First Thoughts on the Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336
The Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336 might seem like a small, unassuming component, but it’s absolutely crucial for mounting optics on one of America’s most iconic lever-action rifles. Weaver, a name synonymous with reliable mounting solutions, offers these bases as a straightforward and affordable way to add a scope to your trusted Marlin. It’s about time I upgraded my iron sights on my Marlin 336 for hunting season, so I thought I’d give these a go.
For years, I’ve relied on iron sights for deer hunting with my trusty Marlin 336. However, as my eyesight has aged, those open sights have become increasingly difficult to use, especially in low-light conditions. I was searching for a simple, solid, and inexpensive solution to mount a scope without requiring any gunsmithing or permanent modifications to my rifle.
Upon receiving the Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336, I was immediately struck by their simplicity and lightweight design. The matte black finish looked clean and functional. Compared to some bulkier, more elaborate mounting systems, these bases seemed incredibly streamlined. I’d been considering a one-piece Picatinny rail, but the Weaver bases seemed like a lighter, less obtrusive option.
I was initially drawn to the Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336 over other options due to the Weaver brand’s reputation for quality and the ease of installation. I also appreciate that these bases accept all Weaver top mount cross lock rings, providing a wide range of scope mounting options. My first impression was positive; I was eager to see how well they would perform in the field. At $9.99, it felt like a low-risk investment to potentially improve my hunting success.
Real-World Testing: Putting Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336 at my local shooting range, followed by a weekend deer hunting trip in the Pennsylvania mountains. The weather during my hunting trip was typical for late fall: cold, damp, and occasionally drizzly.
Installation was surprisingly straightforward. I followed the instructions included and had the bases securely mounted within minutes using only a screwdriver. I had no problems getting my scope mounted properly using Weaver rings. I was pleased with how securely the bases held, even after putting a good few rounds down range.
The Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336 performed admirably during my initial range session. The scope held zero perfectly, even after repeated firing with .30-30 rounds. I was impressed by how well these lightweight bases stood up to the recoil of the Marlin 336.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple range trips and hunting excursions, the Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336 have proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of loosening or shifting, and the matte black finish has held up well, resisting scratches and wear.
Cleaning and maintenance are minimal; a simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is all that’s required. The bases remain firmly attached to the rifle, even after being subjected to the bumps and jostles of hunting in dense woods. These bases have noticeably outperformed some cheaper, no-name bases I’ve used in the past, which tended to loosen or shift over time.
These bases have met, and, quite frankly, exceeded my expectations given the low price point. They provide a rock-solid mounting platform for my scope, allowing me to consistently achieve accurate shots. The Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336 makes using my rifle far more pleasurable.
Breaking Down the Features of Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336
Specifications
The Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336 features a two-piece base design specifically for the Marlin 336 lever-action rifle. They are constructed from tough, lightweight aluminum. This material provides a durable and stable mounting platform without adding excessive weight to the rifle.
The bases accept all Weaver top mount cross lock rings. This offers users a wide selection of ring options to accommodate various scope sizes and preferences. The finish is a matte black. This helps to reduce glare and provides a non-reflective surface that blends well with most rifles and scopes.
Performance & Functionality
The Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336 performs its job admirably: providing a secure and stable platform for mounting a scope. The bases lock tightly onto the receiver of the Marlin 336, ensuring that the scope holds zero even under heavy recoil.
The primary strength of these bases is their simplicity and reliability. Installation is easy, and they provide a solid foundation for accurate shooting. The only potential weakness is that the two-piece design might not be as rigid as a one-piece Picatinny rail, but for most hunting applications, this is not a significant concern. For my applications, it does what I need it to do, plain and simple.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336 is excellent, especially considering their price. The aluminum is well-machined and the matte black finish is evenly applied. The bases are lightweight and do not add noticeable bulk to the rifle.
The design is straightforward and functional, with no unnecessary frills. Installation is simple, and the bases fit snugly and securely onto the receiver of the Marlin 336. The low profile design keeps the scope close to the bore, which can improve accuracy.
Durability & Maintenance
The Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336 are designed to last for many years with proper care. The aluminum construction is resistant to corrosion and wear.
Maintenance is minimal, consisting of occasional cleaning with a soft cloth and light oil. The bases are easy to remove and reinstall if necessary, but once properly mounted, they should remain secure.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336 do not come with any accessories beyond the mounting screws. However, they are designed to be compatible with a wide range of Weaver top mount cross lock rings.
These bases can be used with various scopes, from small rimfire scopes to larger hunting scopes, as long as the appropriate Weaver rings are used. While not offering the Picatinny rail system versatility, the Weaver system has stood the test of time.
Pros and Cons of Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336
Pros
- Easy to install with basic tools.
- Affordable and provides excellent value for the price.
- Lightweight and durable aluminum construction.
- Compatible with all Weaver top mount cross lock rings.
- Provides a stable and secure mounting platform for scopes, maintaining zero even under heavy recoil.
Cons
- Two-piece design may not be as rigid as a one-piece rail for extreme long-range shooting.
- Limited customization options compared to a Picatinny rail system.
Who Should Buy Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336?
The Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336 are perfect for hunters and recreational shooters who want to add a scope to their Marlin 336 lever-action rifle without breaking the bank. They are also a great choice for anyone who prefers a lightweight and streamlined mounting system over a bulkier Picatinny rail.
These bases might not be ideal for competitive shooters or those who require a highly customizable mounting platform. However, for most hunting and general shooting applications, they provide an excellent balance of performance, affordability, and ease of use. Anyone who expects to be taking a lot of very long shots might also consider something more sophisticated.
Conclusion on Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336
The Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336 is a simple, reliable, and affordable solution for mounting a scope on a Marlin 336 lever-action rifle. The price is absolutely justified considering the quality and performance of these bases.
I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for an easy and cost-effective way to improve the accuracy and versatility of their Marlin 336. If you’re tired of struggling with iron sights or want to extend your effective range, the Weaver Matte Black Top Base Pair For Marlin 336 is an excellent choice. Upgrade your Marlin 336 today and experience the difference a good scope can make.