The Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S Made a Bold First Impression
Mounting an optic securely and accurately is paramount for any rifle, especially a trusted platform like the Remington 700. The Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S aims to provide a reliable and affordable solution for just that. This particular base caught my eye when I was assembling a budget-friendly, yet accurate, hunting rifle for my nephew.
I needed a base that was strong, lightweight, and wouldn’t break the bank. The Weaver name is synonymous with quality mounting solutions, so I was curious to see how this budget-friendly option would perform. Unboxing revealed a cleanly machined aluminum base with a smooth, silver finish. The weight felt reassuringly light, promising minimal impact on the rifle’s overall balance.
Compared to other bases I’ve used, such as steel Warne bases, or even some pricier aluminum offerings from Leupold, the Weaver base felt noticeably lighter. I had also considered a one-piece Picatinny rail for added versatility, but the simplicity and lower profile of the Weaver #36S base ultimately won me over for this particular build. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The price was certainly appealing, and the Weaver name gave me confidence, but the real test would be in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S to the Test
First Use Experience
The first outing with the Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S was at my local shooting range. Mounting the base was straightforward using the existing tapped holes on the Remington 700 receiver. I used a torque wrench to ensure proper tightening, following Weaver’s recommended specifications.
The scope, a Weaver Grand Slam 3-9×40, sat securely on the base using Weaver Quad Lock rings. I spent the day zeroing the rifle and shooting various targets at distances ranging from 100 to 300 yards. The base held solid throughout the session, showing no signs of shifting or loosening, even with the recoil of .30-06 rounds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a deer hunting trip in the damp Pacific Northwest, the Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of rust or corrosion, and the silver finish has held up well despite exposure to the elements. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a lightly oiled cloth keeps it looking new.
Compared to some other budget bases I’ve used in the past, this Weaver offering has significantly outperformed them in terms of reliability. Other cheaper bases often showed signs of loosening after just a few range sessions. This is not the case with the Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S.
Breaking Down the Features of Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S
Specifications
- The Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S is specifically designed for the Remington 700 rifle. Its compatibility ensures a precise fit and optimal alignment.
- The base is constructed from lightweight aluminum, minimizing added weight to the rifle. This is crucial for maintaining a balanced feel and ease of handling.
- The silver finish provides corrosion resistance and a sleek aesthetic. It blends well with many silver or stainless-steel scopes.
- It is a two-piece base design, allowing for some flexibility in scope placement. This can be helpful for shooters with specific eye relief preferences.
- The #36S designation indicates the specific hole pattern and dimensions for the Remington 700 short action. Matching the base to the action is essential for correct installation.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S is to provide a secure and stable platform for mounting a scope. It excels at this task, maintaining zero even under moderate recoil. The lightweight aluminum construction minimizes any negative impact on the rifle’s balance and handling.
The base’s simplicity is also a strength. There are no complicated adjustments or features to worry about. Its ease of installation and reliable performance make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced shooters.
Design & Ergonomics
The Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S features a low-profile design. This keeps the scope close to the bore, promoting a more natural cheek weld and improved shooting comfort. The silver finish is aesthetically pleasing and complements a variety of rifle and scope combinations.
The base is precisely machined. This ensures a tight and secure fit to the Remington 700 receiver. This precision is crucial for maintaining accurate scope alignment.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction of the Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S offers good durability for its intended use. It is resistant to corrosion and can withstand the rigors of normal hunting and range conditions. Regular cleaning with a lightly oiled cloth is sufficient to maintain its condition.
The simple design also contributes to its longevity. There are no small parts or intricate mechanisms to fail. This enhances its overall reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S is designed to be compatible with Weaver-style rings. This allows for a wide range of scope mounting options. While it’s not a Picatinny rail, it securely accepts Weaver style rings from various manufacturers.
While it doesn’t offer the versatility of a Picatinny rail, it provides a solid base for traditional scope mounting. Some users might prefer a one-piece rail for added rigidity and flexibility. This two-piece base is a great alternative if you prefer a classic look.
Pros and Cons of Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for budget-conscious builds.
- Lightweight aluminum construction minimizes impact on rifle balance.
- Securely mounts Weaver-style rings, providing a stable platform for optics.
- Easy to install with basic tools, simplifying the scope mounting process.
- Durable silver finish resists corrosion and blends well with various rifles.
Cons
- Not as versatile as a Picatinny rail for mounting various accessories.
- Two-piece design may not offer the same level of rigidity as a one-piece rail.
Who Should Buy Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S?
The Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S is perfect for budget-minded hunters and recreational shooters who own a Remington 700 rifle and prefer using Weaver-style rings. This is also ideal for anyone seeking a lightweight and reliable scope mounting solution without unnecessary bells and whistles. This is a great base to consider if you have a more classic hunting rifle setup.
Those who need the flexibility of mounting a wide range of accessories or require the utmost rigidity for long-range precision shooting might consider a Picatinny rail instead. If you are looking for something modular, this may not be the product for you. A must-have accessory is a high-quality set of Weaver-style rings.
Conclusion on Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S
The Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S delivers excellent value for its modest price. It provides a secure, lightweight, and aesthetically pleasing scope mounting solution for the Remington 700 rifle. The quality is great for the price.
While it may lack the versatility of a Picatinny rail, its simplicity and reliability make it a solid choice for many shooters. The price is definitely justified.
I would definitely recommend the Weaver Aluminum Top Mount Silver Remington 700 #36S to anyone looking for an affordable and dependable scope base for their Remington 700. Upgrade your shooting experience today!