The Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag Made a Bold First Impression
Mounting a scope on a rimfire rifle can be a tricky business, especially when you’re aiming for precision without breaking the bank. The Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag promises a simple and affordable solution for Savage Mark II owners looking to enhance their rifle’s accuracy with optics. It’s a single-piece aluminum base designed for easy installation, but does it live up to the promise of being a reliable and cost-effective upgrade?
I was looking for a simple, no-fuss way to mount a scope on my trusty Savage Mark II. I’d been plinking with iron sights for years, but I felt it was time to extend my range and tighten my groups. I needed a base that was solid, easy to install, and wouldn’t add unnecessary bulk or weight.
The Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag arrived in, well, a poly bag. Initial impressions were simple: it’s a lightweight aluminum base with a matte black finish. It felt sturdy enough, though the finish seemed a little thin. The edges were clean, and the machining looked decent for the price.
Compared to other options like the Weaver TO-9 or the DIP (Diversified Innovative Products) base, the Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag stood out due to its incredible affordability. The Weaver base has a more recognized brand name, while the DIP base boasts superior build quality and material, but at a significantly higher price point. I was looking for a budget-friendly option that would get the job done. I chose the Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag for its price point, hoping it would provide a stable and functional mounting platform.
Honestly, I was cautiously optimistic. The low price made me a little skeptical, but the simplicity of the design and the promise of easy installation piqued my interest. It remained to be seen if this little piece of aluminum could handle the recoil of a .22 and keep my scope zeroed.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag** to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at my local shooting range. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, ideal conditions for zeroing my scope. Installation was surprisingly easy. I simply removed the existing screws, placed the Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag on the receiver, and tightened the new screws provided.
The base held the scope firmly in place, even after several rounds. However, I noticed that I had to retighten the screws slightly after about 50 rounds. It wasn’t a major issue, but it was something I kept an eye on.
There were no major issues or surprises, other than the need to occasionally retighten the screws. The base did its job: it held the scope and allowed me to zero my rifle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag has held up reasonably well. I’ve taken it out on several hunting trips and range sessions. The base has stayed in place, with only occasional minor adjustments needed.
There are some minor signs of wear and tear. The black finish has started to wear off in a few spots, particularly around the screw heads. However, the base itself shows no signs of bending or cracking.
Maintenance is simple: I just wipe it down with a clean cloth after each use. I also periodically check the screws to make sure they are properly tightened. Compared to my previous experiences with other budget-friendly bases, the Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag performs adequately for its price point. It’s not as robust as higher-end options, but it provides a functional and affordable solution for mounting a scope on a Savage Mark II.
Breaking Down the Features of **Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag**
Specifications
The Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag is specifically designed for Savage Mark II rifles and rifles chambered in .22 Hornet / .218 BEE. The base is constructed from aluminum, known for its lightweight properties and adequate strength.
- Material: Aluminum. This is the most important feature, as it provides a lightweight and reasonably durable platform for mounting a scope.
- Finish: Black (likely anodized). The black finish helps to protect the aluminum from corrosion and provides a low-profile look.
- Compatibility: Designed for Savage Mark II rifles. This ensures a proper fit and secure mounting.
- Mounting Style: Top Mount. This is a standard mounting style that is easy to install and provides a solid base for optics.
- Packaging: Poly Bag. This indicates a basic and cost-effective packaging approach.
These specifications are important because they directly affect the performance and usability of the product. The aluminum construction ensures that the base is lightweight and won’t add unnecessary weight to the rifle. The black finish provides a low-profile look and helps to protect the aluminum from corrosion. The precise fit for Savage Mark II rifles ensures a secure and reliable mounting platform.
Performance & Functionality
The Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag performs its primary function adequately: it provides a stable platform for mounting a scope on a Savage Mark II rifle. Accuracy is maintained as long as the screws are periodically checked and tightened. Reliability is acceptable, with no major issues reported after extended use. Usability is excellent due to its simple and straightforward design.
The primary strength of this base is its affordability. It provides a functional mounting solution at a fraction of the cost of higher-end options. The main weakness is its durability. The aluminum construction and thin finish may not hold up as well to heavy use or harsh conditions.
The base meets expectations for its price point. It’s not the best base on the market, but it provides a good value for the money.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price. The aluminum is lightweight, and the machining is decent. The base is comfortable in hand, with no sharp edges or rough surfaces.
The base is very user-friendly. Installation is simple and straightforward, requiring only basic tools. There is no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability is adequate for light to medium use. The aluminum construction and thin finish may not hold up as well to heavy use or harsh conditions.
The base is easy to maintain and repair. Simply wipe it down with a clean cloth after each use and periodically check the screws to make sure they are properly tightened.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag typically comes with the necessary mounting screws. There are no additional accessories included.
Customization options are limited. It’s possible to paint or Cerakote the base to match the rifle’s finish, but there are no other readily available customization options. The base is compatible with most standard Weaver-style or Picatinny-style scope rings, providing a wide range of options for mounting different scopes.
Pros and Cons of **Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag**
Pros
- Affordable: The price is extremely competitive, making it a budget-friendly option for Savage Mark II owners.
- Easy Installation: Simple design allows for quick and hassle-free mounting.
- Lightweight: Aluminum construction keeps the overall weight of the rifle down.
- Functional: Provides a stable platform for mounting a scope, improving accuracy.
- Wide Compatibility: Works with most standard Weaver or Picatinny scope rings.
Cons
- Durability: Aluminum construction and thin finish may not hold up to heavy use.
- Finish: The black finish can wear off over time, especially around the screw heads.
Who Should Buy **Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag**?
The Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag is perfect for casual shooters, plinkers, and hunters on a budget who want to add a scope to their Savage Mark II rifle. It is also a good option for beginners who are just getting started with shooting and don’t want to invest a lot of money in accessories.
Those who should skip this product are serious competitive shooters or individuals who require maximum durability and reliability from their equipment. Also, those who frequently subject their rifles to harsh conditions should consider a more robust base.
A must-have accessory would be a torque wrench to ensure proper screw tightening without over-tightening and potentially damaging the base or receiver. Additionally, using a thread-locking compound (like Loctite) on the screws can help prevent them from loosening over time.
Conclusion on **Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag**
The Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag is a decent option for those looking for an affordable and easy-to-install scope base for their Savage Mark II. It’s not the most durable or feature-rich base on the market, but it gets the job done without breaking the bank. It provides a functional platform for mounting a scope and improving accuracy, which is its primary purpose.
The price is definitely justified, considering the functionality it offers. While it may not be suitable for heavy use or harsh conditions, it’s a great option for casual shooters and beginners who are on a budget.
I would recommend the Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag to anyone looking for a cheap and cheerful scope base for their Savage Mark II. Just be aware of its limitations and be prepared to check the screws periodically.
If you’re looking to mount a scope on your Savage Mark II without spending a fortune, give the Top Mount Base Savage Mark II, 24 Black, Poly Bag a try. It might just surprise you with its simple effectiveness. Go ahead, upgrade your rimfire rifle without emptying your wallet!
