Leupold RIFLEMAN 2-PC KNIGHT LK93 MT Review

First Thoughts on the Leupold RIFLEMAN 2-PC KNIGHT LK93 MT

In the world of optics mounting, reliability and affordability often seem to be mutually exclusive. That’s why the Leupold RIFLEMAN 2-PC KNIGHT LK93 MT base caught my eye. It promises to deliver Leupold‘s renowned dependability without breaking the bank.

I was looking for a simple, robust mounting solution for a .30-06 hunting rifle I was building for a friend. He needed something that could withstand the recoil of larger game, without adding unnecessary weight or complexity to the rifle. I’ve always trusted Leupold optics, so I was hopeful their mounts would live up to the same standard.

The Leupold RIFLEMAN 2-PC KNIGHT LK93 MT arrives in simple packaging, as you might expect from a no-frills product. The matte black finish looks clean and understated, and the steel construction feels solid in hand. Picking them up, they feel significantly more robust than some of the aluminum alternatives I’ve used in the past.

Compared to one-piece scope mounts, these offer a lower profile and potentially lighter weight, which is important for maintaining the rifle’s balance. Against pricier options like the Nightforce or Seekins Precision bases, the Leupold offering is undeniably more budget-friendly. However, I wasn’t necessarily looking for the most high-end option; I wanted something reliable and functional.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The bases felt solid, looked clean, and the price was right. Now, it was time to see how they perform in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold RIFLEMAN 2-PC KNIGHT LK93 MT to the Test

First Use Experience

I mounted the Leupold RIFLEMAN 2-PC KNIGHT LK93 MT bases on the aforementioned .30-06 rifle, using blue Loctite on the screws for added security. The installation process was straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a bit of patience to ensure proper alignment. I took the rifle to my local shooting range to sight it in.

The initial zeroing process went smoothly. After about 20 rounds, the scope remained securely mounted with no signs of movement or loosening. I tested the rifle in slightly damp conditions, with a light drizzle falling intermittently. The Leupold bases held up just fine, showing no signs of rust or corrosion after a brief wipe-down at the end of the session.

Ease of use was excellent from the beginning. These bases are designed for simplicity, and there’s no steep learning curve. It’s a straightforward install-and-go system. There weren’t any surprises during this first range trip other than the pleasant realization that I didn’t have to constantly re-tighten screws or worry about base shift as I have experienced on cheaper alternatives.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the next several months, the rifle saw regular use both at the range and during hunting trips. It endured various weather conditions, from scorching summer heat to freezing winter temperatures. The Leupold RIFLEMAN 2-PC KNIGHT LK93 MT bases continued to perform flawlessly.

After about 100 rounds of .30-06, there were no signs of wear and tear beyond a few minor cosmetic scratches. The matte black finish proved to be reasonably durable. Maintenance was minimal: a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use was all that was required.

Compared to other budget-friendly mounting solutions I’ve used in the past, the Leupold bases have proven to be significantly more reliable. Cheaper options often suffer from loosening screws, base shift, and even breakage under heavy recoil. The Leupold RIFLEMAN 2-PC KNIGHT LK93 MT offers a tangible improvement in terms of durability and peace of mind.

Breaking Down the Features of Leupold RIFLEMAN 2-PC KNIGHT LK93 MT

Specifications

• Type: 2-Piece Base. This allows for flexibility in scope placement and can save weight compared to a one-piece mount.
• MFG/Model: Rifleman. This signifies Leupold‘s entry-level line, focusing on value and reliability.
• Style: 2 Piece. The two-piece design is simple and effective.
• Finish: Matte Black. The finish is durable and non-reflective.

These specifications translate to a functional and dependable mounting solution. The matte black finish reduces glare, while the two-piece design offers flexibility in scope positioning. Most importantly, the Leupold name guarantees a certain level of quality control and durability.

Performance & Functionality

The Leupold RIFLEMAN 2-PC KNIGHT LK93 MT performs its primary job exceptionally well: securely attaching a scope to the rifle. The bases provide a solid platform that maintains zero even under heavy recoil. This is critical for accurate shooting in hunting or target shooting scenarios.

The main strength is its simplicity and reliability. It just works. A potential weakness is the lack of advanced features like integrated recoil lugs or adjustability for cant, but this is to be expected at this price point.

Overall, the Leupold RIFLEMAN 2-PC KNIGHT LK93 MT meets expectations and delivers on its promise of providing a solid and dependable mounting solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is straightforward and utilitarian. The bases are made of steel with a matte black finish, giving them a clean and understated appearance. Weight is minimal, which is a plus for hunters who need to carry their rifles for extended periods.

The bases are easy to install and use, requiring only basic tools and a minimum of technical knowledge. There’s virtually no learning curve involved.

Durability & Maintenance

The steel construction ensures good durability, making these bases suitable for use in harsh environments. They can withstand recoil, bumps, and scratches without failing.

Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is all that’s required to prevent rust and corrosion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Leupold RIFLEMAN 2-PC KNIGHT LK93 MT bases don’t come with any accessories beyond the necessary mounting screws. Customization is limited to choosing the appropriate scope rings to fit the bases and the scope tube diameter.

These bases are generally compatible with any standard Weaver-style or Picatinny-style scope rings, providing ample options for scope selection. It’s important to ensure that the rings are of good quality to maintain the overall reliability of the system.

Pros and Cons of Leupold RIFLEMAN 2-PC KNIGHT LK93 MT