The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of mounting systems. I’ve wrestled with clunky setups that added unnecessary weight, and I’ve endured the frustration of rings that just wouldn’t hold zero. So, when I first laid eyes on the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte, I was cautiously optimistic.
My primary need was a lightweight, reliable mounting system for my Savage 110 hunting rifle. I needed something that wouldn’t weigh me down on long backcountry hunts, but could still withstand the recoil of larger caliber rounds. I’d been battling a creeping zero with my previous, heavier steel rings.
Unboxing the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo, the first thing that struck me was the weight, or rather, the lack thereof. The matte black finish looked clean and professional, and the machining was precise. The two-piece design seemed simple and intuitive.
I considered other options, like the Talley Lightweight Alloy Scope Mounts, but I wanted the flexibility of separate bases and rings. The Warne Mountain Tech rings were also on my list, but I ultimately chose the Leupold BackCountry combo for its reputation for quality and lightweight design. It seemed like the perfect balance of weight savings and rugged durability.
My initial impression was one of pleasant surprise. The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte felt solid and well-made, exceeding my expectations given its weight. I was eager to get it mounted and see how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte came during a weekend deer hunt in the rugged terrain of the Cascade Mountains. I mounted a Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10×40 scope onto the rings and headed out. The installation was straightforward, thanks to the one-piece design of the bases.
The conditions were challenging: cold, with intermittent rain and snow. Despite the moisture, the rings held the scope securely, and I experienced no slippage. The high rings provided ample clearance for the bolt handle, even with gloves on.
I was immediately impressed by the improved balance of the rifle. The significant weight reduction compared to my old steel rings made a noticeable difference, especially when hiking uphill. After firing about 20 rounds to sight in, there were no noticeable issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the past six months, I’ve used the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte extensively during multiple hunting trips and range sessions. I estimate I’ve fired over 200 rounds through the rifle with this setup. The system has held up remarkably well.
There are no signs of wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic scuffs. The matte finish has proven durable and resistant to scratches. The rings remain tight and secure, holding zero consistently even after repeated recoil from my .30-06 rounds.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. I just wipe them down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use. This significantly outperforms my previous experiences with heavier, steel rings that required more frequent cleaning and tightening.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte
Specifications
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte is designed specifically for Savage 110/10 rifles with a round receiver. These bases and rings accept scopes with a 30mm tube diameter and have a high profile, providing sufficient clearance for larger objective lenses. The entire system is constructed from lightweight 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum.
The use of aircraft-grade aluminum dramatically reduces weight, making it ideal for backcountry hunting. The matte black finish minimizes glare and blends seamlessly with most rifle finishes. The two-piece base design allows for flexible scope placement.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte excels in providing a stable and secure platform for mounting a scope. The precision machining ensures a tight and consistent fit. Recoil is managed effectively, preventing scope slippage and maintaining zero.
The primary strength is its ability to provide reliable performance at a minimal weight. A potential weakness could be its compatibility, being limited to only Savage 110/10 with round receivers. It definitely exceeds my expectations, offering top-tier performance without the bulk.
Design & Ergonomics
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte features a streamlined and functional design. The use of lightweight aluminum ensures it doesn’t add unnecessary weight to the rifle. The high rings provide ample clearance for the bolt handle and larger scopes.
It’s very user-friendly; even someone with limited experience can easily install it with the right tools. The simple two-piece design minimizes complexity.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the high-quality materials and construction, the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte should last for many years with proper care. The 7075-T6 aluminum is incredibly strong and resistant to corrosion. A simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is all that’s needed for maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte doesn’t come with a lot of accessories. No need to worry, though, because they are designed to be compatible with any 30mm tube scope. Aftermarket recoil lugs can further enhance stability, but are generally not necessary.
Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte
Pros
- Extremely lightweight, ideal for backcountry hunting.
- Durable 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum construction.
- Maintains zero consistently, even with heavy recoil.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- High ring profile accommodates larger scopes.
Cons
- Limited compatibility; only fits Savage 110/10 rifles with round receivers.
- Aluminum construction, while lightweight, may not be as robust as steel in extreme abuse scenarios.
Who Should Buy Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte?
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte is perfect for hunters who prioritize weight savings without sacrificing reliability. It’s also a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade from heavier, less durable mounting systems.
If you own a rifle other than a Savage 110/10 with a round receiver, or if you require a mounting system for extreme, high-impact applications, this product might not be the best fit. A torque wrench is a must-have accessory to ensure proper installation.
Conclusion on Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte offers an exceptional combination of lightweight design, durability, and reliable performance. At $73.49, the price is justified, offering excellent value for the money.
I would highly recommend this mounting system to any Savage 110/10 owner looking to shed weight and improve their rifle’s balance without compromising accuracy. If you are ready to invest in a mounting system that blends performance and lightweight design, then it’s time to upgrade. Get your hands on the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte today.