EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE Review

The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE Made a Bold First Impression

The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE scope base promises to be a solid foundation for mounting optics on the venerable Mauser 98 rifle. Manufactured by EGW (Evolution Gun Works), it’s designed to provide a stable Picatinny rail for modern scopes. The promise of a 20 MOA cant immediately piqued my interest, suggesting an enhanced capability for long-range shooting.

I’ve spent years wrestling with Mausers, appreciating their rugged reliability but often frustrated by the limitations of their original iron sights. The need to accurately engage targets at extended ranges, whether during hunts or long-range practice, drove me to seek a more modern optics mounting solution. I’ve always respected EGW’s reputation for quality and precision, and the EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE appeared to be a logical choice.

Unboxing the EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE, I was immediately struck by its solid feel. The base is machined from a single piece of aluminum, and it exudes a sense of robustness. Its matte black finish appears durable and should blend well with most scope and rifle finishes.

Compared to other Mauser scope mounting options I’ve considered, such as side-mounts or scout-style rails, the EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE seemed to offer a cleaner, more streamlined approach. The full-length Picatinny rail promised greater flexibility in scope placement compared to two-piece bases. The 20 MOA cant was the deciding factor.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE looks and feels like a quality piece of equipment, and I was eager to see how it would perform in the field. Hopefully, this base will bring my trusty Mauser 98 into the 21st century.

Real-World Testing: Putting EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE at my local range, specifically focusing on long-range target practice. This involved mounting the base on my personal Mauser 98, attaching a variable power optic, and zeroing the rifle. I chose a day with moderate wind to assess how the setup performed under less-than-ideal conditions.

The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE performed admirably, providing a stable platform for my optic even with the Mauser’s stout recoil. Initial zeroing at 100 yards was straightforward. Once I was comfortable, I moved to the 300 and 500-yard targets.

The most significant benefit was the ease of adjusting for elevation at long ranges, thanks to the 20 MOA cant of the EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE. I appreciated the added adjustment range and was impressed with how quickly and effectively I could engage targets that previously required significant holdover. There were no unexpected issues during the first range session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my Mauser 98. I’ve taken the rifle on several hunting trips in various weather conditions. The EGW base has consistently maintained its zero.

Despite exposure to rain, mud, and the occasional bump against rocks and trees, the EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The finish remains intact, and the base is still securely mounted to the receiver. Cleaning is simple. I usually just wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use.

The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE has significantly outperformed my previous attempts at mounting optics on my Mauser 98. Before, I experimented with less robust and more complicated mounting solutions that never inspired confidence. This base offers a solid and repeatable mounting solution.

Breaking Down the Features of EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE

Specifications

The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE is specifically designed for large ring Mauser 98 rifles. It features a Picatinny rail for versatile scope mounting. The integrated 20 MOA cant aids in long-range shooting by maximizing scope elevation adjustment.

The base is constructed from lightweight yet durable aircraft-grade aluminum. It has a matte black anodized finish. This finish provides corrosion resistance and reduces glare. It is precisely machined for optimal fit and alignment.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the accuracy, reliability, and ease of use of the scoped Mauser 98. The Picatinny rail provides a standard interface for a wide range of scopes and accessories, while the 20 MOA cant extends the usable range of the optic. High-quality materials and precise machining ensure that the EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE will withstand the rigors of regular use and maintain its zero over time.

Performance & Functionality

The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE performs its primary job exceptionally well. It provides a stable and repeatable platform for mounting optics on a Mauser 98 rifle. Accuracy is demonstrably improved compared to using iron sights or less robust mounting systems.

The main strength of this base lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. Installation is relatively straightforward, and the 20 MOA cant makes a significant difference when shooting at longer distances. A minor weakness is that some fitting might be required depending on the individual receiver.

The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE has exceeded my expectations. I was hoping for a solid scope base, and that’s exactly what I got. It transformed my Mauser 98 into a capable long-range platform.

Design & Ergonomics

The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE features a clean and functional design. Its low profile minimizes interference with the rifle’s handling. The aluminum construction keeps the weight down while maintaining strength.

The base is user-friendly. Installation is straightforward. There is a slight learning curve related to properly tightening the mounting screws and ensuring proper alignment with the receiver.

Durability & Maintenance

The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE is built to last. The aluminum construction and anodized finish offer excellent resistance to corrosion and wear. With proper care, it should provide many years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal. Simply cleaning the base and screws after each use will keep it in good condition. I have seen no signs of rust or corrosion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE itself doesn’t come with any accessories, but it is designed to be used with standard Picatinny-compatible scope rings and optics. A wide variety of scopes, red dot sights, and other accessories can be mounted to the base.

The base is compatible with most Picatinny scope rings, allowing for a wide range of customization options. I’ve successfully used rings from Leupold, Nightforce, and Warne with this base. The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE facilitates seamless and secure integration with a vast ecosystem of accessories.

Pros and Cons of EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE