The Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base Savage 110 Long Action/Axis Matte 6.37″ Aluminum Made a Bold First Impression
I’ve been working with firearms and optics for over a decade, and one thing I’ve learned is that a solid mounting system is absolutely critical. Without a stable and reliable base, even the best scope is useless. That’s why when I needed to mount a new optic on my Savage 110 long action rifle, I immediately looked at Leupold, a name synonymous with quality in the optics world. My search led me to the Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base Savage 110 Long Action/Axis Matte 6.37″ Aluminum, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
I was looking for a mounting solution that offered both rock-solid stability and the ability to quickly detach and reattach my scope without losing zero. This is especially important for rifles I use in varying environments or for different game; flexibility is key. The promise of Leupold’s Quick Release Weaver (QRW) system intrigued me.
Upon receiving the Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base, my first impression was positive. The matte black aluminum looked clean and professional, and the overall build quality seemed robust. It felt lightweight yet solid in my hands.
I considered a couple of other options before settling on the Leupold base. There were some steel bases on the market, promising even greater rigidity, but I was concerned about the added weight. Some two-piece base options were also available, but I’ve found one-piece bases generally offer better stability and alignment. I chose the Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base because it appeared to strike the perfect balance of strength, weight, and convenience.
My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism. Could a base at this price point really deliver the repeatability and ruggedness I needed? Only time and testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base Savage 110 Long Action/Axis Matte 6.37″ Aluminum to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, where I zeroed my rifle with the newly mounted scope. I used a Savage 110 chambered in .30-06, a fairly standard long-action caliber, and a Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10×40 scope. The Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base installed easily, and the scope rings (purchased separately, also Leupold QRW) locked down securely.
The weather was mild and dry, ideal conditions for sighting in a rifle. Even with the consistent recoil of the .30-06, the base felt solid, and the scope remained firmly in place. After getting the rifle dialed in at 100 yards, I removed the scope using the QRW levers.
I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to detach and reattach the scope. The levers operated smoothly, and the scope returned to zero with minimal adjustment needed – less than 0.5 MOA difference. This initial success was encouraging.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the next few months, I used the Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base in various hunting scenarios and range sessions. My rifle saw use in everything from dense forest to open fields. I even took it on a weekend camping trip where it experienced some light rain and exposure to dust.
The base held up remarkably well. There were no signs of loosening or shifting, even after repeated removal and reattachment of the scope. The matte finish showed no signs of wear, and the aluminum construction proved resistant to corrosion.
Maintaining the base was simple. A quick wipe-down with a clean cloth after each use was all it needed. I also applied a small amount of gun oil to the QRW levers occasionally to ensure smooth operation.
In comparison to previous mounting systems I’ve used, the Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base definitely stands out. Cheaper mounts I’ve tried in the past have often loosened over time, leading to accuracy issues. More expensive, dedicated quick-release systems have performed similarly in terms of repeatability but at a significantly higher cost. The Leupold offering strikes a nice balance between performance and affordability.
Breaking Down the Features of Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base Savage 110 Long Action/Axis Matte 6.37″ Aluminum
Specifications
- Product Name: Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base Savage 110 Long Action/Axis Matte 6.37″ Aluminum
- Manufacturer: Leupold
- Compatibility: Savage 110 Long Action and Axis rifles
- Material: Aluminum
- Finish: Matte Black
- Length: 6.37 inches
- Mount Type: Weaver-style
- Quick Release: Yes, Leupold QRW system
These specifications are important because they directly impact the base’s functionality and suitability for its intended purpose. The aluminum construction keeps the weight down, while the Leupold QRW system allows for quick scope changes. The 6.37-inch length is specifically designed to fit the Savage 110 long action and Axis rifles, ensuring a proper fit and optimal scope placement.
Performance & Functionality
The Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base performs its primary job admirably: providing a stable and repeatable platform for mounting optics. The quick-release mechanism works flawlessly, allowing for rapid scope changes without significant loss of zero. It does its job exceeding expectations.
The main strength is definitely the Leupold QRW system. A potential weakness could be the aluminum construction for those who prefer the absolute rigidity of steel, though I found it perfectly adequate for my needs.
Design & Ergonomics
The base features a simple, low-profile design. The matte black finish blends seamlessly with most rifles and scopes. The one-piece construction provides superior stability compared to two-piece bases.
The base is very user-friendly. Installation is straightforward, and the Leupold QRW levers are easy to operate, even with gloves on. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the aluminum construction and robust design, the Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base should last for many years with proper care. The matte finish is resistant to scratches and corrosion, and the Leupold QRW mechanism is built to withstand repeated use.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a dry cloth and occasional lubrication of the Leupold QRW levers is all that’s required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base itself doesn’t come with many accessories. However, it’s designed to work with a wide range of Weaver-style scope rings. Leupold QRW rings are recommended for optimal performance and compatibility.
This base is compatible with almost all Weaver-style rings and Picatinny-style rings. It is possible to swap out any hardware for third-party hardware.
Pros and Cons of Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base Savage 110 Long Action/Axis Matte 6.37″ Aluminum
Pros
- Leupold QRW system allows for quick and easy scope changes.
- One-piece design provides excellent stability and repeatability.
- Lightweight aluminum construction.
- Durable matte black finish.
- Easy to install and maintain.
Cons
- Aluminum construction may not be as rigid as steel for some users.
- Scope rings are sold separately.
Who Should Buy Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base Savage 110 Long Action/Axis Matte 6.37″ Aluminum?
This base is perfect for hunters or recreational shooters who want the flexibility of quickly changing scopes on their Savage 110 long action or Axis rifle. This is perfect for anyone who wants to have multiple optics ready to go for a single weapon. It is also a great choice for those who value ease of use and a lightweight design.
Those who prioritize ultimate rigidity and are willing to sacrifice weight savings might prefer a steel base instead. Shooters on an extremely tight budget might find cheaper alternatives, though the long-term reliability and repeatability of the Leupold base make it a worthwhile investment.
Must-have accessories include a set of high-quality Leupold QRW scope rings and a torque wrench for proper installation.
Conclusion on Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base Savage 110 Long Action/Axis Matte 6.37″ Aluminum
Overall, the Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base Savage 110 Long Action/Axis Matte 6.37″ Aluminum is an excellent mounting solution. It is well-built, easy to use, and provides a stable and repeatable platform for mounting optics. The Leupold QRW system is a standout feature, allowing for quick and convenient scope changes without compromising accuracy.
Considering the price, the value proposition is excellent. While not the cheapest option on the market, the Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base offers a superior combination of performance, durability, and convenience.
I would definitely recommend this base to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile mounting solution for their Savage 110 long action or Axis rifle. If you value quick scope changes and rock-solid performance, the Leupold QRW 1-Piece Base is worth the investment. Get yours today and experience the difference a quality mounting system can make!