The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front/Rear Win 70 30mm High Matte Black Made a Bold First Impression
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front/Rear Win 70 30mm High Matte Black isn’t just a mouthful; it’s a promise of lightweight performance from a trusted name in optics mounting solutions. Leupold‘s reputation precedes them, and this particular combo aims to bridge the gap between rugged reliability and minimal weight. This makes it a compelling option for hunters and shooters who meticulously count every ounce.
I embarked on the search for a new mounting system after a particularly grueling backcountry elk hunt. The added weight of my existing steel rings and bases, while undeniably robust, took a noticeable toll on my energy levels. I needed something lighter, without sacrificing the zero retention and durability required for a hard-kicking Winchester 70.
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo arrived in typical Leupold packaging: simple, functional, and informative. Upon opening the box, the first thing I noticed was the matte black finish. It looked clean and professional. The parts felt solid, but noticeably lighter than my steel counterparts. My initial impression was positive. It seemed like Leupold delivered on their promise of lightweight performance.
I was considering the Talley Lightweight Alloy scope mounts, and the Warne Mountain Tech rings, but the Leupold offered a few distinct advantages. The one-piece design appealed to my desire for simplicity, and Leupold‘s established reputation for quality gave me confidence. Most importantly, the reversible base design offered more mounting flexibility.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo appeared to be the ideal solution to my weight problem. I was eager to get it mounted and see how it performed in the field. The promise of reduced weight combined with Leupold‘s quality standards had me excited.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front/Rear Win 70 30mm High Matte Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo was a local shooting range. I mounted the rings on my Winchester 70 .300 Win Mag, topped it with my trusty Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10×40 scope, and headed out. I was primarily focused on ensuring a solid zero and verifying the rings’ ability to withstand the recoil of the .300 Win Mag.
The weather was typical for early spring in Montana: overcast and breezy, with temperatures hovering around 40 degrees Fahrenheit. This wasn’t extreme conditions, but enough to test the rings’ resistance to minor environmental factors. The rifle felt noticeably lighter and more balanced. The BackCountry combo performed admirably right out of the gate.
The installation was simple and straightforward, thanks to the one-piece design of the bases. After about 20 rounds, the zero remained rock solid. I appreciated how easy it was to get the rings aligned. I did notice that the screws required careful torquing to avoid stripping.
There were no immediate issues after the first range session, though I was a bit concerned about the long-term durability of the aluminum alloy. Only extended use would reveal if my concerns were valid. The lightweight nature of the system was immediately apparent and appreciated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a week-long backcountry mule deer hunt in the rugged mountains of Wyoming, the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo has proven to be a reliable performer. I subjected it to varying weather conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme temperature fluctuations. The rings remained steadfast.
There are minor signs of wear and tear, primarily some superficial scratches on the matte black finish. This is to be expected given the harsh environment it was subjected to. More importantly, the rings have maintained their zero. This proved critical during a tense, last-light stalk on a mature buck.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each outing is all it takes. The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo has exceeded my expectations. It offers a significant weight reduction without compromising accuracy or reliability. This contrasts sharply with some cheaper aluminum rings I’ve used in the past, which often loosened and lost zero after only a few range sessions.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front/Rear Win 70 30mm High Matte Black
Specifications
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front/Rear Win 70 30mm High Matte Black is designed specifically for the Winchester 70 rifle. It features a 30mm ring diameter to accommodate many modern scopes. The “High” ring height provides ample clearance for scopes with larger objective lenses. The matte black finish reduces glare and blends seamlessly with most rifles.
The bases are constructed from lightweight aluminum alloy, offering a significant weight reduction compared to steel bases. The rings also utilize the same alloy. This ensures a consistent material across the mounting system. The two-piece base design allows for easy access to the rifle’s action. The reversible front/rear base offers flexibility in scope placement.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the rifle’s overall weight, balance, and usability. The lightweight alloy reduces fatigue during long hunts. The 30mm ring diameter ensures compatibility with a wide range of scopes. The high ring height is essential for scopes with large objective lenses to prevent contact with the barrel. The reversible base design allows for optimal eye relief adjustment.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo performs its job admirably. It securely mounts a scope to the rifle, maintains zero under recoil, and adds minimal weight. The accuracy of my Winchester 70 has not been negatively affected in any way. This speaks volumes about the rigidity and precision of the mounting system.
The main strength of this combo is its lightweight design combined with adequate durability. A weakness is the potential for stripping the screws if over-torqued. Careful attention must be paid to torque specifications during installation. Overall, the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo meets and slightly exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with precise machining and a smooth matte black finish. The aluminum alloy feels strong despite its light weight. The low-profile design doesn’t interfere with the rifle’s handling.
The system is user-friendly; installation is straightforward with basic tools and a torque wrench. There is a slight learning curve to understanding the reversible base design. A clear instruction manual is included.
Durability & Maintenance
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo is designed to last for many years with proper care. The aluminum alloy is corrosion-resistant. Routine maintenance involves cleaning and lubricating the screws.
Repairing damaged components may require specialized tools or professional assistance. It’s best to avoid subjecting the rings to excessive force or impacts. Replacing the screws is simple and easy if the original fasteners become compromised.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo doesn’t come with a wide array of accessories. It includes the bases, rings, and mounting screws. Some users may choose to add thread-locking compound to the screws for added security.
The rings are compatible with any scope that has a 30mm tube diameter. The base is designed specifically for the Winchester 70 action, limiting compatibility with other rifles. Many users upgrade to higher quality scope mounting screws.
Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front/Rear Win 70 30mm High Matte Black
Pros
- Significant weight reduction compared to steel rings and bases, making it ideal for backcountry hunting.
- One-piece base design simplifies installation and enhances rigidity.
- Reversible front/rear base allows for flexible scope placement.
- Leupold‘s reputation for quality and reliability ensures long-term performance.
- Matte black finish reduces glare and blends well with most rifles.
Cons
- Aluminum alloy construction, while lightweight, may not be as durable as steel under extreme abuse.
- Screws are prone to stripping if over-torqued; careful attention to torque specifications is required.
Who Should Buy Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front/Rear Win 70 30mm High Matte Black?
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo is perfect for hunters and shooters who prioritize weight savings without sacrificing reliability. This is a must-have for backcountry hunters who trek long distances. It is also good for anyone who wants a lightweight and streamlined mounting system for their Winchester 70.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals who subject their rifles to extreme abuse. Those who prioritize absolute maximum durability over weight savings should consider steel rings and bases. Novice shooters who are unfamiliar with proper torque specifications might also find this system challenging to install without damaging the screws.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality torque wrench to ensure proper screw tightening. Thread-locking compound is also recommended for added security. Some users might also consider upgrading to stainless steel screws.
Conclusion on Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front/Rear Win 70 30mm High Matte Black
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front/Rear Win 70 30mm High Matte Black delivers on its promise of lightweight performance and reliable scope mounting. While the aluminum alloy construction may raise concerns for some, my experience has shown that it is more than adequate for most hunting and shooting applications. The price of $72.99 is justified considering the weight savings and the reputation of Leupold.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone looking to shed weight from their Winchester 70 without compromising on accuracy or reliability. The simple installation, flexible scope placement, and low-profile design make it a valuable upgrade. It’s a solid choice for ounce-counting hunters.
If you’re ready to lighten your load and improve your shooting experience, give the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo a try. You won’t be disappointed.