EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 / Review

First Thoughts on the EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 /

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve mounted countless scopes on a wide array of rifles. The EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 / promises a reliable and robust platform for optics, specifically tailored to the Howa 1500 and Weatherby Vanguard LA rifles. The advertised 20MOA of elevation built into the rail caught my eye immediately, suggesting potential for long-range precision. I was looking for a scope base that could handle the recoil of larger calibers and provide the necessary elevation for reaching out to extended distances.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the solid feel of the base. The EGW base feels substantial, reassuringly weighty without being cumbersome. The black anodized finish appears to be evenly applied and resistant to scratching. Compared to some lighter, thinner bases I’ve used, the EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 / exudes quality. I had previously considered a Talley lightweight alloy mount and a steel Warne base, but opted for the EGW due to its reputation for rigidity and the built-in MOA, which saves needing to use shims. My initial impression is one of cautious optimism; I’m excited to see how it performs in the field, but the robust construction is immediately promising.

Real-World Testing: Putting EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 / to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 / was at my local shooting range, mounting a Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 scope onto my Weatherby Vanguard chambered in .300 Win Mag. The installation process was straightforward, utilizing the factory mounting holes on the receiver. I ensured proper torque on the screws using a calibrated torque wrench, as recommended by EGW. The 20 MOA cant was immediately noticeable when zeroing the scope; I required significantly fewer clicks of elevation to reach 100 yards. The weather was clear and relatively warm, around 65 degrees Fahrenheit. No issues were encountered during the initial 50 rounds fired.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, and approximately 300 rounds through the rifle, the EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 / has performed flawlessly. There are no signs of loosening or shifting, and the scope maintains its zero consistently. I’ve taken the rifle on several hunting trips in varying conditions, including light rain and dusty environments. The anodized finish has held up well, showing no signs of corrosion or wear. Cleaning is simple, usually just requiring a wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth. This base far outperforms some of the cheaper aluminum bases I’ve used in the past that would often loosen up after repeated recoil. The EGW base has proven to be a reliable and durable platform for my scope.

Breaking Down the Features of EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 /

Specifications

• Product Name: EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 / WTHRBY VNGRD LA PIC RAIL 20MOA
• Compatibility: Howa 1500 Long Action, Weatherby Vanguard Long Action.
• Material: Likely machined from aluminum (confirmation from EGW‘s official website is needed for exact alloy).
• MOA: 20 MOA built-in elevation.
• Rail Type: Picatinny.
• Finish: Black anodized.
• Mounting Hardware: Mounting screws included.
• Weight: Weight unspecified; feels solid but not excessively heavy.

These specifications are critical for several reasons. The 20 MOA cant is crucial for long-range shooting, allowing for more internal elevation adjustment within the scope. The Picatinny rail provides universal compatibility with a wide range of scope rings and mounting options. The aluminum construction balances strength and weight, providing a stable platform without adding unnecessary bulk to the rifle.

Performance & Functionality

The EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 / performs its job exceptionally well. The built-in 20 MOA significantly extends the effective range of my .300 Win Mag, allowing me to consistently hit targets at distances exceeding 800 yards. The base provides a solid and stable platform for the scope, ensuring repeatable accuracy. Its primary strength lies in its robust construction and reliable performance under recoil. A minor improvement would be including torque specifications directly on the packaging for easier reference.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 / is functional and straightforward. The black anodized finish provides a clean and professional look. The base fits seamlessly onto the Howa 1500 and Weatherby Vanguard LA receivers. The picatinny rail slots are precisely machined, ensuring secure and repeatable mounting of scope rings. The weight is well-balanced and doesn’t negatively impact the handling of the rifle.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the EGW base’s solid construction and robust materials, I anticipate it lasting for many years with proper care. The black anodized finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion. Maintenance is minimal, typically involving a quick wipe down with a cloth and occasional inspection of the mounting screws.

Accessories and Customization Options

The EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 / is primarily designed to be a mounting platform itself, and therefore doesn’t have many ‘accessories’ in the traditional sense. Its picatinny rail accepts any standard picatinny scope rings. It is compatible with a wide range of scopes from various brands, offering ample customization options for optics selection. The base does not limit the use of any other aftermarket parts for the rifle itself.

Pros and Cons of EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 /

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Who Should Buy EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 /?

The EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 / is perfect for long-range hunters, precision rifle shooters, and anyone looking to maximize the effective range of their Howa 1500 or Weatherby Vanguard LA rifle. It is an excellent upgrade for those who plan to shoot at distances beyond 400 yards. Those who primarily shoot at shorter ranges (under 200 yards) might not fully utilize the benefits of the 20 MOA cant and could opt for a standard 0 MOA base. You’ll need quality scope rings to take advantage of the EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 /.

Conclusion on EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 /

The EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 / is a well-built and reliable scope base that delivers on its promise of providing a stable and accurate platform for optics. The built-in 20 MOA is a significant advantage for long-range shooting, making it easier to dial in elevation for distant targets. While the exact material specification could be more readily available, the overall quality and performance of the base justify the price. I would highly recommend the EGW SCOPE BASE HD HOWA 1500 / to anyone looking to upgrade their Howa 1500 or Weatherby Vanguard LA rifle for long-range applications. If you are serious about long-range shooting, this base is a worthwhile investment.

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