First Thoughts on the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Rem 700 30mm Medium Matte Black
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Rem 700 30mm Medium Matte Black is marketed as a lightweight, reliable mounting solution for Remington 700 rifles. As someone who values both performance and weight savings, especially on backcountry hunts, this combo immediately piqued my interest. Leupold is a name synonymous with quality optics and mounting systems, so my expectations were high from the start.
I needed a dependable mounting system for a lightweight hunting rifle build I was working on. Weight was a primary concern, but not at the expense of durability and accuracy. The promise of a straightforward installation was also a major selling point, as I prefer to do my own gunsmithing whenever possible.
Upon unboxing, the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo felt solid and well-made, despite its lightweight design. The matte black finish looked clean and professional. The individual components felt precisely machined and free of any obvious defects.
I considered other options like the Talley Lightweight Alloy scope mounts, and the Nightforce Ultralite rings. The Leupold BackCountry seemed to offer a good balance of weight savings, reputable brand pedigree, and reasonable cost compared to these alternatives. I also appreciated the simplicity of a two-piece design, as it can offer more flexibility in scope placement compared to a one-piece rail.
My first impression was positive. I was eager to see how it would perform in the field and whether it could live up to Leupold’s reputation for quality and reliability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Rem 700 30mm Medium Matte Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo on my Bergara B14 HMR chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor. This rifle is primarily used for hunting whitetail deer and elk in the mountains of Montana and Idaho. The first use involved mounting a Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10×40 scope and zeroing the rifle at the range.
The installation process was indeed straightforward, just as Leupold advertised. With a torque wrench and a bit of thread locker, the bases and rings were securely mounted in under 30 minutes. I experienced no issues with alignment or fitment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo has performed flawlessly. The scope has remained securely mounted, and I haven’t noticed any shift in zero, even after hundreds of rounds fired and several rough backcountry hunts. The anodized finish has proven durable, showing no signs of scratching or wear despite being exposed to harsh weather conditions.
Maintenance is simple. After each hunting trip, I wipe down the bases and rings with a lightly oiled cloth to prevent corrosion. I’ve experienced no rust or other issues related to maintenance.
The Leupold BackCountry system has exceeded my expectations. It’s significantly lighter than the steel rings and bases I used previously, without sacrificing any noticeable rigidity or reliability. It’s a definite improvement for my lightweight hunting rifle.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Rem 700 30mm Medium Matte Black
Specifications
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Rem 700 30mm Medium Matte Black is specifically designed for Remington 700 rifles. The combo consists of two separate bases and a pair of 30mm medium height rings. The entire system is constructed from lightweight aluminum.
- Type: 2-Piece Base/Rings
- MFG/Model: BackCountry
- Style: 2 Piece
- Misc: 30mm Ring
- Finish: Matte Black
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The two-piece design offers mounting flexibility. The 30mm rings accommodate a wide range of modern rifle scopes. The aluminum construction keeps weight to a minimum, essential for hunters and shooters concerned about pack weight. The matte black finish reduces glare and blends seamlessly with most rifle finishes.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo performs its job admirably. It securely mounts a scope to a Remington 700 action, maintaining zero even under heavy recoil and harsh conditions. Its lightweight design minimizes added weight.
The system’s strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. It’s easy to install and provides a rock-solid mounting platform. There are no noticeable weaknesses in terms of performance, provided the installation is done correctly with proper torque values. It meets and exceeds expectations for a lightweight hunting rifle setup.
Design & Ergonomics
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo features a minimalist design. It focuses on functionality and weight reduction. The build quality is excellent, with precisely machined components and a durable anodized finish.
The system is inherently user-friendly. There is no significant learning curve. Anyone with basic gunsmithing skills can easily install it.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction and anodized finish contribute to the system’s durability. With proper care, it should last for many years of use. Maintenance is minimal. Cleaning with a lightly oiled cloth is typically sufficient to prevent corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo doesn’t include any additional accessories beyond the bases and rings themselves. However, it’s compatible with a wide range of 30mm scopes from Leupold and other manufacturers. The medium height rings provide adequate clearance for most scopes with objective lens diameters up to 44mm.
Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Rem 700 30mm Medium Matte Black
Pros
- Lightweight Design: Significantly reduces overall rifle weight, ideal for backcountry hunting.
- Durable Construction: High-quality aluminum and anodized finish ensure long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: Straightforward design allows for quick and easy mounting.
- Reliable Performance: Maintains zero even under heavy recoil and harsh conditions.
- Reputable Brand: Leupold’s reputation for quality and reliability provides peace of mind.
Cons
- Price: While not exorbitant, other budget options are available.
- Limited Customization: Only compatible with 30mm scopes and specific Remington 700 actions.
Who Should Buy Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Rem 700 30mm Medium Matte Black?
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Rem 700 30mm Medium Matte Black is perfect for hunters, especially those who prioritize weight savings on backcountry hunts. It’s also suitable for competitive shooters who want a lightweight and reliable mounting system. Anyone building a lightweight Remington 700 rifle would benefit from this combo.
Individuals on a very tight budget might want to explore cheaper alternatives. Those requiring a Picatinny rail for mounting various accessories should consider a different mounting system.
Must-have accessories include a torque wrench for proper installation and thread locker to secure the bases and rings.
Conclusion on Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Rem 700 30mm Medium Matte Black
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece Rem 700 30mm Medium Matte Black is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a lightweight and reliable mounting system for their Remington 700 rifle. The price is justified by the quality of materials, durable construction, and proven performance.
I would personally recommend this product without hesitation. It’s a well-designed, high-quality mounting system that will provide years of reliable service. Upgrade your Remington 700 today with the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo and experience the difference!