Rifle Scopes aluminum versus steel rings and bases

[hunter966]

I am mounting a Leupold 6.5x20 mark 4 on a REM. 260 short action. I would like to know if aluminum rings and bases are better or worse than steel. I am planning on getting either 15 or 20 moa bases using this as a hunting and long range shooter.

Thanks hunter966

 

[427Cobra]

Re: aluminum versus steel rings and bases

Either will serve you well, I prefer steel one piece 20moa scope bases, as for rings I have both and neither has let me down.

 

[VJJPunisher]

Re: aluminum versus steel rings and bases

https://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=2552317

 

[Rob01]

Re: aluminum versus steel rings and bases

Quality is more important than material. I will take a set of Seekins rings and base over a cheap steel set up any day.

If you are trying to keep the weight down then get a quality aluminum set up.

 

[azimutha]

Re: aluminum versus steel rings and bases

I'll take a set of Seekins over an expensive steel set any day. My rifle is already heavy enough as it is.

 

[head2h2o]

Re: aluminum versus steel rings and bases

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 427Cobra</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Either will serve you well, I prefer steel one piece 20moa scope bases, as for rings I have both and neither has let me down. </div></div>

+1

Go with a quality brand and you will be fine. Don't buy cheap stuff.

 

[ToddKS]

Re: aluminum versus steel rings and bases

The thing about "aluminum" is that there are lots of different types of aluminum.

I have Seekins rings, they are made from 7075 aluminum. This alloy is commonly used in aircraft structures and is very strong. 7075 is stronger than some steel alloys.

As the aluminum rings get cheaper the aluminum get softer. Softer aluminum is faster to machine (thus the cheaper price), however, you get what you pay for.

As long as you are buying a quality product, I think the material choice is a matter of personal opinion more than performance.

 

[old95b10]

Re: aluminum versus steel rings and bases

Depends on your needs. If you are worried about weight, or want something to that you take out and put on the bench to shoot.
I work with steel and the like for a living.
aluminum is good stuff in the right grade .
I like steel better, it may be harder to work but will take a beating better than aluminum. If it is a deer gun I say go light.
For a long range gun that can tip the scales at whatever you want steel wont let you down. Win Win ever how you look at it.
Good luck and go shootin.

 

[unreconstructed]

Re: aluminum versus steel rings and bases

Well, if I am mounting an aluminum scope on an aluminum receiver, I see no reason not to use aluminum rings as long as they are high quality like the 7075 Seekins. That said, if I am putting the rings on a steel action like my .338 Lapua, I'm going with steel. The weight isn't as much of a handicap on a big magnum.