IMO the Leupold bases and rings are adequate, but I also believe the Warne Picatinney style base and ring system is stronger. I have had more than one gunsmith tell me thatthe Weaver system was the strongest out there-and IMO the Warne Picatinney style is an advanced Weaver system???

Any time you use the Leupold system you do have to lap the rings. I believe the main reason for the lapping is the need for proper alignment of the rings. I only lap the bottom ring(I do take a few strokes with the tops on), and cut as little as possible-my main concern is alignment. You would be amazed how movement of the scope can be limited by lapping of the rings. I do not shoot for 100% contact. I think that 100% contact removes far too much steel.

I have seen people lap off so much steel that they took the scope out of bore alignment. And remember that is pretty important!!

I like the Warne because of the simplicity. They align themselves-if done properly. Very little lapping needed. Tom.