MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base Review

First Thoughts on the MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base

The MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base is designed to provide a solid and reliable platform for mounting optics on Howa 1500 long action rifles. Manufactured by MDT, known for their high-quality chassis systems and accessories, this scope base aims to enhance long-range shooting capabilities by offering a built-in 20 MOA (Minute of Angle) incline. This feature is crucial for shooters who require extra elevation adjustment when engaging targets at extended distances, and I was eager to see if it lived up to its promise.

I’ve been involved in long-range shooting competitions for years, and one recurring problem I faced was running out of elevation adjustment on my scope at distances beyond 800 yards. Traditional scope bases often limit the available adjustment range, requiring me to either hold over significantly or resort to complex ballistic calculations. I needed a solution that would allow me to maximize my scope’s potential and maintain a clear sight picture at long ranges without compromising on mounting stability.

The MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base arrived well-packaged. My initial impression was that it was a robust and well-machined piece of equipment. The black hard-anodized finish looked durable, and the overall design appeared sleek and functional. Picking it up, it felt reassuringly solid without being excessively heavy.

I considered other options, such as scope bases from Seekins Precision and Nightforce. Ultimately, I chose the MDT base because of MDT’s reputation for quality and precision, combined with the integrated recoil lug. Plus, the price point was compelling compared to its competitors. The MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base seemed to offer the best balance of features, quality, and value.

I was optimistic about the potential benefits of this scope base. I was particularly excited about the 20 MOA incline and its ability to extend my effective shooting range. I had high hopes that it would solve my elevation adjustment issues and provide a more consistent and accurate shooting experience.

Real-World Testing: Putting MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base at my local shooting range, which offers distances up to 1000 yards. The weather was typical for early spring – a bit windy with intermittent light rain. I mounted the base on my Howa 1500 long action rifle chambered in .300 Winchester Magnum, paired with a Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 scope.

Installation was straightforward. The base aligned perfectly with the receiver, and the included mounting hardware felt solid and secure. The integrated recoil lug provided a snug fit, preventing any potential movement. After mounting my scope, I proceeded to zero the rifle at 100 yards. The initial setup was quick and painless.

At 600 yards, I immediately noticed the difference the 20 MOA base made. I had significantly more elevation adjustment available on my scope compared to my previous setup. I easily dialed in the necessary adjustments to hit the target consistently. The wind was a factor, but the added elevation allowed me to focus on windage corrections without worrying about running out of travel. After running some longer ranges (800 and 1000 yards), I found that the added elevation truly did extend the range that I was able to effectively shoot with the rifle.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base has held up exceptionally well. I’ve taken it to multiple shooting competitions and training sessions, exposing it to various weather conditions, including intense heat and occasional rain. The hard-anodized finish shows no signs of wear or corrosion, and the base remains securely mounted to the rifle.

Maintenance is simple. After each shooting session, I wipe down the base with a clean cloth to remove any dirt or residue. I occasionally check the mounting screws to ensure they remain tight. The base has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable, performing consistently under different conditions.

Compared to my previous scope base, the MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base has significantly improved my long-range shooting capabilities. It provides a more stable and reliable mounting platform, and the added elevation adjustment has allowed me to engage targets at longer distances with greater precision. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of performance and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base

Specifications

• Model: 20 MOA Picatinny Scope Base.
• Material: 6061 T6 Aluminum. This alloy provides an excellent balance of strength and weight, ensuring the base can withstand the recoil forces without adding unnecessary bulk.
• Action: Long. The base is specifically designed for Howa 1500 long action rifles.
• MIL-STD-1913 & STANAG 4694 spec rails: Ensures compatibility with a wide range of optics and accessories.
• Finish: Durable mil-spec Type III hard anodized finish. This provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability, protecting the base from harsh environmental conditions.
• Elevation: Built-in 20 MOA elevation. This feature is crucial for long-range shooting, providing additional elevation adjustment for engaging targets at extended distances.
• Recoil Lug: Integrated recoil lug. This ensures a precise fit and prevents any movement of the base or stress on the screws holding the base from recoil.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the performance and reliability of the scope base. The 6061 T6 aluminum construction ensures the base is both lightweight and strong, while the hard-anodized finish protects it from the elements. The 20 MOA incline is essential for long-range shooting, and the integrated recoil lug guarantees a secure and stable mounting platform.

Performance & Functionality

The MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base performs exceptionally well in its primary function: providing a stable and reliable platform for mounting optics. The 20 MOA incline significantly extends the effective shooting range of my scope, allowing me to engage targets at longer distances without running out of elevation adjustment. The integrated recoil lug ensures the base remains securely mounted, even under heavy recoil.

One of the main strengths of this base is its ease of installation. The base aligns perfectly with the receiver, and the included mounting hardware is of high quality. It’s user-friendly and requires minimal effort to install. The build quality is excellent and the base feels sturdy and well-made.

If there’s an area for improvement, it would be the availability of different color options. While the black hard-anodized finish is durable and functional, some shooters may prefer other colors to match their rifle.

Overall, the MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base has met and exceeded my expectations. It provides a solid and reliable mounting platform for my optics, and the added elevation adjustment has significantly improved my long-range shooting capabilities.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The base is contoured to prevent snagging, and the overall design is sleek and low-profile. The materials used are of high quality, and the base feels solid and well-made.

The weight of the base is minimal, adding very little to the overall weight of the rifle. The base is comfortable to handle and doesn’t interfere with the rifle’s ergonomics. The matte black finish matches the rifle’s finish perfectly, creating a cohesive and professional look.

There is no learning curve associated with this base. It’s easy to install and use, making it a great option for both experienced and novice shooters.

Durability & Maintenance

The MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base is built to last. The 6061 T6 aluminum construction and hard-anodized finish provide excellent durability and corrosion resistance. After several months of use, the base shows no signs of wear or tear.

Maintenance is simple. After each shooting session, I wipe down the base with a clean cloth to remove any dirt or residue. I occasionally check the mounting screws to ensure they remain tight. The base is easy to maintain and requires minimal effort to keep it in good condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base doesn’t come with any additional accessories, as it is a standalone product. However, it is compatible with a wide range of optics and accessories that adhere to the MIL-STD-1913 & STANAG 4694 spec rails.

There are no specific customization options available for the base itself. But its compatibility with a wide range of optics allows for extensive customization of the overall rifle setup.

Pros and Cons of MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base

Who Should Buy MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base?

The MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base is perfect for long-range shooters, hunters who engage targets at extended distances, and competitive shooters who need additional elevation adjustment. It’s also a great option for anyone who wants to improve the performance and reliability of their Howa 1500 long action rifle.

This product might not be necessary for shooters who primarily engage targets at short distances (under 300 yards) or those who don’t require additional elevation adjustment.

A must-have accessory for this scope base is a high-quality scope that is capable of taking advantage of the added elevation adjustment.

Conclusion on MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base

The MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base is a well-designed, durable, and reliable product that delivers on its promises. The added elevation adjustment has significantly improved my long-range shooting capabilities, and the integrated recoil lug ensures a secure and stable mounting platform.

At a price of $69.95, the MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base offers excellent value for the money. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants to improve the performance of their Howa 1500 long action rifle.

I would highly recommend the MDT Howa 1500 LA 20 MOA Scope Base to anyone looking for a high-quality, reliable, and affordable scope base. It’s a game-changer for long-range shooting and a must-have for serious shooters. Upgrade your setup today and experience the difference for yourself!