lenses.
Who Should Buy Talley Light Weight Ring/Base Combo Low 2-Piece Base/Rings For Marlin 336-1895 Black Matte Anodized Finish 1″ Diameter?
The Talley Light Weight Ring/Base Combo Low 2-Piece Base/Rings For Marlin 336-1895 Black Matte Anodized Finish 1″ Diameter is perfect for hunters and recreational shooters who want to improve the accuracy and handling of their Marlin 336 or 1895 lever-action rifle. These rings are also a great choice for those who value lightweight gear and durable construction.
This product might not be ideal for those using scopes with very large objective lenses, as the low ring height could cause clearance issues. Someone planning on using very high magnification or needing extreme long-range accuracy might prefer a more adjustable system.
A torque wrench is a must-have accessory to ensure proper installation and prevent damage to the rings or scope. A quality scope with a 1-inch tube is also essential to take full advantage of the Talley ring’s capabilities.
Conclusion on Talley Light Weight Ring/Base Combo Low 2-Piece Base/Rings For Marlin 336-1895 Black Matte Anodized Finish 1″ Diameter
The Talley Light Weight Ring/Base Combo Low 2-Piece Base/Rings For Marlin 336-1895 Black Matte Anodized Finish 1″ Diameter represents excellent value for the money. The lightweight design, durable construction, and reliable performance make it a worthwhile upgrade for any Marlin lever-action rifle.
The price is justified by the quality of materials and construction, as well as the significant improvement in accuracy and handling. Considering the benefits in terms of weight savings and improved accuracy, these are a great value at $35.99.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Talley Light Weight Ring/Base Combo Low 2-Piece Base/Rings For Marlin 336-1895 Black Matte Anodized Finish 1″ Diameter to anyone looking to enhance the performance of their Marlin lever-action. Upgrade your Marlin today and experience the difference!