Which Base and Rings

**Watrdawg** · 08-29-17, 08:12

I just purchased a Rem 700 5R Milspec Gen 2 20" rifle. I plan on putting a Nightforce NXS 2.5x10 x 42mm scope on it. Although I do have a Leupold MK4 4.5x14x40mm I could use instead. My main purpose for this will be everyday hunting but I will have the opportunity to shoot out to 600 yards with it. So my question is this. I'm looking at bases and rings and have looked at Nightforce standard duty bases, Larue Tactical and Badger Ordnance with and without 20 MOA built in. For this purpose or all around versatility what would you go with and what height rings would you use? Rings and bases don't have to be from the same manufacturer so if mix and match may be a better option that is fine also.

**grizzman** · 08-29-17, 12:28

Do you want a 1 piece base, a 2 piece base, a Picatinny base, or something else entirely?

You won't need the base to include any additional MOA.

**Watrdawg** · 08-29-17, 13:38

1 piece Picatinny base with rings as low as possible. I was thinking I wouldn't need any additional MOA for out to 600 yards or so. When looking at various prices Badger bases are in the $145 range or so, then Larue at $75 and the Nightforce comes in around $59. Is there that much difference in quality between those 3 that Badger warrants a price double or more than the other 2?

**grizzman** · 08-29-17, 13:53

I personally wouldn't pay double for a Badger base.

I used Seekins for my last two, and am very satisfied. I'd also use Nightforce or LaRue with confidence.

**Watrdawg** · 08-29-17, 14:25

As far as rings and a bolt gun are concerned with a 42mm objective scope I'd think a medium height ring would be fine and still give me enough clearance?

**grizzman** · 08-29-17, 14:34

With a 42mm objective, low rings should provide ample clearance.

I'm using low rings and the Seekins base with a 50mm objective on a 700 SPS AAC-SD.

**Watrdawg** · 08-29-17, 15:08

I was hoping to use low rings so this is good to know. Before this rifle I used my LMT MWS in the same role. 12lbs of rifle and scope isn't much fun to haul around. The Rem will easily perform the same role and weigh about 2 1/2 to 3lbs less. I love the LMT and will definitely hunt with it also but I think I'm going to have a bit more fun with this weapon.

**17K** · 08-29-17, 15:34

You already have a Nightforce scope, I'd go with Nightforce steel 20MOA base and medium ultralight rings. You'll need to bed the base whichever one you go with.

**Watrdawg** · 08-29-17, 16:03

I was planning on bedding the base if need be. There was another thread in this sub-forum about bedding single bases and how to determine if you even need to. So depending upon my results I may need to bed the base.