First Thoughts on the Leupold 171111 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Weatherby Mark V 1″ Ring High Black Matte Finish
When building a reliable rifle for the backcountry, every ounce counts. That’s why I was immediately drawn to the Leupold 171111 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Weatherby Mark V 1″ Ring High Black Matte Finish. This lightweight mounting system promises to deliver rock-solid performance without adding unnecessary weight to my Weatherby Mark V.
I needed a mounting solution that wouldn’t compromise on durability or precision, especially for longer-range hunting trips where weight is a major factor. My old steel rings were heavy and overkill for the type of hunting I primarily do now. I had been looking at options from Talley and Nightforce, but their weight and price point were deterrents.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the Leupold‘s clean, matte black finish. The machine work looked precise and the lightweight aluminum felt substantial in my hands. The reversible front base was a welcome sight, showing Leupold’s attention to detail.
Compared to the bulkier steel rings I was replacing, these felt like a feather. I was immediately excited to get these mounted on my Weatherby Mark V. I’m hoping to shave off some weight from the rifle while maintaining pinpoint accuracy.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold 171111 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Weatherby Mark V 1″ Ring High Black Matte Finish to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Leupold 171111 BackCountry rings at my local range, mounting them on my Weatherby Mark V chambered in .300 Weatherby Magnum. The mounting process was straightforward thanks to the simple two-piece design. I zeroed my rifle with a Leupold VX-3i scope.
The weather was typical for early spring in Montana: a mix of sun and a brisk wind. Even with the magnum recoil, the Leupold rings held zero perfectly through multiple rounds. I was impressed by their ability to handle the recoil without any slippage.
The rings were incredibly easy to use and I noticed no issues after my first range session. The high rings provided plenty of clearance for the bolt handle, which was a relief.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Leupold BackCountry rings continue to impress. I’ve used them on several hunts in various conditions, from dry and dusty prairies to cold and wet mountain forests. The matte black finish has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear or corrosion.
The lightweight aluminum has proven to be surprisingly durable, showing no signs of bending or warping. Cleaning is also a breeze. A quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps them looking new.
These rings have noticeably improved the overall balance of my rifle, making it easier to carry for extended periods. They have definitely outperformed my expectations when compared to my previous heavier steel rings.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold 171111 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Weatherby Mark V 1″ Ring High Black Matte Finish
Specifications
The Leupold 171111 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Weatherby Mark V 1″ Ring High Black Matte Finish is designed specifically for the Weatherby Mark V action. The rings are designed to accommodate scopes with a 1-inch tube diameter. These rings provide a high mounting height for larger objective scopes.
Made from 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, the rings are incredibly lightweight. The matte black finish offers excellent corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface. The reversible front base adds versatility to the mounting system.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the rifle’s weight, balance, and overall performance. The lightweight design is crucial for hunters who cover a lot of ground. The high rings ensure compatibility with a wide range of scopes.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry rings perform their primary function flawlessly: securely holding the scope in place under recoil. They maintain zero consistently, shot after shot. The reversible front base provides flexibility in scope placement.
The primary strength of these rings is their lightweight construction without sacrificing durability. The simple two-piece design is easy to install and adjust. The matte black finish is aesthetically pleasing and reduces glare.
There’s really not much room for improvement, other than potentially offering different height options. However, the existing high ring configuration works well with most scope setups. These rings meet and exceed my expectations for a lightweight mounting system.
Design & Ergonomics
The Leupold BackCountry rings are designed with simplicity and functionality in mind. The clean lines and matte black finish complement the appearance of most rifles. The lightweight aluminum construction contributes to a balanced feel.
The installation process is straightforward, requiring only basic tools. The high ring design provides ample clearance for bolt operation. There’s no significant learning curve associated with these rings.
Durability & Maintenance
The 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum is highly durable and resistant to corrosion. With proper care, these rings should last for many years of reliable service. Maintenance is minimal, typically requiring only a wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth.
The anodized finish is scratch-resistant and stands up well to harsh weather conditions. The simple design reduces the number of potential failure points. I expect these rings to withstand years of use and abuse in the field.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold 171111 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings do not come with any specific accessories beyond the necessary screws for mounting. They are designed to be compatible with a wide range of 1-inch tube diameter scopes. While there are no specific customization options for the rings themselves, you can easily pair them with different scope models to suit your needs.
These rings are compatible with any Weatherby Mark V action. I recommend using a high-quality scope such as a Leupold VX-5HD or similar. Ensure that the scope base screws are properly torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Pros and Cons of Leupold 171111 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Weatherby Mark V 1″ Ring High Black Matte Finish
Pros
- Lightweight construction: Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, these rings significantly reduce the overall weight of your rifle.
- Durable design: The 7075-T6 aluminum is strong and resistant to corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Easy installation: The two-piece design is simple to install and adjust, even for novice users.
- Reversible front base: Adds flexibility in scope placement for optimal eye relief.
- Reliable performance: Holds zero consistently, even under heavy recoil.
Cons
- High ring height: May not be suitable for all scope and cheek weld combinations.
- Limited customization: No options for different finishes or ring heights directly from the manufacturer.
Who Should Buy Leupold 171111 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Weatherby Mark V 1″ Ring High Black Matte Finish?
The Leupold 171111 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings are perfect for hunters and shooters who prioritize lightweight gear without sacrificing durability. They are ideal for anyone using a Weatherby Mark V action and a 1-inch tube diameter scope. They are also a good fit for backcountry hunters, mountain hunters, or anyone who needs to shave ounces off their setup.
Those who should skip this product include shooters with specialized needs. Someone that needs an extremely low-profile mounting system may need to look elsewhere. Also, those who prefer more tactical features might find these too basic.
Must-have accessories include a high-quality scope and a torque wrench for proper installation. A gunsmith-grade screwdriver set is also recommended to avoid damaging the screws.
Conclusion on Leupold 171111 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Weatherby Mark V 1″ Ring High Black Matte Finish
Overall, the Leupold 171111 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Weatherby Mark V 1″ Ring High Black Matte Finish is an excellent choice for hunters and shooters looking for a lightweight and reliable mounting system. At a price of $73.49, these rings offer exceptional value for the performance they provide.
The combination of durable materials, simple design, and consistent performance makes these rings a worthwhile investment. I would definitely recommend these rings to anyone looking to reduce weight on their Weatherby Mark V without compromising accuracy.
If you’re in the market for a lightweight and dependable mounting solution, look no further. Give the Leupold BackCountry rings a try and experience the difference for yourself. You won’t be disappointed.