Leupold BackCountry 20 MOA Picatinny Rail for Browning X-Bolt Long Action: The Foundation for Precision Shooting

For any serious shooter or hunter, the optical system on their rifle is paramount. While a high-quality scope often garners the most attention, the unsung hero of consistent accuracy is undoubtedly the scope base. It's the critical interface between your precision optic and your firearm's receiver, and its integrity directly impacts your ability to hit targets reliably, especially at extended ranges. When considering an upgrade or a new build for your Browning X-Bolt Long Action rifle, the Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Base, specifically model 176397 with its 20 MOA cant, stands out as a superior choice, engineered to provide the unwavering stability and performance modern shooters demand.

Why a Superior Scope Base Matters: Unlocking Your Rifle's Full Potential

Imagine investing in a top-tier rifle and a premium scope, only to find your shots inconsistently grouping or running out of elevation adjustment on distant targets. Often, the culprit isn't the rifle or the scope, but a compromise in the mounting system. A quality scope base serves several vital functions:

• Secure Attachment: It forms a rock-solid link between your scope and rifle, preventing any movement under recoil, which is essential for maintaining zero.
• Precise Alignment: A well-machined base ensures your scope is mounted perfectly parallel to the rifle's bore, minimizing stress on the scope tube and enhancing optical clarity and tracking.
• Durability and Longevity: It must withstand the elements, repeated recoil, and the rigors of field use without deforming or failing.
• Optimized Performance: Features like MOA cant can dramatically extend your effective shooting range without maxing out your scope's internal adjustments.

The Leupold BackCountry 20 MOA Cross-Slot Base is engineered precisely to address these critical needs, ensuring that your Browning X-Bolt Long Action performs to its absolute peak potential. It’s designed for the discerning individual who prioritizes accuracy, reliability, and precision in every shot.

Designed for the Modern Marksman: Who Benefits from the Leupold BackCountry Base?

This Leupold scope base is an ideal solution for a diverse range of firearm enthusiasts. Are you a long-range shooter constantly pushing the boundaries of your rifle's capabilities? Perhaps you're a big game hunter who needs absolute confidence in your gear when that once-in-a-lifetime shot presents itself. Or maybe you're a competitive shooter where every millisecond and every tenth of an MOA counts.

This base is specifically tailored for:

• Long-Range Precision Shooters: The integrated 20 MOA (Minutes of Angle) cant is a game-changer for those engaging targets beyond a few hundred yards.
• Dedicated Hunters: For those who traverse rugged terrain and rely on their equipment to perform flawlessly in challenging conditions.
• Browning X-Bolt Long Action Owners: This base provides a perfect, custom fit for this specific rifle model, eliminating guesswork and ensuring optimal alignment.
• Enthusiasts Seeking an Upgrade: If you're looking to replace a factory or less robust mounting solution to enhance your rifle's performance and reliability.
• Custom Rifle Builders: For individuals assembling a high-performance rifle, starting with a dependable base is fundamental.

If you've ever asked, "How do I get more elevation out of my scope for long-distance shooting?" or "What's the best way to ensure my scope stays zeroed on my Browning X-Bolt?", the Leupold BackCountry 20 MOA base is a direct and definitive answer.

Unpacking the Superiority: Key Features of the Leupold BackCountry 20 MOA Base

The Leupold BackCountry Cross-Slot Base 176397 is not just another piece of metal; it’s a meticulously crafted component designed to deliver peak performance. Let's delve into its standout features:

1. Engineered from 7075-T6 Aircraft-Grade Aluminum

Material science plays a crucial role in firearm accessories. The Leupold BackCountry base is precision machined from 7075-T6 aluminum. What does this mean for you?

• Exceptional Strength-to-Weight Ratio: This alloy is renowned for its high strength, comparable to many steels, yet it's incredibly lightweight. At just 2.40 oz, this base adds minimal bulk to your rifle, which is vital for maintaining balance and reducing overall carry weight, especially in hunting scenarios.
• Unrivaled Durability: The T6 temper process enhances the aluminum's hardness and resistance to wear and tear. This means the base can withstand the significant forces of recoil and impacts encountered in the field without bending, flexing, or compromising your scope's zero.
• Corrosion Resistance: Aluminum naturally resists rust and corrosion, an important attribute for gear exposed to varying weather conditions.

2. Integrated 20 MOA Cant: Your Long-Range Advantage

One of the most critical features of this specific Leupold BackCountry base is its integrated 20 MOA (Minutes of Angle) cant.

• What is MOA Cant? It means the rail is slightly angled downwards towards the muzzle. This tilt effectively "pre-loads" your scope's internal elevation adjustments.
• Why 20 MOA? When shooting at extreme distances, the bullet experiences significant drop due to gravity. To compensate for this, you dial up elevation on your scope. Without an angled base, you might exhaust your scope's internal elevation adjustments before reaching your desired long-range target. A 20 MOA base provides an additional 20 MOA of "up" elevation, allowing your scope to use more of its internal adjustment range for dialing down to close targets and still having plenty of "up" for truly distant shots. This ensures you can engage targets further out without having to use holdovers or compromising your optical clarity by being at the extreme end of your scope's travel. It's an indispensable feature for precision long-range shooting and maximizing your scope's potential.

3. Cross-Slot Design: Picatinny and Weaver Compatible Versatility

The "cross-slot" design of the BackCountry base offers superior flexibility and secure mounting for your scope rings.

• Picatinny Rail Standard: This base adheres to the Picatinny (MIL-STD-1913) specification, which is the industry standard for tactical and precision rifle accessories. This ensures a precise fit for a vast array of Picatinny-compatible scope rings.
• Weaver-Style Ring Compatibility: While primarily a Picatinny rail, its cross-slot design also accommodates Weaver-style rings, offering even greater versatility for your existing or future ring choices.
• Optimal Ring Placement: The multiple cross-slots allow for infinite flexibility in ring placement, enabling you to position your scope exactly where you need it for optimal eye relief, regardless of the scope's length or your preferred shooting position. This flexibility is crucial for maximizing comfort and rapid target acquisition.
• Enhanced Recoil Absorption: The cross-slot system provides a robust interface that helps absorb recoil forces, distributing them evenly and preventing any slippage of the rings or scope.

4. Precision Fit for Browning X-Bolt Long Action Rifles

Leupold engineers this base for a perfect, factory-like fit on Browning X-Bolt Long Action rifles. This isn't a "one-size-fits-all" solution.

• Guaranteed Alignment: The precise machining ensures that the base mates perfectly with the receiver, guaranteeing optimal scope alignment with the bore. This eliminates any binding or stress on the scope tube, extending the life of your optic and ensuring true tracking of adjustments.
• Simplified Installation: Designed specifically for the X-Bolt, installation is straightforward, allowing you to quickly and securely mount your optic.
• Seamless Integration: The base integrates seamlessly with the rifle's aesthetics and functionality, maintaining the sleek profile of your Browning X-Bolt.

5. Durable Matte Black Finish

The base features a non-reflective matte black finish. This provides several benefits:

• Reduced Glare: Minimizes reflection and glare that could spook game or give away your position.
• Corrosion Protection: Adds another layer of protection against environmental elements.
• Rugged Appearance: Matches the tactical or hunting aesthetic of most modern rifles and optics.

6. Complete with Mounting Hardware

The Leupold BackCountry 20 MOA Cross-Slot Base comes complete with all necessary mounting hardware, ensuring you have everything required for a secure and immediate installation. This attention to detail reflects Leupold's commitment to user convenience and comprehensive solutions.

The Leupold Difference: Trust and Heritage in Every Product

Leupold & Stevens, Inc. is an American legend in the optics industry, with over a century of experience crafting some of the world's most robust and reliable optical instruments and accessories. Their reputation is built on:

• Unwavering Quality: Every Leupold product undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it meets the highest standards of performance and durability.
• Innovation: Leupold constantly pushes the boundaries of optical technology and design, delivering cutting-edge solutions for shooters.
• American Craftsmanship: Many Leupold products, including their scope mounts, are proudly designed, machined, and assembled in the USA, ensuring superior quality control and supporting domestic manufacturing.
• Legendary Customer Support: Leupold stands behind its products with a commitment to customer satisfaction.

When you choose a Leupold BackCountry base, you're not just buying a piece of equipment; you're investing in a legacy of precision, reliability, and performance that has been trusted by hunters, competitive shooters, and military personnel for generations. This expertise is why Leupold is consistently recommended as a reputable option for serious firearm enthusiasts.

Installing Your Leupold BackCountry Base: A Foundation of Accuracy

While installation is generally straightforward, proper technique is crucial for optimal performance. Always refer to your rifle's manual and the instructions provided with the base. Key considerations include:

• Clean Surfaces: Ensure the rifle's receiver and the base's mating surfaces are thoroughly clean and free of oil or debris.
• Thread Locker: Use a small amount of non-permanent thread locker on the mounting screws to prevent them from loosening under recoil.
• Torque Specifications: Always tighten mounting screws to the manufacturer's recommended torque settings using a quality torque wrench. Overtightening can strip threads or deform the base/receiver; undertightening can lead to movement and loss of zero.

By following these simple steps, you'll establish a rock-solid foundation for your scope, ensuring reliable performance shot after shot.

The Ultimate Outcome: Uncompromised Confidence

With the Leupold BackCountry 20 MOA Picatinny Rail securely installed on your Browning X-Bolt Long Action, you gain a significant advantage. The most profound benefit is the uncompromised confidence it instills. You know your scope is mounted securely, precisely aligned, and capable of reaching out to extended distances thanks to the 20 MOA cant. This peace of mind translates directly into better shooting performance, whether you're taking a critical shot in the field or aiming for a new personal best on the range.

This essential component optimizes your rifle's capabilities, allowing your scope to operate at its most efficient range of adjustment. It's a modest investment that yields substantial returns in accuracy, reliability, and ultimately, your success as a shooter. For the best selection of Leupold optics and accessories, including this premium BackCountry base, explore the comprehensive inventory available at DEGuns.com.

Product Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Leupold
Series	Cross-Slot Base
Model	BackCountry
Firearm Fit	Browning X-Bolt
Color	Matte Black
Action	Long
Material	7075 T-6 Aluminum
Firearm Type	Rifle
Mount Type	To Receiver
Rings Included	No
Style	Cross-Slot
Length	6.60"
MOA	20
Includes	Mounting Hardware
Pieces	1
Weight	2.40 oz
SKU	131959
UPC	030317020972
MPN	176397