Talley Picatinny Base Long Action, 20 MOA Review

Getting My Hands on the **Talley Picatinny Base Long Action, 20 MOA**

As an individual who spends a significant amount of time in environments ranging from dusty workshops and rugged outdoor trails to controlled laboratory settings, I’ve developed a keen eye for reliable and robust gear. When it came to equipping my Remington 700 long action rifle for extended range work and potential hunting scenarios, the quest for a stable and precise optic mounting solution became paramount. I was experiencing occasional shifts in my zero after extended periods of field use, and the existing two-piece bases, while functional, felt like a potential point of failure. This led me to search for a more integrated and robust mounting system, ultimately bringing the Talley Picatinny Base Long Action, 20 MOA to my attention. The promise of a solid, machined-from-billet base with a built-in cant seemed like a direct solution to my concerns. My initial impression upon unboxing was positive; the matte black finish felt durable, and the weight was negligible, which is always a plus for any rifle build. While I briefly considered other brands offering one-piece bases, the reputation of Talley for quality manufacturing and the specific inclusion of the 20 MOA cant tipped the scales in favor of this model. A sense of pragmatic satisfaction washed over me, knowing I was one step closer to a more dependable shooting platform.

Real-World Testing: Putting **Talley Picatinny Base Long Action, 20 MOA** to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for this Talley Picatinny Base Long Action, 20 MOA were the familiar environs of my home workshop and then the local shooting range. I mounted it onto a Remington 700 Long Action, a platform known for its versatility and widespread use in various shooting disciplines. The base itself proved remarkably straightforward to install. It sat flush against the receiver, and the included Torx wrench and mounting screws made the process relatively quick. After securing the base, I then mounted my preferred Nightforce scope using robust, six-hole Picatinny rings. The fit was precise, with no discernible wobble or gap between the base and the rifle receiver.

The real test, however, came on the range. I began with a standard zeroing procedure at 100 yards. The 20 MOA cant proved immediately beneficial, allowing me to easily dial in my adjustments without running into the limits of my scope’s elevation turret. This is particularly crucial for long-range shooting where significant elevation adjustments are often required. I fired groups, adjusted, and repeated the process. Even after several string of shots in moderate autumn temperatures and a light breeze, the zero held firm.

I also subjected it to a more rigorous session, involving rapid fire to induce heat into the barrel and receiver, simulating a more dynamic hunting scenario or a competition stage. The base remained a steadfast anchor, showing no signs of shifting or loosening. Its robust construction, machined from 7075 T6 aluminum alloy, provided the confidence that it could handle the recoil and thermal expansion without compromising the scope’s alignment. The matte finish also performed well, resisting minor scuffs from occasional contact with my shooting bag.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months and numerous range trips, this Talley base has become a permanent fixture on my rifle. It has accompanied me on a multi-day backcountry excursion where it endured significant jostling in my pack, exposure to light rain, and considerable temperature fluctuations from dawn to dusk. Throughout these experiences, its reliability has been nothing short of impressive. I’ve never had to re-torque the mounting screws, nor have I noticed any degradation in its performance.

The 7075 T6 aluminum alloy construction, coupled with the hard anodization to 65 Rockwell hardness, seems to be a winning combination for durability. I’ve encountered no signs of cracking, deformation, or excessive wear, even where the scope rings make contact. Cleaning is as simple as wiping it down with a cloth; the matte finish doesn’t readily hold dirt or grime. Compared to my previous two-piece bases, which occasionally required a gentle tap to reseat after a hard bump, this integrated unit offers a significant upgrade in terms of perceived and actual reliability. It truly lives up to its promise of a stable and unwavering platform for optics.

Breaking Down the Features of **Talley Picatinny Base Long Action, 20 MOA**

Specifications

The Talley Picatinny Base Long Action, 20 MOA is constructed from a single piece of 7075 T6 aluminum alloy, a material prized for its high strength-to-weight ratio. This ensures a durable yet lightweight addition to your rifle build, with the product weighing in at a mere 3 oz. The base features a 20 MOA cant, which is crucial for long-range shooters, providing additional elevation adjustment capability without maxing out the scope’s internal travel. Its matte black finish offers a non-reflective surface, important for hunting or tactical applications, and contributes to its resistance against wear and corrosion.

This mounting base is designed to fit any Mil-Spec Picatinny Ring or Weaver-style ring, offering excellent versatility for users with existing ring sets. The design is ambidextrous, meaning it is suitable for any rifle regardless of whether it is right- or left-handed. Included with the base are essential mounting screws and a T15 Torx wrench, a thoughtful addition that allows for immediate installation right out of the box. Machined in the USA, this base reflects a commitment to quality manufacturing.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Talley Picatinny Base Long Action, 20 MOA is to provide a secure and stable platform for mounting optics and accessories. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The integrated design eliminates potential misalignment issues inherent in two-piece bases, ensuring a consistent zero. The 20 MOA cant is not just a specification; it’s a functional enhancement that significantly extends the effective range of most rifles by providing more elevation travel.

For extended range shooting, this feature is invaluable. I found it allowed me to achieve precise hits at distances that would have been challenging with a flat base. The Picatinny/Weaver compatibility ensures that most standard scope rings will interface seamlessly, creating a rock-solid connection. Its primary strength lies in its unwavering stability; once properly torqued, it simply stays put, resisting the forces of recoil and temperature fluctuations that can plague lesser mounts.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Talley base is elegantly simple yet highly effective. Machined from a solid block of 7075 T6 aluminum alloy, it possesses a robustness that belies its light weight. The matte black finish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical, minimizing glare and resisting scratches. The precision machining is evident throughout, with clean lines and perfectly formed Picatinny slots.

From an ergonomic standpoint, its flat profile integrates smoothly with the rifle’s receiver. The 20 MOA cant is subtly incorporated, designed to optimize for longer shots without creating an awkward shooting posture. While there is no direct “ergonomic” interaction in terms of grip or handling, the ease of installation and the secure fit it provides contribute to an overall positive user experience. The inclusion of the T15 Torx wrench further enhances usability by providing the necessary tool immediately.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is where the Talley Picatinny Base Long Action, 20 MOA truly shines. The 7075 T6 aluminum alloy is known for its excellent strength and resistance to fatigue, making it ideal for firearms components subjected to repeated stress. The hard anodization adds another layer of protection against abrasions, corrosion, and general wear and tear.

In my extended testing, which included exposure to elements and significant recoil, there have been no signs of cracking, pitting, or warping. Maintenance is virtually non-existent. A simple wipe-down with a dry or slightly damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean. For deeper cleaning, a bit of isopropyl alcohol can be used, but care should be taken not to use abrasive solvents that could damage the anodized finish. Potential failure points are minimal, primarily relying on the integrity of the mounting screws and the machining itself, both of which appear to be of the highest caliber from Talley.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Talley Picatinny Base Long Action, 20 MOA comes with its essential accessories: mounting screws and a T15 Torx wrench. This is a practical inclusion that ensures immediate installation without the need for an extra trip to the hardware store. The base itself is designed to be compatible with any Mil-Spec Picatinny Ring or Weaver-style ring. This is a significant advantage, as it allows users to select rings from a vast array of manufacturers based on their specific needs, whether for specific ring heights, material preferences (e.g., aluminum vs. steel), or locking mechanisms.

While the base itself isn’t directly customizable in terms of its core design (as it’s a precision-machined, single-piece unit), its 20 MOA cant can be considered a form of built-in customization for long-range shooters. This feature eliminates the need for separate canted scope inserts or ring setups, simplifying the overall build. No other specialized accessories are typically required for the base itself; its functionality is complete as provided.

Pros and Cons of **Talley Picatinny Base Long Action, 20 MOA**

Who Should Buy **Talley Picatinny Base Long Action, 20 MOA**?

This Talley Picatinny base is an excellent choice for long-range precision shooters and serious hunters who utilize rifles built on a long action platform. If you frequently shoot at extended distances and find yourself running out of elevation adjustment on your scope, the built-in 20 MOA cant will be a significant benefit. It’s also ideal for anyone seeking a robust, one-piece mounting solution that minimizes potential points of failure.

However, this specific base might not be the best fit for individuals who primarily engage in short-range shooting or prefer a completely flat optic mounting system. Those with short-action rifles will also need to look for a different model. For optimal use, pairing this base with high-quality Picatinny rings is recommended to fully leverage its stability and precision. A torque wrench is also a worthwhile accessory to ensure the mounting screws are properly seated without over-tightening.

Conclusion on **Talley Picatinny Base Long Action, 20 MOA**

The Talley Picatinny Base Long Action, 20 MOA is a testament to smart design and quality manufacturing. It effectively addresses the needs of shooters requiring extended elevation adjustment capabilities for their long-action rifles. Its robust construction from 7075 T6 aluminum alloy, combined with the practical 20 MOA cant, delivers a stable and reliable platform for optics, minimizing zeroing challenges and enhancing long-range accuracy.

Considering its price point of $69.79, this base offers exceptional value. It provides features and durability often found in much more expensive mounting systems. For those building or upgrading a long-action rifle for precision shooting or demanding hunting applications, I wholeheartedly recommend this Talley base. It’s a sound investment that contributes significantly to the overall accuracy and dependability of your firearm.