Redfield S45 For Weatherby 1-Piece Style Matte Finish Review

First Thoughts on the Redfield S45 For Weatherby 1-Piece Style Matte Finish

The Redfield S45 For Weatherby 1-Piece Style Matte Finish is a scope mounting base designed for Weatherby and Mauser rifles. Redfield, a brand with a storied history in American optics, aims to provide a solid and reliable mounting solution. This one-piece base promises enhanced stability and a sleek, matte finish for a seamless look.

My journey to this base began with a classic Weatherby Mark V that I inherited. I wanted to bring this family heirloom back into service as a primary hunting rifle. The original bases were worn and outdated, lacking the rigidity needed for modern, heavier optics. The Redfield S45’s one-piece construction and compatibility with both Weatherby and Mauser actions made it an attractive option.

Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the robust feel of the matte black steel. The finish appeared even and well-applied, promising good resistance to the elements. The included hardened fastening screws felt substantial and ready for a secure install. Compared to two-piece bases I’ve used in the past, the one-piece design exuded a sense of added strength. I also considered Leupold’s similar offering, but the Redfield’s reputation for durability and the included screws ultimately swayed my decision.

My first impression was one of quiet confidence. This wasn’t a flashy, lightweight base; it was a serious, no-nonsense piece of hardware designed to do a job well. I felt excited to get it mounted and test its stability on the range.

Real-World Testing: Putting Redfield S45 For Weatherby 1-Piece Style Matte Finish to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, mounting the Redfield S45 on my Weatherby Mark V chambered in .300 Weatherby Magnum. I paired it with a Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10×40 scope, a common setup for big game hunting. Installation was straightforward, thanks to the precise machining and well-fitting screws.

The rifle performed flawlessly during that first range session. Even with the magnum recoil, the scope remained securely mounted, exhibiting no signs of shifting or loosening. The matte finish helped reduce glare in the bright sunlight, an unexpected but welcome bonus. There were no immediate issues, and the base performed precisely as intended.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including multiple hunting trips in diverse conditions, the Redfield S45 has continued to impress. The base has been subjected to rain, snow, and considerable temperature fluctuations. It shows no signs of rust or corrosion.

The finish remains intact, resisting scratches and wear. Regular cleaning involves a simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth. Comparing it to cheaper aluminum bases I’ve used in the past, the Redfield’s steel construction is a significant step up in terms of durability and resistance to the elements. This base has delivered consistent and reliable performance without any issues.

Breaking Down the Features of Redfield S45 For Weatherby 1-Piece Style Matte Finish

Specifications

• Material: The Redfield S45 is constructed from matte black steel. This provides exceptional strength and resistance to recoil forces, ensuring the scope remains securely mounted.
• Finish: The matte finish minimizes glare and reflections. This helps in maintaining a clear sight picture in various lighting conditions, especially during dawn and dusk.
• Compatibility: This one-piece base fits both Weatherby and Mauser actions. This offers versatility and makes it a suitable choice for owners of either type of rifle.
• Screws: Custom hardened fastening screws are included. These screws are designed to withstand high levels of stress and ensure a secure and reliable installation.
• Design: The one-piece design provides increased stability compared to two-piece bases. This enhances accuracy and reduces the likelihood of scope shifting under recoil.

Performance & Functionality

The Redfield S45 excels in its primary role: securely mounting a scope to a rifle. Its rigid construction ensures minimal flex or movement, leading to improved accuracy and consistent zero. The base performs admirably under heavy recoil, providing a stable platform for the optic.

The only potential improvement could be offering different height options to accommodate various scope sizes. As it stands, the Redfield S45 meets and even exceeds expectations for a robust and reliable scope base.

Design & Ergonomics

The Redfield S45’s simple, functional design prioritizes durability and performance over aesthetics. The matte black finish blends seamlessly with most rifles. Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a reasonable amount of mechanical skill.

There’s no learning curve involved, and the base feels solid and well-made. The one-piece design contributes to overall rigidity and a streamlined appearance.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its steel construction, the Redfield S45 is built to last a lifetime. Its resistance to rust and corrosion is excellent. Maintenance involves only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris.

The hardened screws should withstand repeated tightening and loosening without stripping. This is a product designed for long-term reliability and minimal maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Redfield S45 itself doesn’t offer much in the way of customization options, as it’s a scope mounting base. However, it is compatible with a wide range of scopes and rings. Its universal design allows for the use of various ring heights and styles.

Additionally, it is compatible with many different types of scopes, as long as the scope is appropriate to the rifle’s caliber. The Redfield S45’s strength and reliability make it an excellent foundation for building a customized rifle setup.

Pros and Cons of Redfield S45 For Weatherby 1-Piece Style Matte Finish

Who Should Buy Redfield S45 For Weatherby 1-Piece Style Matte Finish?

The Redfield S45 is perfect for hunters and shooting enthusiasts who prioritize reliability and durability in their scope mounting system. It’s an excellent choice for those who own Weatherby or Mauser rifles and want a secure, stable platform for their optics. Anyone looking for a low-maintenance, long-lasting scope base should consider this product.

However, individuals seeking lightweight options or those requiring adjustable height features might want to explore alternatives. It is also probably overkill for very low powered rifles (e.g., .22LR) that will not exert much recoil on the scope mount. Must-have accessories include a high-quality torque wrench to ensure proper screw tension and a thread-locking compound to prevent loosening over time.

Conclusion on Redfield S45 For Weatherby 1-Piece Style Matte Finish

The Redfield S45 For Weatherby 1-Piece Style Matte Finish is a dependable and well-built scope mounting base that delivers on its promise of stability and durability. Its robust steel construction and precise machining ensure a secure and reliable platform for optics, even under heavy recoil. While it lacks some of the customization options found in more modern designs, its simplicity and effectiveness are undeniable.

Given its performance and longevity, the price is justified for serious shooters and hunters. I would personally recommend this base to anyone seeking a no-nonsense, long-lasting mounting solution for their Weatherby or Mauser rifle. Upgrade your rifle today with the Redfield S45 and experience the difference a solid foundation can make.