First Impressions of Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80
The Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80 from Weaver promises a solid and versatile mounting solution for a wide array of firearms. As someone who has spent years in the field dealing with all sorts of firearm accessories, a reliable and sturdy base is paramount for accurate and consistent shooting. This particular base caught my eye due to its purported lightweight aluminum construction and compatibility with Mossberg firearms.
I was in the market for a new base for my trusted Mossberg 500, hoping to improve its accuracy with a red dot sight I had lying around. I was tired of the factory bead sight and ready to explore the advantages of a proper optic. The Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80 seemed like an affordable and straightforward way to accomplish this.
Upon unboxing, the Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80 felt surprisingly lightweight, confirming its aluminum construction. The gloss black finish was clean and appeared well-applied, although I generally prefer matte finishes to minimize glare. The included screws looked to be of decent quality.
Compared to other bases I’ve used, like the steel Warne bases, this Weaver base felt significantly lighter, which is a definite advantage for a shotgun I already carry for miles while hunting. I chose this over a Picatinny rail adapter because I prefer a lower profile mount, and I trust the Weaver system’s reputation for strength and reliability. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic; while the finish was a bit shiny for my taste, the lightweight design and Weaver’s reputation gave me hope for solid performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80 at my local shooting range, mounting it on my Mossberg 500 and attaching a red dot optic. Installation was simple and straightforward, requiring only a few minutes with a screwdriver. The screws provided fit snugly and securely into the receiver.
The conditions were slightly damp, with a light drizzle, but this didn’t seem to affect the base’s performance. The optic remained firmly mounted throughout the session. I quickly noticed that the lower profile of the base compared to a full rail made shouldering the shotgun more natural and comfortable. After a few sighting shots, I was hitting targets consistently at 50 yards.
There were no immediate issues or surprises after the first use. The base held firm, and the red dot optic stayed zeroed, which is the primary goal of any mounting system.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including a dove hunting trip and a few more range sessions, the Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80 has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, and the finish remains intact despite some exposure to the elements. The base has remained securely mounted, and the optic has maintained its zero consistently.
Cleaning and maintaining the base is easy, simply requiring a wipe down with a clean cloth after each use. Compared to some other bases I’ve used that required occasional tightening or adjustment, the Weaver base has been virtually maintenance-free. It has definitely exceeded my expectations in terms of reliability and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80
Specifications
The Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80 features a lightweight aluminum construction, providing a balance of strength and weight savings. It has a gloss black finish, providing a sleek, albeit shiny, appearance. The base is a one-piece design, ensuring a solid and stable mounting platform.
This base is specifically designed for Mossberg firearms. It also has an ambidextrous design, suitable for both right- and left-handed shooters. The cross-lock design enhances the stability and secure fit of the optic. The specifications matter because they directly impact the performance and reliability of the mounting system.
Performance & Functionality
The Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80 performs its job admirably, providing a stable and secure platform for mounting optics. Its accuracy is excellent, maintaining zero even after repeated use and recoil. The base is reliable, with no loosening or shifting observed during testing.
The main strength of this base is its simplicity and ease of use; installation is quick and painless. One potential weakness is the gloss finish, which some may find too reflective. Overall, the base meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80 features a lightweight and low-profile design, which contributes to a comfortable shooting experience. The aluminum construction keeps the weight down, while the one-piece design ensures maximum stability. The base is user-friendly with no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its aluminum construction and solid design, the Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80 appears to be quite durable. With proper care, it should last for many years. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80 is designed to be compatible with Weaver-style rings and optics. It allows for the use of a wide variety of scopes, red dot sights, and other optical accessories. While this base does not offer direct Picatinny compatibility, adapters are available for those who prefer Picatinny-style mounts. The Weaver system is a long-standing standard, which makes finding compatible accessories relatively easy.
Pros and Cons of Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80
Pros
- Lightweight aluminum construction makes it easy to add an optic without significantly increasing the firearm’s weight.
- The Cross-Lock Design ensures a secure and stable mounting platform, maintaining zero under recoil.
- Easy to install with basic tools, making it accessible for most firearm owners.
- The one-piece design enhances rigidity and reduces the chance of loosening over time.
- It’s an affordable upgrade that improves the versatility of a Mossberg shotgun.
Cons
- The gloss black finish may be too reflective for some users, potentially causing glare in certain conditions.
- It is only compatible with Weaver-style rings and optics, limiting accessory options compared to Picatinny rails.
Who Should Buy Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80?
The Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80 is perfect for Mossberg shotgun owners looking for an affordable and reliable way to mount optics. It is especially well-suited for hunters, sport shooters, and anyone wanting to enhance the accuracy and versatility of their firearm.
Those who prefer the flexibility of Picatinny rails or require a non-reflective finish should skip this product.
A must-have accessory for this base is a quality set of Weaver-style rings to ensure a secure and proper optic mount.
Conclusion on Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80
The Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80 is a solid, reliable, and affordable mounting solution for Mossberg shotguns. Its lightweight construction, easy installation, and secure Cross-Lock Design make it a worthwhile upgrade for any shooter looking to add optics to their firearm.
The price is definitely justified given the base’s performance and durability.
I would absolutely recommend the Weaver Top Mount Aluminum Base 80 to anyone seeking a simple and effective way to improve their Mossberg’s accuracy and versatility. Upgrade your shotgun today!