First Thoughts on the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte
In the demanding world of precision shooting, where every ounce counts and unwavering reliability is paramount, the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte emerges as a contender aiming to strike the perfect balance. This lightweight mounting solution from Leupold promises to deliver exceptional performance without weighing down your prized Remington 700. Crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum and designed for ease of installation, it’s a product that immediately piqued my interest, given my penchant for building lightweight, yet rugged, hunting rifles.
My quest for this base/ring combo started with a familiar problem: achieving a rock-solid scope mount on a new lightweight build without adding unnecessary weight. The Leupold BackCountry series specifically targets weight-conscious shooters, promising both durability and minimal mass. I wanted a system that could withstand the rigors of mountain hunts while providing the unwavering zero retention I demand from my optics.
The unboxing experience was straightforward. The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte presented a clean, minimalist design, emphasizing its lightweight nature. The matte black finish appeared durable, and the overall machining quality seemed excellent upon initial inspection. It was immediately apparent that this was designed to be functional above all else.
I considered a few alternatives, including steel bases and rings from other manufacturers. However, the promise of significantly reduced weight with the Leupold BackCountry swayed my decision. Others offered similar features, but the Leupold name carries a certain pedigree for quality and reliability that I trusted. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The lightweight design looked promising, but I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it could truly deliver on its promises of rugged performance in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte came during a challenging backcountry elk hunt in the Colorado Rockies. I mounted the system on my custom Remington 700 chambered in 7mm Rem Mag, topped with a Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 scope. The mounting process was incredibly simple, thanks to the straightforward two-piece design. The lightweight of the system was immediately noticeable, making the rifle comfortable to carry.
The weather during the hunt was typical for the high country: cold mornings, followed by brief periods of rain and snow. The Leupold BackCountry performed flawlessly under these conditions. I experienced no loosening or shifting of the scope, even after multiple days of hiking through rough terrain. The high rings provided ample clearance for the scope’s objective bell, ensuring a clear sight picture.
After the first day, I was impressed by how easy the system was to use and how solid the entire setup felt. I did not experience any issues at all.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use, the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte has proven to be a reliable and durable mounting solution. I’ve taken the rifle on multiple hunts and shooting trips, exposing it to a variety of conditions, from scorching desert heat to freezing mountain temperatures.
Despite the lightweight aluminum construction, the base and rings have shown no signs of wear or deformation. The matte black finish has held up remarkably well, resisting scratches and abrasions from brush and handling. Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each use.
Compared to my previous experience with heavier steel mounts, the Leupold BackCountry offers a noticeable improvement in terms of weight savings without compromising performance. It has instilled confidence in my equipment and allowed me to focus on the hunt, rather than worrying about my scope shifting or losing zero. It has significantly outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte
Specifications
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte is specifically designed for Remington 700 rifles. It accommodates scopes with a 30mm tube diameter. The rings are “High” height, providing ample clearance for scopes with larger objective bells. The entire system is machined from lightweight 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. The finish is a durable matte black, designed to resist corrosion and abrasion.
These specifications are crucial for optimal performance. The 7075-T6 aluminum ensures that the mount is both lightweight and strong enough to withstand the recoil of high-powered rifles. The High rings allow for the use of scopes with larger objective lenses, maximizing light transmission and improving visibility in low-light conditions. The matte black finish reduces glare and helps to conceal the rifle from game animals.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a rock-solid platform for mounting a scope, ensuring consistent zero retention and accuracy. The lightweight design is a major advantage, reducing the overall weight of the rifle and making it more comfortable to carry for extended periods.
The strength of this combo is its lightweight design and simplicity of mounting. The only real weakness is that it is only designed for the Remington 700, so it may not fit other rifles. It exceeded my expectations, in terms of performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte is simple yet effective. The two-piece base design makes installation straightforward, even for those with limited experience. The rings are easy to install and provide a secure grip on the scope tube. The overall build quality is excellent, with precise machining and a durable finish.
The system is incredibly user-friendly. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The 7075-T6 aluminum construction ensures that the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte is built to last. I expect this system to provide years of reliable service, even under demanding conditions.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick cleaning after each use. The durable finish resists corrosion and abrasion, ensuring that the system will maintain its appearance and functionality over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte does not come with many accessories, as it is a self-contained mounting system. However, it is compatible with a wide range of 30mm scopes from Leupold and other manufacturers. The High rings provide ample clearance for most scopes with larger objective bells.
Some shooters may choose to use a torque wrench to ensure proper tightening of the mounting screws. Others may opt for different ring heights, depending on the size and configuration of their scope.
Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte
Pros
- Provides exceptional weight savings compared to steel mounts.
- Offers a rock-solid mounting platform for consistent zero retention.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Durable 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum construction.
- The high rings provide ample clearance for larger scopes.
Cons
- Designed specifically for Remington 700 rifles, limiting compatibility.
- Aluminum construction may not be as durable as steel in extreme abuse situations.
Who Should Buy Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte?
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte is perfect for hunters and shooters who prioritize weight savings without sacrificing performance. It is ideal for those building lightweight hunting rifles or for those who simply want to reduce the overall weight of their existing Remington 700. Backcountry hunters and those who carry their rifles for extended periods will particularly appreciate the reduced weight.
This product may not be the best choice for those who prioritize extreme durability above all else or those who require a universal mounting solution that will fit multiple rifle platforms. Those engaging in extreme long-range shooting may prefer a one-piece picatinny rail for added stability, although the BackCountry system is more than adequate for most hunting and recreational shooting applications.
A must-have accessory is a good quality torque wrench to ensure proper tightening of the mounting screws.
Conclusion on Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte is an excellent mounting solution for Remington 700 rifles. It delivers on its promise of lightweight performance, providing a rock-solid platform for mounting a scope without adding unnecessary weight. The price of $72.99 is more than justified, given the quality of materials, precision machining, and overall performance.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone looking to build a lightweight hunting rifle or to reduce the weight of their existing Remington 700. The Leupold BackCountry offers a winning combination of weight savings, durability, and performance. If you value a lightweight, reliable scope mounting system, the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo Rem 700 High 2 Piece 30mm Black Matte is a solid choice. Upgrade your Remington 700 today and experience the difference!