The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte Made a Bold First Impression
After a particularly frustrating elk hunt last fall, I realized the need for a more reliable and precise mounting system for my trusty Remington 700 long action. My old two-piece bases had started to shift slightly after years of hard use, causing inconsistencies in my zero at longer ranges. This led me on a quest for a solid, one-piece solution that could withstand the recoil of my magnum caliber and provide a stable platform for my optic.
I chose the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte after researching numerous options. I considered the Warne Mountain Tech and the Nightforce one-piece bases, but the Leupold offered a compelling combination of lightweight construction, a built-in 20 MOA of elevation, and a price point that didn’t break the bank. Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the clean, matte black finish and the seemingly bomb-proof construction. The base felt solid in my hands, inspiring confidence that it could handle anything I threw at it.
My first impression was positive, but also cautiously optimistic. While the Leupold base looked and felt superior to my old setup, the true test would be how it performed in the field under harsh conditions. The promise of a lightweight, rugged platform with integrated MOA was certainly appealing, but only time would tell if it could truly deliver.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte to the Test
First Use Experience
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base was first tested during a series of long-range shooting sessions at my local range. I mounted a Leupold VX-5HD scope using quality rings and meticulously torqued everything to spec. The first few shots revealed a significantly improved level of stability compared to my previous bases.
The base was subsequently tested during a multi-day backcountry elk hunt in the Montana Rockies. The weather was predictably unpredictable, ranging from bone-chilling rain to dry, dusty conditions. The Leupold base held zero perfectly throughout the hunt. I didn’t need to make any adjustments.
The ease of use was remarkable; installation was straightforward, and the cross-slot design accommodated both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings, offering flexibility. I experienced no issues during installation. The 20 MOA of built-in elevation made dialing in long-range shots significantly easier, giving me more travel in my scope.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of regular use, including several hunting trips and numerous range sessions, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte has proven to be incredibly reliable. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, aside from some minor cosmetic scratches. The matte black finish has held up well.
Maintenance is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth is generally all that’s needed. The base remains securely mounted and retains its zero despite exposure to extreme temperatures, moisture, and the constant recoil of my rifle. This base vastly outperformed my prior experiences with two-piece bases, providing unmatched stability and consistency.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte
Specifications
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte is designed specifically for Remington 700 long action rifles. It is machined from 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, providing exceptional strength while remaining lightweight.
This base features a 20 MOA of built-in elevation, essential for long-range shooting, and its cross-slot design is compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings, offering versatility. The matte black finish is durable and helps to reduce glare. The lightweight construction is a significant advantage for hunters and shooters who prioritize minimizing the overall weight of their rifle.
These specifications translate into tangible benefits on the range and in the field. The 20 MOA elevation allows for greater scope adjustment at long distances, while the rugged aluminum construction ensures the base can withstand harsh conditions and heavy recoil. The cross-slot design is practical, allowing easy ring swaps.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte performs its job exceptionally well by providing a rock-solid platform for mounting optics. The enhanced stability translates to improved accuracy, especially at extended ranges. This is a massive improvement over a standard two-piece base.
Its strength is its unwavering reliability and the added 20 MOA of elevation, making long-range shots more achievable. However, the mounting screws could potentially strip if overtightened, so careful torque application is crucial. The product exceeds expectations, offering a level of precision and dependability I hadn’t experienced with previous mounting solutions.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional. The use of 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum provides a perfect balance of strength and weight. The matte black finish not only looks great but also offers superior corrosion resistance.
The base is incredibly user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive design that makes installation a breeze. The low-profile design ensures that it doesn’t interfere with the rifle’s handling or aesthetics. The learning curve is minimal, even for those unfamiliar with mounting optics.
Durability & Maintenance
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte is built to last a lifetime under normal use conditions. The robust aluminum construction and durable finish ensure it can withstand years of exposure to the elements and the rigors of hunting and shooting.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and mild solvent is generally sufficient to keep it in top condition. The finish is resistant to corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte is compatible with a wide range of Picatinny and Weaver-style rings from various manufacturers. This allows for extensive customization options when selecting the ideal scope mounting solution.
There are no included accessories beyond the mounting screws. However, the base’s compatibility with standard rings means you can easily find options that suit your specific needs and preferences. Compatibility with quality rings from Leupold, Nightforce, and Seekins Precision make it easy to tailor your rifle to your exact specifications.
Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte
Pros
- Provides superior stability compared to two-piece bases, enhancing accuracy.
- The 20 MOA of built-in elevation is a significant advantage for long-range shooting.
- Constructed from lightweight and rugged 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, ensuring durability without adding unnecessary weight.
- Compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings, offering versatility.
- Simple and easy to install, even for those with limited experience.
Cons
- Mounting screws could potentially strip if overtightened.
- The black matte finish, while durable, is susceptible to cosmetic scratches.
Who Should Buy Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte?
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte is perfect for hunters and long-range shooters who demand the highest levels of accuracy and reliability from their rifles. It’s also an excellent choice for anyone upgrading from a less stable two-piece base system.
This product may not be necessary for casual shooters who only engage targets at close range. For a basic setup, the added stability and elevation may be overkill. A quality set of rings and a proper torque wrench are must-have accessories to ensure correct and safe installation.
Conclusion on Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte is a worthwhile upgrade for any serious Remington 700 long action owner looking for enhanced accuracy and long-range capabilities. The price is justified. It offers exceptional value for the performance and reliability it provides.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this base to anyone seeking a rock-solid, lightweight, and versatile mounting solution. If you’re tired of inconsistencies and want to maximize the performance of your rifle, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot is a fantastic choice. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference!