The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte Made a Bold First Impression
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte isn’t just another mounting base; it’s a promise of precision and rugged reliability. From Leupold, a name synonymous with superior optics mounting solutions, this one-piece base is engineered for the iconic Savage 110/10 rifle, renowned for its accuracy and adaptability. The cross-slot design allows for flexible optic placement, ensuring optimal eye relief and secure ring mounting, crucial for consistent performance in the field.
My pursuit of the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte stemmed from a recurring issue: inconsistent zero shift on my trusted Savage 110. I needed a rock-solid mounting solution that could withstand the rigors of backcountry hunts and intense range sessions, eliminating any possibility of movement or flex under recoil. The promise of a lightweight, yet durable, aircraft-grade aluminum base that accepted both Picatinny and Weaver rings was exactly what I was looking for.
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte arrived in Leupold’s understated packaging, a testament to their confidence in the product itself. Upon unboxing, the matte black finish and clean lines spoke volumes about the attention to detail. It felt substantial yet surprisingly light in hand, a critical factor for a backcountry hunter like myself who prioritizes weight reduction.
Compared to a standard two-piece Weaver base and a Picatinny rail from a lesser-known manufacturer, the Leupold offering immediately impressed with its monolithic construction. The two-piece bases had always presented a potential weak point, while the generic Picatinny rail felt clunky and overbuilt. The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte struck the perfect balance between strength, weight, and versatility.
My initial impression was one of quiet confidence. This wasn’t a flashy, gimmicky accessory; it was a meticulously engineered tool designed to enhance the performance of a rifle I already knew and trusted. The anticipation of finally achieving consistent, repeatable accuracy was definitely high.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte to the Test
First Use Experience
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte was first put to the test during a rigorous range session, prepping for an upcoming elk hunt in the high country of Colorado. Mounted on my Savage 110 short action, the base provided a stable platform for my Leupold VX-3i scope, ensuring consistent eye relief and a solid cheek weld. The cross-slot design allowed for precise positioning, optimizing the scope’s performance for my preferred shooting style.
Despite intermittent rain and gusty winds, the mounting base maintained its integrity, with no visible shift in point of impact. I found the ease of use remarkable; the cross-slot design accommodated both my existing Weaver-style rings and a set of Picatinny rings I had on hand, offering unparalleled versatility. There were no unforeseen issues or surprises during the first range session; everything functioned as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a successful elk hunt and numerous range trips, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte has proven to be exceptionally durable. Despite being exposed to harsh weather conditions, including freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall, the base shows no signs of wear or corrosion. The black matte finish remains unblemished, resisting scratches and maintaining a professional appearance.
Maintenance has been a breeze, requiring only an occasional wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth to remove dust and debris. Compared to my previous mounting solutions, which required frequent tightening and adjustments, the Leupold base has remained rock-solid, providing unwavering accuracy and peace of mind. It has far exceeded my expectations, delivering consistent performance and unparalleled reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte
Specifications
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte is precision-machined from 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, ensuring lightweight and rugged performance. This high-strength alloy provides exceptional resistance to stress and impact, critical for maintaining zero under heavy recoil. The one-piece design enhances rigidity and eliminates potential weak points found in multi-piece systems.
The cross-slot design accepts both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings, offering maximum compatibility and flexibility. This feature is important because it allows shooters to use their preferred ring style without needing to purchase separate bases. The matte black finish minimizes glare and provides a non-reflective surface, essential for hunters seeking to remain concealed. Specifically designed for Savage 110/10 rifles with a round receiver and short action, this base guarantees a precise fit and optimal performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte performs exceptionally well, providing a stable and reliable platform for optics mounting. Accuracy is significantly enhanced, eliminating zero shift and maintaining consistent point of impact. Its robust construction ensures that it can withstand heavy recoil and harsh environmental conditions, making it ideal for demanding hunting and shooting applications.
The base’s strength is its simple, yet effective design, ensuring a solid and repeatable mount. I’ve found no weaknesses in its performance thus far. It undeniably meets, and even exceeds, my expectations for a high-quality mounting solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte boasts exceptional build quality, utilizing premium materials and precise machining. Its lightweight design, thanks to the aircraft-grade aluminum, does not add unnecessary weight to the rifle. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable and secure fit, enhancing the overall shooting experience.
The base is incredibly user-friendly, requiring minimal effort for installation and scope mounting. Its straightforward design eliminates any learning curve, making it accessible to both novice and experienced shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte is built to last, constructed from high-quality materials designed to withstand years of use and abuse. Its resistance to corrosion and wear ensures long-term reliability, even in harsh environments. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and inspection to ensure optimal performance.
The simple design lends itself to easy repair, although the robust construction makes significant repairs unlikely. It is truly built for the long haul.
Accessories and Customization Options
While the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte doesn’t come with accessories beyond the mounting screws, its compatibility with both Picatinny and Weaver rings offers extensive customization. Shooters can choose from a wide range of rings, each offering unique features and benefits. The base is also compatible with various scope models from Leupold and other manufacturers, allowing for personalized optic configurations.
The cross-slot design allows for further customization of optic placement, accommodating different shooting styles and preferences. The ability to use existing ring sets is also extremely valuable.
Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte
Pros
- Lightweight and Rugged: Machined from 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, offering an optimal balance of weight and strength.
- Cross-Slot Versatility: Accepts both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings, providing maximum compatibility and flexibility.
- Enhanced Accuracy: Provides a stable and reliable platform for optics mounting, eliminating zero shift and ensuring consistent point of impact.
- Durable Finish: The matte black finish minimizes glare and protects against corrosion and wear, ensuring long-term reliability.
- Easy Installation: Simple and straightforward installation process, requiring minimal effort and no specialized tools.
Cons
- Limited to Savage 110/10 Short Action with Round Receiver: Not a universal fit.
- Price: While affordable, there are cheaper alternatives available.
Who Should Buy Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte?
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte is perfect for hunters, competitive shooters, and any Savage 110/10 owner seeking a reliable and versatile optics mounting solution. This base is ideal for those who demand consistent accuracy and rugged durability in demanding environments. It’s also great for shooters who appreciate the flexibility of using both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings.
Someone on a very tight budget and willing to compromise on quality might skip this product, as cheaper alternatives exist. Similarly, anyone who requires a universal mounting solution for multiple rifle platforms should look elsewhere. Must-have accessories include high-quality rings (either Picatinny or Weaver) and a torque wrench to ensure proper installation and prevent damage.
Conclusion on Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece Black Matte is an exceptional optics mounting solution that delivers on its promise of precision, reliability, and versatility. Its rugged construction, compatibility with multiple ring styles, and enhanced accuracy make it an excellent investment for any Savage 110/10 owner. The price is justified by the quality of materials, superior design, and the peace of mind it provides.
I wholeheartedly recommend this base to anyone seeking to upgrade their optics mounting system and achieve consistent, repeatable accuracy. Leupold has once again delivered a product that exceeds expectations and enhances the overall shooting experience. If you value precision and reliability, then this base is a must-have addition to your Savage 110/10 rifle.