First Thoughts on the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve mounted countless optics on rifles over the last decade. A solid, reliable base is the foundation of any accurate rifle, and Leupold has always been a name I trust. The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte promises a lightweight yet rugged mounting solution, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the Leupold reputation.
My old steel base had seen better days, adding unnecessary weight to my Remington 700 long action rifle. I needed a lightweight alternative that wouldn’t sacrifice strength. Upon unboxing, the Leupold base felt surprisingly light, yet the machining looked clean and precise. It’s a sleek, matte black finish that blends seamlessly with most rifles.
Compared to some of the cheaper aluminum bases I’ve encountered, the Leupold felt noticeably more robust. I considered a few other aluminum bases, but the Leupold name and reputation for quality won me over. My first impression was positive – a lightweight, well-made base that promised to be a solid foundation for my optic.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte at my local shooting range, mounting it on my Remington 700 long action in .30-06. I was sighting in a new scope and wanted a stable platform. The weather was slightly drizzly, adding a bit of moisture to the equation.
Installation was straightforward, and the cross-slots made it easy to find the perfect eye relief with my scope. Even with the slightly wet conditions, I felt confident in the base’s grip and stability. No initial issues arose; the scope sat securely on the base, ready for zeroing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular range trips and a backcountry deer hunt, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base has performed admirably. There are no signs of loosening or shifting, even after repeated recoil from the .30-06. The matte black finish has held up well, showing no scratches or wear from handling in the field.
Maintaining the base is simple – a quick wipe-down with a cloth is all it takes to keep it clean. Compared to my previous steel base, the Leupold is significantly lighter and just as stable. It has definitely exceeded my expectations, providing a reliable and lightweight mounting solution.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte
Specifications
- This Leupold base is specifically designed for Remington 700 long action rifles. It ensures a precise fit and optimal performance.
- The base is constructed from 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum. This material offers a superior strength-to-weight ratio, making it both durable and lightweight.
- The matte black finish minimizes glare and provides a sleek, professional look. It also adds a layer of corrosion resistance for enhanced durability.
- It features a cross-slot design compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings. This versatility allows users to choose from a wide range of scope rings.
- As a one-piece base, it offers increased rigidity and stability compared to two-piece bases. This promotes better accuracy and consistent performance.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the base’s ability to securely hold an optic and withstand recoil. The lightweight aluminum construction reduces overall rifle weight, while the cross-slot design offers flexibility in scope ring selection.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte performs its job flawlessly. It provides a rock-solid platform for mounting optics on Remington 700 long action rifles.
Its strength lies in its simple, effective design and high-quality materials. The only potential improvement might be the inclusion of torque specifications for the mounting screws. Overall, the base exceeds expectations, offering excellent stability and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Leupold base features a clean, minimalist design that doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the rifle. Its lightweight aluminum construction makes it comfortable to carry in the field.
The cross-slot design is intuitive and easy to use, requiring no special tools or expertise for installation. There’s no learning curve; it’s a straightforward and user-friendly product.
Durability & Maintenance
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base is built to last. The 7075-T6 aluminum construction is highly resistant to wear and tear.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. Its durable finish and robust construction ensure long-term reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte doesn’t come with accessories beyond the necessary mounting screws. Its primary customization lies in the choice of compatible Picatinny or Weaver-style scope rings.
It is compatible with a vast array of rings from various manufacturers, including Leupold, Nightforce, and Warne. This flexibility allows shooters to tailor their optic mounting system to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte
Pros
- Lightweight Design: Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, it minimizes added weight to the rifle.
- Durable Construction: The 7075-T6 aluminum alloy ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear.
- Versatile Compatibility: The cross-slot design accommodates both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings.
- One-Piece Stability: Offers increased rigidity and a more secure mounting platform compared to two-piece bases.
- Easy Installation: Simple and straightforward to mount, requiring minimal tools.
Cons
- Lack of Included Torque Specifications: Torque specs for the screws aren’t included.
- Basic Packaging: The packaging is functional but not particularly premium.
Who Should Buy Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte?
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte is perfect for hunters, target shooters, and anyone looking for a lightweight and reliable optic mounting solution for their Remington 700 long action rifle. It’s also ideal for those who want the flexibility of using either Picatinny or Weaver-style scope rings.
Those who prioritize having extremely detailed torque specifications included or demand premium packaging might consider other options. A must-have accessory would be a high-quality torque wrench to ensure proper screw tightening during installation.
Conclusion on Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rem 700 Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte delivers on its promise of providing a lightweight, rugged, and versatile mounting solution. Its high-quality construction and thoughtful design make it a worthwhile investment for any Remington 700 long action owner.
At a price of $32.99, it offers excellent value for the money, especially considering the Leupold name and reputation for quality. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone seeking a reliable and lightweight optic base. Upgrade your rifle with the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot and experience the difference a solid foundation can make.