First Thoughts on the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/Axis Round Receiver Long Action Rifle Base
Mounting a scope properly is critical for any rifle, but it’s especially crucial when you’re dealing with a hard-hitting long action cartridge in a Savage 110 or Axis. A solid base is the foundation for accuracy and reliability. The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/Axis Round Receiver Long Action Rifle Base promises just that: a lightweight, rugged platform for your optics.
I’ve spent years wrestling with scope mounting solutions, from budget-friendly options that quickly proved their worthlessness to high-end setups that demanded a second mortgage. My current project rifle, a Savage 110 in .300 Win Mag destined for some serious elk hunting, needed a base that could handle recoil and maintain zero through thick and thin. The Leupold name carries weight, and the promise of a one-piece Picatinny rail made from 7075-T6 aluminum intrigued me.
Unboxing the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/Axis Round Receiver Long Action Rifle Base, the first thing I noticed was its clean, matte black finish. The machining looked precise, and the 7075-T6 aluminum felt substantial yet surprisingly light. Compared to some of the heavier steel bases I’ve used in the past, this was a welcome change. I’ve used Weaver style bases before and always struggled with ring placement flexibility.
I considered a few other options, including some steel bases from Warne and Nightforce. However, the Leupold base offered a better balance of weight, strength, and price. The one-piece design also appealed to me for its potential to enhance rigidity. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would live up to the Leupold reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/Axis Round Receiver Long Action Rifle Base to the Test
First Use Experience
The initial test took place at my local range, mounting the base on my Savage 110 and pairing it with a Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10×40 scope using Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rings. Installation was straightforward; the provided screws fit perfectly, and the base seated securely on the receiver. I torqued everything to spec and bore-sighted the scope.
The range day started with zeroing at 100 yards. Even with the .300 Win Mag’s significant recoil, the base remained rock solid. Groupings were consistent, and there was no sign of scope movement. The cross-slot design provided ample flexibility in ring placement, allowing me to achieve optimal eye relief with the Leupold scope. The matte black finish prevented glare and blended seamlessly with the rifle and scope.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and a week-long backcountry scouting trip, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/Axis Round Receiver Long Action Rifle Base has proven its worth. It has endured temperature swings, bumps, and scrapes without any loss of zero or signs of loosening. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a solvent-dampened cloth removes any residue.
The 7075-T6 aluminum has held up admirably, showing no signs of bending or cracking despite the constant recoil. I’ve previously used cheaper aluminum bases that deformed under heavy recoil, but this Leupold base is a different beast. Compared to those experiences, the Leupold base inspires confidence and performs flawlessly.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/Axis Round Receiver Long Action Rifle Base
Specifications
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/Axis Round Receiver Long Action Rifle Base is specifically designed for Savage 110 and Axis rifles with round receivers and long actions. It’s a one-piece Picatinny rail constructed from 7075-T6 aluminum, known for its high strength-to-weight ratio. The base features a matte black finish to minimize glare.
This base accepts Picatinny-style scope rings and offers a cross-slot design for maximum ring placement versatility. The included mounting screws are designed for a secure and proper fit. These specifications are crucial for reliable scope mounting; the 7075-T6 aluminum provides strength without adding excessive weight, while the Picatinny rail ensures compatibility with a wide range of optics.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/Axis Round Receiver Long Action Rifle Base performs its primary function exceptionally well: providing a stable and secure platform for mounting a scope. It allows for precise and repeatable zeroing, which is essential for accurate shooting. The versatility in ring placement ensures optimal eye relief for various scopes and shooting positions.
A key strength is its ability to maintain zero even under heavy recoil. The one-piece design adds rigidity, minimizing flex and movement. The only potential improvement would be offering different height options to accommodate larger objective lenses, though the standard height has worked fine for my setups. This base meets and exceeds expectations for a reliable and versatile scope mounting solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with precise machining and a clean finish. The 7075-T6 aluminum feels robust, and the lightweight design doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the rifle. The matte black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, reducing glare and preventing reflections.
Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a torque wrench. There’s virtually no learning curve; even novice scope mounters should find it easy to install. The ergonomic design seamlessly integrates with the rifle, providing a comfortable and secure platform for the scope.
Durability & Maintenance
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/Axis Round Receiver Long Action Rifle Base, crafted from 7075-T6 aluminum, is built to last. Regular cleaning with a mild solvent is all that’s needed to maintain its condition. The durable finish resists scratches and corrosion, ensuring years of reliable performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/Axis Round Receiver Long Action Rifle Base comes with the necessary mounting screws. It is designed to be compatible with any Picatinny-style scope rings. Leupold recommends using their BackCountry Cross-Slot Rings or Mark 4 Aluminum rings for a complete Leupold mounting solution.
Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/Axis Round Receiver Long Action Rifle Base
Pros
- Provides a rock-solid mounting platform for scopes on Savage 110/Axis rifles.
- Made from lightweight yet durable 7075-T6 aluminum.
- Offers excellent versatility in ring placement due to the cross-slot design.
- Easy to install with included mounting screws.
- Maintains zero even under heavy recoil.
Cons
- Only compatible with Savage 110/Axis round receiver long action rifles.
- May require higher rings to accommodate scopes with very large objective lenses.
Who Should Buy Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/Axis Round Receiver Long Action Rifle Base?
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/Axis Round Receiver Long Action Rifle Base is perfect for hunters and competitive shooters who demand a reliable and accurate scope mounting solution for their Savage 110 or Axis long action rifles. It is also a great choice for anyone building a custom rifle or upgrading their existing setup. It would particularly benefit those using larger scopes and need the maximum flexibility in eye relief.
Anyone needing a base for a short action or different rifle model should skip this product. Must-have accessories include a quality set of Picatinny rings (ideally Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Rings or Mark 4 Aluminum rings) and a torque wrench to ensure proper installation.
Conclusion on Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/Axis Round Receiver Long Action Rifle Base
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/Axis Round Receiver Long Action Rifle Base is a well-designed, durable, and versatile scope mounting solution that delivers on its promises. At a price of $32.99, it offers exceptional value for the money, especially considering its high-quality construction and reliable performance.
I would personally recommend this base to anyone looking for a solid foundation for their optics on a Savage 110 or Axis long action rifle. It is a simple upgrade that makes a significant difference in accuracy and confidence. Invest in a Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 110/Axis Round Receiver Long Action Rifle Base and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your scope is securely and reliably mounted.