The Leupold 171120 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Winchester 70 30mm Ring Medium Black Matte Finish Made a Bold First Impression
When setting up a Winchester 70 for long-range work, the foundation is key. Scrimping on your mounting system is like putting cheap tires on a Ferrari – all show, no go. The Leupold 171120 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Winchester 70 30mm Ring Medium Black Matte Finish promises lightweight strength and straightforward installation, a combination I’m always hunting for when building a reliable hunting rifle.
I had been wrestling with inconsistent groupings on my trusty Winchester 70 for months. Suspecting scope slippage, I knew the old, mismatched rings and base had to go. I chose the Leupold BackCountry system because I trust the Leupold name, and the promise of lightweight, aircraft-grade aluminum appealed to my backcountry hunting sensibilities.
The unboxing experience was simple, no frills, just the base and rings securely packaged. The matte black finish looked clean and professional, and the parts felt solid despite their noticeably light weight. My initial thought was, “Finally, a mounting system that doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to my rifle.”
I considered Warne and Talley rings as alternatives, both known for their quality. However, I opted for the Leupold system because of its reputation for precise machining and the specific fitment for the Winchester 70. I was excited to see if this mounting system could finally tame my wandering zero and bring my Winchester 70 back to its former glory.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold 171120 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Winchester 70 30mm Ring Medium Black Matte Finish to the Test
First Use Experience
The first outing was at my local range, a no-frills setup where I can really focus on the rifle. I mounted the Leupold BackCountry base and rings following Leupold’s instructions, which were clear and easy to follow. I used a torque wrench to ensure proper tension, a critical step often overlooked.
The system performed flawlessly even under the heat of midday sun. Installation was remarkably straightforward, and the scope felt rock-solid in the rings after tightening. I experienced no issues with slippage or movement, even after repeated firing of my .30-06.
The only surprise was how little the system weighed. After years of using heavier steel mounts, the difference was immediately noticeable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full hunting season and numerous range trips, the Leupold BackCountry system continues to impress. There’s been no shift in zero, even after a rough trek through the mountains during elk season. The anodized finish shows no signs of wear despite exposure to rain, snow, and mud.
Maintenance is minimal, a quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each outing is all that’s required. This system has significantly outperformed my previous setups. My confidence in my rifle’s accuracy has skyrocketed thanks to the reliability of the Leupold mounting system.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold 171120 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Winchester 70 30mm Ring Medium Black Matte Finish
Specifications
The Leupold 171120 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings are specifically designed for the Winchester 70 rifle. They are made from lightweight 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, offering exceptional strength without adding unnecessary weight.
These are 30mm medium rings with a matte black finish. The two-piece design allows for some flexibility in scope placement. The aircraft-grade aluminum ensures the rings can withstand the recoil of magnum calibers.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry system excels in its primary function: securely mounting a scope to a rifle. The precise machining and tight tolerances ensure the scope remains stable under recoil. This leads to consistent accuracy.
The lightweight design doesn’t compromise strength. This delivers a noticeable benefit to hunters and shooters who prioritize minimizing weight. The system exceeded my expectations by providing a rock-solid platform without adding bulk.
Design & Ergonomics
The two-piece base design allows for versatile scope placement, accommodating a variety of scope lengths and eye relief preferences. The matte black finish not only looks sleek, but also reduces glare, an important consideration for hunters.
The system is incredibly user-friendly. The intuitive design and clear instructions made installation a breeze.
Durability & Maintenance
The 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum is exceptionally durable and corrosion-resistant. The anodized finish protects the metal from scratches and wear.
Maintenance is simple; occasional cleaning with a soft cloth is all that’s required. The robust design ensures the system will withstand years of use in demanding conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold 171120 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings do not typically require additional accessories beyond the necessary tools for installation (torque wrench, screwdrivers). Leupold offers a wide range of scopes that are compatible with these rings.
This system is designed specifically for the Winchester 70 action. However, the 30mm ring size is compatible with any scope that features a 30mm tube diameter.
Pros and Cons of Leupold 171120 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Winchester 70 30mm Ring Medium Black Matte Finish
Pros
- Extremely Lightweight: The aircraft-grade aluminum significantly reduces the overall weight of the rifle.
- Rock-Solid Mounting Platform: Provides exceptional stability and prevents scope slippage, enhancing accuracy.
- Easy Installation: The straightforward design and clear instructions make installation quick and hassle-free.
- Durable Construction: The 7075-T6 aluminum and anodized finish ensure long-lasting performance in harsh conditions.
- Sleek, Low-Profile Design: The matte black finish looks great and minimizes glare.
Cons
- Limited Customization: It is a standard base/ring setup with not a lot of ability to customize outside of scope choice.
- Price: While not exorbitant, there may be less expensive mounting options available.
Who Should Buy Leupold 171120 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Winchester 70 30mm Ring Medium Black Matte Finish?
The Leupold 171120 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings are perfect for hunters and shooters who prioritize lightweight performance and rock-solid reliability. They are especially well-suited for backcountry hunters who need to minimize weight without sacrificing accuracy. Anyone building a Winchester 70 for serious work will appreciate this system.
Those looking for advanced features like quick-detach mechanisms or adjustable height rings might want to consider other options. Also, if budget is a primary concern, there may be cheaper alternatives, though they may not offer the same level of quality and reliability.
A torque wrench is a must-have accessory for proper installation. I would also recommend using a high-quality scope mounting level to ensure perfect alignment.
Conclusion on Leupold 171120 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Winchester 70 30mm Ring Medium Black Matte Finish
The Leupold 171120 BackCountry 2-Piece Base/Rings For Winchester 70 30mm Ring Medium Black Matte Finish is a top-tier mounting system that delivers on its promises. The combination of lightweight design, durable construction, and rock-solid performance makes it an excellent choice for any serious Winchester 70 shooter.
The price is justified by the quality and reliability you receive. Cheaper options often compromise on materials or machining tolerances, leading to potential accuracy issues down the road.
I wholeheartedly recommend this mounting system. If you’re building a Winchester 70 for hunting or long-range shooting, the Leupold BackCountry system is a worthwhile investment. Ditch the old, mismatched mounts and experience the peace of mind that comes with a rock-solid, lightweight, and accurate mounting solution!