First Thoughts on the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front Rem 700 1″ High Matte Black
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front Rem 700 1″ High Matte Black promises lightweight performance and straightforward installation for Remington 700 rifles. Leupold is a name synonymous with quality optics and mounting solutions, so my initial expectations were high for this particular offering. As someone who values shaving ounces off my backcountry rifle setup, I was keen to see if this base and ring combo lived up to its “BackCountry” designation.
I needed a reliable and lightweight mounting solution for my trusty Remington 700 before my upcoming elk hunt in the Rockies. My old steel rings were functional, but added unnecessary weight. This Leupold combo promised both weight savings and the ruggedness I require for a demanding hunt.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the matte black finish, which appeared durable and non-reflective, a definite plus for hunting applications. The components felt solid, despite their remarkably light weight. My initial assessment was that Leupold had indeed delivered on their promise of a lightweight, yet robust, mounting system.
Compared to the heavier steel rings and one-piece base I’d previously used, the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo felt like a significant upgrade. I had also considered Talley Lightweight Alloy scope mounts, but opted for the Leupold due to Leupold’s reputation for reliability and readily available torque specifications. Another option was a set of Warne Mountain Tech rings, but I preferred the two-piece base design offered by Leupold in this model for installation flexibility.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The weight was definitely appealing, but I was eager to test its real-world durability and zero retention. I was hoping this setup would provide the perfect balance of weight savings and rugged performance for my backcountry hunting needs.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front Rem 700 1″ High Matte Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo at my local range, mounting it on my Remington 700 in .30-06 and pairing it with a Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10×40 scope. Initial sighting in was straightforward, with the rings holding the scope securely. I fired approximately 60 rounds of various grain weights through the rifle to test zero retention.
The weather was slightly damp, with a light drizzle throughout the session. The matte black finish on the Leupold mount showed no signs of corrosion or water spotting. Installation was easy, requiring only a few minutes and basic tools, thanks to the straightforward two-piece design. There were no issues encountered with the reversible front ring.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of range sessions and a challenging 5-day elk hunt in the Colorado backcountry, the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo has proven its worth. The mount maintained zero perfectly throughout the entire hunt, despite some rough handling and exposure to harsh weather. The lightweight design was also a welcome relief during long days of hiking at elevation.
After the elk hunt, I noticed only minor cosmetic wear on the finish, which is expected with regular use in demanding environments. Cleaning the mount was simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth. It has outperformed my previous heavier steel setup in terms of both weight and zero retention under field conditions.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front Rem 700 1″ High Matte Black
Specifications
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front Rem 700 1″ High Matte Black is designed specifically for Remington 700 rifles. It is a two-piece base and ring combo, meaning it mounts in two separate sections on the receiver. The rings are 1″ in diameter, accommodating most traditional scopes.
The mount is finished in a matte black coating, providing a non-reflective surface and added corrosion resistance. This particular model features a reversible front ring, offering flexibility in scope placement. The ring height is “High”, which is generally suitable for scopes with larger objective lenses. The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo is designed for minimal weight and maximum strength, critical for demanding hunts.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo is to provide a secure and stable platform for mounting a scope on a Remington 700 rifle. It performs this function exceptionally well, maintaining zero even after repeated firing and exposure to harsh conditions. The two-piece base design allows for some flexibility in scope placement, accommodating different scope lengths and eye relief requirements.
The lightweight design is a significant strength, especially for hunters and shooters who prioritize reducing weight on their rifles. The reversible front ring is a useful feature, allowing for fine-tuning of scope positioning. The only potential weakness is that a two-piece base might not be as inherently rigid as a one-piece design, although I experienced no issues with zero shift. Overall, the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo met and exceeded my expectations for a lightweight hunting mount.
Design & Ergonomics
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo features a simple, functional design that prioritizes weight savings and ease of installation. The materials used are high-quality, contributing to the mount’s overall durability. The matte black finish is aesthetically pleasing and reduces glare, an important consideration for hunting applications.
The mount is user-friendly, requiring only basic tools and minimal gunsmithing skills to install. The reversible front ring adds a layer of adaptability, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of scopes. There is no learning curve associated with its operation.
Durability & Maintenance
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo is constructed from durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of field use. With proper care, it should last for many years. Maintenance is minimal, typically requiring only a periodic cleaning with a lightly oiled cloth to prevent corrosion.
The finish is resistant to scratches and abrasions, but like any metal component, it can be damaged by excessive force or exposure to harsh chemicals. The mount’s simple design also makes it easy to inspect for any signs of wear or damage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo comes as a complete set, including the two base pieces and the two rings. Leupold offers a variety of scope levels and other accessories that are compatible with this base and ring combo. While there are no specific customization options for the mount itself, users can choose from a wide range of compatible scopes from Leupold and other manufacturers.
The 1″ ring diameter is a standard size, making it compatible with a vast selection of scopes. The “High” ring height allows for the use of scopes with larger objective lenses.
Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front Rem 700 1″ High Matte Black
Pros
- Lightweight Design: Significantly reduces overall rifle weight, crucial for backcountry hunting.
- Durable Construction: Withstood harsh conditions and maintained zero throughout testing.
- Easy Installation: Straightforward installation with basic tools and minimal gunsmithing skills.
- Reversible Front Ring: Provides flexibility in scope placement and compatibility.
- Matte Black Finish: Non-reflective and corrosion-resistant.
Cons
- Two-Piece Base: May not be as inherently rigid as a one-piece design (although no issues were observed).
- Limited Customization: No specific customization options beyond compatible scope selection.
Who Should Buy Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front Rem 700 1″ High Matte Black?
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front Rem 700 1″ High Matte Black is perfect for hunters, particularly those who prioritize weight savings and reliability in their gear. It’s also well-suited for recreational shooters who want a durable and easy-to-install mounting solution for their Remington 700. This combo is ideal for backcountry hunters and shooters who demand lightweight performance.
Those who prioritize ultimate rigidity and prefer a one-piece base might want to consider other options. Shooters who frequently swap scopes or require more extensive customization options may also find this system somewhat limiting. The serious long-range competitive shooter might seek out a more adjustable, higher-end solution.
A torque wrench is a must-have accessory to ensure proper installation and prevent damage to the rings and scope. A high-quality scope is essential to take full advantage of the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo’s performance.
Conclusion on Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front Rem 700 1″ High Matte Black
The Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo 2-Piece with Reversible Front Rem 700 1″ High Matte Black is a well-designed and reliable mounting solution that delivers on its promise of lightweight performance. The price of $73.49 is justified by the quality of materials, ease of installation, and proven durability. For the hunter or shooter seeking a lightweight and dependable mount for their Remington 700, this Leupold combo is an excellent choice.
I would personally recommend the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo to anyone looking to shave ounces off their rifle without sacrificing reliability. If you’re planning a backcountry hunt or simply want a lightweight and dependable mounting solution, this is a great option. Upgrade your Remington 700 with the Leupold BackCountry Base/Ring Combo and experience the difference!