The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Browning AB3 LR 1″ Medium Matte Black Made a Bold First Impression
A reliable scope mounting system is absolutely crucial for any serious shooter, especially when dealing with the demands of long-range hunting. The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Browning AB3 LR 1″ Medium Matte Black aims to provide a lightweight, yet robust solution for mounting a 1-inch tube scope on a Browning AB3 Long Range rifle. Knowing the importance of a secure and accurate mount, I was eager to see if this combo could deliver the performance I expect from Leupold.
My need stemmed from upgrading the optic on my Browning AB3 LR to enhance its long-range capabilities. The factory bases felt inadequate for the larger scope I chose, and I wanted a lightweight but solid mounting solution. The appeal of Leupold’s reputation for quality and the promise of a simple, two-piece design drew me to this particular combo.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the sleek matte black finish, which should blend seamlessly with most rifles. The bases and rings felt surprisingly light, giving credence to the “BackCountry” moniker, suggesting a focus on weight savings for those demanding backcountry hunts. The build quality appeared solid, with no obvious imperfections or casting flaws.
Compared to other mounting solutions, such as one-piece Picatinny rails or heavier steel rings, the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Browning AB3 LR 1″ Medium Matte Black stood out for its simplicity and weight consciousness. I also considered Talley Lightweight Alloy Scope Mounts but opted for the Leupold due to the perceived ease of adjustment with the two-piece base. I also looked at a Weaver two-piece system, but favored the more streamlined look and potentially lighter weight of the Leupold.
My first impression was positive; I was impressed by the apparent quality and the design’s straightforwardness. I was excited to see if this mounting system could live up to Leupold’s reputation and provide a stable, reliable platform for my long-range shooting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Browning AB3 LR 1″ Medium Matte Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Browning AB3 LR 1″ Medium Matte Black at my local shooting range, focusing on zeroing my newly mounted scope on my Browning AB3 LR. The conditions were relatively mild, with a slight breeze and clear skies. The installation process was indeed straightforward.
After the first ten rounds, I carefully checked the mount’s stability. To my relief, everything remained securely in place. The Leupold rings held the scope firmly, and there was no evidence of shifting or slippage, even after the initial recoil.
The ease of use was commendable; I appreciated how quickly I could achieve a solid mount with minimal fuss. However, I did notice that achieving perfect alignment between the bases required some careful adjustments, and it took a bit longer than initially anticipated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple range sessions and a week-long backcountry hunting trip in the Montana mountains, the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Browning AB3 LR 1″ Medium Matte Black has held up admirably. I have put roughly 300 rounds through the rifle during this timeframe.
The matte black finish still looks great, and I haven’t observed any significant signs of wear and tear beyond some minor cosmetic scratches. The bases and rings have remained tight, even after enduring bumpy rides in a pickup truck and several days of exposure to varying weather conditions.
Maintenance is simple; I periodically wipe down the bases and rings with a lightly oiled cloth to prevent corrosion. The design doesn’t trap dirt or debris, making cleaning hassle-free. Compared to the factory mounting system, the Leupold combo provides a far more confident and consistent shooting experience. The peace of mind knowing that my scope is securely mounted is invaluable.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Browning AB3 LR 1″ Medium Matte Black
Specifications
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Browning AB3 LR 1″ Medium Matte Black is designed specifically for the Browning AB3 Long Range rifle. It accommodates scopes with a 1-inch tube diameter, which is a very common size.
The “Medium” height rings are designed to provide adequate clearance for scopes with objective lenses up to around 44mm, depending on the rifle’s barrel contour. The matte black finish reduces glare and blends well with most rifle finishes. Its two-piece base design allows for a lightweight and streamlined mounting system. The bases are constructed of aluminum. The ring hardware includes Torx-style screws, promoting secure and reliable clamping force.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the scope’s compatibility with the rifle, the shooter’s ability to acquire a clear sight picture, and the overall reliability of the mounting system. Leupold’s choice of lightweight materials demonstrates a commitment to reducing the rifle’s overall weight without sacrificing strength and durability.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Browning AB3 LR 1″ Medium Matte Black performs its job admirably, providing a stable and repeatable platform for mounting a scope on the Browning AB3 LR. The secure rings hold the scope firmly, preventing movement during recoil and maintaining zero consistency.
The strength of the system is its simple, lightweight design and ease of installation. One potential weakness lies in the two-piece base design. Although it reduces weight, it could be argued it is not as rigid or stable as a one-piece Picatinny rail.
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Browning AB3 LR 1″ Medium Matte Black meets expectations, providing a reliable and lightweight mounting solution, especially for hunters and shooters looking to reduce the overall weight of their rifle.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is functional and straightforward. The matte black finish looks clean and professional, blending well with the rifle’s aesthetics. The light weight of the Leupold combo doesn’t add any noticeable bulk or weight to the rifle, which is a significant advantage for backcountry hunting where every ounce counts.
The system is user-friendly, with a relatively simple installation process. However, perfect base alignment requires patience and attention to detail.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Browning AB3 LR 1″ Medium Matte Black should last for many years. The materials are resistant to corrosion.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and tightening of screws.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Browning AB3 LR 1″ Medium Matte Black doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the necessary screws and wrenches for installation.
While this combo is not directly customizable, it is compatible with various 1-inch tube scopes. Due to the proprietary base design, compatibility with accessories from other brands is limited.
Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Browning AB3 LR 1″ Medium Matte Black
Pros
- Lightweight design ideal for backcountry hunting.
- Simple and straightforward installation.
- Provides a secure and stable scope mount.
- Sleek matte black finish.
- Torx-style screws enhance clamping force.
Cons
- Two-piece base design may not be as rigid as a one-piece rail.
- Requires careful base alignment during installation.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Browning AB3 LR 1″ Medium Matte Black?
Perfect for hunters who prioritize weight savings and ease of installation on their Browning AB3 LR rifles. It is also suitable for recreational shooters who want a reliable and aesthetically pleasing scope mounting system.
Those who should skip this product are competitive shooters seeking the utmost rigidity and adjustability, or those who prefer a one-piece Picatinny rail for greater accessory compatibility.
A torque wrench is a must-have accessory to ensure proper screw tightening and prevent damage to the bases and rings.
Conclusion on Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Browning AB3 LR 1″ Medium Matte Black
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Browning AB3 LR 1″ Medium Matte Black offers a compelling blend of lightweight design, ease of installation, and reliable performance.
For around $60, the price is justified.
Yes, I would personally recommend it. If you are a Browning AB3 LR owner seeking a simple, lightweight, and dependable scope mounting solution, the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Browning AB3 LR 1″ Medium Matte Black is an excellent choice. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference a quality mounting system can make.