First Thoughts on the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA
For any serious long-range shooter, the foundation of their rifle system is paramount, and that foundation begins with a solid scope mount. The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA base aims to provide exactly that: a lightweight, rugged, and precise platform for mounting optics on the legendary Winchester Model 70 long action rifle. This one-piece base isn’t just another piece of metal; it’s a critical component designed to enhance the rifle’s long-range capabilities by incorporating a 20 MOA slope.
My quest for a reliable scope base with built-in elevation for my custom Winchester 70 build led me to this Leupold offering. I wanted to stretch the effective range of my .300 Winchester Magnum, and a 20 MOA base seemed like the ideal solution to maximize my scope’s elevation travel. I was looking for something lightweight and robust.
Upon unboxing the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA, I was immediately impressed with its clean lines and seemingly robust construction. The matte black finish looked professional and promised to blend seamlessly with my rifle. The lightweight nature of the aluminum was also immediately apparent.
Compared to steel bases I’ve used in the past, such as those from Badger Ordnance and Nightforce, the Leupold BackCountry base felt significantly lighter. While steel offers ultimate rigidity, the weight savings of the Leupold base were appealing, especially for a hunting rifle that could see miles of backcountry travel. I chose this option because I wanted a lightweight setup for hunts in the mountains.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The base looked well-made and lightweight, but I needed to see how it performed in the field to truly judge its worth. It certainly appeared ready to meet the challenges I intended to throw its way.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA base at my local shooting range, a well-maintained facility that allows for shooting out to 600 yards. I mounted a Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14×40 scope using Leupold PRW2 rings. The installation process was straightforward, and the base fit perfectly onto my Winchester 70 long action receiver.
The weather conditions during my initial range session were typical for early spring: cool, slightly damp, with a moderate breeze. I was primarily focused on zeroing the rifle and testing the scope’s tracking. The base held firm throughout the session, and I observed no shift in zero. This immediately gave me confidence in its ability to withstand recoil.
One minor issue I encountered was the tightness of the cross-slots. Some of my Picatinny-style accessories required a bit of extra effort to mount, but this was easily remedied with a small file. The base proved easy to use overall.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including multiple range sessions and a week-long elk hunt in the Colorado Rockies, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA base has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of wear and tear beyond minor scratches from normal use.
The matte black finish has held up well, resisting corrosion and maintaining its aesthetic appeal. Cleaning the base is a simple process, typically involving just a wipe-down with a clean cloth. I’ve been careful to ensure that the mounting screws remain properly torqued.
Compared to some other lightweight bases I’ve used in the past, the Leupold BackCountry base has outperformed them in terms of its ability to maintain zero over extended periods. It instilled confidence during my elk hunt. The stability and reliability of the base are impressive.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA
Specifications
- Type: 1-Piece Base. This provides enhanced rigidity compared to two-piece bases.
- MFG/Model: BackCountry. This signifies Leupold’s commitment to lightweight, rugged performance.
- Style: Cross-Slot. This allows for versatile mounting options with both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings.
- Misc: 20 MOA. The 20 MOA slope is crucial for long-range shooting, extending the usable elevation range of the scope.
- Finish: Matte Black. The matte black finish reduces glare and blends seamlessly with most rifles.
- Material: 7075-T6 Aircraft-Grade Aluminum. This provides a lightweight yet robust construction.
These specifications directly impact the performance and user experience. The lightweight aluminum minimizes added weight to the rifle. The 20 MOA slope is essential for maximizing long-range accuracy, enabling the shooter to dial in more elevation without running out of adjustment in the scope.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA base performs its job admirably. It provides a stable and reliable platform for mounting optics. The 20 MOA slope allows for greater elevation adjustment, making it easier to engage targets at longer ranges.
Its strengths lie in its lightweight design, robust construction, and precise fit. A minor weakness could be the slightly tight cross-slots. The base meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA base is excellent. The 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum feels solid and durable despite its light weight. The matte black finish is aesthetically pleasing and helps to minimize glare.
The base is user-friendly, and the installation process is relatively straightforward. There is virtually no learning curve involved. It is designed to be simple and effective.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction and the quality of materials used, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA base should last for many years with proper care. The hard-anodized finish provides excellent corrosion resistance. Maintenance is minimal.
Cleaning typically involves wiping down with a clean cloth. Regular checks of the mounting screws are recommended to ensure they remain properly torqued. The base requires minimal maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA base is primarily designed to be used with compatible scope rings. It does not come with any specific accessories. It is compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings, offering a wide range of options.
The base is designed to interface directly with the Winchester Model 70 long action receiver. There are no additional customization options beyond selecting the appropriate scope rings. The compatibility with different ring styles is an advantage.
Pros and Cons of Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA
Pros
- Lightweight Design: Minimizes added weight to the rifle, crucial for backcountry hunting.
- 20 MOA Slope: Extends the usable elevation range of the scope, improving long-range accuracy.
- Durable Construction: Made from 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum for rugged performance.
- Versatile Compatibility: Fits both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings, offering a wide range of mounting options.
- Easy Installation: Straightforward installation process, no specialized tools required.
Cons
- Slightly Tight Cross-Slots: Some Picatinny accessories may require a bit of extra effort to mount.
- Aluminum Construction: While lightweight, aluminum may not be as rigid as steel bases.
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 own a Winchester Model 70 long action rifle. It is suitable for those who prioritize a lightweight setup and require additional elevation for shooting at extended ranges. This is especially true for those who frequently hunt in mountainous terrain.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals who prefer the absolute maximum rigidity of a steel base, or those who do not intend to shoot at distances that necessitate a 20 MOA slope. It may also not be ideal for those who have accessories that are extremely difficult to mount on tighter cross-slots.
A must-have accessory would be a set of high-quality scope rings, such as Leupold PRW2 or QRW2 rings, depending on whether you want a permanent or quick-detach mounting solution. A torque wrench is also recommended for ensuring proper installation.
Conclusion on Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA
Overall, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA is an excellent scope base that offers a compelling combination of lightweight design, durability, and functionality. The 20 MOA slope is a significant advantage for long-range shooting, and the compatibility with both Picatinny and Weaver-style rings makes it a versatile option.
At a price of $32.99, the value proposition is extremely compelling. It is hard to find a scope base with these features at such an affordable price point.
I would definitely recommend the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Winchester 70 Long Action Matte Black 20 MOA to anyone looking for a reliable and lightweight scope base for their Winchester Model 70 long action rifle. Upgrade your shooting experience today!