Aluminum vs steel rings/bases

[RSTX]

I have a Rem 700 30-06 made in 1967 that needs new rings/bases. It is a hunting rifle and will not be used roughly or abused. Just hunting from stands and some walking around. My scope is a Leupold VX III 3.5-10x40. I do not plan on changing scopes once this one is mounted. It will be permanent unless the scope is damaged.

I like the looks of the Talley lightweight aluminum one piece rings, but worry that the aluminum might loosen up over time and lose zero.

I also like the Leupold PRW steel rings and bases.

So, knowing that I will not be hunting dangerous game or dropping the rifle from great heights, is there a reason to choose steel components over aluminum?

 

[gdcpony]

No not really.

 

[CraigC]

After getting disappointed with cheap aluminum rings in my youth, I no longer trust any aluminum rings. Though I have no problem with aluminum bases, because they do not typically have threaded holes. For that purpose, good 6061 or 7075 aluminum is plenty tough.

 

[DM~]

Aluminum rings/mts. don't bother me at all, several of my rifles have them.

DM

 

[Haxby]

I wouldn't trust cheap rings, and cheap rings are usually made out of aluminum. But you're not asking about cheap rings. You're looking at good stuff.
In my opinion: You won't go wrong with Talley lightweights or Leupold PRWs. Same goes for Leupold or Burris dual dovetails.

 

[SwampWolf]

There's only two significant differences between good steel and good aluminum bases/rings: The aluminum ones are lighter in weight and they don't rust. Either material done right works well.

 

[jmr40]

Since the Talleys rings and bases are actually 1 piece I'd consider them stronger than the steel mounts that use dovetails. The ones with windage adjustments are just asking for trouble.

If going steel I'd want something in a cross slot to fit in picatinney rail or Weaver type base for strentgh

I like the Talley Lightweights and have them on several rifles, but am beginning to come around to the DNZ mounts. They are only about 1/2 oz heavier than the Talleys and from my experiences and from what others have reported I think they may well be the most durable mounts made.

 

[unwise11]

I'd be willing to bet a set of TPS aluminum rings are better than burris steel rings..
I'm actually considering the TPS steel for my Howa M-1500.
I just prefer steel rings, I know some aluminum are high quality but I like the durability of steel.