The Leupold 171118 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Browning AB3 Long Range 30mm Ring Medium Black Matte Finish Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoorsman and tactical gear specialist, I’ve spent years wrestling with scope mounting systems, always seeking that perfect balance of lightweight durability and rock-solid reliability. When I first laid eyes on the Leupold 171118 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Browning AB3 Long Range 30mm Ring Medium Black Matte Finish, I knew I had to put them through their paces. Leupold‘s reputation precedes them, but could this BackCountry offering live up to the hype?
My old Browning AB3 Long Range was crying out for a scope upgrade after years of faithful service. The factory bases and rings were heavy and frankly, uninspiring. I needed a system that wouldn’t add unnecessary weight to my rifle when trekking through the backcountry on elk hunts. I wanted something that would hold zero through thick and thin, and the Leupold 171118 BackCountry system promised just that: lightweight performance.
The unboxing was simple, but effective. The matte black finish looked sleek and professional, and the rings felt surprisingly light without sacrificing sturdiness. The machining was clean, and the fit and finish were impeccable – precisely what I expect from Leupold.
Compared to some bulkier, steel-based systems I’ve used from other manufacturers, the Leupold BackCountry stood out immediately. I considered options from Talley and Warne, but the Leupold‘s reputation for precision and lightweight design ultimately swayed my decision. This system felt purpose-built and optimized for the Browning AB3 Long Range. My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism – I was eager to get these rings mounted and see if they could deliver on their promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold 171118 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Browning AB3 Long Range 30mm Ring Medium Black Matte Finish to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at the local shooting range. I mounted a Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15×44 scope using the Leupold 171118 BackCountry rings, following the instructions meticulously. The one-piece base made the installation incredibly straightforward; it was a welcome change from more complicated multi-piece systems I’ve struggled with in the past.
The weather was typical for late fall in Montana: cold and windy, with occasional snow flurries. Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, the Leupold rings held the scope securely, maintaining zero through multiple rounds. The ease of use was remarkable; I was able to quickly and confidently adjust my scope without any slippage or movement.
There were no initial surprises or issues, aside from the minor user error noted by another reviewer – a reminder to carefully check objective lens clearance!
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including a late-season deer hunt and numerous range sessions, the Leupold BackCountry rings continue to impress. There are absolutely no signs of wear and tear on the rings or bases. The matte black finish has held up remarkably well, resisting scratches and abrasions from brush and handling.
Maintaining the system is simple – a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each use is all that’s needed. Compared to my previous experiences with heavier, steel rings that often required lubrication to prevent rust, the Leupold BackCountry system is a breeze to maintain. It outperforms my old setup in every way.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold 171118 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Browning AB3 Long Range 30mm Ring Medium Black Matte Finish
Specifications
The Leupold 171118 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings are specifically designed for the Browning AB3 Long Range rifle. They feature 30mm medium rings to accommodate a wide range of popular scopes.
These rings are machined from a single piece of lightweight, 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum. This provides exceptional strength and durability while minimizing weight. The black matte finish helps reduce glare and provides a sleek, tactical look. The two-piece base design allows for easy installation and removal.
These specs matter because they contribute to a mounting system that is both incredibly strong and remarkably lightweight. The aircraft-grade aluminum ensures that the rings can withstand the recoil of a powerful hunting cartridge. The streamlined design minimizes bulk and weight, making it ideal for hunters and shooters who prioritize mobility and agility.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry system performs flawlessly. The rings hold the scope securely, maintaining zero even after repeated recoil. The lightweight design doesn’t add unnecessary weight to the rifle, making it easier to carry and handle in the field.
One of the strengths of this system is its ease of use. The one-piece base design simplifies the installation process, even for those with minimal experience. The only real weakness is, as noted earlier, the “medium” height may not be sufficient for scopes with very large objective lenses; a “high” set may be necessary in some cases.
The system meets and even exceeds my expectations. The rings are precisely what I needed: lightweight, durable, and reliable.
Design & Ergonomics
The Leupold BackCountry system boasts a clean and functional design. The matte black finish not only looks great but also helps reduce glare, which is crucial in bright sunlight. The rings are lightweight and comfortable to handle.
There’s virtually no learning curve; anyone familiar with scope mounting will find this system incredibly easy to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum construction ensures that the Leupold BackCountry system is built to last. The rings are resistant to corrosion and wear, even in harsh environments.
Maintenance is a breeze; a simple wipe-down with a clean cloth is all that’s needed. The high-quality materials and construction minimize the need for repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold 171118 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings are primarily designed as a standalone mounting solution. While they don’t offer extensive customization options themselves, their 30mm ring size makes them compatible with a vast array of scopes from different brands.
Compatibility is a major plus – the ability to use your favorite scope without needing proprietary mounting hardware is invaluable.
Pros and Cons of Leupold 171118 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Browning AB3 Long Range 30mm Ring Medium Black Matte Finish
Pros
- Lightweight design: Made from 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, reducing overall rifle weight. This is crucial for backcountry hunting where every ounce counts.
- Durable construction: The robust aluminum alloy ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear. You can be confident that these rings will withstand the rigors of field use.
- Easy installation: The one-piece base design simplifies the mounting process, even for novice users. Save time and frustration with this user-friendly system.
- Secure scope mounting: The rings provide a rock-solid hold, maintaining zero even under heavy recoil. Reliable zero retention is essential for accurate shooting.
- Sleek matte black finish: The finish minimizes glare and provides a tactical aesthetic. The finish enhances both appearance and functionality.
Cons
- “Medium” height may not fit all scopes, especially those with larger objective lenses. A “high” set may be needed, increasing the overall cost.
- While durable, aluminum is less resistant to extreme abuse compared to steel. Consider usage – very rough treatment may shorten lifespan.
Who Should Buy Leupold 171118 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Browning AB3 Long Range 30mm Ring Medium Black Matte Finish?
The Leupold 171118 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings are perfect for hunters and shooters who prioritize lightweight performance and reliable scope mounting on their Browning AB3 Long Range rifles. Backcountry hunters and anyone looking to reduce the weight of their rifle setup will appreciate these.
Individuals who frequently subject their rifles to extreme abuse may want to consider a more robust, albeit heavier, steel-based system. Also, those with scopes with large objective lenses should double-check clearance and possibly opt for the “high” ring version instead.
A torque wrench is a must-have accessory to ensure proper ring tightening and prevent damage to your scope.
Conclusion on Leupold 171118 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Browning AB3 Long Range 30mm Ring Medium Black Matte Finish
In summary, the Leupold 171118 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Browning AB3 Long Range 30mm Ring Medium Black Matte Finish is an outstanding mounting system that delivers on its promise of lightweight durability and reliable performance. The price of $72.99 is well justified, given the quality of materials and construction.
I would absolutely recommend these rings to anyone looking to upgrade their Browning AB3 Long Range. They represent an excellent balance of weight, strength, and ease of use. If you are searching for a high-quality, lightweight scope mounting system that won’t let you down, look no further. Upgrade your Browning AB3 today and experience the Leupold difference!