Viridian EON Rifle Scope 3-9×40 R4 Black w/ Rings Review

First Thoughts on the Viridian EON Rifle Scope 3-9×40 R4 Black w/ Rings

The Viridian EON Rifle Scope 3-9×40 R4 Black w/ Rings promises a blend of toughness, brightness, and clarity, making it a potentially solid optic for various shooting applications. Viridian aims to deliver essential features without unnecessary frills in the EON line. As someone with a decade of experience in outdoor and tactical gear, I’m keen to see if this scope lives up to those promises, especially at its price point of $43.49.

I was searching for an affordable yet reliable scope for a .22LR plinking rifle I recently acquired. Many budget scopes offer subpar glass or flimsy construction. I hoped the Viridian EON would provide a usable image and hold zero without breaking the bank.

Unboxing the scope revealed a simple, no-nonsense design. The all-black finish looked clean. The included rings were a welcome bonus, saving me an additional purchase. My initial impression was of a functional, albeit basic, optic.

I considered the Simmons Truplex 3-9×40 and the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X 3-9×40. Ultimately, I chose the Viridian EON based on its advertised durability and the limited lifetime warranty offered by Viridian. I wanted something that could withstand occasional bumps and scrapes without losing its functionality.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The price was certainly appealing. I was hoping the Viridian EON Rifle Scope 3-9×40 R4 Black w/ Rings would be a hidden gem in the budget optic market.

Real-World Testing: Putting Viridian EON Rifle Scope 3-9×40 R4 Black w/ Rings to the Test

First Use Experience

I mounted the Viridian EON Rifle Scope 3-9×40 R4 Black w/ Rings on my .22LR and headed to my local outdoor range. The weather was overcast, providing a good test of the scope’s brightness in less-than-ideal conditions. I was primarily shooting at paper targets at 50 and 100 yards.

The initial sight-in process was straightforward. The windage and elevation adjustments were tactile and seemed to move the point of impact consistently. The image quality, while not exceptional, was adequate for target shooting at those distances. I did find the fast focus eyepiece a bit stiff to adjust initially.

One minor issue arose during the first session. The scope seemed to lose zero after about 50 rounds. I retightened the rings and continued shooting, but the issue persisted intermittently.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use and approximately 500 rounds downrange, the Viridian EON Rifle Scope 3-9×40 R4 Black w/ Rings has presented a mixed bag of results. It still loses zero occasionally, even after thoroughly tightening the rings and checking the base screws. This suggests a possible issue with the internal mechanics or the rings themselves.

The scope shows no significant signs of external wear and tear. The finish remains intact. The lenses have resisted scratching despite being exposed to some dust and debris. Cleaning the lenses is relatively easy with a standard microfiber cloth.

Compared to my experience with higher-end scopes, the Viridian EON falls short in terms of reliability and image clarity. It’s outperformed by optics that cost significantly more. However, it performs adequately for its price range, provided you’re willing to accept the occasional need to re-zero.

Breaking Down the Features of Viridian EON Rifle Scope 3-9×40 R4 Black w/ Rings

Specifications

• Magnification: 3-9x. This provides versatility for both close-range and longer-range shooting scenarios.
• Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm. This allows for a decent amount of light gathering, contributing to a brighter image in various lighting conditions.
• Reticle: R4. This is a standard reticle design commonly used for hunting and target shooting.
• Finish: Black. A matte black finish helps reduce glare and provides a low-profile look.
• Construction: Waterproof/Shockproof/Fog proof. This is crucial for maintaining functionality in harsh outdoor environments.
• Lenses: Fully Multi-Coated. This enhances light transmission and image clarity.

These specifications indicate that the Viridian EON Rifle Scope 3-9×40 R4 Black w/ Rings is designed to be a versatile and durable optic suitable for various shooting applications. The fully multi-coated lenses and waterproof/shockproof/fog proof construction are particularly important for ensuring reliable performance in the field.

Performance & Functionality

The Viridian EON Rifle Scope 3-9×40 R4 Black w/ Rings performs adequately for basic target shooting and hunting applications. The magnification range is versatile, and the image is generally clear, especially in good lighting conditions. The zeroing issues experienced are a significant drawback.

The scope’s strengths lie in its affordability and basic functionality. Its main weakness is its inconsistent zero retention. It meets basic expectations for a budget scope but doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent for the price. The scope feels solid in hand. The weight is manageable and doesn’t add excessive bulk to the rifle.

The scope is relatively user-friendly. The turrets are easy to adjust, and the fast focus eyepiece allows for quick adjustments to the reticle focus. There isn’t a steep learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The scope’s waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof construction suggests it should last a reasonable amount of time, even with regular use in the field. However, the zeroing issue raises concerns about the longevity of its internal components. Cleaning is easy using standard lens cleaning solutions and a microfiber cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Viridian EON Rifle Scope 3-9×40 R4 Black w/ Rings comes with mounting rings. This is a convenient inclusion. There are no other included accessories or customization options.

The scope is compatible with standard Weaver/Picatinny rail systems. This allows for the use of aftermarket rings if the included rings prove to be inadequate.

Pros and Cons of Viridian EON Rifle Scope 3-9×40 R4 Black w/ Rings

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Who Should Buy Viridian EON Rifle Scope 3-9×40 R4 Black w/ Rings?

The Viridian EON Rifle Scope 3-9×40 R4 Black w/ Rings is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who need a basic optic for plinking or casual hunting. It’s also suitable for beginners who are just starting to explore the world of rifle scopes.

Those seeking a high-precision optic for long-range shooting or demanding hunting applications should skip this product. Shooters needing guaranteed zero retention for critical situations should also look elsewhere. A more reliable set of rings might be a must-have accessory to improve performance.

Conclusion on Viridian EON Rifle Scope 3-9×40 R4 Black w/ Rings

The Viridian EON Rifle Scope 3-9×40 R4 Black w/ Rings offers a decent value proposition for its extremely low price. It provides essential features like multi-coated lenses and a durable construction, but its inconsistent zero retention is a significant drawback.

The price is largely justified for what you get. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential need to re-zero the scope frequently.

I would cautiously recommend it to those on a very tight budget. It’s a usable scope for basic shooting activities. If you can afford a slightly more expensive optic, you’ll likely get better performance and reliability. Ultimately, the Viridian EON is a budget-friendly option with limitations. Consider your needs and budget carefully before making a purchase.

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