Elevate Your Long-Range Precision: The Leupold Standard 1-Piece 15 MOA Base for Winchester 70 (Pre-2003)

For serious shooters and discerning hunters who demand unwavering precision from their Winchester Model 70 Long Range rifles, the foundation of an accurate shot lies squarely in the scope mounting system. When considering how to achieve maximum optical performance and repeatable accuracy, particularly for extended distances, the choice of a robust, reliable, and intelligently designed scope base becomes paramount. The Leupold 51738 Standard 1-Piece Base is not merely an accessory; it's a critical component engineered to unlock the full potential of your pre-2003 Winchester 70, offering an unparalleled blend of durability, stability, and crucial long-range advantage.

Why a Superior Scope Base is Non-Negotiable for Long-Range Shooting

Anyone who has ventured into the world of long-range marksmanship understands that every element in the shooting system must work in perfect harmony. From the rifle's inherent accuracy to the quality of the ammunition, the performance of the optic, and critically, the stability of its mount – each plays a vital role. A flimsy or poorly designed scope base can undermine even the most expensive optics and the finest rifles, leading to inconsistent point-of-impact, frustrating zero shifts, and a significant loss of confidence in your setup.

This is precisely where a purpose-built solution like the Leupold Standard 1-Piece Base steps in. It addresses fundamental challenges faced by long-range shooters: maintaining zero under harsh conditions, compensating for significant bullet drop over vast distances, and ensuring absolute stability through every shot. If you're asking, "What's the best way to ensure my scope stays zeroed on my Winchester 70 Long Range?" or "How can I get more elevation adjustment from my scope for extreme distances?", this Leupold base provides a definitive answer.

Unpacking the Leupold 51738 Advantage: Designed for the Dedicated Marksman

The Leupold 51738 is more than just a piece of metal; it’s a testament to Leupold's legacy of precision engineering. Crafted from robust steel and finished in a non-reflective matte black, this single-piece base offers a myriad of features tailored for the serious shooter.

Optimized for Your Winchester Model 70 Long Range (Pre-2003)

One of the most crucial aspects of any scope mount is its perfect fit. This specific Leupold Standard base is meticulously designed for the Winchester 70 Long Range models manufactured before 2003. This precise fit ensures optimal alignment and secure attachment to your rifle's receiver, eliminating any potential for movement or stress on the scope, which can otherwise lead to parallax issues or inconsistent groupings. For owners of these classic and highly regarded rifles, finding a mount that perfectly complements their specific action is a significant advantage, removing the guesswork and potential for compatibility headaches often encountered with generic options. This specialized fit addresses the common question, "Will this scope base fit my older Winchester Model 70?" with a resounding yes, provided it's a pre-2003 Long Range model.

The Power of 15 MOA Cant: Extending Your Range

Perhaps the most significant feature for long-range enthusiasts is the integrated 15 Minutes of Angle (MOA) cant. But what does this mean, and why is it so important?

• What is MOA Cant? MOA cant refers to a slight downward tilt of the scope base towards the muzzle, effectively pre-setting a portion of your scope's internal elevation adjustment to compensate for bullet drop.
• Why 15 MOA? For shooting at extended distances (typically beyond 300-500 yards), gravity's effect on the bullet becomes increasingly pronounced. To hit targets at 800, 1000, or even 1200 yards, your scope requires a substantial amount of upward adjustment. Many scopes have limited internal elevation travel. A 15 MOA cant base effectively "points" your scope downwards by 15 MOA, giving you an additional 15 MOA of upward adjustment available from your scope's turrets. This is invaluable, as it allows you to utilize more of your scope's optical range for actual ballistic compensation rather than running out of adjustment clicks. It's an indispensable feature for anyone aiming to push their rifle's effective range, directly answering "How can I maximize my scope's elevation for long-range shooting?"

One-Piece Construction: The Ultimate in Rigidity and Stability

The 1-piece design of the Leupold 51738 offers superior structural integrity compared to two-piece systems. By spanning the entire receiver, a one-piece base minimizes flex and twisting, creating an incredibly rigid platform for your optic. This inherent stiffness translates directly into enhanced accuracy and unparalleled consistency. In the world of precision shooting, eliminating even the slightest variables can make the difference between a hit and a miss, especially at long ranges. The unified construction ensures precise alignment of your rings (sold separately, but STD rings are designed to match perfectly), promoting optical clarity and reducing stress on your scope tube. This design is preferred by many professional shooters who prioritize an unyielding foundation for their scope.

Steel Construction: Built to Endure

Leupold's commitment to durability is evident in the choice of material: high-grade steel. This robust construction ensures that the base can withstand the harsh recoil generated by powerful cartridges often chambered in Winchester 70 Long Range rifles, as well as the bumps and knocks encountered in the field. Unlike lighter aluminum alternatives, steel provides superior strength and resistance to deformation, guaranteeing that your zero remains consistent shot after shot, season after season. This material choice speaks volumes about the product's long-term reliability and addresses concerns about a scope base's ability to withstand extreme conditions or heavy usage.

Versatile Mounting System with Windage Adjustment

The Leupold Standard system is renowned for its versatility. The rear ring (used with STD rings, sold separately) is secured by windage adjustment screws. This clever design allows for precise left-to-right (windage) alignment of your scope during initial sight-in, minimizing the need to use excessive internal windage adjustments on your scope. By "mechanical zeroing" the windage through the base, you keep your scope's internal adjustments closer to their optical center, which can result in better optical performance and more available internal adjustment for fine-tuning. This feature simplifies the mounting process and ensures your optic functions optimally.

Right-Hand Action Compatibility

This base is specifically configured for Right Hand action Winchester Model 70 rifles, ensuring perfect compatibility and ease of installation for the vast majority of shooters. This specificity ensures that the base aligns correctly with the rifle's ejection port and bolt handle operation, preventing any interference.

Applications and Benefits: Who Needs This Leupold Base?

The Leupold 51738 Standard 1-Piece 15 MOA Base is ideal for a range of users and scenarios:

• Long-Range Target Shooters: Whether you're participating in F-Class, PRS, or simply enjoying extended range sessions, the 15 MOA cant is a game-changer for reaching distant targets.
• Hunters of Big Game: For those hunting in open country where long shots are common, reliable optics and mounts are crucial. The durability and long-range advantage of this base can mean the difference between a successful hunt and a missed opportunity.
• Precision Rifle Enthusiasts: Anyone building or optimizing a Winchester Model 70 Long Range (Pre-2003) for precision work will appreciate the robust, stable platform this base provides.
• Those Seeking Unwavering Reliability: If you demand that your gear performs flawlessly under all conditions, the steel construction and Leupold's reputation for quality make this base an excellent investment.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

While the Leupold Standard bases are designed for straightforward installation, proper technique is key to maximizing their performance.

1. Cleanliness: Ensure both the rifle's receiver and the base are free of any oils, grease, or debris. A degreaser can be helpful.
2. Threadlocker: Use a small amount of non-permanent threadlocker (e.g., blue Loctite) on the mounting screws to prevent them from loosening under recoil. Always refer to the specific torque specifications provided by Leupold for the mounting screws to avoid over-tightening.
3. Ring Alignment: When installing your Leupold STD rings (sold separately), ensure they are perfectly aligned. Leupold offers alignment tools for this purpose, which can prevent stress on your scope tube and maintain optical integrity.
4. Regular Checks: Periodically check the mounting screws for tightness, especially after the first few shooting sessions or if the rifle experiences significant recoil.

By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure your Leupold 51738 base provides a lifetime of reliable service, consistently delivering the stable platform your long-range shooting demands.

Why Choose Leupold? A Legacy of Excellence

Leupold has been a trusted name in American optics and mounting systems for over a century. Their commitment to superior engineering, rugged durability, and uncompromising quality has made them a go-to choice for hunters, competitive shooters, and military personnel worldwide. When you choose a Leupold product, you're not just buying a component; you're investing in a legacy of precision and reliability that stands behind every shot. Their products are meticulously tested to ensure they perform flawlessly in the most challenging environments. This specific base embodies Leupold's core values: providing robust, practical solutions that genuinely enhance a shooter's capabilities.

This Leupold 51738 Standard 1-Piece 15 MOA Base for the Winchester 70 Long Range (Pre-2003) is a prime example of their dedication to the shooting community. It’s an essential upgrade for anyone looking to push their rifle and their skills to the limits of long-range accuracy. Find this and a wide array of other precision shooting components and accessories at DEGuns.com, where quality and performance are always the top priority. Invest in the foundation of your long-range success today.

Feature	Description	Material/Type
Model	Standard 1-Piece Base	Steel
Firearm Fit	Winchester 70 Long Range (Pre-2003)	Rifle
Cant/MOA	15 MOA	Fixed
Hand Orientation	Right Hand	N/A
Color	Matte Black	Finish
Mount Type	To Receiver	Fixed
Rings Included?	No	N/A
Pieces	1	N/A
Weight	2.80 oz	N/A
MPN	51738	N/A
UPC	030317517380	N/A