First Thoughts on the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte
As a gear specialist, I’ve seen countless mounting solutions come and go, each promising the world. But few manage to balance ruggedness, precision, and affordability quite like the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte. When Leupold announced this base, it piqued my interest as a potential upgrade for my personal Savage 110.
I was perpetually battling inconsistent groupings at longer ranges with my trusty Savage 110 short action. The factory rail, while functional, lacked the rigidity and built-in elevation I needed to truly reach out and touch targets consistently. I needed a one-piece solution that would provide a solid, repeatable mounting platform, and the 20 MOA cant was a must for extending my effective range.
Unboxing was straightforward. The Leupold base was securely packaged, and my initial impression was positive. The matte black finish looked clean and durable, and the machining appeared precise. The weight was surprisingly light, a welcome change from some of the bulkier steel bases I’ve used in the past.
I considered other options like the Warne Mountain Tech rail, known for its robust construction, and the EGW HD rail, lauded for its precision. Ultimately, the Leupold’s combination of lightweight aluminum, cross-slot compatibility, and the trusted Leupold name convinced me to give it a try. I had high hopes.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The base looked solid, and the price was certainly attractive. I was eager to get it mounted and see if it could truly improve my long-range accuracy with the Savage 110.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte at my local range, which offers distances out to 600 yards. I mounted my existing scope, a Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50, using a set of Leupold rings. The cross-slot design made installation quick and easy, accommodating both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings without any hassle.
The range conditions were fairly typical: sunny, with a slight breeze. Zeroing was straightforward, and the 20 MOA cant was immediately noticeable, giving me significantly more elevation adjustment in my scope. After only a few shots, I was consistently hitting targets at 300 yards, a distance that previously required a bit more Kentucky windage.
There weren’t any major issues during the first use, though I did notice that the screws required a bit more torque than expected to achieve a secure fit. The fit was solid after mounting and it handled the recoil of my .308 cartridge very well.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple range sessions and a weekend hunting trip in somewhat rugged terrain, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear beyond a few minor scuffs from handling.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps it looking and functioning like new. The aluminum construction seems resistant to corrosion, even after being exposed to some damp conditions during my hunting trip. It is a reliable system that has yet to fail.
Compared to my previous setup with the factory rail, the Leupold base has noticeably improved my long-range accuracy and consistency. The added rigidity and elevation cant have made a significant difference. It definitely outperforms my expectations for a base in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte
Specifications
Product Name: Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte. This model is specifically designed for Savage 110/10 rifles with round receivers and short actions.
Manufacturer: Leupold, a trusted name in optics and mounting solutions. Known for quality and durability.
Style: Cross-Slot. This design offers maximum versatility, accommodating both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings.
Material: 7075-T6 Aircraft-Grade Aluminum. This ensures lightweight yet rugged performance.
Finish: Matte Black. Provides a non-reflective surface and enhances corrosion resistance.
MOA: 20 MOA. The built-in 20 MOA cant aids in long-range shooting by providing additional elevation adjustment.
Compatibility: Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action. Ensure this base is compatible with your specific rifle model.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the accuracy, reliability, and overall shooting experience. The 7075-T6 aluminum provides a strong, stable platform without adding unnecessary weight. The 20 MOA cant extends the usable range of your scope, allowing for more precise shots at longer distances.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a solid and repeatable mounting platform for my scope. Accuracy has improved noticeably, particularly at distances beyond 300 yards.
The main strength of this base is its simplicity and effectiveness. It is easy to install, provides a secure mounting platform, and the 20 MOA cant is a significant advantage for long-range shooting. The only minor weakness is the relatively high torque required for the mounting screws.
It definitely exceeds my expectations, especially considering its affordable price point. It provides the performance and functionality of more expensive bases at a fraction of the cost.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The 7075-T6 aluminum feels solid and durable, and the matte black finish is clean and professional-looking. The weight is surprisingly light, which is a welcome change from some of the heavier steel bases on the market.
The base is incredibly user-friendly. Installation is straightforward, and the cross-slot design makes it easy to accommodate a wide range of scope rings. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the robust construction and high-quality materials, I expect the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte to last for many years. The aluminum is corrosion-resistant, and the matte black finish is durable enough to withstand normal wear and tear.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The base itself doesn’t come with any additional accessories, but it is designed to be compatible with a wide range of scope rings. The cross-slot design accommodates both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings.
It is also compatible with most aftermarket scope levels and other accessories designed for Picatinny or Weaver rails. The standard mounting pattern makes it easy to customize your setup to suit your specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte
Pros
- Affordable Price: Excellent value for the performance offered.
- Lightweight Construction: Made from 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum.
- 20 MOA Cant: Improves long-range shooting capabilities.
- Cross-Slot Design: Compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver rings.
- Easy Installation: Straightforward mounting process.
Cons
- Screws Require High Torque: May require more force than expected for secure mounting.
- Aluminum may not be as durable as steel: For extreme-duty applications, steel may be preferred.
Who Should Buy Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte?
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte is perfect for hunters and target shooters looking to improve their long-range accuracy without breaking the bank. It’s also ideal for those who want a lightweight and durable mounting solution for their Savage 110 short action rifle.
This base might not be the best choice for individuals who subject their rifles to extreme abuse or require the absolute maximum durability. They may prefer a heavier steel base.
A must-have accessory for this base is a high-quality set of scope rings. Ensure they are compatible with the cross-slot design. A torque wrench is also recommended to ensure proper and secure mounting of the base and rings.
Conclusion on Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte
Overall, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte is an excellent product. It offers a compelling combination of performance, durability, and affordability.
The price is definitely justified. It provides the benefits of a more expensive base at a fraction of the cost.
I would highly recommend this base to anyone looking to upgrade their Savage 110 short action rifle. It’s a simple, effective, and affordable way to improve your long-range accuracy. If you’re ready to take your Savage 110 to the next level, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot is a fantastic choice. Don’t just take my word for it – give it a try and experience the difference for yourself!