The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve handled countless rifles and mounting solutions. When I first encountered the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte, its simplicity and rugged promise immediately caught my eye. I was seeking a reliable and lightweight mounting base for my trusty Savage 110 long action rifle, something that wouldn’t add unnecessary bulk while maintaining rock-solid stability.
My frustration stemmed from previously using a two-piece base system that occasionally shifted under heavy recoil during extended hunting trips in the unforgiving Alaskan backcountry. This shifting not only affected my accuracy but also eroded my confidence in the field. After thoroughly researching various one-piece base options, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte stood out due to its Leupold reputation for quality and its use of aircraft-grade aluminum for a lightweight yet durable construction.
Upon unboxing, the matte black finish exuded a professional, no-nonsense aesthetic. The base felt incredibly solid, despite its surprisingly light weight. The machining was clean, and the cross-slots were precisely cut, promising compatibility with both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings.
I was also considering a similar base from Warne, known for their steel construction and robust designs. However, the added weight of the Warne base, especially for a long-action rifle already tipping the scales, pushed me towards the Leupold. EGW also offers a similar product, but I have found their tolerances can be hit-or-miss.
My initial impression was one of quiet confidence. I wasn’t blown away by flashy features, but rather reassured by the purposeful design and the promise of unwavering reliability. It was a subtle excitement, knowing that this base could be the key to unlocking greater accuracy and peace of mind in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte to the Test
First Use Experience
I wasted no time installing the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte on my Savage 110 before a week-long elk hunt in the Colorado Rockies. The installation process was straightforward, thanks to the precise machining and included screws. The base sat perfectly flush against the round receiver, ensuring a solid and even mounting surface.
The rifle performed flawlessly throughout the hunt, enduring everything from light rain to freezing temperatures. The optic remained securely mounted even after multiple hikes through rough terrain and repeated firing sessions during sighting in. I didn’t experience any shifting or loosening of the base, which was a significant improvement over my previous setup.
The ease of use was remarkable; there was no learning curve involved. I simply mounted my scope rings, torqued everything to the recommended specifications, and was ready to go. No modifications or adjustments were needed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including numerous range sessions and another hunting trip, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic scratches. The black matte finish has proven to be durable and resistant to corrosion.
Cleaning and maintaining the base is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a cloth and a bit of solvent is all it takes to keep it in pristine condition. This is a far cry from other bases I’ve owned that needed special treatments and frequent inspections.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper, two-piece bases, the Leupold offers a vastly superior level of stability and confidence. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability, ease of use, and overall performance. This base holds up under pressure.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte
Specifications
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte is specifically designed for Savage 110/10 rifles with a round receiver and long action. It is constructed from 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, offering an excellent balance of strength and weight. This means reliable strength without adding unnecessary weight.
The base features a one-piece design for enhanced rigidity and stability, minimizing the risk of shifting under recoil. Its cross-slot design accepts both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings, providing flexibility in optic mounting options. The black matte finish reduces glare and provides a sleek, professional look.
The lightweight design prevents unnecessary weight gain to your rifle. Using high-quality aluminum is important for both strength and weight reduction.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte performs its job flawlessly. Its primary function is to provide a stable and secure platform for mounting optics, and it excels in this regard. Accuracy is noticeably improved compared to using a two-piece base, as there is no chance of misalignment or shifting.
The strength of the one-piece design is a significant factor in the improved accuracy. This ensures that your optic remains zeroed, even after extended use in harsh conditions.
The design is straightforward and effective, leaving little room for improvement. It meets and exceeds expectations for a mounting base in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional. The 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum feels incredibly strong and durable, and the matte black finish is evenly applied and resistant to scratches. The weight is surprisingly light, which is a definite plus for a long-action rifle.
The base is incredibly user-friendly. There is no learning curve; it simply bolts onto the receiver and is ready to accept scope rings. The design is intuitive and requires no special tools or skills for installation.
Durability & Maintenance
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte is built to last. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction ensures long-term durability, even under heavy use and in harsh environments. With basic care, it should easily withstand years of service.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe down with a cloth after each use is all that is needed to keep it in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The base itself doesn’t require any specific accessories, but it is compatible with a wide range of Picatinny and Weaver-style scope rings. This allows for a high degree of customization in terms of optic selection and placement. The versatility to use either Picatinny or Weaver rings is a significant advantage.
You can easily mount various scopes, red dots, or other aiming devices depending on your specific needs and preferences. It is compatible with popular accessories from brands such as Leupold, Vortex, Nightforce, and others.
Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte
Pros
- Lightweight and durable aircraft-grade aluminum construction. This ensures long-lasting performance without adding unnecessary weight to your rifle.
- One-piece design provides superior stability and accuracy. Eliminates the risk of shifting or misalignment, resulting in improved shot placement.
- Compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings. Offers flexibility in optic mounting options and accommodates a wide range of accessories.
- Easy to install and maintain. Requires no special tools or skills for installation and minimal maintenance.
- Affordable price point. Provides excellent value for the money, offering performance comparable to more expensive bases.
Cons
- Lacks recoil lug for maximum recoil absorption. This is generally not an issue for most calibers but could be a factor for magnum loads.
- Only available in black matte finish. Limited color options may not appeal to all users.
Who Should Buy Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte?
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone looking for a reliable and affordable mounting solution for their Savage 110 long-action rifle. It is especially well-suited for those who prioritize lightweight design and ease of use.
Those who should skip this product are shooters using high-powered magnum loads and those who prefer a steel base for maximum recoil absorption. Those users might consider bases with recoil lugs.
A must-have accessory would be a set of high-quality scope rings, such as those offered by Leupold or Vortex, to ensure a secure and precise optic mounting.
Conclusion on Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Long Action 1-Piece Black Matte is a fantastic mounting base that delivers exceptional value for the price. Its lightweight construction, one-piece design, and compatibility with both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings make it a versatile and reliable choice for Savage 110 long-action rifles.
The price is definitely justified. For around $33, it provides a level of performance and durability that rivals more expensive options.
I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a simple, effective, and affordable way to mount an optic on their Savage 110. If you’re tired of flimsy bases that shift under recoil, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot is a game-changer. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference a quality mounting base can make!