The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte Made a Bold First Impression
Mounting a scope securely and reliably is paramount for any rifle shooter. And after years of struggling with subpar bases, I was on the hunt for a robust, dependable solution for my Savage 110. The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte promised just that, along with the added benefit of a 20 MOA cant for those longer-range shots.
For years, I had issues with scope slippage and inconsistent zero on my trusty Savage. This led to frustration and wasted ammo during crucial hunting trips. I needed a base that would stay put, provide a solid platform for my optics, and give me that extra edge for reaching out to distant targets.
The Leupold base arrived in a simple but effective package. My first impression was positive; the matte black finish looked sleek and durable. Picking it up, I noticed the lightweight design, thanks to its aircraft-grade aluminum construction. Compared to the bulky steel bases I’d used before, this was a welcome change.
I considered options from Warne and Seekins Precision. But ultimately, I chose the Leupold because of its reputation for quality, the integrated 20 MOA cant, and the reasonable price point. I was hoping for a solid, reliable base that wouldn’t break the bank.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The quality seemed apparent, but the true test would be in its performance under real-world conditions. Would it hold zero? Would it withstand recoil? Only time and range sessions would tell.
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 mounted the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base on my Savage 110 in preparation for a backcountry elk hunt. This involved a 3-day trek through rugged terrain and unpredictable weather. The first real test was ensuring the base remained securely attached after enduring hours of jostling in my pack.
Conditions ranged from sunshine to light rain, with temperatures fluctuating between 40 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The base remained firmly in place throughout the trip. Installation was straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a bit of Loctite on the screws.
I did need to spend a little time ensuring the scope was perfectly aligned, but that’s typical with any new mounting system. After zeroing my rifle at the range, I was impressed with the consistency of my shots. There were no signs of movement or shift in zero after the first range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Leupold base has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve taken it on multiple hunting trips and numerous range sessions. There have been no issues with the base loosening or affecting the rifle’s accuracy.
The matte black finish has held up well, with only minor signs of wear on the edges. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my previous experiences with other bases that constantly needed tightening or adjustment, the Leupold has been a breath of fresh air.
The base continues to outperform my expectations. It offers a rock-solid platform for my scope and maintains zero even after prolonged use and rough handling. The added 20 MOA cant has also allowed me to effectively engage targets at longer distances.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte
Specifications
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 base is specifically designed for Savage 110/10 rifles with a round receiver and short action. It features a one-piece construction for enhanced rigidity.
The base is machined from 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, making it lightweight yet incredibly strong. It boasts a black matte finish for a non-reflective surface and added corrosion resistance. The integrated 20 MOA cant provides additional elevation adjustment for long-range shooting.
These specifications are crucial for a stable and accurate shooting platform. The aircraft-grade aluminum ensures durability without adding unnecessary weight. The 20 MOA cant is particularly useful for shooters engaging targets at distances beyond the effective range of their scope’s internal adjustment.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base excels in providing a secure and stable platform for mounting optics. It holds zero consistently, even under heavy recoil and harsh environmental conditions. The base is easy to install and compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings.
The primary strength of this base lies in its simplicity and reliability. Its one-piece construction minimizes the potential for movement or flex. A minor weakness could be the lack of integrated recoil lugs, although the tight tolerances and robust screws adequately address this.
The product meets and exceeds my expectations. It has solved my previous issues with scope slippage and inconsistent zero. It has become an indispensable component of my rifle setup.
Design & Ergonomics
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base features a low-profile design that doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the rifle. The matte black finish blends seamlessly with most rifle and scope combinations. The 7075-T6 aluminum provides a lightweight feel while maintaining exceptional strength.
The base is incredibly user-friendly. Installation is simple and straightforward. No specialized tools or gunsmithing skills are required.
Durability & Maintenance
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base is built to last. The 7075-T6 aluminum is highly resistant to corrosion and wear. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal, consisting primarily of occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris. Regular checks to ensure the mounting screws are properly tightened is also recommended.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base is designed to be compatible with a wide range of Picatinny and Weaver-style scope rings. This allows for considerable customization in scope selection and placement. While the base itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its compatibility with various rings provides ample flexibility.
Most popular brands of scope rings, such as Nightforce, Badger Ordnance, and Seekins Precision, will work seamlessly with this base. The freedom to choose from a diverse array of rings makes it easy to tailor the rifle setup to specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/10 with Round Receiver Short Action 1-Piece 20 MOA Black Matte
Pros
- Lightweight and durable construction using aircraft-grade aluminum.
- Integrated 20 MOA cant for extended long-range shooting capability.
- One-piece design for enhanced rigidity and stability.
- Compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver-style scope rings.
- Easy to install with basic tools.
Cons
- Lacks integrated recoil lugs (although not essential due to tight tolerances).
- Matte black finish may show minor wear over time.
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 base is perfect for hunters and long-range shooters seeking a reliable and lightweight mounting solution. It particularly benefits those who need additional elevation for engaging targets at extended distances. It is also great for tactical shooters who require a secure and stable platform for their optics.
Those who prioritize aesthetics above all else, or require specialized features like integrated levels, might consider other options. Individuals who exclusively shoot at short distances and don’t need the added elevation of the 20 MOA cant may find it unnecessary.
Essential accessories include high-quality scope rings, a torque wrench to ensure proper screw tightening, and thread locker (like Loctite) to prevent screws from loosening. A bubble level can also be helpful for ensuring the scope is perfectly aligned.
Conclusion on 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 an excellent investment for Savage 110 owners. It delivers exceptional performance and reliability at a reasonable price. Its lightweight, durable construction and integrated 20 MOA cant make it a standout choice for long-range shooting.
The price of $32.99 is more than justified, given the quality of materials and the improved shooting experience it provides. I wholeheartedly recommend the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base to anyone looking to upgrade their Savage 110’s optic mounting system. It is a worthwhile upgrade.
If you’re tired of dealing with loose scope bases and inconsistent zero, then this is the solution you’ve been waiting for. Upgrade your Savage 110 today and experience the difference a solid mounting system can make.