Let’s Dive into Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is designed for hunters who need a reliable optic without breaking the bank. Manufactured by Crimson Trace, this scope promises durability and clear glass, all backed by a lifetime warranty – a bold claim I intend to thoroughly investigate.
For years, I’ve struggled with scopes that either fog up at the worst moment or simply can’t hold zero after a few shots, so I needed a scope I could trust. I was specifically searching for a scope with a bullet drop compensation (BDC) reticle to simplify longer-range shots on game.
Upon unboxing, the Crimson Trace Brushline feels surprisingly solid for its price point. The matte black finish looks clean and the turrets have a positive click, indicating good adjustment control and the weight is appropriate for the rifle.
Compared to a Leupold VX-1 I previously owned, and a Bushnell Banner scope on another rifle, the Crimson Trace Brushline seems to strike a balance between price and features. I chose this scope over others primarily because of Crimson Trace’s reputation for customer service and the BDC reticle.
My initial impression is one of cautious optimism. I’m excited to see how it performs in the field, but also realistic given the price point.
Real-World Testing: Putting Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope on my trusty .30-06 at my local shooting range and during a weekend deer hunting trip in the Pennsylvania mountains. The range session was crucial for sighting in and testing the scope’s adjustment capabilities.
The weather was typically unpredictable, ranging from sunny and clear to a brief, but heavy, downpour. During the rain, the scope maintained a clear sight picture, a testament to its waterproof construction.
Sighting in was relatively straightforward; the turrets, though capped, were easy to adjust with a coin and offered tactile clicks. It took about 15 rounds to get a solid zero at 100 yards and initial use required minimal familiarization.
I did notice that the eye relief was a bit unforgiving at higher magnifications, requiring a consistent cheek weld to avoid a shadowed image. This wasn’t a deal-breaker, but something to keep in mind.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Crimson Trace Brushline has held up remarkably well. There are no visible scratches on the lens coatings and the matte finish shows no signs of wear, despite being bumped around in my rifle case.
The scope has maintained its zero through multiple range sessions and hunting trips, indicating that the internal components are robust. Basic cleaning involves wiping the lenses with a microfiber cloth and occasionally checking the mounting screws.
Compared to my experience with cheaper scopes that needed constant adjustments, the Crimson Trace Brushline has been a pleasant surprise. It certainly outperforms my older Bushnell Banner in terms of clarity and zero retention, and it has provided better durability so far.
Breaking Down the Features of Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
Specifications
The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope boasts a 40mm objective lens diameter, which allows for good light gathering in various hunting conditions. Its magnification range of 3-9x provides versatility for both close-range brush hunting and longer-range shots in open fields.
The BDC reticle is designed to provide holdover points for different distances, simplifying aiming at longer ranges. It features a 1-inch tube diameter, making it compatible with a wide range of scope rings and mounts.
The reticle is in the Second Focal Plane (SFP), meaning the reticle size remains constant throughout the magnification range. The scope has a matte finish to minimize glare and is constructed from aerospace-grade aluminum, balancing weight and durability.
With a linear field of view of 11.3 – 33.8 ft at 100 yds and 4 inches of eye relief, the scope offers a comfortable sight picture. It weighs 16.2 oz and has a length of 12.3 inches.
The parallax is set at 100 yards, which is standard for most hunting rifles. The scope is fully multi-coated to enhance light transmission and is waterproof and shockproof for use in harsh conditions.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the scope’s performance in real-world hunting scenarios. For example, the fully multi-coated lenses contribute to a brighter image in low-light conditions, a crucial feature for early morning or late evening hunts.
Performance & Functionality
The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope performs its primary job – providing a clear and accurate sight picture – exceptionally well for its price. The BDC reticle is particularly useful, allowing for quick adjustments for different ranges without needing to dial turrets.
The scope’s strengths lie in its clear glass, reliable adjustments, and durable construction. One area for improvement might be the eye relief, which can be a bit finicky at higher magnifications.
Overall, the scope meets and even exceeds expectations for a budget-friendly optic. It offers a solid set of features and reliable performance without breaking the bank.
Design & Ergonomics
The Crimson Trace Brushline features a simple and functional design. The matte black finish is practical for hunting, and the capped turrets prevent accidental adjustments in the field.
The scope is relatively lightweight, making it comfortable to carry on a rifle for extended periods. There is a slight learning curve with the BDC reticle, but Crimson Trace provides resources to help users understand how to effectively use it.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Crimson Trace Brushline appears to be built to last. The aerospace-grade aluminum tube feels solid, and the lenses are well-protected.
Maintenance is straightforward; simply wipe the lenses with a microfiber cloth to remove dust and fingerprints. The lifetime warranty from Crimson Trace provides additional peace of mind.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope does not come with a wide array of accessories. However, it is compatible with standard 1-inch scope rings and mounts, offering plenty of options for customization.
Aftermarket accessories such as scope levels and sunshades can be easily added. The scope is also compatible with Crimson Trace’s Trace Ballistic Calculator, which helps determine precise bullet drops for different ammunition and atmospheric conditions.
Pros and Cons of Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
Pros
- Clear glass with fully multi-coated lenses for good light transmission.
- Reliable adjustments and zero retention.
- BDC reticle simplifies long-range shooting.
- Durable aerospace-grade aluminum construction.
- Crimson Trace lifetime warranty provides peace of mind.
Cons
- Eye relief can be unforgiving at higher magnifications.
- Capped turrets require a coin or tool for adjustments.
Who Should Buy Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope?
The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is perfect for hunters who need a reliable and affordable optic for general-purpose hunting. It is also a great choice for beginner to intermediate shooters looking for a scope with a BDC reticle.
Someone who demands the absolute best optical clarity and forgiving eye relief should skip this product. They should instead look at higher end options from brands like Zeiss or Swarovski.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality set of scope rings and a scope level to ensure proper mounting.
Conclusion on Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is an impressive optic that offers excellent value for the money. It provides a clear sight picture, reliable adjustments, and a durable construction, all backed by Crimson Trace’s lifetime warranty.
At $144.95, the price is definitely justified considering the performance and features offered. For hunters seeking a budget-friendly scope that doesn’t compromise on quality, I would highly recommend the Crimson Trace Brushline.
Ultimately, the Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a reliable and effective optic. If you’re in the market for a new scope, give the Brushline a look – you might be surprised at what you find!