Elevate Your Precision: The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot 20 MOA Base for Winchester 70 Long Action Rifles

For serious shooters and discerning hunters who demand the utmost in precision and reliability from their Winchester 70 Long Action rifle, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot 20 MOA Base in Matte Black (Leupold part number 171343, UPC 030317011925) stands out as an indispensable upgrade. This meticulously engineered scope base isn't just another accessory; it's a foundational component designed to unlock your rifle's full long-range potential, ensuring your optic has the necessary elevation adjustment to consistently hit targets at extended distances.

Are you struggling to get enough elevation out of your scope when shooting beyond 500 yards? Do you want to maximize the performance of your high-magnification optic without running out of internal adjustment? The Leupold BackCountry 20 MOA base is specifically designed to address these challenges. It provides a robust, lightweight, and precise mounting platform that gives you a significant advantage in long-range shooting scenarios, whether you're engaging steel targets, chasing distant game, or competing on the firing line.

The Advantage of 20 MOA: Unlocking Long-Range Potential

One of the most critical features of this Leupold scope base is its integrated 20 Minute of Angle (MOA) slope. But what does 20 MOA mean for your shooting?

In long-range shooting, a bullet does not travel in a straight line; gravity constantly pulls it downwards. This phenomenon, known as "bullet drop," becomes increasingly pronounced with distance. To compensate for bullet drop, shooters adjust their rifle scope's elevation turret. However, every scope has a finite amount of internal elevation adjustment. For many popular scopes, especially those with generous windage adjustment or lower power ranges, the total internal elevation travel might not be enough to reach targets at extreme distances (e.g., 800, 1000, or even 1200+ yards) when paired with a flat (0 MOA) base.

This is where the 20 MOA cant of the Leupold BackCountry base becomes revolutionary. By subtly tilting the scope downwards towards the muzzle, it effectively "pre-loads" your scope's elevation adjustment. Imagine your scope's internal adjustment range as a vertical ruler. A 0 MOA base starts you in the middle of that ruler. A 20 MOA base, however, shifts your starting point towards the bottom of the ruler, granting you significantly more "up" adjustment for those critical long shots. This extra elevation typically translates to several dozens of additional MOA or Mils, allowing your scope to be zeroed at a standard range (e.g., 100 or 200 yards) while still retaining ample upward adjustment to compensate for ballistic drop at extreme distances.

Key benefits of the 20 MOA slope include:

• Extended Range Capability: Enables your scope to reach out to distances that would be impossible with a standard 0 MOA base, preventing you from "running out of clicks."
• Optimal Optical Performance: Keeping your scope's internal erector system closer to its optical center where most lenses perform best. While a scope is designed to adjust, operating closer to its mechanical center can sometimes offer subtle benefits in terms of optical clarity and consistency across the full range of adjustment.
• Versatility with Various Scopes: Particularly beneficial for scopes with lower total elevation travel or those that are frequently used for both mid-range and long-range engagements.
• Reduced Holdovers: For shooters who prefer to use reticle holdovers rather than dialing, a 20 MOA base effectively shifts your zero, meaning your holdovers might start at a more manageable point on your reticle for very long distances.

Engineered for Excellence: Material and Construction

Leupold's commitment to quality is evident in the materials and manufacturing of the BackCountry Cross-Slot base. It is precision-machined from 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum. This specific alloy is renowned for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, making it the material of choice for demanding applications in aerospace and high-performance sporting goods.

Why is 7075-T6 aluminum superior for a scope base?

• Exceptional Strength: Despite its light weight, 7075-T6 aluminum offers impressive tensile strength, ensuring your scope mount can withstand the repeated shock and recoil of powerful rifle cartridges without deforming or losing zero. This robustness is critical for maintaining shot-to-shot consistency and reliability in the field or at the range.
• Lightweight Design: Weighing in at a mere 2 ounces, this single-piece base contributes minimally to the overall weight of your rifle system. For hunters trekking through rugged terrain or competitive shooters aiming for agile rifle setups, every ounce matters. A lighter base means a more balanced rifle that is easier to carry and maneuver.
• Corrosion Resistance: The inherent properties of aluminum, coupled with the matte black anodized finish, provide excellent resistance to corrosion and environmental wear, ensuring the mount performs reliably in diverse weather conditions from humid forests to arid deserts.
• Precision Machining: The precision machining ensures that the base perfectly interfaces with the Winchester 70 Long Action receiver, providing a rock-solid, repeatable mounting surface that is free from play or flex. This level of precision is fundamental to achieving pinpoint accuracy.

Cross-Slot Design: Universal Compatibility and Security

The Leupold BackCountry base features a cross-slot design that is compatible with both Picatinny- and Weaver-style rings. This universal compatibility is a significant advantage for shooters who may own various sets of rings or prefer specific ring manufacturers.

Benefits of the Cross-Slot Design:

• Versatility: You are not locked into a single ring type. Whether you prefer the robust interlocking design of Picatinny rings or the widespread availability of Weaver rings, this base accommodates both.
• Enhanced Recoil Absorption: The cross-slot system uses recoil lugs or pins on the rings that engage with slots on the base. This interlocking mechanism effectively disperses recoil forces across a larger surface area, preventing the scope and rings from sliding under heavy recoil and helping to maintain zero.
• Repeatability: If you ever need to remove your scope for cleaning, maintenance, or transport, a high-quality cross-slot base allows for consistent re-mounting, often retaining zero with minimal or no adjustment required. This is a huge time-saver and confidence-builder.
• Secure Attachment: The multiple cross-slots provide ample surface area for ring placement, allowing you to optimize ring spacing for your specific scope and shooting style, ensuring a firm and unwavering grip on your optic.

Seamless Integration: Designed for Winchester 70 Long Action

The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot 20 MOA Base is engineered specifically for the Winchester 70 Long Action rifle. This dedicated fit ensures perfect alignment with the receiver's screw holes and contour, providing a truly custom-grade mounting solution. The Winchester Model 70, often dubbed "The Rifleman's Rifle," is a legendary bolt-action firearm known for its robust action, accuracy, and widespread use by hunters and competitive shooters alike.

Examples of Winchester 70 Long Action cartridges that benefit from this base include:

• .270 Winchester
• .30-06 Springfield
• .25-06 Remington
• 7mm Remington Magnum
• .300 Winchester Magnum
• .338 Winchester Magnum
• .26 Nosler
• .28 Nosler
• .30 Nosler
• .300 PRC
• .300 Remington Ultra Magnum
• .375 H&H Magnum

Ensuring a perfect mechanical interface between the base and the rifle's receiver is paramount for accuracy. Any movement, however subtle, can result in point-of-impact shifts and inconsistent performance. This Leupold base's precise fit eliminates such concerns, providing a stable foundation that allows your rifle and scope to perform at their peak. It includes all necessary mounting hardware, making installation straightforward for anyone with basic gunsmithing knowledge and tools.

Who Needs the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot 20 MOA Base?

This specific scope base is an ideal choice for a diverse range of firearm enthusiasts and professionals:

• Long-Range Precision Shooters: For those pushing the limits of their rifle's effective range, the 20 MOA cant is a non-negotiable feature for maximizing scope elevation travel.
• Serious Hunters: Especially those pursuing game in open country where long shots might be necessary. Reliable optics and mounts are crucial for ethical, one-shot kills.
• Competitive Shooters: In disciplines like PRS (Precision Rifle Series) or F-Class, where targets are engaged at varying and often extreme distances, every click of elevation adjustment matters.
• Rifle Builders and Customizers: For individuals building or upgrading a Winchester 70 Long Action rifle for dedicated long-range performance, this base provides the optimal starting point.
• Anyone Seeking Uncompromising Reliability: Even if you don't frequently shoot at extreme ranges, the robust construction, lightweight nature, and superior design of this Leupold base offer peace of mind and enhance the overall reliability of your optic system.

Installation and Maintenance Considerations

While the Leupold BackCountry base is designed for ease of installation, proper technique is key to maximizing its performance and ensuring long-term reliability.

• Cleanliness: Ensure the rifle receiver's mounting holes and the base's mating surface are free of oil, grease, and debris before installation. A degreaser like rubbing alcohol is often recommended.
• Thread Locker: A small amount of non-permanent (blue) thread locker on the mounting screws is highly recommended. This prevents screws from backing out under recoil, maintaining a consistent zero.
• Torque Specifications: Always adhere to Leupold's recommended torque specifications for the mounting screws. Over-tightening can strip threads or deform components; under-tightening can lead to movement. A quality torque wrench is an invaluable tool for this step.
• Ring Installation: Once the base is securely mounted, follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing your scope rings, again paying close attention to torque settings. Proper ring alignment and leveling are critical for optical clarity and preventing scope damage.
• Periodic Checks: It's good practice to periodically check the tightness of all mounting screws (base to receiver, and rings to base) to ensure nothing has loosened over time due to recoil or environmental factors.

Why Trust Leupold? A Legacy of Excellence

When you choose a Leupold product, you're investing in a legacy of American manufacturing excellence and innovation that spans over a century. Leupold & Stevens, Inc. is globally recognized for producing some of the most rugged, reliable, and optically superior rifle scopes, binoculars, and mounting solutions available today.

Leupold products are known for their:

• Unwavering Durability: Designed and rigorously tested to withstand the harshest conditions imaginable, from extreme temperatures to brutal recoil.
• Precision Engineering: Every component, including scope bases, is manufactured to incredibly tight tolerances, ensuring optimal performance.
• Lifetime Guarantee: Leupold stands behind its products with a legendary lifetime guarantee, offering unparalleled customer support and peace of mind. This commitment to customer satisfaction reflects their confidence in their product quality.

Integrating the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot 20 MOA Base into your Winchester 70 Long Action setup means you're not just buying a piece of hardware; you're adopting a complete system engineered for performance and backed by a brand synonymous with quality in the shooting sports world. This base isn't merely designed to hold your scope; it's designed to help you achieve your full potential as a shooter, ensuring every shot counts, especially when the target is a long way off.

This Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot 20 MOA Base, Leupold part number 171343 with UPC 030317011925, is available to enhance your shooting experience at DEGuns.com. Elevate your long-range game with a foundation you can truly trust.

Product Specifications & Compatibility Insights

This table provides a comprehensive overview of the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot 20 MOA Base, highlighting key specifications and compatibility details to help you make an informed decision.

Feature	Detail	Benefit to Shooter
Brand	Leupold	Trusted leader in precision optics & accessories
Series	BackCountry Cross-Slot Base	Designed for rugged reliability in demanding environments
Model	171343	Specific model for targeted performance
Firearm Fit	Winchester 70 Long Action	Perfect, secure fit ensures optimal alignment and stability
Action	Long	Correctly sized for long action rifle receivers
Material	7075-T6 Aluminum	Lightweight, exceptionally strong, and corrosion-resistant
MOA Cant	20 MOA	Extends scope's usable elevation for long-range shooting
Mount Type	To Receiver	Direct, robust attachment to the rifle's action
Style	Cross-Slot (Picatinny/Weaver)	Universal compatibility with most rifle scope rings
Color	Matte Black	Non-reflective, durable finish for field use
Weight	2 oz	Minimizes added rifle weight for better handling
Length	6.70"	Appropriate length for long action receivers
Pieces	1	Single-piece design enhances rigidity and strength
Rings Included	No	Allows shooter to choose preferred rings
Includes	Mounting Hardware	Ready for installation out of the box
Firearm Type	Rifle	Specifically designed for bolt-action rifles
SKU	101051	Internal inventory tracking number
UPC	030317011925	Universal Product Code for identification