First Thoughts on the EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA
Mounting a scope securely and accurately is paramount for any serious marksman. The EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA promises to do just that for Winchester Model 70 short-action rifles, offering a Picatinny rail with a 20 MOA (Minutes of Angle) cant. It is manufactured by EGW (Evolution Gun Works), a company known for producing quality firearm accessories.
My journey to this product began with a frustrating experience at the range. I was struggling to zero my scope on my Winchester Model 70, consistently running out of elevation adjustment. This pointed me towards a scope base with built-in MOA, which led me to the EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA.
Out of the box, the EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA makes a solid first impression. The matte black anodized finish looks durable and the rail feels robust. It appears to be a well-machined piece of equipment, free from any obvious defects.
I considered other options like the Leupold Mark 4 and the Nightforce scope bases. The EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA stood out due to its favorable price point and solid reputation for accuracy. Ultimately, the combination of price, reputation, and specific need for a 20 MOA cant made the EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA my choice.
I was definitely excited to get it mounted and see if it would solve my zeroing issues. My initial thoughts were positive, hoping this base would provide the stability and adjustability needed for long-range accuracy.
Real-World Testing: Putting EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA at my local shooting range, mounting it on my Winchester Model 70 SA chambered in .308 Winchester. The day was slightly overcast with a light breeze, offering decent visibility. I wanted to see if the 20 MOA cant would give me the elevation adjustment I needed to reach out to 600 yards.
The installation process was straightforward, requiring only basic tools like a torque wrench and appropriate-sized screws (which, thankfully, were included). I followed the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings to ensure proper installation. Even with the proper tools, the provided screws were not confidence-inspiring, feeling somewhat soft and prone to stripping.
After mounting, I immediately noticed an improvement in my scope’s elevation range. I was able to zero at 100 yards with plenty of upward adjustment remaining. This first use confirmed that the 20 MOA cant was doing its job. However, I needed to be very careful with the screws.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA has proven to be a reliable and consistent platform for my scope. It has held zero perfectly through countless rounds and varying weather conditions. I have taken it through wet range days, as well as dusty conditions without any issues.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear after months of use. The anodized finish has held up well. It has resisted scratches and corrosion effectively. Cleaning is simple, just wiping down the rail with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session.
Compared to my previous standard scope base, the EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA is a significant upgrade. The added elevation adjustment has allowed me to confidently engage targets at longer distances. My previous base was limiting my effective range due to insufficient scope travel.
Breaking Down the Features of EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA
Specifications
- The EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA is designed for Winchester Model 70 short-action rifles. This ensures a proper fit and secure mounting.
- It features a Picatinny rail. It provides a standardized platform for mounting a wide variety of scopes and other accessories.
- The rail incorporates a 20 MOA cant. This provides additional elevation adjustment for long-range shooting.
- It is constructed from lightweight aluminum. It balances durability and weight.
- The finish is a matte black anodization. This protects against corrosion and reduces glare.
These specifications are crucial for long-range shooting. The 20 MOA cant allows scopes with limited internal adjustment to reach extended distances. The aluminum construction ensures that it doesn’t add unnecessary weight to the rifle. The Picatinny rail allows for flexibility in optic choice.
Performance & Functionality
The EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA performs its primary function exceptionally well. It provides a stable and accurate platform for mounting optics. The 20 MOA cant is a significant advantage for long-range shooting, allowing for greater elevation adjustment.
The main strength is its ability to provide a reliable and repeatable zero. This is thanks to its solid construction and secure mounting system. The one weakness I observed are the screws, which appear to be a potential weak point. They require careful torquing to avoid stripping.
It meets and exceeds my expectations for a scope base. It has solved the issue of limited elevation adjustment and has proven to be reliable in various conditions. I was able to shoot accurately at longer ranges than before.
Design & Ergonomics
The EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA is designed with functionality in mind. The simple, clean lines complement the aesthetics of the Winchester Model 70. The low profile ensures that it doesn’t interfere with the rifle’s handling or balance.
The aluminum construction keeps the weight down. It doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the rifle. The matte black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
The installation process is straightforward. However, proper tools and careful attention to torque specifications are essential. There is no steep learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA is built to last. The aluminum construction and anodized finish provide excellent resistance to corrosion and wear. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. Simply wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use to remove any dirt or debris. Regular inspection of the mounting screws is recommended to ensure they remain properly torqued.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA does not come with any additional accessories beyond the mounting screws. However, its Picatinny rail design allows for compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket accessories. These include scopes, red dot sights, and other tactical accessories.
It is compatible with any optic that utilizes the Picatinny rail system. This includes popular brands like Leupold, Vortex, Nightforce, and Trijicon. The Picatinny rail also facilitates easy swapping of optics.
Pros and Cons of EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA
Pros
- Provides a solid and stable mounting platform.
- 20 MOA cant significantly increases elevation adjustment range.
- Lightweight aluminum construction.
- Durable anodized finish resists corrosion.
- Easy to install (with proper tools).
Cons
- Mounting screws appear to be of questionable quality.
- Lacks advanced features found in higher-end scope bases.
Who Should Buy EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA?
The EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA is perfect for: hunters and target shooters who need additional elevation adjustment for long-range shooting on their Winchester Model 70 short-action rifles. This is particularly useful for those who shoot at distances beyond 300 yards. It is also great for shooters who want a reliable and affordable scope base.
This product might not be the best choice for: shooters who require extremely precise adjustments or those who prefer a more feature-rich scope base with integrated levels or other advanced functionalities. Those who are not comfortable with basic gunsmithing tasks may also want to seek professional installation due to the importance of correct torque values on the screws.
Must-have accessories or modifications include: a quality torque wrench with appropriate bits and thread locker for the mounting screws. A high-quality scope is necessary to take full advantage of the added elevation adjustment.
Conclusion on EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA
The EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA is a well-made and affordable scope base that delivers on its promises. It provides a solid and stable platform for mounting optics. The 20 MOA cant is a significant advantage for long-range shooting.
The price is definitely justified considering the performance and reliability it offers. While the mounting screws could be of higher quality, this is a minor concern that can be addressed with careful installation and the use of thread locker.
I would personally recommend the EGW SCOPE BASE WIN 70 SA to anyone looking to improve their long-range shooting capabilities with a Winchester Model 70 short-action rifle. It’s a cost-effective upgrade that makes a noticeable difference in accuracy and effective range. Upgrade your Winchester Model 70 today!