Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope Review

Let’s Talk About Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope

The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope is a versatile optic designed to bridge the gap between affordability and reliable performance for hunters and recreational shooters. Crimson Trace aimed to deliver a scope with decent glass, a forgiving eyebox, and a practical magnification range for various hunting scenarios. I’ve always been a proponent of equipping firearms with capable optics, as a clear sight picture can drastically improve accuracy and ethical harvesting of game.

My interest in the Brushline scope stemmed from needing a reliable optic for my backup hunting rifle, a trusty .30-06. I was looking for something that wouldn’t break the bank but still offered acceptable performance in low-light conditions, a common occurrence during dawn and dusk hunts. The larger 50mm objective lens piqued my interest, promising enhanced light gathering capabilities compared to scopes with smaller objectives.

Upon unboxing the Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope, my initial impression was that it felt solid and well-constructed for its price point. The finish was even, and the turrets clicked with a satisfying, albeit not overly precise, feel. The weight felt appropriate for a scope of this size, not too heavy to throw off the rifle’s balance, but substantial enough to suggest reasonable durability.

Compared to similar scopes in this price range, such as the Bushnell Banner or the Simmons Whitetail Classic, the Brushline seemed to offer a slightly better overall build quality and a more modern aesthetic. While the Bushnell and Simmons scopes are known for their affordability, I felt the Crimson Trace offered a potentially superior optical clarity and a more robust construction. I was excited to mount it on my rifle and see how it performed in the field.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The scope looked good, felt good, and had the specifications I was looking for. The real test, however, would be how it performed under the pressures of a real hunt.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to truly test the Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope came during a late-season deer hunt in the dense forests of northern Wisconsin. I spent several days in a tree stand, facing a variety of weather conditions, from crisp, clear mornings to drizzly, overcast afternoons. The scope was mounted on my .30-06 using a set of Weaver scope rings.

The Brushline performed admirably in the varying light conditions. The larger 50mm objective lens did indeed provide a noticeably brighter image during the twilight hours, allowing me to clearly identify potential targets even when visibility was limited. In rainy conditions, the fully multi-coated lenses shed water effectively, maintaining a usable sight picture. I did not need much time to familiarize myself with the scope. Adjustments to the magnification and focus were intuitive and easily made even with gloved hands.

One minor issue I encountered during that first hunt was the slight stiffness of the magnification ring. It required a bit more force than I would have preferred to adjust the magnification, particularly when wearing thick gloves. Otherwise, the first outing with the Brushline was a success. I successfully harvested a mature buck at 150 yards in fading light, a testament to the scope’s low-light capabilities.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple hunting trips and range sessions, the Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope has held up reasonably well. There are a few minor scratches on the scope body from handling in the woods, but the lenses remain clear and scratch-free. The turrets still click, but the adjustments feel a bit mushier than they did initially.

In terms of durability, the Brushline seems adequately constructed to withstand the rigors of normal hunting use. I haven’t subjected it to any extreme abuse, but it has certainly been jostled around in rifle cases and exposed to various weather conditions without any significant issues. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. A quick wipe down with a lens cloth after each use is usually sufficient to keep the lenses clear.

Compared to my previous scope, a Leupold VX-2, the Brushline obviously doesn’t offer the same level of optical clarity or ruggedness. However, considering the significant price difference, the Crimson Trace scope provides a respectable level of performance and value. It has not disappointed me considering its cost.

Breaking Down the Features of Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope

Specifications

The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope boasts the following specifications:

• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm. This larger objective lens gathers more light, providing a brighter image in low-light conditions.
• Magnification: 3-9x. This versatile magnification range is suitable for a wide range of hunting scenarios, from close-range brush hunting to longer-range shots in open fields.
• Reticle: BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation). The BDC reticle provides holdover points for different distances, allowing for more accurate shots at longer ranges.
• Tube Diameter: 1 inch. This is a standard tube diameter, making it compatible with a wide range of scope rings and mounting systems.
• Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP). The reticle size remains constant regardless of magnification, which can be advantageous for quick target acquisition.
• Finish: Fully multi-coated. These coatings enhance light transmission and reduce glare, resulting in a brighter, clearer image.
• Field of View: 11.3 – 33.8 ft at 100 yds. This field of view allows for a decent view of the surrounding environment.
• Eye Relief: 4 inches. This eye relief provides ample space between the eye and the scope, reducing the risk of recoil-related injury.
• Weight: 20.4 oz. The weight is reasonable for a scope of this size, not excessively heavy.
• Length: 12.4 inches. This length is fairly compact, making it suitable for a variety of rifles.
• Parallax: 100 yds. The scope is parallax-free at 100 yards, minimizing aiming errors at that distance.
• Illumination Type: Non-Illuminated. The reticle is not illuminated, which may be a drawback for some users in very low-light conditions.
• Fabric/Material: Aerospace Grade Aluminum. This material provides a durable and lightweight scope body.
• Optical Coating: Fully Multi-Coated. This is critical for light transmission.
• Water Resistance Level: Waterproof. This ensures reliable performance in wet weather conditions.
• Shockproof: Yes. This provides protection against recoil and accidental impacts.
• Magnification Type: Variable. This allows for adjusting the magnification to suit different shooting scenarios.
• Gun Type: Rifle. This scope is designed specifically for rifles.

These specifications contribute to the overall performance of the Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope, making it a suitable option for hunters and recreational shooters seeking a reliable and affordable optic.

Performance & Functionality

The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope performs its job adequately, providing a clear sight picture and a usable BDC reticle for longer-range shots. Accuracy is acceptable, with consistent groupings achievable at reasonable distances. The scope’s reliability has been good overall, with no major malfunctions or failures encountered during testing. Usability is straightforward, with intuitive adjustments and a forgiving eyebox.

However, there are some areas where the scope could be improved. The turret adjustments feel a bit mushy and lack precise clicks. The magnification ring is stiff, and the optical clarity is not on par with higher-end scopes. Despite these shortcomings, the scope meets expectations for its price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope features a simple and functional design. The scope body is constructed from aerospace-grade aluminum and feels reasonably robust. The weight is balanced, and the scope is comfortable to use for extended periods. There is no significant learning curve required to operate the scope.

Durability & Maintenance

The Brushline appears to be reasonably durable and should last for several years with proper care. The scope is easy to clean and maintain, requiring only a quick wipe down with a lens cloth after each use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope does not come with any specific accessories. Standard 1-inch scope rings are required for mounting. The scope is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, such as scope caps, sunshades, and anti-reflective devices.

Pros and Cons of Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope

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Who Should Buy Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope?

The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope is perfect for:

• Budget-conscious hunters looking for a reliable and affordable optic.
• Recreational shooters who need a versatile scope for various shooting scenarios.
• Hunters who primarily hunt in low-light conditions, such as dawn and dusk.

Who should skip this product?

• Competitive shooters who require precise and repeatable turret adjustments.
• Hunters who demand the absolute best optical clarity and image quality.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• A good set of 1-inch scope rings.
• Scope caps to protect the lenses.

Conclusion on Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope

The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope is a solid and affordable option for hunters and recreational shooters. While it may not offer the same level of performance as higher-end scopes, it provides a good balance of features and value. The larger 50mm objective lens provides decent low-light performance, and the BDC reticle aids in longer-range shots.

The price is definitely justified considering the overall performance and features offered. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable scope for your hunting rifle, the Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope is definitely worth considering. I would personally recommend it to anyone on a budget who needs a dependable optic for their firearm. Grab one and get out there!