Do I really need a steel base and rings?

[maroonandwhite]

As I mentioned in another thread I just picked up a 45-70 Handi-Rifle. I was planning on using open sights on it but have changed my mind and decided to use a Leupold FXII 6x36 on it. It already has what I assume is an aluminum (magnet won't stick to it) base. My question is do I really need a steel base and rings for a 45-70 round? I don't have much experience with the round but some on the web say aluminum rings won't hold up to the recoil. I will be using the current base and weaver quad locks if I go with aluminum. Thanks.

[peejman]

Magnets won't stick to some stainless steels or titanium.  But I'd bet you've got aluminum.  I assume it's a rail section screwed to the receiver?  Also assuming it's been hard anodized, it'll take a lot of use to wear it out.  I can't imagine the rail itself would flex enough to cause problems.  It would be best to mount the rings as close as possible to the screws holding the rail onto the receiver.

[maroonandwhite]

Yeah just discovered the rail is the weaver #82 that usually ships from H&R on the rifles. I think I am just going to get the wife to pick up a set of the Weaver quad locks (aluminum) and try them out.

[Westwindmike]

On my Marlin 45-70, I have a standard aluminum base and rings. It is holding up well to all my shooting.

[MississippiBoy]

I still have open sights on mine, but have shot many a round through a handi-rifle with aluminum scope mounts (a friend bought one at the same time). I never had an issue, and I know that rifles has over 1000 rounds through it.

We had a bit of fun with that rifle.... Sad to say that mine only has about 50 rounds through it.