The Talley 950700SM Scope Ring Set For Rifle Christensen Arms Ridgeline/Mesa High 1″ Tube 20 MOA Black Anodized Aluminum Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless scope mounting solutions come and go. But the Talley 950700SM Scope Ring Set For Rifle Christensen Arms Ridgeline/Mesa High 1″ Tube 20 MOA Black Anodized Aluminum immediately caught my eye with its promise of lightweight yet robust performance. This set, designed specifically for Christensen Arms Ridgeline and Mesa rifles, boasts a one-piece construction and a built-in 20 MOA, piquing my interest from the get-go.
I was looking for a reliable, lightweight mounting solution for my Christensen Arms Ridgeline in 6.5 Creedmoor. I wanted something that wouldn’t add unnecessary weight, yet could withstand the recoil and maintain zero over extended periods. The Talley rings seemed to offer the perfect blend of these qualities.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the clean, minimalist design. The black anodized aluminum had a smooth, matte finish, and the overall construction felt incredibly solid. I was particularly impressed by the seamless one-piece design, which promised enhanced rigidity and alignment.
I’ve used Warne and Leupold rings in the past, both reputable brands. I ultimately chose the Talley rings because of their specific fit for Christensen Arms rifles and the integrated 20 MOA. I believed this would offer a simpler, more streamlined solution compared to using separate bases and rings. My initial excitement was definitely justified; the rings looked and felt like a premium product.
Real-World Testing: Putting Talley 950700SM Scope Ring Set For Rifle Christensen Arms Ridgeline/Mesa High 1″ Tube 20 MOA Black Anodized Aluminum to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Talley 950700SM rings at my local shooting range, mounting a Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14×40 scope. The weather was clear, with a slight breeze, providing ideal conditions for zeroing and testing the scope’s adjustments. Installation was straightforward, and the rings aligned perfectly with the receiver, requiring minimal effort to torque to spec.
The rings held zero flawlessly throughout the initial 100-round session. The 20 MOA built into the rings helped me achieve a solid zero at 100 yards with plenty of elevation left in the scope for longer distances. I encountered no issues, and the setup felt incredibly solid.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple range sessions and a backcountry elk hunt, the Talley rings have proven to be exceptionally reliable. There are no signs of loosening or shifting, and the scope has maintained its zero consistently. They’ve been exposed to rain, snow, and dust during my hunting trips, and the anodized finish has held up well.
Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a microfiber cloth keeps them looking new. Compared to my previous experience with two-piece base and ring systems, the Talley one-piece design inspires greater confidence in its long-term durability and resistance to misalignment. The rings have outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Talley 950700SM Scope Ring Set For Rifle Christensen Arms Ridgeline/Mesa High 1″ Tube 20 MOA Black Anodized Aluminum
Specifications
The Talley 950700SM Scope Ring Set is specifically designed for Christensen Arms Ridgeline and Mesa rifles. It is designed for a 1″ scope tube. The rings are made from 7000 series aluminum, known for its strength and lightweight properties.
The set features a built-in 20 MOA elevation bias, providing additional range for long-distance shooting. The high ring height accommodates scopes with larger objective lenses. The black anodized finish offers excellent corrosion resistance.
Performance & Functionality
The Talley 950700SM rings perform exceptionally well. The one-piece design ensures optimal alignment and rigidity, contributing to improved accuracy and consistent zero retention. The 20 MOA built into the base is incredibly beneficial for shooters looking to engage targets at extended ranges.
The only potential weakness is the limited scope tube diameter of 1″. Shooters with scopes that have larger tube diameters will need to seek alternative solutions. The rings definitely meet my expectations for performance and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Talley rings boast a clean, minimalist design. The lightweight aluminum construction doesn’t add unnecessary weight to the rifle. The smooth, matte finish prevents glare and blends seamlessly with the rifle’s aesthetics.
The one-piece design simplifies installation and eliminates potential points of failure. There’s virtually no learning curve; even a novice can easily install these rings with basic tools.
Durability & Maintenance
The 7000 series aluminum and black anodized finish ensure excellent durability and corrosion resistance. These rings are built to withstand the rigors of field use and harsh weather conditions. Maintenance is minimal; a simple cleaning with a microfiber cloth is all that’s required.
The Talley 950700SM rings are built to last a lifetime with proper care. The inherent strength of the one-piece design minimizes the risk of damage or failure.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Talley 950700SM Scope Ring Set doesn’t include any additional accessories beyond the mounting hardware. However, the rings are compatible with a wide range of 1″ tube scopes from various manufacturers. There are no inherent customization options for the rings themselves.
The rings’ compatibility with standard 1″ scopes offers a degree of flexibility in terms of scope selection. Users can choose from a vast array of scopes to suit their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Talley 950700SM Scope Ring Set For Rifle Christensen Arms Ridgeline/Mesa High 1″ Tube 20 MOA Black Anodized Aluminum
Pros
- Lightweight Construction: The 7000 series aluminum keeps the overall weight down.
- One-Piece Design: Ensures optimal alignment and rigidity, enhancing accuracy and zero retention.
- Integrated 20 MOA: Provides additional elevation for long-range shooting.
- Specific Fit for Christensen Arms Rifles: Guarantees a perfect fit and seamless integration.
- Durable Anodized Finish: Offers excellent corrosion resistance and a sleek aesthetic.
Cons
- Limited to 1″ Scope Tubes: Not compatible with scopes that have larger tube diameters.
- Price: Slightly more expensive than some comparable two-piece ring systems.
Who Should Buy Talley 950700SM Scope Ring Set For Rifle Christensen Arms Ridgeline/Mesa High 1″ Tube 20 MOA Black Anodized Aluminum?
The Talley 950700SM Scope Ring Set is perfect for hunters and long-range shooters who own a Christensen Arms Ridgeline or Mesa rifle. Those seeking a lightweight, reliable, and accurate scope mounting solution with built-in 20 MOA will greatly benefit from this product. It’s also ideal for those who value simplicity and ease of installation.
Those who need to mount a scope with a larger than 1″ tube diameter or who are looking for the absolute cheapest option should skip this product. A torque wrench is a must-have accessory to ensure proper installation and prevent damage to the rings or scope.
Conclusion on Talley 950700SM Scope Ring Set For Rifle Christensen Arms Ridgeline/Mesa High 1″ Tube 20 MOA Black Anodized Aluminum
The Talley 950700SM Scope Ring Set For Rifle Christensen Arms Ridgeline/Mesa High 1″ Tube 20 MOA Black Anodized Aluminum is an outstanding product that delivers on its promise of lightweight, robust performance. The one-piece design, integrated 20 MOA, and specific fit for Christensen Arms rifles make it a top choice for discerning shooters.
While the price is slightly higher than some alternatives, the added benefits of enhanced accuracy, zero retention, and ease of installation justify the cost. I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone looking for a premium scope mounting solution for their Christensen Arms rifle. Invest in the Talley 950700SM rings and experience the difference a quality mounting system can make.