The Leupold 2 PC BASE 70 WSSM Made a Bold First Impression
For those of us who demand precision and reliability in our firearm setups, the Leupold 2 PC BASE 70 WSSM promises a stable and versatile foundation for mounting optics. Leupold is a name synonymous with quality in the optics world, so naturally, their mounting solutions garner attention from serious shooters. This two-piece base system is designed specifically for rifles chambered in 70 WSSM (Winchester Super Short Magnum), aiming to provide optimal scope alignment and clearance.
I was looking for a base that wouldn’t interfere with the action of my custom 70 WSSM hunting rifle. Many one-piece bases I’d tried were bulky and made it difficult to load quickly in the field. The accessibility to the magazine or breech area that this base promised was the deciding factor.
Upon opening the package, the Leupold 2 PC BASE 70 WSSM presented a clean, fluted design. The bases feel robust, indicating durable materials. The blued finish is consistent and blends well with most rifle receivers. I immediately noted that each base had a very low profile.
Compared to a one-piece Picatinny rail I considered, the Leupold base offers a more streamlined, less bulky approach. Against a set of Weaver bases I’ve used in the past, these Leupold bases appear to be machined to a tighter tolerance, promising better scope alignment. They also seemed more refined than a similar set of Burris bases.
Initially, I felt a surge of optimism. The simple design and the reputation of Leupold gave me confidence that these bases would provide a solid platform for my optic. If they perform as well as they look, I’ll be very satisfied.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold 2 PC BASE 70 WSSM to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Leupold 2 PC BASE 70 WSSM on my custom bolt-action rifle for a prairie dog hunting trip in western South Dakota. The terrain is known for its long shots and challenging conditions, requiring a stable and accurate scope mount. Testing involved repeated firing sequences from various positions (prone, sitting, and offhand).
The environment was dusty and dry, with temperatures fluctuating significantly throughout the day. Installation was straightforward using the provided screws and appropriate torque settings. Once mounted, the bases felt incredibly solid. I experienced no issues with scope movement or loss of zero during the initial testing phase.
The open design of the two-piece base allowed easy access to the magazine, which greatly sped up reloading. It was significantly easier compared to using a full-length rail. No adjustment period was needed. The system felt intuitive and secure from the start.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full hunting season, encompassing several hundred rounds fired in various conditions (including rain and snow), the Leupold 2 PC BASE 70 WSSM has proven exceptionally reliable. There are no visible signs of wear and tear beyond some minor scuffing from handling. The blued finish has held up well, showing no signs of rust or corrosion.
Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is all that’s required. The bases have consistently maintained their torque settings, requiring no adjustments throughout the season. This is a significant improvement over a cheaper set of bases I had previously, which constantly loosened up.
Compared to my past experiences with other mounting systems, the Leupold bases have exceeded my expectations in terms of stability and ease of access. They provide a rock-solid platform that inspires confidence when taking long-range shots.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold 2 PC BASE 70 WSSM
Specifications
- Caliber Compatibility: Specifically designed for rifles chambered in 70 WSSM (Winchester Super Short Magnum). This ensures a precise fit and optimal scope alignment for this specific cartridge.
- Base Type: Two-piece base system. This offers greater accessibility to the magazine or breech area, making it easier to load and unload the rifle.
- Material: High-quality steel construction. Steel provides excellent strength and durability, ensuring the bases can withstand the recoil of the 70 WSSM cartridge.
- Finish: Blued finish. The blued finish helps to protect the bases from corrosion and provides a sleek, low-profile look that blends well with most rifles.
- Fluted Design: Features fluted cuts for a customized appearance. While primarily aesthetic, the flutes can also slightly reduce weight.
- Reversible Design: Reversible bases accommodate a wide variety of scopes and action lengths. This provides flexibility when selecting a scope and allows for optimal eye relief adjustment.
- Rifle Compatibility: Fits both right and left-hand rifles. The ambidextrous design makes it suitable for a wider range of shooters.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the performance and overall user experience. The correct caliber compatibility ensures a proper fit, while the steel construction and blued finish provide durability and corrosion resistance. The two-piece design enhances usability by allowing easy access to the rifle’s action.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold 2 PC BASE 70 WSSM performs its job admirably by providing a stable and secure platform for mounting scopes. It maintains zero consistently even with heavy recoil. This leads to increased accuracy and confidence in the field.
Its strengths lie in its robust construction, ease of installation, and unobtrusive design. The open access to the magazine is a major advantage. The only slight weakness is that the fluted design, while visually appealing, could potentially trap debris.
The bases absolutely meet my expectations for a high-quality Leupold product. I have had no issues with slippage or movement. They provide a reliable and consistent platform for my optic.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional, with precisely machined steel components that fit together seamlessly. The bases are lightweight yet feel incredibly strong. They do not add unnecessary bulk to the rifle.
The installation process is simple and straightforward, requiring only basic tools. The reversible design offers added flexibility for scope placement. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the high-quality materials and robust construction, the Leupold 2 PC BASE 70 WSSM is built to last for many years. The blued finish provides good corrosion resistance. Minimal maintenance is required.
The bases are easy to clean with a simple wipe-down. The steel construction can withstand considerable wear and tear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold 2 PC BASE 70 WSSM does not come with any accessories beyond the mounting screws. However, it is compatible with a wide range of Leupold scope rings and bases. This allows for extensive customization of the scope mounting system.
It is also compatible with some scope rings and bases from other brands, provided they are designed to fit Weaver-style bases. This gives users even more flexibility in choosing their preferred mounting hardware.
Pros and Cons of Leupold 2 PC BASE 70 WSSM
Pros
- Rock-solid stability for maintaining zero, even with heavy recoil.
- Easy access to the magazine/breech area for quicker reloading and malfunction clearing.
- High-quality steel construction ensures long-lasting durability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Simple and straightforward installation requires minimal tools and effort.
- Reversible design offers flexibility in scope placement and compatibility with various scope sizes.
Cons
- Fluted design could potentially trap debris, requiring more frequent cleaning in very dusty conditions.
- Limited customization options beyond scope rings, as it’s a fairly simple mounting system.
Who Should Buy Leupold 2 PC BASE 70 WSSM?
The Leupold 2 PC BASE 70 WSSM is perfect for:
- Hunters who use rifles chambered in 70 WSSM and demand a reliable and stable scope mount.
- Competitive shooters who require consistent accuracy and quick reloading.
- Anyone who values ease of access to the magazine or breech area of their rifle.
Who should skip this product?
- Those who prefer a one-piece Picatinny rail for maximum accessory mounting options.
- Shooters who are on a very tight budget and willing to sacrifice some quality for a lower price.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- High-quality Leupold scope rings that match the scope’s tube diameter.
- A torque wrench to ensure proper tightening of the mounting screws.
Conclusion on Leupold 2 PC BASE 70 WSSM
The Leupold 2 PC BASE 70 WSSM is a well-designed and exceptionally reliable scope mounting system for rifles chambered in 70 WSSM. It offers a winning combination of stability, ease of use, and unobtrusive design. Leupold’s reputation for quality shines through in this product.
At $67.96, the price is justified given the high-quality materials, precise machining, and proven performance. It provides excellent value for money compared to cheaper alternatives that may not offer the same level of reliability.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Leupold 2 PC BASE 70 WSSM to any shooter who needs a solid and dependable scope mount for their 70 WSSM rifle. Invest in a set today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your optic is securely and accurately mounted.
