First Thoughts on the Leupold 171119 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Browning AB3 Long Range 30mm Ring High Black Matte Finish
In the realm of precision shooting, a secure and reliable optic mounting system is paramount. The Leupold 171119 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Browning AB3 Long Range 30mm Ring High Black Matte Finish promises just that, offering a lightweight yet robust solution for mounting 30mm scopes on the Browning AB3 Long Range rifle. This system boasts a one-piece design for simplified installation and is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, hinting at a blend of durability and weight savings that’s crucial for serious hunters and marksmen.
I needed a reliable mounting system that wouldn’t add unnecessary weight to my Browning AB3 Long Range rifle. I was also after something easy to install, so I could spend more time practicing and less time tinkering. The Leupold BackCountry series caught my eye because of its reputation for being lightweight and durable.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the clean, matte black finish and the solid feel of the components. The Leupold BackCountry rings and bases felt incredibly well-made. The machining was precise, and the finish was flawless, indicating a high level of quality control.
Compared to other mounting systems I’ve used, like the Weaver Grand Slam steel rings and bases (known for their strength but significant weight) and the lightweight but potentially less rigid Talley Lightweight Alloy rings, the Leupold 171119 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings seemed to strike a great balance. I chose the Leupold because I trusted the Leupold name for quality and because the BackCountry series promised a lightweight, durable, and easy-to-install solution. My initial impression was excitement. I was eager to get these mounted and see how they performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold 171119 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Browning AB3 Long Range 30mm Ring High Black Matte Finish to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Leupold 171119 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings at my local shooting range, mounting a Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15×44 scope on my Browning AB3 Long Range in .308. The weather was typical for early spring: cool, with a slight drizzle. Installation was remarkably straightforward, thanks to the one-piece design of the rings.
The rifle maintained zero even after multiple rounds and adjustments, suggesting a solid and stable mounting platform. Despite the damp conditions, the matte black finish provided a secure grip when handling the rifle. I needed no time to adjust to the mounting system; it felt intuitive and secure right away.
After the initial sighting-in, I noticed absolutely no shift in zero. This gave me confidence in the reliability of the Leupold rings and bases.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including a deer hunting trip in the rugged terrain of the Adirondack Mountains, the Leupold 171119 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings have proven their worth. The matte black finish shows only minor signs of wear, mostly from rubbing against my pack.
The rings and bases have remained securely mounted, with no loosening or shifting observed, even after traversing challenging terrain. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each range session or hunting trip is all that’s needed. These bases have significantly outperformed my previous experience with cheaper, less reputable brands where I constantly had to check and re-tighten screws.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold 171119 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Browning AB3 Long Range 30mm Ring High Black Matte Finish
Specifications
The Leupold 171119 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings are specifically designed for the Browning AB3 Long Range rifle. They feature 30mm high rings, providing ample clearance for scopes with larger objective lenses. The system is finished in a non-reflective matte black, minimizing glare and preventing spooking game.
The construction utilizes lightweight 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum. This balances ruggedness with weight savings, crucial for long-range hunting where every ounce counts. The reversible front base offers mounting flexibility, allowing for optimal scope positioning and eye relief adjustment. This is important because getting the correct eye relief is critical for comfort and reducing eye strain, especially during extended periods of glassing.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold 171119 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings excels in its primary function: securely mounting a scope to the rifle. Accuracy is maintained through a stable and vibration-resistant platform, even under heavy recoil. The system meets and exceeds expectations for a lightweight mounting solution.
The only area for possible improvement would be the addition of torque specifications printed directly on the rings or packaging. This would help ensure proper tightening without over-tightening and potentially damaging the scope or rings.
Design & Ergonomics
The Leupold BackCountry system is designed with simplicity and functionality in mind. The use of aircraft-grade aluminum keeps the weight down without sacrificing strength. The matte black finish adds to the system’s aesthetic appeal while providing a non-reflective surface.
Installation is straightforward, even for novice users. The low profile of the rings keeps the scope close to the bore, which can improve shooting comfort and accuracy.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, the Leupold 171119 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings are built to last. Proper installation and care will ensure a long service life. Regular cleaning and inspection for loose screws are recommended to maintain optimal performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold 171119 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings system doesn’t come with a wealth of accessories, focusing instead on providing a solid mounting platform. However, they are compatible with any 30mm scope designed for use with standard Weaver-style bases.
This allows for a wide range of scope options to be used. The reversible front base adds a degree of customization, allowing for optimal scope placement on the rifle.
Pros and Cons of Leupold 171119 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Browning AB3 Long Range 30mm Ring High Black Matte Finish
Pros
- Lightweight design made from aircraft-grade aluminum, reducing overall rifle weight.
- One-piece ring design for easy and secure scope mounting.
- Durable matte black finish minimizes glare and resists wear.
- Reversible front base allows for flexible scope positioning.
- Maintains zero even under heavy recoil.
Cons
- No integrated level for ensuring perfect scope alignment during mounting.
- Torque specifications aren’t clearly marked on the product itself.
Who Should Buy Leupold 171119 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Browning AB3 Long Range 30mm Ring High Black Matte Finish?
This system is perfect for hunters and long-range shooters who value lightweight gear and a reliable scope mount. It’s an excellent choice for anyone with a Browning AB3 Long Range rifle looking for a simple, effective, and durable mounting solution.
Anyone prioritizing extreme long-range precision and requiring additional features like built-in levels or picatinny rail sections for accessories might want to explore more specialized (and often more expensive) options. A torque wrench is a must-have accessory to ensure proper installation and prevent damage to the scope or rings.
Conclusion on Leupold 171119 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Browning AB3 Long Range 30mm Ring High Black Matte Finish
The Leupold 171119 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Browning AB3 Long Range 30mm Ring High Black Matte Finish delivers on its promise of being a lightweight, durable, and reliable mounting solution. At a price point of $60.49, it offers an excellent value proposition.
I would absolutely recommend this system to anyone looking for a no-nonsense, high-quality scope mount for their Browning AB3 Long Range rifle. Upgrade your setup today and experience the difference a reliable mounting system can make.