The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA Made a Bold First Impression
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA is a deceptively simple piece of kit. It’s a scope base, sure, but this offering from Leupold promises lightweight, rugged performance and a built-in 20 MOA slope for those of us chasing longer-range accuracy. For someone who’s spent over a decade tweaking and perfecting rifles for various tactical and hunting applications, the promise of a reliable and precise mounting solution is always welcome.
I’ve been grappling with inconsistent long-range performance on my trusty Winchester 70 long action. The rifle itself is a workhorse, but achieving consistent zero at distances beyond 600 yards has been a challenge, leading me to suspect my existing scope base was the weakest link. I chose the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot specifically for its integrated 20 MOA, aiming to maximize my scope’s elevation adjustment range and reach out further with confidence.
Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of robust simplicity. The matte black finish is clean and professional, and the base feels incredibly solid despite being machined from aircraft-grade aluminum; it conveys a sense of quality. Picking it up, the base felt light, but noticeably strong and well-made.
I was also considering a steel base from another manufacturer known for their extreme durability and a titanium base for its incredible light weight and corrosion resistance. Ultimately, I chose the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot for its balance of weight, durability, and the reputation of Leupold products in general. The integrated 20 MOA was the deciding factor, as it eliminated the need for shimming or adjustable bases.
Initial excitement was definitely the prevailing emotion. The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA appears to be a well-engineered solution to a common problem, and I was eager to see if it would live up to its potential on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA** to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local range, a 300-yard facility where I could get a baseline for group sizes before stretching the rifle out further. I installed the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA with ease, using a torque wrench to ensure proper and even tightening of the mounting screws. After mounting my scope, a Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14x40mm, I began the process of zeroing at 100 yards.
Conditions were ideal: sunny with a slight crosswind, providing a good opportunity to assess tracking and stability. The first few shots were promising, with a noticeable improvement in group consistency compared to my previous base. Zeroing was straightforward, and I quickly moved to 300 yards.
The most immediate positive was the improved elevation adjustment available through my scope. With the 20 MOA base, I was able to reach 300 yards with plenty of adjustment remaining, something I struggled with previously. There were no initial issues, and I was impressed with the immediate improvement in long-range capability.
<h3>Extended Use & Reliability</h3>After several months of regular use, including numerous range trips and a backcountry elk hunt in the Montana Rockies, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It has maintained zero flawlessly, even after being subjected to the bumps and jolts of navigating rough terrain and being exposed to harsh weather conditions. The matte black finish has proven to be durable, with minimal signs of wear despite being exposed to rain, snow, and dust.
Cleaning and maintenance are simple: a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth is all it takes to keep the base in top condition. I’ve checked the mounting screws periodically to ensure they remain properly torqued, but they haven’t loosened at all. Compared to my previous experience with less robust bases that shifted zero frequently, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot has been a revelation. It has significantly outperformed my expectations, providing a stable and reliable platform for my scope.
Breaking Down the Features of **Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA**
Specifications
Material: 7075-T6 Aircraft-Grade Aluminum. This ensures a lightweight yet incredibly strong base capable of withstanding significant recoil and environmental stress.
Finish: Matte Black. The matte black finish reduces glare and provides a non-reflective surface, crucial for hunting and tactical applications.
Compatibility: Winchester 70 Long Action. This base is specifically designed to fit Winchester 70 long action rifles, ensuring a precise and secure fit.
Cross-Slot Design: Compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings. This versatility allows users to mount a wide range of optics without needing specialized rings.
MOA Slope: 20 MOA. The integrated 20 MOA slope provides additional elevation adjustment for long-range shooting, maximizing the scope’s usable range.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA excels in its primary function: providing a stable and precise platform for mounting a scope. The integrated 20 MOA slope is a game-changer for long-range shooting, significantly increasing the effective range of my rifle. The fit and finish are excellent, and the base feels incredibly solid once properly installed.
The primary strength is its reliability and ability to maintain zero under demanding conditions. One area for potential improvement could be offering the base in other MOA options to cater to different shooting distances. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a high-quality scope base.
<h3>Design & Ergonomics</h3>The design is simple and functional, prioritizing strength and stability over aesthetics. The use of aircraft-grade aluminum keeps the weight down without compromising durability. The matte black finish is both practical and visually appealing.
Installation is straightforward with basic tools, although using a torque wrench is highly recommended to ensure proper tightening and prevent damage. There is no significant learning curve, and even those new to scope mounting should be able to install it successfully.
<h3>Durability & Maintenance</h3>The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA is built to last. The 7075-T6 aluminum is highly resistant to corrosion and wear, ensuring years of reliable service. Minimal maintenance is required: simply keep it clean and periodically check the mounting screws.
<h3>Accessories and Customization Options</h3>The base itself doesn’t require any specific accessories beyond standard scope mounting rings. Its compatibility with both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings provides ample flexibility in choosing optics. While the base itself doesn’t offer any direct customization options, its stable platform allows for optimizing the performance of the scope and rifle system. Aftermarket scope levels are a nice addition to help remove cant.
Pros and Cons of **Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA**
Pros
- Integrated 20 MOA slope significantly increases long-range shooting capability.
- Lightweight yet incredibly strong construction using 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum.
- Compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings for maximum scope versatility.
- Durable matte black finish provides corrosion resistance and reduces glare.
- Easy to install with basic tools, ensuring a secure and stable scope platform.
Cons
- Only available in one MOA configuration (20 MOA), which may not be ideal for all shooters.
- Limited customization options beyond standard scope rings.
Who Should Buy **Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA**?
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA is perfect for hunters and long-range shooters who want to maximize the effective range of their Winchester 70 long action rifle. Anyone looking for a lightweight, durable, and reliable scope base with an integrated 20 MOA slope will greatly benefit from this product. Competitive shooters may also appreciate the added elevation adjustment for reaching distant targets.
Those who primarily shoot at short distances (under 300 yards) or prefer a base with no built-in MOA slope might want to consider a different option. For shooters who don’t plan to shoot extreme long range, the 20 MOA could make it more difficult to zero at closer ranges. Must-have accessories include a quality torque wrench for proper installation and a set of reliable scope mounting rings.
Conclusion on **Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA**
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA is an outstanding scope base that delivers on its promises. Its lightweight yet robust construction, combined with the integrated 20 MOA slope, makes it an invaluable addition to any long-range shooter’s setup. For $32.99, the price is more than justified given the quality and performance it provides.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot to anyone looking to improve the long-range capabilities of their Winchester 70 long action rifle. Upgrade your shooting experience today and discover the difference a quality scope base can make!
