EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE Review

First Thoughts on the EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE

The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE is a name that might not immediately set the pulse racing, but for those of us who appreciate the timeless design and inherent accuracy of the Mauser 98, it’s a critical piece of gear. It provides a solid foundation for mounting modern optics on a classic rifle. EGW (Evolution Gun Works) is a reputable manufacturer known for precision machining and durable products.

My journey to the EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE began with a beautiful old Mauser 98 that I inherited from my grandfather. The rifle, while mechanically sound and full of history, was begging for a scope to unlock its full potential. I yearned to take this family heirloom into the field for deer season, but with aging eyes, iron sights simply weren’t cutting it anymore.

Upon unboxing, the EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE immediately impressed me. The matte black finish was clean and even, and the weight felt substantial, indicating a solid build. The Picatinny rail sections were sharply defined, promising a secure fit for my chosen optic.

I considered other options, including Weaver-style bases and even some clamp-on solutions. I ultimately chose the EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE for its superior versatility and secure mounting platform. The Picatinny rail allows for a wider range of scope mounting options and adjustments compared to other systems.

My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE seemed to be exactly what I needed to bring my Mauser 98 into the 21st century. It offers modern functionality without sacrificing the classic rifle’s inherent charm.

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

First Use Experience

My first real test of the EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE was at my local shooting range. I installed the base on my Mauser 98 following EGW’s clear instructions and mounted a trusted Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10×40 scope. I was eager to see if the base held zero.

The range conditions were typical for a late autumn day in the Northeast: cool, with a slight drizzle. After a few initial shots to get the scope dialed in, I was consistently hitting within a 1-inch group at 100 yards. The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE seemed to be providing a stable platform, even with the recoil of my .30-06 rounds.

There were no immediate issues or surprises after the first use. The base remained securely attached, and the scope held its zero admirably. The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE instilled confidence in its ability to withstand real-world hunting conditions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including a full deer season and numerous range trips, the EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE has held up exceptionally well. I’ve subjected the rifle to rough handling in the woods, including bumps and scrapes against trees and rocks.

Despite the abuse, there are no signs of wear or tear on the base itself. The matte black finish has proven to be durable and resistant to scratches. The screws remain tight, and the scope maintains its zero even after extended periods of inactivity.

Maintenance has been minimal. A simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is all that’s required. The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE has far exceeded my expectations compared to other scope mounting solutions I’ve used in the past.

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 actions. It is constructed from lightweight, yet durable, 6061 T6 aluminum. This provides excellent strength without adding unnecessary weight to the rifle.

The base features a Picatinny rail, allowing for the mounting of a wide variety of scopes and optics. It also incorporates a 20 MOA (Minute of Angle) cant. This feature is crucial for shooters who plan to engage targets at longer ranges. The 20 MOA cant provides additional elevation adjustment in the scope, allowing for greater accuracy at extended distances.

The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE is available in a matte black finish to minimize glare and reflection. It also seamlessly integrates with the rifle’s existing aesthetics. The specifications of this base are important because they directly contribute to the accuracy, versatility, and overall user experience of mounting a scope on a Mauser 98.

Performance & Functionality

The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE performs its job flawlessly. It provides a rock-solid mounting platform for optics. The 20 MOA cant is particularly valuable for long-range shooting, allowing for precise adjustments and improved accuracy.

One of the strengths of this base is its simplicity. The installation is straightforward. The durability ensures that it can withstand the rigors of hunting and shooting. The one area that could potentially be improved is the inclusion of detailed torque specifications for the mounting screws in the instructions.

Overall, the EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE meets and exceeds my expectations. It transforms my classic Mauser 98 into a modern, accurate shooting platform.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE is exceptional. The aluminum is precisely machined, and the finish is flawless. The weight is negligible, and it doesn’t affect the rifle’s balance.

The design is user-friendly, even for those with limited experience in gunsmithing. The installation is simple and requires only basic tools. There is no significant learning curve associated with using this base.

Durability & Maintenance

The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE is built to last. The aluminum construction and durable finish ensure that it can withstand years of use. Maintenance is minimal.

Cleaning involves a simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth. The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE is a robust and reliable piece of equipment.

Accessories and Customization Options

The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE does not come with any specific accessories. Its primary function is to provide a Picatinny rail for mounting scopes and optics. The Picatinny rail itself offers endless customization options, allowing users to choose from a vast array of scopes, red dot sights, and other aiming devices.

The base is compatible with any optic that utilizes a Picatinny mounting system, regardless of brand. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for those who want to experiment with different optics.

Pros and Cons of EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE

Who Should Buy EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE?

The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE is perfect for: hunters who want to modernize their classic Mauser 98 rifles for improved accuracy and range. It is also ideal for: long-range shooters who need the added elevation adjustment provided by the 20 MOA cant. Gun enthusiasts looking to enhance the versatility of their Mauser 98 will also appreciate this product.

Those who should skip this product: Shooters who primarily use their Mauser 98 for close-range target shooting or historical reenactments may not need this product. Owners of Mauser variants other than the 98 large ring should also avoid this base.

Must-have accessories or modifications: A high-quality scope with appropriate magnification for the intended shooting distance. Torque wrench for precise screw tightening during installation.

Conclusion on EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE

The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE is a well-designed, durable, and functional product that effectively bridges the gap between classic firearms and modern optics. It transforms a traditional Mauser 98 into a versatile and accurate shooting platform.

The price of $35.99 is more than justified given the quality of materials, precision machining, and enhanced functionality it provides. The EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE greatly increases the usability of my Mauser.

I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking to modernize their Mauser 98 rifle and unlock its full potential. Don’t let your classic Mauser gather dust in the safe; equip it with the EGW SCOPE BASE MAUSER 98 LARGE and experience its inherent accuracy firsthand!