Talley PLM258749 Picatinny Rail Black Anodized Aluminum Compatible w/Kimber 84L 20 MOA Review

The Talley PLM258749 Picatinny Rail Black Anodized Aluminum Compatible w/Kimber 84L 20 MOA Made a Bold First Impression

The Talley PLM258749 Picatinny Rail Black Anodized Aluminum Compatible w/Kimber 84L 20 MOA is more than just a mounting platform; it’s a precision-engineered upgrade promising enhanced accuracy for Kimber 84L rifles. The Talley name carries weight, signifying a commitment to quality that I’ve respected for years. This particular rail’s 20 MOA (Minutes of Angle) elevation caught my eye, as I was looking to maximize the effective range of my Kimber 84L in the wide-open spaces of Montana.

My primary hunting rifle, a trusty Kimber 84L in .280 Ackley Improved, had been serving me well, but I recently upgraded my optic to a long-range model. I needed a reliable and precisely aligned Picatinny rail to properly mount the new scope and take advantage of its capabilities at longer distances. I was specifically seeking a rail with built-in MOA to provide additional elevation adjustment, preventing me from running out of scope adjustment at extended ranges.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the clean, black anodized finish and the solid feel of the aluminum. The machining looked impeccable, with sharp, well-defined slots and a smooth, consistent coating. It felt like a quality piece of equipment, reassuring me that it would withstand the rigors of backcountry hunting.

I considered options from Leupold and Nightforce, but Talley’s reputation for precision and their specific compatibility with the Kimber 84L made them the clear winner. Other rails seemed either overly bulky or lacked the precise MOA I needed. The lightweight design and guaranteed fit of the Talley PLM258749 Picatinny Rail Black Anodized Aluminum Compatible w/Kimber 84L 20 MOA sealed the deal.

My initial impression was one of quiet confidence. This wasn’t a flashy piece of gear, but it exuded quality and precision, hinting at enhanced performance to come. I was eager to get it mounted and see how it improved my rifle’s long-range capabilities.

Real-World Testing: Putting Talley PLM258749 Picatinny Rail Black Anodized Aluminum Compatible w/Kimber 84L 20 MOA to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Talley PLM258749 Picatinny Rail Black Anodized Aluminum Compatible w/Kimber 84L 20 MOA at my local shooting range, a well-maintained facility with distances out to 600 yards. I mounted my new optic, a Vortex Razor HD LHT 4.5-22×50, onto the rail and bore-sighted it. The initial setup was straightforward, the rail fitting perfectly onto the Kimber 84L’s receiver without any modifications.

The weather was typical for late spring in Montana – clear skies with a brisk crosswind. I started at 100 yards to confirm zero and then gradually worked my way out to longer distances. The 20 MOA elevation built into the rail proved invaluable, allowing me to easily dial in adjustments to reach 500 and 600-yard targets without maxing out my scope’s internal adjustment.

Installation was straightforward using the existing mounting holes on my Kimber 84L. The included screws were of high quality, and the rail sat flush against the receiver. After tightening everything down to the recommended torque specifications, I felt confident that the rail was securely mounted.

After the first range session, I was extremely impressed with the improved long-range performance. The added elevation of the Talley PLM258749 Picatinny Rail Black Anodized Aluminum Compatible w/Kimber 84L 20 MOA gave me the extra adjustment I needed to reach out and touch targets at extended ranges.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including a week-long elk hunting trip in the rugged Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, the Talley PLM258749 Picatinny Rail Black Anodized Aluminum Compatible w/Kimber 84L 20 MOA has performed flawlessly. It has held zero perfectly despite being subjected to rough handling, temperature fluctuations, and exposure to the elements.

The anodized finish has proven to be incredibly durable, showing no signs of wear or corrosion despite being exposed to rain, snow, and dust. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. The finish is very resistant to scratches and scuffs.

Compared to my previous experience with a less-expensive steel rail, the Talley rail is significantly lighter and more durable. The precise machining and secure mounting system inspire confidence, knowing that my optic is securely attached and will maintain its zero. I trust the Talley PLM258749 Picatinny Rail Black Anodized Aluminum Compatible w/Kimber 84L 20 MOA implicitly.

Breaking Down the Features of Talley PLM258749 Picatinny Rail Black Anodized Aluminum Compatible w/Kimber 84L 20 MOA

Specifications

The Talley PLM258749 Picatinny Rail Black Anodized Aluminum Compatible w/Kimber 84L 20 MOA boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and reliability. The rail is constructed from high-grade aluminum alloy, providing a lightweight yet robust mounting platform. Its black anodized finish enhances durability and corrosion resistance.

The most notable feature is the 20 MOA elevation, which is crucial for long-range shooting. This built-in elevation allows shooters to utilize more of their scope’s internal adjustment range, enabling them to effectively engage targets at extended distances. The rail is specifically designed to be compatible with Kimber 84L rifles, ensuring a perfect fit and seamless integration.

These specifications translate to a tangible improvement in performance. The lightweight aluminum construction minimizes added weight to the rifle, maintaining its balance and handling characteristics. The durable finish protects the rail from the elements, ensuring long-lasting performance. The 20 MOA elevation provides a significant advantage for long-range shooters.

Performance & Functionality

The Talley PLM258749 Picatinny Rail Black Anodized Aluminum Compatible w/Kimber 84L 20 MOA excels at its primary job: providing a secure and precisely aligned mounting platform for optics. It’s accurate, reliable, and exceptionally easy to use. The tight tolerances ensure that optics mount securely and maintain their zero.

Its biggest strength lies in the integrated 20 MOA elevation, making it ideal for long-range applications. One potential improvement would be offering a similar rail with a higher MOA for extreme long-range shooters. However, for most hunting and target shooting scenarios, the 20 MOA provides ample adjustment.

The rail more than meets my expectations. The superior machining and precise fit provide a level of confidence that I didn’t experience with previous mounting solutions. The Talley PLM258749 Picatinny Rail Black Anodized Aluminum Compatible w/Kimber 84L 20 MOA is a well-engineered piece of equipment.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Talley PLM258749 Picatinny Rail Black Anodized Aluminum Compatible w/Kimber 84L 20 MOA is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The materials are high-quality, the weight is minimal, and the overall feel is solid and well-made. The black anodized finish provides a sleek, understated look that complements the Kimber 84L’s aesthetics.

It’s exceptionally user-friendly; installation is straightforward and requires no specialized tools or gunsmithing skills. The rail is designed to seamlessly integrate with the Kimber 84L’s receiver, ensuring a secure and stable mounting platform. Even someone with minimal gunsmithing experience should be able to install it with ease.

Durability & Maintenance

The Talley PLM258749 Picatinny Rail Black Anodized Aluminum Compatible w/Kimber 84L 20 MOA is built to last. Its high-grade aluminum alloy construction and durable anodized finish ensure that it can withstand the rigors of field use. I expect it to last for many years with proper care.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a lightly oiled cloth is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. The durable finish resists scratches, corrosion, and wear, minimizing the need for extensive maintenance or repairs.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Talley PLM258749 Picatinny Rail Black Anodized Aluminum Compatible w/Kimber 84L 20 MOA itself doesn’t come with any accessories, but its primary function is to provide a mounting platform for optics. It’s compatible with any optic mount designed to interface with a standard MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail.

The rail does allow for customization through the selection of various scopes and mounting rings. There are no further customization options specific to the rail itself. However, the rail provides a solid foundation for building a long-range rifle setup.

Pros and Cons of Talley PLM258749 Picatinny Rail Black Anodized Aluminum Compatible w/Kimber 84L 20 MOA