LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT Review

First Thoughts on the LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT

The LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT from Leupold is a one-piece Picatinny rail designed to mount optics to Ruger American Short Action rifles. It promises to provide a strong, lightweight, and versatile platform for a variety of scopes and sights. At $33.99, it sits at a competitive price point, making it an appealing option for shooters looking to upgrade their mounting system without breaking the bank.

My old two-piece base kept coming loose after repeated firing, even with thread locker. I needed a more stable platform to ensure consistent zero on my Ruger American. I was looking for something durable, lightweight, and easy to install.

Upon unboxing, the LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT feels solid. The matte black finish is clean and appears durable. The aluminum feels lighter than the steel base it replaces, which is a welcome change.

Compared to a similar Weaver one-piece base and a Picatinny rail section from Nightforce, the LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT seemed to offer the best balance of weight, price, and advertised strength. The Nightforce rail, while incredibly robust, was overkill for my needs and significantly more expensive. The Weaver option felt less sturdy.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The rail looked well-made, but I needed to see how it performed on the range before I could fully trust it. I was eager to test its ability to maintain zero under recoil.

Real-World Testing: Putting LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT was at my local outdoor shooting range. I mounted a Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm scope and zeroed my Ruger American in .308 Winchester. The weather was mild and dry.

Installation was straightforward. The rail aligned perfectly with the pre-drilled holes on my rifle’s receiver. I used blue thread locker on the mounting screws and torqued them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. After 20 rounds, I checked the screw tightness, and everything was still in place.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including a weekend hunting trip in damp conditions, the LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT has proven to be a reliable optic mounting solution. There are no signs of loosening or shifting. The matte black finish has held up well, with only minor scratches from normal handling.

The rail remains securely attached after hundreds of rounds fired. Cleaning is easy; a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps it looking good. It significantly outperforms the previous two-piece base, which required constant tightening and re-zeroing. This has been a great improvement over my previous setups.

Breaking Down the Features of LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT

Specifications

• Type: 1-Piece Base. This design promotes increased rigidity and stability compared to two-piece bases.
• MFG/Model: BackCountry. This indicates the specific line within the Leupold product range, known for its balance of performance and affordability.
• Style: Cross-Slot. This refers to the Picatinny rail design with transverse slots, allowing for flexible optic placement.
• Finish: Matte Black. This minimizes glare and provides a non-reflective surface, crucial in tactical and hunting situations.
• Material: 7075-T6 Aluminum. This provides a lightweight yet strong foundation for mounting optics.
• Compatibility: Ruger American Short Action rifles. This ensures a precise fit and proper alignment.

These specifications are critical for ensuring a stable and reliable platform for optics. The 7075-T6 aluminum strikes a balance between strength and weight, while the one-piece design maximizes rigidity. The Picatinny rail system offers versatility in optic placement.

Performance & Functionality

The LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT excels at providing a stable and secure mounting platform. My scope holds zero consistently, even after repeated recoil and changes in temperature. The cross-slot design allows for precise eye relief adjustment, accommodating a wide range of scopes and shooting styles.

The only minor drawback is the limited height of the rail, which might require high scope rings for some larger objective lenses. Overall, the rail meets my expectations for a reliable and affordable mounting solution. It is a definite improvement over the original two-piece base.

Design & Ergonomics

The LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT features a clean and functional design. The matte black finish blends seamlessly with the rifle’s aesthetics. The lightweight aluminum construction doesn’t add noticeable weight to the firearm.

Installation is simple, and the rail’s low profile doesn’t interfere with the rifle’s handling. There is no significant learning curve involved in using this product. It’s a straightforward and effective solution.

Durability & Maintenance

Made from 7075-T6 aluminum, the LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT is built to withstand the rigors of field use. So far, it has proven to be resistant to wear and tear, even after exposure to moisture and minor impacts. Regular cleaning with a mild solvent and a light coat of oil will keep it in top condition for years to come.

The construction seems robust enough to last through many years of hunting and range use. I expect it to hold up well over time. It’s a durable piece of equipment.

Accessories and Customization Options

The LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT doesn’t come with any accessories. However, it is fully compatible with any Picatinny rail-mounted optics, rings, and accessories. This allows for a wide range of customization options to suit individual preferences and shooting needs.

The rail is compatible with scope rings from Leupold, Nightforce, Vortex, and many other manufacturers. This is a standard Picatinny rail, so no proprietary accessories are required. The cross slots allow for fine adjustments in scope placement.

Pros and Cons of LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT

Who Should Buy LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT?

The LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT is perfect for hunters and recreational shooters looking for a reliable and affordable optic mounting solution for their Ruger American Short Action rifles. It is especially beneficial for those who have experienced issues with two-piece bases or require a more versatile platform for different optics. Anyone looking to upgrade their current setup should consider it.

This product might not be ideal for competitive shooters who require an ultra-precise and adjustable mounting system. Those individuals may want to look at higher-end options. Also, shooters who prefer a two-piece base for aesthetic reasons might not be interested in this product.

For accessories, I recommend quality scope rings from a reputable manufacturer. Also, a torque wrench is essential for proper installation and preventing damage to the rail and screws. Thread locker is also recommended to keep everything secure.

Conclusion on LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT

The LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT is a well-designed and functional Picatinny rail that offers excellent value for the money. It provides a strong, lightweight, and versatile platform for mounting optics on Ruger American Short Action rifles. Its improved accuracy and ease of use make it a worthwhile upgrade for any shooter.

At $33.99, the price is definitely justified. It’s a small investment that can significantly improve your shooting experience. I would personally recommend the LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable optic mounting solution for their Ruger American.

Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference a stable and versatile mounting platform can make! Ditch the wobbly two-piece bases and step up to the LEU BC CRS RUG AM SA 1PC MAT for increased accuracy and confidence on the range or in the field.