First Thoughts on the TruGlo Buckline 3-9x 40mm Rifle Scope – 3.15″-3.94″ Eye Relief, 41.47-12.67 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.12″ Length
The TruGlo Buckline 3-9x 40mm Rifle Scope promises to be a versatile optic for hunters targeting whitetail, hogs, and other medium-to-large game. Marketed as water-resistant, fogproof, and equipped with fully-coated lenses, it aims to deliver brightness and clarity without breaking the bank. This scope immediately piqued my interest as I’ve been searching for a reliable, budget-friendly option to mount on my backup hunting rifle.
I was on the hunt for a scope that could handle the diverse weather conditions often encountered during deer season in the Pacific Northwest, and something that wouldn’t completely drain my wallet. My primary concern was clarity and consistent performance in low-light conditions, a critical factor during those early morning and late evening hunts. I was initially considering a Leupold VX-Freedom and a Vortex Crossfire II, but the price of the TruGlo Buckline was simply too tempting to ignore for a secondary rifle.
Upon unboxing, I was pleasantly surprised by the solid feel of the TruGlo Buckline. The matte finish appeared durable and non-reflective, a crucial feature for avoiding spooking game. The weight felt appropriate for its size, and the included removable lens caps were a welcome bonus, adding a layer of protection I appreciate.
While the Leupold and Vortex scopes I considered felt more refined in their construction, the price difference was significant. I hoped that the TruGlo Buckline could offer comparable performance where it mattered most: in the field. My first impression was a mix of cautious optimism and a desire to see if it could live up to the hype at its price point.
Real-World Testing: Putting TruGlo Buckline 3-9x 40mm Rifle Scope – 3.15″-3.94″ Eye Relief, 41.47-12.67 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.12″ Length to the Test
First Use Experience
I mounted the TruGlo Buckline on my trusted .30-06 rifle and headed to my local shooting range to sight it in. The range offered distances out to 200 yards, providing ample opportunity to test the scope’s accuracy and adjustability. It was a typical overcast Pacific Northwest day, with a light drizzle adding to the challenging conditions.
The scope’s adjustments were relatively straightforward, though the coin-style windage and elevation adjustments under the screw-down caps felt a bit clunky compared to the more tactile turrets on higher-end scopes. However, they did hold zero well once properly adjusted. I was initially impressed with the clarity of the glass, even in the less-than-ideal lighting; target acquisition was surprisingly easy. After about an hour, I had the scope dialed in and was consistently hitting the bullseye at 100 yards.
Extended Use & Reliability
After the initial range session, I took the TruGlo Buckline out on several hunting trips throughout the season. I encountered everything from crisp, cold mornings to damp, foggy evenings. The TruGlo Buckline held its own admirably.
After several months of use, the scope shows minimal signs of wear and tear, primarily minor scratches on the matte finish. Maintenance has been simple, mostly involving wiping down the lenses with a microfiber cloth. While it doesn’t outperform premium scopes in terms of sheer optical quality, the TruGlo Buckline has consistently delivered reliable performance at a fraction of the cost.
Breaking Down the Features of TruGlo Buckline 3-9x 40mm Rifle Scope – 3.15″-3.94″ Eye Relief, 41.47-12.67 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.12″ Length
Specifications
The TruGlo Buckline 3-9x 40mm Rifle Scope features an adjustable magnification from 3x to 9x, allowing for versatile use at varying distances. It offers an eye relief of 3.15″-3.94″, which provides a comfortable and safe distance between the shooter’s eye and the scope, reducing the risk of “scope bite”. The scope has a field of view of 41.47-12.67 ft at 100 yards, offering a wide viewing area at lower magnifications for quick target acquisition.
These specifications are essential for hunting because they allow for flexibility in different scenarios. The adjustable magnification is perfect for everything from close-range shots in dense woods to longer-range shots across open fields. The generous eye relief is crucial for safety and comfort, especially when using rifles with heavier recoil. A wider field of view helps with spotting and tracking moving targets.
Performance & Functionality
The TruGlo Buckline performs its job effectively, providing adequate accuracy and reliable functionality for its intended purpose. The Bullet Drop Compensating (BDC) reticle is a helpful feature for estimating holdover at longer ranges, though it requires some practice and familiarity to use accurately. The TruGlo Buckline meets my expectations for a budget-friendly scope, offering decent clarity and consistent performance within its limitations.
The primary strength of the TruGlo Buckline is its value for money. It offers a functional and reliable optic at a price point that is accessible to many hunters. A potential weakness is the clarity of the glass at higher magnifications, which can become somewhat murky in low-light conditions.
Design & Ergonomics
The TruGlo Buckline features a one-piece maintube made of aircraft quality aluminum, contributing to its overall durability. The scope has a scratch-resistant, non-reflective matte finish that blends well in various hunting environments. The overall weight and size are manageable, and the eye relief provides a comfortable shooting experience.
The TruGlo Buckline is reasonably user-friendly, with straightforward adjustments and a simple reticle design. However, the coin-style adjustments can be somewhat cumbersome compared to the more tactile turrets found on more expensive scopes.
Durability & Maintenance
The TruGlo Buckline’s durable construction suggests it will last for several seasons with proper care. The water-resistant, fogproof, nitrogen gas-filled design enhances its longevity by protecting the internal components from the elements. Maintenance is relatively simple, primarily involving cleaning the lenses and wiping down the exterior.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TruGlo Buckline comes with removable lens caps to protect the lenses from scratches and debris. Because the scope utilizes a 1-inch tube diameter, it’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket rings and bases from various brands. Aftermarket accessories like bubble levels could also be added.
Pros and Cons of TruGlo Buckline 3-9x 40mm Rifle Scope – 3.15″-3.94″ Eye Relief, 41.47-12.67 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.12″ Length
Pros
- Excellent Value for Money: Delivers acceptable performance at a fraction of the cost of premium scopes.
- Durable Construction: One-piece aluminum tube and scratch-resistant finish enhance longevity.
- Water-resistant and Fogproof: Nitrogen gas-filled design protects internal components from the elements.
- Generous Eye Relief: Provides a comfortable and safe shooting experience.
- Adjustable Magnification: Offers versatile use at varying distances.
Cons
- Coin-Style Adjustments: Can be clunky compared to tactical turrets.
- Optical Clarity: Suffers in low light, especially at higher magnifications.
Who Should Buy TruGlo Buckline 3-9x 40mm Rifle Scope – 3.15″-3.94″ Eye Relief, 41.47-12.67 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.12″ Length?
The TruGlo Buckline is perfect for budget-conscious hunters who need a reliable scope for medium-to-large game. It’s also suitable for those looking for a secondary scope for a backup rifle. This scope is ideal for new hunters who are just getting started and don’t want to invest a lot of money upfront.
Hunters seeking top-tier optical performance and advanced features should skip this product. Competitive shooters demanding pinpoint accuracy at long ranges will likely be better served by a more expensive optic.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality set of scope rings to ensure a secure and stable mount.
Conclusion on TruGlo Buckline 3-9x 40mm Rifle Scope – 3.15″-3.94″ Eye Relief, 41.47-12.67 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.12″ Length
The TruGlo Buckline 3-9x 40mm Rifle Scope offers a compelling value proposition for hunters on a budget. While it may not compete with high-end optics in terms of clarity and features, it provides reliable performance and durable construction at an affordable price. At around $40, it’s hard to go wrong with this scope for its intended use.
The price is definitely justified, considering its performance and features. I would personally recommend the TruGlo Buckline to anyone looking for a budget-friendly scope that can get the job done. If you’re ready to upgrade your hunting setup without breaking the bank, the TruGlo Buckline 3-9x 40mm Rifle Scope is definitely worth considering.