The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte Made a Bold First Impression
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte base arrived, promising a blend of lightweight design and rugged performance. As someone deeply entrenched in the tactical and hunting world, I’m always seeking that sweet spot where weight savings doesn’t compromise on durability.
For years, I’ve struggled with achieving consistent long-range accuracy with my trusty Remington 700 short action rifle. The issue wasn’t the rifle itself, but rather the limitations of my previous scope mounting system, hindering my ability to effectively engage targets at extended distances. Unboxing the Leupold base, I immediately noticed the clean machining and the promise of a secure scope mount.
I’ve used other scope bases, like the steel Warne bases known for their durability, and the lightweight but sometimes less robust aluminum options from lesser-known manufacturers. The Leupold appeared to strike a balance; offering the lightweight benefits of aluminum, but boasting the strength of 7075-T6 aircraft-grade alloy. This was a key factor in choosing it over cheaper alternatives.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The black matte finish looked professional and stealthy. I hoped it lived up to the hype in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base at my local shooting range, specifically targeting its performance at 300 and 500 yards. The range offered a variety of conditions from sunny to slightly overcast, providing a reasonable test environment.
Installation was straightforward, and the scope felt incredibly secure once mounted, a testament to the cross-slot design fitting both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings. The 20 MOA elevation built into the base was immediately noticeable, allowing me to zero my scope closer to its optical center, enhancing clarity and light transmission. No immediate issues were encountered, and the added elevation was precisely what I needed to reach those further targets.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple trips to the range and one challenging deer hunting trip in the mountains, the Leupold base continues to perform flawlessly. There are no visible signs of wear and tear beyond some minor scuffs.
The base has proven to be remarkably resilient, maintaining zero even after being subjected to rough handling during the hunt. Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps it looking and functioning like new. Compared to my previous steel base, which was prone to rusting, the Leupold’s aluminum construction is a significant improvement regarding maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte
Specifications
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte base is designed for Remington 700 short action rifles. It is constructed from 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. The base features a black matte finish for enhanced corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface.
It boasts a one-piece design for increased rigidity and stability. The integrated 20 MOA elevation allows for greater vertical adjustment in your scope, crucial for long-range shooting. The cross-slot design is compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver-style scope rings, adding to its versatility. This universal compatibility is a major selling point.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The added 20 MOA elevation is a game-changer for long-range shooting, allowing for more precise adjustments and preventing the need to max out the scope’s internal elevation.
The secure scope mounting provided by the cross-slot design ensures that the scope remains firmly in place, even under heavy recoil. One slight drawback is that the lightweight aluminum might not be as inherently durable as steel in extreme impact scenarios, but the trade-off in weight is significant for hunting rifles. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a lightweight, durable, and functional scope base.
Design & Ergonomics
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base boasts a sleek, low-profile design that complements the aesthetics of the Remington 700. The black matte finish provides a non-reflective surface, ideal for hunting situations where stealth is paramount.
The one-piece design contributes to enhanced rigidity and stability, ensuring that the scope is securely mounted and maintains zero. The base is user-friendly and easy to install, even for those with limited gunsmithing experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The use of 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum ensures that the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base is highly durable and resistant to corrosion. The black matte finish further enhances its resistance to wear and tear.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only a periodic wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth to keep it clean and functional. With proper care, this base should last for many years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base is primarily a mounting platform, so it doesn’t come with many included accessories. However, its compatibility with both Picatinny and Weaver-style scope rings means that it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket optics.
There are no inherent customization options for the base itself, but the choice of scope and rings allows for a high degree of personalization. The base’s standard mounting pattern ensures compatibility with virtually any scope designed for a Remington 700 short action.
Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte
Pros
- The 20 MOA elevation significantly improves long-range shooting capabilities. This allowed me to reach out further without maxing out my scope’s elevation.
- The 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum construction offers a great balance of lightweight design and rugged durability.
- Cross-slot compatibility with both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings provides versatility in optic selection.
- The one-piece design enhances rigidity and stability for consistent accuracy.
- The black matte finish reduces glare and provides a professional, stealthy look.
Cons
- Aluminum, while lightweight, might not offer the same level of extreme impact resistance as steel.
- At a price of $32.99, it is a good value, but potentially more expensive than some basic alternatives.
Who Should Buy Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte?
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte is perfect for hunters and competitive shooters who need to engage targets at long range. Any shooter looking to improve their long-range accuracy on a Remington 700 short action rifle will benefit immensely.
Those who prioritize absolute bomb-proof durability above all else might consider a steel base, although the difference in real-world performance is likely minimal. A quality set of scope rings is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte is a well-designed and highly functional scope base that delivers on its promises. The added 20 MOA elevation and the secure scope mounting provided by the cross-slot design make it an excellent choice for long-range shooting.
At $32.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials, thoughtful design, and enhanced performance. I would absolutely recommend this base to anyone looking to improve the accuracy and reliability of their Remington 700 short action rifle. Upgrade your shooting experience and get your hands on the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base today!