In reply to:

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I don't think they wre claw mounts, I think they
were made up / modified bases with Warne QD's but I'll check.

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If they were Warne QD's that would explain it as they are a much less expensive system than factory claws.
Also are you sure they were "Saddle" bases and not "Straddle" bases, as there is also a big difference in those two systems regarding price? (and strength)