Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base Review

First Thoughts on the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base

The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base is a seemingly simple piece of kit that can make a world of difference in precision shooting. When it comes to mounting optics on a rifle, a solid and reliable base is absolutely crucial, and Leupold has a reputation for delivering quality in that department. This particular base is designed specifically for the Browning AB3 long action rifle and incorporates a 20 MOA (minute of angle) cant, which piqued my interest immediately.

I’ve always been a proponent of maximizing the effective range of my rifles, and a 20 MOA base is a standard approach to achieving that. For years, I struggled with a different mounting system that constantly shifted zero, especially after rough handling during hunts. The promise of a strong, lightweight, and precision-engineered base was very appealing, and after reading the specs, I knew I had to give the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base a try.

Unboxing the base revealed a sleek, matte-black piece of aluminum. The finish looked clean and professional. It felt surprisingly lightweight in my hand, but the 7075-T6 aluminum construction gave me confidence in its strength. Compared to the steel base I was replacing, the weight difference was immediately noticeable, a welcome change for long days in the field.

I considered a few other options before settling on the Leupold. Bases from Warne and Talley were also on my radar, but Leupold’s reputation for consistent quality and the BackCountry series’ focus on lightweight durability ultimately swayed me. The integrated 20 MOA cant also made the Leupold a more appealing choice, as it would allow me to dial in more elevation at longer ranges without maxing out my scope’s internal adjustments. I was hopeful, even excited, that this base would solve my zeroing issues and improve my long-range shooting performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base was at my local shooting range, nestled in the foothills of the Rockies. I mounted the base on my Browning AB3 long action in .300 Win Mag and paired it with a Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14×40 scope using Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rings. Installation was straightforward, thanks to the precise machining of the base. After mounting the optic, I bore-sighted the rifle and began dialing in my zero at 100 yards.

The 20 MOA cant became evident as I began to fine-tune my elevation. With my previous base, I was already nearing the upper end of my scope’s adjustment range at 100 yards. But with the Leupold, I was comfortably in the middle, giving me plenty of room to adjust for longer distances. During the initial session, I put about 60 rounds downrange. The base held the zero perfectly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and numerous range sessions, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base has proven its reliability. It hasn’t shifted zero, even after being subjected to the bumps and jostles of hunting trips. I’ve taken the rifle on multiple hunts in diverse conditions, from cold, snowy weather to dry, dusty terrain.

The base has shown no signs of wear and tear. The anodized finish has held up well against scratches and dings. Cleaning is also straightforward. I simply wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use. The Leupold has surpassed my expectations. It has restored my confidence in my rifle’s ability to hold zero under demanding conditions, unlike my previous setup.

Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base

Specifications

The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:

• Material: 7075-T6 Aluminum. The use of aircraft-grade aluminum ensures a lightweight yet robust construction. This minimizes added weight to the rifle while providing exceptional strength and resistance to recoil.
• Compatibility: Browning AB3 Long Action. Designed specifically for the Browning AB3 long action rifles. This ensures a precise fit and proper alignment.
• MOA: 20 MOA Cant. The integrated 20 MOA cant allows for greater elevation adjustments at longer ranges. This maximizes the use of the scope’s internal adjustment range, especially beneficial for long-range shooting.
• Rail Type: Picatinny/Cross-Slot. The Picatinny rail design offers versatile ring placement options. This provides maximum eye relief adjustment.
• Finish: Matte Black Anodized. The anodized finish adds a layer of corrosion resistance and provides a non-reflective surface. This is crucial for hunting and tactical applications.

Performance & Functionality

The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base excels in its primary function: providing a stable and reliable mounting platform for optics. It delivers consistent accuracy and maintains zero, even under heavy recoil and rough handling. The 20 MOA cant significantly improves long-range shooting capability. It enables me to accurately engage targets at distances beyond 500 yards with my .300 Win Mag.

The only minor improvement I could suggest is perhaps offering different MOA options for shooters with varying needs. Overall, the base has exceeded my expectations. It has significantly enhanced my rifle’s performance and accuracy at extended ranges.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base is simple yet effective. The lightweight aluminum construction doesn’t add noticeable weight to the rifle, maintaining a good balance. The Picatinny rail provides ample space for ring placement. It allows for optimal eye relief adjustment.

The low-profile design also minimizes the chance of snagging on clothing or gear. Installation is relatively straightforward, requiring only basic tools and gunsmithing knowledge. The overall design is well-thought-out and user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The 7075-T6 aluminum construction ensures long-term durability. The anodized finish protects against corrosion and wear. After months of use, the base shows no signs of degradation.

Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down with a clean cloth after each use is sufficient to keep it in good condition. The durable construction and easy maintenance contribute to the base’s overall value and longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base is compatible with any Picatinny-style rings. Leupold recommends using their BackCountry Cross-Slot Rings or Mark 4 Aluminum rings. This ensures optimal compatibility and a lightweight, rugged mounting solution.

While the base itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the Picatinny rail allows for the attachment of various accessories, such as backup iron sights or laser designators. The base is designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of optics, providing flexibility in choosing the right scope for your specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base

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Who Should Buy Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base?

The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base is perfect for:

• Long-range hunters who need to accurately engage targets at distances beyond 300 yards.
• Competitive shooters who participate in long-range shooting disciplines.
• Anyone looking to maximize the effective range of their Browning AB3 long action rifle.

Who should skip this product?

• Hunters or shooters who primarily engage targets at shorter ranges (under 300 yards) and do not require the additional elevation adjustment provided by the 20 MOA cant.
• Rifle owners who do not have a Browning AB3 long action rifle, as the base is specifically designed for this platform.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• High-quality Picatinny-style scope rings, such as Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rings or Mark 4 Aluminum rings.
• A scope with sufficient internal elevation adjustment for the desired shooting distances.

Conclusion on Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base

The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base is a well-designed, durable, and affordable mounting solution for Browning AB3 long action rifles. Its lightweight construction, integrated 20 MOA cant, and precise fit make it an excellent choice for long-range shooting enthusiasts. The base provides a stable and reliable platform for optics, ensuring consistent accuracy and maintaining zero, even under demanding conditions.

The value proposition is strong, as the Leupold offers features and performance comparable to more expensive bases. I would definitely recommend the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Browning AB3 Long Action 20 MOA Rifle Base to anyone looking to upgrade their Browning AB3 rifle for long-range shooting. If you are ready to take your long-range shooting to the next level, this base is a must-have!

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