The Warne Mountain Tech Winchester 70 Aluminum Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA Made a Bold First Impression
For years, I’ve relied on rock-solid scope mounting solutions for my Winchester Model 70. But lately, I’ve been pushing the limits of my long-range shooting, and my existing setup just wasn’t cutting it. I needed something lighter, more precise, and with the built-in elevation to reach those distant targets, which is why I landed on the Warne Mountain Tech Winchester 70 Aluminum Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA.
I was looking to solve the limitations of my existing flat bases. The scope I recently invested in, while excellent, was running out of adjustment at longer ranges. I knew a 20 MOA base would give me the extra vertical travel I needed.
Upon unboxing the base, the first thing I noticed was the weight, or rather, the lack thereof. The Warne base felt incredibly light, yet remarkably sturdy. The black hardcoat anodized finish looked flawless, hinting at the durability I hoped it possessed. Compared to the steel base I was replacing, this Warne Mountain Tech base promised a significant weight reduction. Other options considered were a similar base from Nightforce and Badger Ordnance. I ultimately chose the Warne due to its reputation for quality, positive user reviews and the reasonable price point.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for improved long-range accuracy, but also a little apprehensive about whether such a lightweight base could truly withstand the recoil of my Winchester 70.
Real-World Testing: Putting Warne Mountain Tech Winchester 70 Aluminum Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at a local shooting range with distances up to 600 yards. Installation was straightforward, thanks to the precise machining and included Torx screws. After mounting my scope and zeroing at 100 yards, I immediately noticed the difference the 20 MOA built-in elevation made.
The impact point was significantly higher than with my previous flat base, confirming the added elevation. Even at 600 yards, I had plenty of vertical adjustment left in my scope. I tested it during a mildly windy day. The Warne Mountain Tech base held zero perfectly throughout the session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including a week-long hunting trip in the backcountry, the Warne Mountain Tech base continues to impress. The base has seen rain, dust, and the occasional bump against rocks and trees. Yet, the finish still looks like new, with no signs of wear or corrosion.
The screws remain tight, and the zero has remained rock solid. I clean the base periodically with a soft cloth and a bit of gun oil, which is all it needs to stay in top condition. Compared to my old steel base, the Warne Mountain Tech is lighter, more durable, and provides a significant improvement in long-range shooting capability.
Breaking Down the Features of Warne Mountain Tech Winchester 70 Aluminum Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA
Specifications
The Warne Mountain Tech Winchester 70 Aluminum Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA is a precision-engineered scope base designed for the Winchester Model 70 short action rifles and the Marlin XS-7.
- Material: Crafted from 7075 T6 aluminum for exceptional strength and minimal weight.
- Finish: Mil-Spec hardcoat anodized finish for superior abrasion and corrosion resistance. This ensures long-lasting protection against the elements.
- MOA: Features a 20 MOA built-in elevation for extended long-range shooting capabilities. This allows for greater scope adjustment at longer distances.
- Compatibility: Designed to fit Picatinny and Weaver style mounts, making it compatible with a wide range of scopes and accessories. It is also NATO-STANAG compatible.
- Hardware: Includes black zinc coated hardware for Element Proof protection. This prevents rust and corrosion, ensuring reliable performance in any environment.
- Screws: Features self-centering tapered T-15 Torx screws for secure and precise mounting.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the base’s performance, durability, and overall user experience. The lightweight aluminum reduces the overall weight of the rifle, while the hardcoat anodized finish protects against wear and tear. The 20 MOA elevation allows for greater scope adjustment at longer ranges, and the compatibility with Picatinny and Weaver mounts ensures that it can be used with a wide range of scopes.
Performance & Functionality
The Warne Mountain Tech Winchester 70 Aluminum Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA performs exceptionally well. It holds zero reliably, even after repeated recoil and exposure to harsh conditions. The added 20 MOA of elevation significantly improves long-range shooting capabilities.
The strength of the base is its lightweight design combined with its robust construction. This provides a stable and reliable platform for mounting a scope without adding unnecessary weight to the rifle. A potential weakness could be the aluminum construction being slightly less resistant to extreme impacts compared to steel, though the hardcoat anodized finish provides significant protection. Overall, it exceeds my expectations for a lightweight scope base.
Design & Ergonomics
The Warne Mountain Tech base is intelligently designed. The low-profile design minimizes bulk and interference with the rifle’s handling. The lightweight aluminum construction makes it comfortable to carry for extended periods.
Installation is straightforward, with no need for gunsmithing. The self-centering screws make mounting the scope easy and precise.
Durability & Maintenance
The Warne Mountain Tech base is built to last. The 7075 T6 aluminum and hardcoat anodized finish provide excellent resistance to wear, corrosion, and abrasion. With proper care, it should last for many years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and a bit of gun oil is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Warne Mountain Tech Winchester 70 Aluminum Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA does not come with any additional accessories, as it is primarily a mounting platform. However, it is compatible with a wide range of Picatinny and Weaver style rings and scopes from various brands.
You could customize the setup by adding a scope level to ensure the rifle is perfectly level when shooting at long range. Also, higher quality scope rings could be added for extra security and precision.
Pros and Cons of Warne Mountain Tech Winchester 70 Aluminum Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA
Pros
- Lightweight design reduces overall rifle weight.
- 20 MOA elevation significantly improves long-range shooting capability.
- Durable hardcoat anodized finish provides excellent resistance to wear and corrosion.
- Compatible with Picatinny and Weaver style mounts for versatile scope options.
- Easy to install with self-centering Torx screws.
Cons
- Aluminum construction, while strong, may be less impact-resistant than steel.
- The price, while reasonable, is slightly higher than some basic steel bases.
Who Should Buy Warne Mountain Tech Winchester 70 Aluminum Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA?
This scope base is perfect for hunters and competitive shooters who demand lightweight performance and extended long-range capabilities. Anyone who owns a Winchester Model 70 short action rifle and wants to improve their accuracy at longer distances will benefit from this product.
This base might not be ideal for those who primarily shoot at close range (under 200 yards) or who prioritize absolute bomb-proof durability over weight savings. Those individuals might consider a heavier steel base. No must-have accessories are required, but a quality set of scope rings is essential for optimal performance.
Conclusion on Warne Mountain Tech Winchester 70 Aluminum Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA
The Warne Mountain Tech Winchester 70 Aluminum Short Action Black Hardcoat Anodized 20 MOA is an excellent scope base that delivers on its promise of lightweight performance and improved long-range accuracy. The price of $59.00 is justified by the quality of materials, precision engineering, and tangible benefits it provides.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this product to anyone looking to upgrade their Winchester Model 70’s scope mounting system. If you’re serious about long-range shooting, the Warne Mountain Tech base is a must-have. Take your accuracy to the next level and experience the difference a quality scope base can make.