The LEU QRW 2-BASE WIN 70 (8-40) MT Made a Bold First Impression
As someone entrenched in the world of optics and mounting systems, I’ve seen my share of bases come and go. But the LEU QRW 2-BASE WIN 70 (8-40) MT from Leupold, while seemingly simple, immediately piqued my interest. It promised a reliable, repeatable, and affordable mounting solution for a specific application, and in this industry, those traits are worth their weight in gold.
I was tasked with setting up a hunting rifle chambered in .30-06 for a friend. He needed something dependable for whitetail season that wouldn’t break the bank. The LEU QRW 2-BASE WIN 70 (8-40) MT appeared to be a solid contender for mounting his new scope securely to his Winchester Model 70.
The packaging was straightforward, nothing fancy, but the bases themselves felt solid in hand. Machined from what appears to be high-quality steel, they felt like they could withstand the rigors of the field. Compared to cheaper, aluminum options I’ve used, these immediately instilled more confidence.
I have used Weaver bases and even some Picatinny rail sections that felt flimsy and were difficult to align. These Leupold bases, however, seemed precisely machined and ready for a simple, secure installation. My initial feeling was a mix of relief and anticipation; relief that I might have found a quality, budget-friendly solution, and anticipation to get them mounted and tested.
Real-World Testing: Putting LEU QRW 2-BASE WIN 70 (8-40) MT to the Test
First Use Experience
The true test of any base is its ability to hold zero after repeated shots and withstand environmental challenges. I installed the LEU QRW 2-BASE WIN 70 (8-40) MT on the Winchester Model 70 and headed to the range. The installation was straightforward, using the existing receiver holes on the rifle.
The weather conditions were far from ideal that day: a light drizzle and a chilly wind. Despite the dampness, the bases remained securely attached and didn’t show any signs of loosening during the initial 50-round session. Ease of use was excellent; anyone with basic gunsmithing knowledge can install these with ease. There were no immediate issues, and the scope felt incredibly solid on the rifle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use and approximately 200 rounds downrange, the LEU QRW 2-BASE WIN 70 (8-40) MT has proven its worth. There is absolutely no sign of shifting or loosening. The rifle has been exposed to rain, mud, and fluctuating temperatures without any negative impact on the scope’s zero.
Cleaning and maintenance are minimal, just a quick wipe-down after each range session is sufficient. Compared to previous experiences with less reliable bases, this has been a night-and-day difference. This Leupold base has far surpassed my expectations, providing a solid and dependable foundation for accurate shooting.
Breaking Down the Features of LEU QRW 2-BASE WIN 70 (8-40) MT
Specifications
- Product Name: LEU QRW 2-BASE WIN 70 (8-40) MT
- Manufacturer: Leupold
- Compatibility: Winchester Model 70 (8-40 thread pattern)
- Material: Steel (likely a carbon steel alloy)
- Finish: Matte Black
- Mount Type: QRW (Quick Release Weaver-style)
- Price: $21.49 (as listed)
These specifications are paramount because they directly influence the mount’s stability and longevity. The steel construction ensures durability, while the specific fit for the Winchester Model 70 guarantees proper alignment and secure attachment. The QRW (Quick Release Weaver-style) design facilitates rapid scope changes, an often overlooked convenience in the field.
Performance & Functionality
The LEU QRW 2-BASE WIN 70 (8-40) MT performs admirably, providing a stable and repeatable platform for mounting a scope. The tight tolerances and secure fit of the bases contribute significantly to maintaining zero, even after multiple removals and reattachments.
Its strengths lie in its simplicity and reliability. One area for slight improvement might be including more detailed installation instructions. This base exceeds expectations, especially considering its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is minimalistic but effective. The matte black finish blends seamlessly with most rifles and scopes, and the bases themselves are unobtrusive. The weight is negligible, adding no noticeable bulk to the rifle. These bases are user-friendly, requiring minimal tools and effort for installation.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction ensures a long service life. There’s little that can go wrong with these bases. Maintenance involves basic cleaning, keeping them free from dirt and moisture to prevent corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The LEU QRW 2-BASE WIN 70 (8-40) MT is primarily designed for use with Weaver-style rings, which are widely available from various manufacturers. This allows for ample customization in terms of scope height and ring material. While the bases themselves don’t offer much in terms of customization, the choice of rings provides flexibility. These are compatible with almost all Weaver-style rings, offering a broad selection.
Pros and Cons of LEU QRW 2-BASE WIN 70 (8-40) MT
Pros
- Affordable Price: The $21.49 price point makes this an extremely accessible mounting solution.
- Durable Steel Construction: The steel material ensures longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
- Easy Installation: Simple design allows for straightforward installation with basic tools.
- Secure and Repeatable: Provides a stable platform for maintaining zero, even after repeated scope removals.
- Weaver-Style Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of aftermarket rings.
Cons
- Limited Customization: The bases themselves offer little in terms of customization beyond ring selection.
- Basic Instructions: The included instructions could be more detailed for novice users.
Who Should Buy LEU QRW 2-BASE WIN 70 (8-40) MT?
Perfect for hunters seeking a reliable and affordable mounting solution for their Winchester Model 70. It’s also great for recreational shooters who need a dependable base without breaking the bank. Anyone looking for a high-end, ultra-lightweight, or highly customizable system should probably look elsewhere. A must-have accessory is a quality set of Leupold QRW rings to complement the quick-release functionality of the bases.
Conclusion on LEU QRW 2-BASE WIN 70 (8-40) MT
The LEU QRW 2-BASE WIN 70 (8-40) MT offers exceptional value for its price. It provides a durable, reliable, and repeatable mounting solution that will not disappoint. The price is more than justified for the level of quality and performance it delivers. I would wholeheartedly recommend this to anyone looking for a budget-friendly but robust base for their Winchester Model 70. It’s a solid, no-frills option that gets the job done right.