Let’s Talk About BSA Optics Sweet .350 Legend 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope
The BSA Optics Sweet .350 Legend 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope is designed specifically for the popular .350 Legend cartridge, offering calibrated turrets for different grain weights and an adjustable objective. This scope from BSA Optics aims to provide hunters and shooters with a dedicated optic solution for this modern straight-walled cartridge. I’ve spent years tinkering with different rifles and optics, always searching for that perfect pairing, and this scope promised a tailored experience for the .350 Legend.
My interest in the BSA Optics Sweet .350 Legend 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope stemmed from a frustrating experience with a generic scope on my .350 Legend rifle. I was constantly fiddling with adjustments, trying to compensate for bullet drop at various ranges. The promise of ballistically calibrated turrets was incredibly appealing, offering a potentially simpler and more precise solution for a cartridge that’s gaining popularity in my hunting grounds.
Upon unboxing, the scope felt solid, though perhaps a bit heavier than expected for its size. The matte black finish seemed durable, and the adjustable objective ring turned smoothly. The included Weaver rings were a welcome addition, saving me a separate purchase. My initial thought was that this could be a practical, budget-friendly option.
I considered a few other scopes known for their versatility and clarity, like the Vortex Crossfire II and the Leupold VX-Freedom. However, neither of those scopes offered the dedicated ballistic turrets for the .350 Legend. I chose the BSA Optics Sweet .350 Legend 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope hoping the calibrated turrets would outweigh any potential compromises in glass quality compared to the more expensive options.
I was cautiously optimistic. I was hoping that the dedicated turrets would deliver on their promise, simplifying long-range adjustments. My first impression was, that for the price point, it had the potential to be a real value.
Real-World Testing: Putting BSA Optics Sweet .350 Legend 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the BSA Optics Sweet .350 Legend 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope at my local shooting range on a clear, sunny day with a slight breeze. The range offered distances out to 200 yards, perfect for dialing in the scope with my .350 Legend rifle. I wanted to evaluate its performance under controlled conditions before taking it out into the field.
The initial zeroing process at 100 yards was straightforward. However, the adjustment clicks felt a little mushy, lacking the crisp tactile feedback I prefer. Adjusting the objective for parallax at different distances made a noticeable improvement in image clarity. The 30/30 reticle was simple and easy to use, especially in good lighting conditions.
After about 20 rounds, I noticed that the turret for the 170-grain bullet seemed to be rotating more freely than the others. It didn’t feel as secure as the 150-grain and 180-grain turrets. This immediately raised a red flag about the long-term reliability of the turret system.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, primarily at the range and on a couple of scouting trips, the issues with the 170-grain turret worsened. It became increasingly difficult to maintain a consistent zero with that turret selected. I suspect this is due to the turret’s inability to reliably lock into position. The other turrets seemed to hold up better.
I did notice a few minor scratches on the scope body from brushing against tree limbs during scouting, but the matte finish seemed reasonably durable overall. Cleaning the lenses was easy enough using a standard lens cleaning cloth and solution. I was concerned about the turret issue overshadowing any other positive attributes.
Compared to my experience with a Leupold scope on my deer rifle, the BSA Optics Sweet .350 Legend 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope felt significantly less refined. The Leupold offered superior glass clarity, more precise adjustments, and overall a more confidence-inspiring experience. The BSA Optics scope, unfortunately, did not meet the same level of performance.
Breaking Down the Features of BSA Optics Sweet .350 Legend 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope
Specifications
The BSA Optics Sweet .350 Legend 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope features a 40mm objective lens and a 3-9x magnification range. It utilizes a 1-inch tube diameter and a 30/30 reticle. It is constructed from aluminum, has fully coated lenses and comes with Weaver rings.
The scope weighs 22.3 ounces and has a length of 12.20 inches. It offers an eye relief of 3 inches and a field of view of 34.2 – 11.5 feet at 100 yards. The adjustment click value is 1/4 MOA. The adjustable objective allows for parallax correction from 7.5 yards to infinity, and it is advertised as waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof.
Having an adjustable objective (AO) is a huge benefit for a scope intended for varied distances. The pre-calibrated turrets are an innovative idea, aimed at simplifying adjustments for specific bullet weights. The 1-inch tube is standard, but the weight might be a consideration for those looking to minimize their rifle’s overall weight.
Performance & Functionality
When the turrets function correctly, the BSA Optics Sweet .350 Legend 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope simplifies dialing in shots at different ranges for the .350 Legend cartridge. However, the inconsistent performance of the turrets undermines its primary intended function. Accuracy at 100 yards was acceptable, but the lack of reliable turret adjustments made longer-range shooting a guessing game.
The main strength is its potential to simplify the shooting experience for the .350 Legend. The biggest weakness is the questionable reliability of the ballistic turrets. It falls short of expectations due to the critical turret issue.
Design & Ergonomics
The BSA Optics Sweet .350 Legend 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope has a fairly standard design for a scope in this price range. The matte black finish is practical and reduces glare. The weight is noticeable but not excessive, and the adjustable objective ring is easily accessible.
The build quality feels adequate, but the mushy clicks on the turrets and the eventual loosening of the 170-grain turret raise concerns about long-term durability. The learning curve is minimal, especially for experienced shooters. However, the turret issue significantly impacts the user experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The scope body seems reasonably durable, withstanding minor bumps and scrapes. However, the internal mechanism of the turrets appears to be a weak point. Cleaning is simple, but addressing potential turret issues might require professional gunsmithing. The long-term lifespan of the turrets is questionable based on my experience.
Accessories and Customization Options
The BSA Optics Sweet .350 Legend 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope comes with 2 pc. weaver rings. There are no other included accessories. Aftermarket accessories are limited primarily to different ring options. The scope is compatible with any Weaver-style mounting system.
Pros and Cons of BSA Optics Sweet .350 Legend 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope
Pros
- Designed specifically for the .350 Legend cartridge.
- Adjustable objective for parallax correction.
- Includes Weaver rings for easy mounting.
- Potentially simplifies long-range shooting with calibrated turrets when they function correctly.
- Budget-friendly price point.
Cons
- Questionable reliability of the ballistic turrets, especially the 170-grain turret.
- Mushy adjustment clicks lack tactile feedback.
- Heavier than some comparable scopes.
Who Should Buy BSA Optics Sweet .350 Legend 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope?
The BSA Optics Sweet .350 Legend 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope might be suitable for a casual shooter or hunter who is primarily shooting at known distances under 100 yards and is on a very tight budget. It may also be a suitable choice for someone who handloads and is looking to experiment with multiple grain weights on their .350 Legend rifle. They would need to be willing to accept the potential for turret issues and be prepared to use holdovers if necessary.
I would advise someone looking for a reliable and precise optic for serious hunting or long-range shooting to skip this product. The turret issues undermine its primary intended function and could lead to missed opportunities in the field.
A must-have accessory would be a reliable set of high-quality scope rings to ensure a secure mount, regardless of the included Weaver rings. It might also be beneficial to invest in a high-quality bore sighter to aid in initial zeroing.
Conclusion on BSA Optics Sweet .350 Legend 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope
The BSA Optics Sweet .350 Legend 3-9x40mm AO Rifle Scope presents an interesting concept with its dedicated ballistic turrets for the .350 Legend cartridge. However, in my experience, the execution falls short due to the unreliable turret system. The value proposition is diminished by the potential for mechanical failure.
At its current price, it might be tempting for budget-conscious shooters. However, the inconsistent performance makes it difficult to recommend, especially when reliability is paramount.
I would personally not recommend this scope. While the concept is appealing, the turret issues are too significant to overlook. I would suggest investing in a higher-quality optic with more reliable adjustments, even if it means sacrificing the dedicated ballistic turrets. Save a little longer, spend a little more, and get a scope that will actually let you reliably dial for distance.