First Thoughts on the Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Black Savage 24/74
The Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Black Savage 24/74 is a deceptively simple piece of gear. It’s a one-piece aluminum base, designed specifically for the Savage 24 and 74 series of rifles that come factory drilled and tapped for scope mounting. At a price point hovering around $10, it promises a stable platform for optics without breaking the bank.
My journey to this humble piece of aluminum began with a frustrating experience. I recently inherited my grandfather’s Savage 24, a cherished combination gun that saw decades of use in the Pennsylvania woods. The original iron sights, while functional, are simply not cutting it anymore for my aging eyes, especially when trying to make precise shots on small game at longer distances. I needed a reliable scope mounting solution, and I wanted it to be low-profile and cost-effective.
Unboxing the Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Black Savage 24/74, the first thing that struck me was its simplicity. The matte black finish is understated, blending seamlessly with the blued steel of my Savage 24. It felt solid in my hand, surprisingly robust for such a lightweight piece. I compared it to a couple of other options I considered: a more expensive two-piece base system and a Picatinny rail adapter. Ultimately, I chose the Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Black Savage 24/74 for its simplicity, low profile, and the promise of direct compatibility with my rifle, hoping to avoid the potential bulkiness and added height of a Picatinny rail.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited by the potential for a simple, stable optic mount, but also slightly apprehensive about whether a single-piece aluminum base at this price point could truly deliver the necessary rigidity and precision for reliable performance in the field. Would it hold zero? Only time and testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Black Savage 24/74 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Black Savage 24/74 mounted on my Savage 24 took place at my local shooting range. It was a crisp autumn day, with a slight breeze that tested the accuracy of my .22LR shots. Installation was straightforward, taking only a few minutes with the appropriate screwdrivers. I mounted a Weaver 4×28 Rimfire scope, a classic pairing for a rifle like this.
The initial zeroing process was surprisingly painless. After only a few adjustments, I was consistently hitting bullseyes at 50 yards. The base felt solid throughout the initial testing, showing no signs of shifting or loosening, even after repeated firing. The simplicity of the system was also appreciated. There wasn’t a lot to adjust or tweak, just a secure platform for the scope to do its job.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including a squirrel hunting trip in damp woodland conditions, the Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Black Savage 24/74 has continued to perform admirably. I’ve put approximately 200 rounds through my Savage 24 with the base installed. There is no visible wear and tear beyond some minor scuffs from brushing against tree limbs in the field.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is all that’s needed to keep it clean and rust-free. Comparing this experience to other scope mounting systems I’ve used on other rifles, the Weaver base stands out for its sheer simplicity and reliability. It may not have the tactical flair of a Picatinny rail system, but it delivers precisely what I need: a stable, low-profile platform for mounting a scope on my Savage 24. I can confidently say this base performs much better than I expected given the price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Black Savage 24/74
Specifications
- Type: 1-Piece Base. This single-piece design promotes stability and reduces the potential for movement compared to multi-piece systems.
- MFG/Model: Top Mount Base. It’s designed for direct top mounting, keeping the scope low and close to the bore.
- Style: Weaver. This is specifically designed to accept Weaver-style scope rings, a common and widely available standard.
- Finish: Black. The matte black finish helps to reduce glare and blends well with most firearms.
- Material: Aluminum. Aluminum provides a good balance of strength and lightweight properties, minimizing added weight to the rifle.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the functionality and user experience. The one-piece design and the Weaver style ensure a stable and compatible platform for mounting a scope. The aluminum construction keeps weight down, which is essential for a lightweight combination gun like the Savage 24.
Performance & Functionality
The Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Black Savage 24/74 excels at its primary function: providing a stable base for mounting a scope. Accuracy has been noticeably improved compared to using iron sights alone. The base maintains zero consistently, even after repeated firing and exposure to varying environmental conditions.
A potential weakness might be its limited adaptability. Being a Weaver-specific base, it requires Weaver-style rings. However, for most users of the Savage 24, this is unlikely to be an issue, as Weaver rings are readily available and affordable. The base definitely meets and exceeds my expectations for a sub-$10 scope mount.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is surprisingly good for the price. The aluminum feels solid and well-machined. The matte black finish is even and durable. The low profile design contributes to the overall ergonomics of the rifle. It doesn’t add unnecessary bulk or weight.
The base is incredibly user-friendly. Installation is straightforward and requires only basic tools. There is no learning curve involved. Just mount the base, attach the scope rings, and zero your scope.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, the Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Black Savage 24/74 appears to be quite durable. The aluminum construction should resist corrosion and withstand normal use for years. Maintenance is also simple. Just keep it clean and lightly oiled.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Black Savage 24/74 itself doesn’t come with any accessories. The primary customization option is the choice of scope and Weaver-style rings to mount. It is compatible with a wide range of Weaver-style rings from different manufacturers. Be sure the rings are appropriate for the size and objective lens diameter of your chosen scope.
Pros and Cons of Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Black Savage 24/74
Pros
- Affordable. At around $10, it’s an incredibly budget-friendly option for mounting a scope.
- Simple to install. Installation is quick and easy with basic tools.
- Stable platform. Provides a surprisingly rigid and stable base for a scope.
- Low profile design. Keeps the scope close to the bore for improved accuracy and handling.
- Durable construction. The aluminum construction is robust and should last for years.
Cons
- Weaver-specific. Only compatible with Weaver-style scope rings.
- Limited customization. Offers no additional features or customization beyond scope mounting.
Who Should Buy Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Black Savage 24/74?
The Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Black Savage 24/74 is perfect for Savage 24/74 owners who want to add a scope for improved accuracy without breaking the bank. It is especially suitable for hunters who primarily use their Savage 24 for small game or varmint hunting. It’s also a great choice for anyone who prefers a simple, no-frills approach to scope mounting.
Who should skip this product? Shooters who require a more versatile mounting system, such as a Picatinny rail for attaching a wide range of accessories, should consider alternative options. Also, those who demand the absolute highest level of precision and are willing to invest significantly more money in a premium scope mount may find this base to be too basic for their needs.
Must-have accessories include a set of Weaver-style scope rings appropriate for your chosen scope and the necessary screwdrivers for installation. A bore sighter can also be helpful for initial scope zeroing.
Conclusion on Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Black Savage 24/74
The Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Black Savage 24/74 is an excellent value proposition. It delivers reliable performance at an incredibly affordable price. While it may lack the bells and whistles of more expensive scope mounts, it provides a stable and secure platform for adding a scope to your Savage 24 or 74 rifle.
I would personally recommend this base to anyone looking for a simple, budget-friendly scope mounting solution for their Savage 24/74. Don’t let the low price fool you; this is a well-made and highly functional piece of gear that will enhance the accuracy and versatility of your rifle. If you own a Savage 24/74 and want to improve your shooting experience, the Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Black Savage 24/74 is a smart investment. Go ahead and give it a try. You’ll be surprised at how much performance you can get for such a small price.