Mastering Your Shot: The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Base for Savage 10/110 Short Action Rifles

For any serious shooter, hunter, or competitive marksman, the pursuit of precision is paramount. Every component of your firearm system plays a critical role in achieving that elusive, perfectly placed shot. Among these, the scope mount often gets overlooked, yet it serves as the crucial bridge between your rifle and your optic. Without a rock-solid, reliable foundation, even the most advanced scope and accurate rifle combination will fail to perform to its full potential. This is where the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot 1-Piece Base, specifically designed for Savage 10/110 Round Receiver Short Action rifles (MPN: 171336), enters the conversation, offering an unparalleled blend of strength, lightweight design, and universal compatibility.

Are you a Savage 10 or 110 short action rifle owner looking for the ultimate upgrade to your optic mounting system? Do you frequently ask, "What is the most durable and lightweight scope mount for my Savage short action?" or "How can I ensure my rifle scope holds zero even under punishing recoil?" If so, this comprehensive guide will illuminate why the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base is engineered to answer these questions and elevate your shooting experience. It's built for those who demand uncompromising performance from their gear, whether deep in the backcountry, on the competitive firing line, or at the local range.

The Foundation of Precision: Why a Superior Scope Mount Matters

Imagine investing in a top-tier rifle and a premium scope, only to find your shots inconsistently grouping or your zero constantly shifting. Often, the culprit isn't the rifle or the optic, but the weakest link in the chain: an inferior scope mount. A high-quality scope base does more than just attach your scope; it ensures:

• Unwavering Zero Retention: The ability of your scope to consistently return to its set point of aim after each shot, crucial for accuracy.
• Enhanced Durability: Protection for your valuable optic from recoil shock, accidental bumps, and environmental stressors.
• Optimized Performance: A stable platform allows your scope's internal adjustments to function as intended, maximizing its optical clarity and tracking precision.
• Reduced Overall Weight: For hunters and those who carry their rifles long distances, every ounce matters. A lightweight yet robust mount contributes significantly.

The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base addresses all these critical aspects, providing a superior mounting solution that truly complements your high-performance Savage rifle.

Introducing the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Base: Engineered for Excellence

The Leupold BackCountry series represents a significant leap forward in mounting technology, bringing aerospace-grade materials and precision engineering to the forefront. The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot 1-Piece Base (MPN: 171336) is a testament to this innovation, specifically tailored for the popular Savage 10 and 110 rifle models with a round receiver and short action.

Let's delve into the core attributes that make this base a standout choice:

Unrivaled Strength and Featherlight Design: 7075-T6 Aluminum Construction

At the heart of the Leupold BackCountry base's exceptional performance is its material composition: 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum. This isn't just any aluminum; it's an alloy renowned for its extraordinary strength-to-weight ratio, commonly used in demanding aerospace applications where both minimal weight and maximum structural integrity are non-negotiable.

• What does this mean for you?
  • Incredible Durability: The 7075-T6 aluminum provides superior resistance to impact, flexing, and long-term wear, ensuring your scope remains rigidly mounted, shot after shot, season after season. It stands up to the rigors of recoil, harsh weather, and demanding field conditions with unwavering resilience.
  • Remarkably Lightweight: Despite its impressive strength, the base weighs in at a mere 1.80 ounces. This minimal weight contribution is crucial for reducing the overall carry weight of your rifle system, a significant advantage for hunters trekking miles or competitors seeking to optimize their setup. It allows you to maintain the rifle's balance and handling characteristics without adding unnecessary bulk.
  • Corrosion Resistance: The material is inherently resistant to rust and corrosion, an essential characteristic for equipment exposed to varying environmental conditions. The matte black finish further enhances this protection and provides a discreet, non-reflective appearance.

Versatility and Stability: Cross-Slot Design with Picatinny/Weaver Compatibility

The "Cross-Slot" in its name refers to the universal design of the mounting slots that run across the base. This innovative design offers several key benefits:

• Universal Ring Acceptance: The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base is engineered to accept both Picatinny- and Weaver-style rings. This broad compatibility means you're not locked into a specific ring type, offering maximum flexibility when choosing your scope rings. Whether you prefer the wider, more robust Picatinny standard or the widely available Weaver rings, this base accommodates them all.
• Enhanced Mounting Versatility: The multiple cross-slots allow for precise positioning of your scope rings, enabling you to optimize eye relief for various optics and shooting positions. This adaptability is crucial for different body types, shooting styles, and scope designs.
• Superior Recoil Absorption: The cross-slot design provides a robust interface for the scope rings, which, when properly torqued, helps to absorb and distribute recoil forces more effectively. This critical feature aids in maintaining your scope's zero, even when firing magnum cartridges or experiencing rapid strings of fire.

The Advantage of a 1-Piece Base

Unlike two-piece bases, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot is a single, integral unit. This design choice offers distinct advantages for precision and reliability:

• Increased Rigidity: A one-piece base provides a more robust and less flexible platform compared to two separate mounts. This inherent rigidity minimizes any potential for flex or twisting under recoil, which can otherwise lead to zero shift and inconsistent accuracy.
• Improved Alignment: Manufacturing a single, continuous piece ensures perfect alignment between the front and rear rings, eliminating the potential for stress on your scope tube that can occur with misaligned two-piece bases. This contributes to the longevity of your optic and ensures optimal optical performance.
• Streamlined Profile: The integrated design offers a cleaner, more streamlined appearance on your rifle, reducing snag points and contributing to the overall aesthetic appeal of your setup.

Tailored for Your Savage: Savage 10/110 Round Receiver Short Action

Understanding firearm-specific compatibility is paramount. The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Base (MPN: 171336) is meticulously designed to fit the Savage 10 and Savage 110 rifle models with a round receiver and short action. This precise fit ensures:

• Optimal Alignment: Perfect mating with your rifle's receiver contours, providing a secure, level, and repeatable mounting surface.
• Effortless Installation: The base comes complete with all necessary mounting hardware, facilitating a straightforward installation process for experienced gun owners or qualified gunsmiths.
• Uncompromised Performance: Because it's designed specifically for this popular Savage configuration, you can be confident that the base will integrate seamlessly with your rifle, unlocking its full accuracy potential.

Who Benefits Most from the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Base?

This particular scope base is an ideal solution for a wide array of firearm enthusiasts:

• Savage 10/110 Short Action Owners: The primary audience for this precisely engineered mount.
• Hunters: Those who require a lightweight, durable, and absolutely reliable mounting solution for their hunting rifles, capable of withstanding the rigors of the field.
• Target Shooters & Competitors: Individuals who demand consistent zero retention and repeatable accuracy for precision shooting disciplines.
• Rifle Upgraders: Anyone looking to replace a less robust factory mount or upgrade to a superior, more versatile system.
• Precision Shooters: Those who understand that accuracy begins with a stable foundation for their optics.

Addressing Your Key Questions About Scope Mounting

Let's explore how the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Base directly answers some of the most common inquiries regarding rifle scope mounts:

• "What is the best lightweight scope mount for my Savage 10 short action?"
  The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot, at just 1.80 oz and crafted from 7075-T6 aluminum, stands as a top contender for those prioritizing a lightweight yet incredibly strong solution for their Savage 10/110 round receiver short action rifles. Its single-piece design further contributes to optimal weight distribution and rigidity.
• "How can I ensure my scope holds zero on a high-recoil rifle?"
  The inherent rigidity of a one-piece base combined with the strength of 7075-T6 aluminum and the secure cross-slot interface of the Leupold BackCountry system minimizes flex and movement, providing an exceptionally stable platform that resists zero shift, even under significant recoil. Proper installation and torque settings are key, and this base provides the mechanical integrity to make it possible.
• "Are single-piece scope bases better than two-piece?"
  For many applications, especially those demanding maximum rigidity and precise alignment, a single-piece base like the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot is often preferred. It eliminates potential alignment issues between two separate pieces, reduces stress on your scope tube, and offers a more robust, integral platform for consistent performance.
• "Which scope base allows for maximum ring flexibility and scope positioning?"
  The universal cross-slot design of this Leupold base, compatible with both Picatinny and Weaver style rings, provides unparalleled flexibility. The continuous series of slots allows you to precisely adjust your scope's fore and aft position to achieve optimal eye relief for any optic or shooting scenario, ensuring comfort and a full field of view.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

To maximize the performance and longevity of your Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base, consider these practical tips:

• Cleanliness is Key: Before mounting, thoroughly clean your rifle's receiver screw holes and the base itself to ensure no debris interferes with the secure fit.
• Proper Torque Settings: Always use a torque wrench and adhere to Leupold's recommended torque specifications for the mounting screws. Over-tightening can damage the screws or the receiver threads, while under-tightening can lead to instability.
• Thread Locker: A small amount of non-permanent thread-locking compound (e.g., blue Loctite) on the base screws can add an extra layer of security against loosening under recoil.
• Regular Inspection: Periodically check the mounting screws for tightness, especially after extended shooting sessions or exposure to harsh conditions.

The Leupold Advantage: A Legacy of Trust

Leupold has been a trusted name in American optics and mounting solutions for over a century. Their commitment to superior engineering, rugged durability, and uncompromising quality is evident in every product they produce. The BackCountry series embodies this legacy, offering solutions that are rigorously tested and designed to perform when it matters most. When you choose Leupold, you're not just buying a product; you're investing in decades of expertise and a reputation for excellence that stands behind every shot. This specific mount, with its MPN 171336 and UPC 030317011826, is a prime example of their dedication to the shooting community.

Elevate Your Shooting with Leupold BackCountry

The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot 1-Piece Base (MPN: 171336) for Savage 10/110 Round Receiver Short Action rifles is more than just a piece of hardware; it's a critical upgrade that unlocks the full potential of your rifle and optic system. By providing an incredibly stable, lightweight, and versatile mounting platform, it ensures repeatable accuracy, uncompromising durability, and peace of mind in any shooting scenario. From the demanding conditions of backcountry hunting to the precision requirements of competitive shooting, this base is engineered to perform.

If you're ready to enhance your rifle's accuracy and reliability, ensuring your scope remains steadfastly zeroed, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot base is an investment that will pay dividends in consistent performance. Discover the difference a truly premium scope mount can make to your shooting experience.

Product Specifications: Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Savage 10/110 Short Action Base

Feature	Detail
Brand	Leupold
Model	BackCountry Cross-Slot
Firearm Fit	Savage 10/110 Round Receiver Short Action
Material	7075-T6 Aluminum
Weight	1.80 oz
Color	Matte Black
Mount Type	1-Piece To Receiver
Ring Acceptance	Picatinny & Weaver
UPC	030317011826
MPN	171336