The Tasco Remington 700/Weatherby Vanguard 2 Piece Rifle Base Made a Bold First Impression
Mounting a scope securely and reliably is non-negotiable, whether you’re pursuing elk in the Rockies or punching paper at the range. The Tasco Remington 700/Weatherby Vanguard 2 Piece Rifle Base aims to provide a solid foundation for your optic without breaking the bank. Tasco has a long history of producing affordable optics and accessories, and these bases continue that tradition.
I needed a dependable mounting solution for a newly acquired Weatherby Vanguard chambered in .308. I was on a tight budget after buying the rifle itself, so I started researching options that wouldn’t compromise quality for cost. The two-piece design appealed to me for its simplicity and ease of installation.
Upon opening the package, I was greeted by two matte black aluminum bases. They were lightweight, and the finish appeared consistent. The included screws seemed adequate for the job, although I always consider using thread locker for added security.
I had considered a one-piece Picatinny rail for maximum versatility. However, those options were considerably more expensive. I chose the Tasco bases for their direct fit and affordability, prioritizing a secure mount over the potential for future accessory additions.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The bases felt solid enough, especially given the price point. I was eager to get them installed and see how they performed under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tasco Remington 700/Weatherby Vanguard 2 Piece Rifle Base to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Tasco bases came at my local shooting range. I mounted a Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44 scope, carefully torquing the screws to the manufacturer’s specifications. After bore-sighting, I began the process of zeroing the rifle at 100 yards.
The bases held the scope securely throughout the initial sighting-in process. Even after firing dozens of rounds, there was no noticeable shift in the point of impact. This gave me confidence in their ability to withstand the recoil of the .308 cartridge.
Installation was straightforward, requiring only basic tools. I encountered no issues with screw alignment or base fit. While simple, the two-piece design did require extra care to ensure both bases were perfectly aligned for optimal scope performance.
I was pleasantly surprised by the bases’ performance during that first range session. I expected some settling or potential loosening, given the price. Instead, they performed admirably.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Tasco Remington 700/Weatherby Vanguard 2 Piece Rifle Base has continued to perform reliably. The rifle has seen action in various weather conditions, from scorching summer heat to damp autumn days. The bases have shown no signs of corrosion or degradation.
I’ve taken the rifle on several hunting trips, subjecting it to the bumps and jostles of backcountry travel. The scope has remained firmly mounted. I periodically check the screw torque to ensure everything remains secure.
Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe-down with a solvent-dampened cloth is usually sufficient. The matte black finish has proven to be surprisingly resistant to scratches and wear.
Compared to a more expensive one-piece rail I’ve used on another rifle, the Tasco bases perform remarkably well for the price. While they lack the versatility of a Picatinny rail, they provide a solid and dependable mounting platform. I have not been disappointed.
Breaking Down the Features of Tasco Remington 700/Weatherby Vanguard 2 Piece Rifle Base
Specifications
The Tasco Remington 700/Weatherby Vanguard 2 Piece Rifle Base is specifically designed for Remington 700 and Weatherby Vanguard rifles. It utilizes a two-piece design, offering a low-profile mounting solution. The bases are constructed from matte black aluminum.
- * Material: Matte black aluminum.
- * Compatibility: Remington 700 and Weatherby Vanguard rifles.
- * Design: Two-piece.
- * Ring Height: Special “high 1” rings provide clearance for scopes with extra-large objective lens.
- * Price: $15.99
The aluminum construction keeps the weight down, which is important for a hunting rifle. Compatibility with two of the most popular rifle platforms makes it a versatile option. The “high 1” rings clearance is a notable feature, accommodating scopes with large objective lenses that might otherwise require taller rings.
Performance & Functionality
The Tasco Remington 700/Weatherby Vanguard 2 Piece Rifle Base performs its primary function admirably: providing a secure and stable mounting platform for a scope. The bases, when properly installed, maintain zero even under repeated recoil.
The key strength is its affordability and straightforward installation. The primary weakness is its lack of versatility compared to a Picatinny rail system. This limits options for mounting accessories other than a scope.
It meets expectations for a budget-friendly mounting solution. It exceeds expectations in terms of durability and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for the price. The aluminum is lightweight but feels robust enough to withstand normal use. The matte black finish provides a non-reflective surface, which is advantageous in hunting situations.
The design is user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools or gunsmithing experience for installation. Some users might find a one-piece rail easier to align, but the two-piece design is manageable with careful attention.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction should provide years of reliable service with proper care. The matte black finish appears durable. Periodic cleaning and torque checks are recommended to maintain optimal performance.
The bases are simple in design, so there is little that can go wrong. They are easy to maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tasco Remington 700/Weatherby Vanguard 2 Piece Rifle Base itself does not come with any accessories beyond the necessary mounting screws. The primary customization option is the choice of scope rings to be used with the bases. Be sure to select the correct ring height for your scope and rifle combination.
Compatibility with other brands’ scope rings is generally good. The bases accept standard Weaver-style scope rings.
Pros and Cons of Tasco Remington 700/Weatherby Vanguard 2 Piece Rifle BasePros
- Affordable price point: Significantly cheaper than most one-piece rail systems.
- Direct fit for Remington 700 and Weatherby Vanguard: Ensures proper alignment and secure mounting.
- Lightweight aluminum construction: Adds minimal weight to the rifle.
- Easy installation: Requires only basic tools and minimal gunsmithing knowledge.
- Provides a stable mounting platform: Holds zero reliably under recoil.
Cons
- Limited versatility: Cannot easily accommodate other accessories beyond a scope.
- Two-piece design requires careful alignment: May be more challenging to install perfectly than a one-piece rail.
Who Should Buy Tasco Remington 700/Weatherby Vanguard 2 Piece Rifle Base?
Pros
- Affordable price point: Significantly cheaper than most one-piece rail systems.
- Direct fit for Remington 700 and Weatherby Vanguard: Ensures proper alignment and secure mounting.
- Lightweight aluminum construction: Adds minimal weight to the rifle.
- Easy installation: Requires only basic tools and minimal gunsmithing knowledge.
- Provides a stable mounting platform: Holds zero reliably under recoil.
Cons
- Limited versatility: Cannot easily accommodate other accessories beyond a scope.
- Two-piece design requires careful alignment: May be more challenging to install perfectly than a one-piece rail.
The Tasco Remington 700/Weatherby Vanguard 2 Piece Rifle Base is perfect for hunters and recreational shooters on a budget. These shooters need a reliable scope mounting solution without breaking the bank. It’s also a great option for anyone who owns a Remington 700 or Weatherby Vanguard rifle and wants a simple, low-profile setup.
Those who prioritize maximum versatility and the ability to easily mount multiple accessories should skip this product. They should opt for a one-piece Picatinny rail system instead.
A must-have accessory is a quality set of scope rings that are appropriate for the scope being used. A torque wrench is also recommended to ensure proper screw tightening.
Conclusion on Tasco Remington 700/Weatherby Vanguard 2 Piece Rifle Base
The Tasco Remington 700/Weatherby Vanguard 2 Piece Rifle Base offers a compelling value proposition for budget-conscious shooters. It provides a surprisingly robust and dependable mounting platform for a scope at a fraction of the cost of more elaborate systems. The price is more than justified.
I would personally recommend it to anyone seeking an affordable and reliable scope mounting solution for their Remington 700 or Weatherby Vanguard rifle. Don’t let the low price fool you; these bases deliver performance where it counts. Equip your rifle with the Tasco Remington 700/Weatherby Vanguard 2 Piece Rifle Base and experience the confidence of a secure and stable optic.