First Thoughts on the Firefield Barrage 1.5-5x 32mm Illuminated Green / Red Mil-Dot Reticle Rifle Scope – 130-50mm Eye Relief, 42-14.70 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 1.5-5x Adjustable Magnification, 8.26″ Length
The Firefield Barrage 1.5-5x 32mm Illuminated Green / Red Mil-Dot Reticle Rifle Scope enters the market as a budget-friendly optic promising versatility for close to mid-range shooting. Manufactured by Firefield, a brand known for accessible optics, the Barrage aims to provide reliable performance without breaking the bank, featuring illuminated reticle options and a durable build.
My need for a versatile optic on my AR-15 carbine, primarily used for hog hunting in thick brush and occasional range sessions, led me to consider the Firefield Barrage. I sought a scope capable of quick target acquisition at close quarters, yet offering enough magnification for confident shots out to a couple hundred yards.
Unboxing the Firefield Barrage, I was immediately struck by its compact size and relatively lightweight design. The aluminum tube felt solid in hand, and the controls for magnification and illumination seemed readily accessible; initial impressions suggested a decent level of build quality for the price.
I considered scopes from Vortex and Primary Arms in the same price range, but the Firefield Barrage‘s illuminated reticle and included mount swayed my decision. The promise of bullet drop compensation also appealed to me.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the Firefield Barrage seemed to offer a lot of features for a budget optic, and I was eager to see how it would perform on the range. I was surprised by its lightweight construction; the promise of bullet drop compensation was compelling, and I hoped it would live up to the expectations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Firefield Barrage 1.5-5x 32mm Illuminated Green / Red Mil-Dot Reticle Rifle Scope – 130-50mm Eye Relief, 42-14.70 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 1.5-5x Adjustable Magnification, 8.26″ Length to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Firefield Barrage took place at an outdoor shooting range, mounting it on my AR-15. The weather was overcast with a light drizzle, providing a good test of the scope’s visibility in less-than-ideal conditions.
The illuminated reticle proved useful in the low light, allowing for quicker target acquisition than a standard black reticle would. However, I noticed the edge clarity wasn’t fantastic at higher magnifications.
Getting used to the eye relief took a few adjustments, but once dialed in, it was manageable. After the first few shots, I noticed the zero shifted slightly, requiring a minor adjustment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including two hog hunts and numerous range trips, the Firefield Barrage has proven to be reasonably durable. There are a few minor scratches on the tube from brushing against branches, but the glass remains clear.
I make sure to wipe down the lenses after each use to prevent build up of dust and grime. The Barrage requires minimal maintenance, and the battery life for the illumination has been surprisingly good.
Compared to my previous experiences with higher-end optics, the Firefield Barrage doesn’t offer the same level of clarity or precision, but it’s also a fraction of the price. The Barrage scope has ultimately met my expectations for the price, as it’s still a solid choice for hog hunting in thick brush.
Breaking Down the Features of Firefield Barrage 1.5-5x 32mm Illuminated Green / Red Mil-Dot Reticle Rifle Scope – 130-50mm Eye Relief, 42-14.70 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 1.5-5x Adjustable Magnification, 8.26″ Length
Specifications
The Firefield Barrage 1.5-5x 32mm features an adjustable magnification range from 1.5x to 5x, making it suitable for close to mid-range engagements. It has a 32mm objective lens which aids in light gathering.
The scope boasts a Mil-Dot reticle that is illuminated in both green and red, offering flexibility in various lighting conditions. The eye relief ranges from 130mm to 50mm (5.1-2 inches), requiring a consistent cheek weld.
The field of view ranges from 42 feet to 14.7 feet at 100 yards, decreasing as magnification increases. The entire unit is 8.26 inches long, making it compact and relatively lightweight.
These specifications translate to a scope that is well-suited for scenarios where quick target acquisition is crucial, such as hunting in dense cover or engaging targets at varying distances. The adjustable magnification allows for flexibility in different environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Firefield Barrage performs its intended job of providing a magnified view of the target reasonably well. The adjustable magnification is smooth and easy to operate, allowing for quick transitions between close and mid-range targets.
The illuminated reticle is a major strength, particularly in low-light conditions, enhancing target visibility. However, the edge clarity isn’t perfect, and the bullet drop compensation markings are somewhat generic and may not be accurate for all calibers or loads.
Overall, the Firefield Barrage meets expectations for its price point, offering decent performance for its intended use. The Barrage scope is especially useful in low-light conditions, where the illuminated reticle allows for quick target acquisition.
Design & Ergonomics
The Firefield Barrage is constructed from aircraft-grade 6061-T6 black aluminum, giving it a robust feel. The scope is lightweight, making it comfortable to carry on a rifle for extended periods.
The turrets are easily accessible and provide tactile clicks for adjustments. While the eye relief can be a bit finicky, the overall design is user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Firefield Barrage is rated as IPX4 waterproof, offering protection against splashes and light rain. The fully multi-coated AR green scratch-resistant, anti-reflective glass adds to the scope’s durability.
Regular cleaning with a lens cloth is all that’s needed to maintain optimal performance; the Barrage is designed for easy maintenance. With reasonable care, the Firefield Barrage should last for several years of regular use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Firefield Barrage comes with a 2-piece mount, simplifying the installation process. There are no specific customization options offered by Firefield, but the standard tube diameter allows compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket scope rings and mounts.
While not specifically designed for it, the Barrage is compatible with various aftermarket lens caps and scope covers for added protection. The compatibility with standard accessories adds to the Barrage scope’s versatility.
Pros and Cons of Firefield Barrage 1.5-5x 32mm Illuminated Green / Red Mil-Dot Reticle Rifle Scope – 130-50mm Eye Relief, 42-14.70 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 1.5-5x Adjustable Magnification, 8.26″ Length
Pros
- Illuminated reticle in green and red provides excellent visibility in various lighting conditions, enhancing target acquisition.
- Adjustable magnification (1.5-5x) offers versatility for close to mid-range shooting scenarios.
- Durable construction with aircraft-grade aluminum ensures reliability in the field.
- Compact and lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry on a rifle for extended periods.
- Included 2-piece mount simplifies the installation process.
Cons
- Edge clarity is not optimal at higher magnifications.
- Bullet drop compensation is generic and may not be accurate for all loads.
Who Should Buy Firefield Barrage 1.5-5x 32mm Illuminated Green / Red Mil-Dot Reticle Rifle Scope – 130-50mm Eye Relief, 42-14.70 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 1.5-5x Adjustable Magnification, 8.26″ Length?
The Firefield Barrage is perfect for hog hunters, recreational shooters, and those looking for an affordable optic for AR-15 platforms. It’s especially useful for individuals who often find themselves shooting in low-light conditions.
Those seeking a high-precision optic for long-range shooting should skip this product, opting for a scope with better glass quality and more accurate adjustments. Similarly, competitive shooters demanding top-tier performance may find the Barrage lacking.
A must-have accessory would be a set of high-quality scope rings for secure mounting, as well as a lens cleaning kit for maintaining optimal clarity. A custom bullet drop compensation chart tailored to a specific caliber and load would greatly enhance accuracy.
Conclusion on Firefield Barrage 1.5-5x 32mm Illuminated Green / Red Mil-Dot Reticle Rifle Scope – 130-50mm Eye Relief, 42-14.70 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 1.5-5x Adjustable Magnification, 8.26″ Length
The Firefield Barrage 1.5-5x 32mm Illuminated Rifle Scope is a solid entry-level optic that offers good value for its price. While it may not compete with higher-end scopes in terms of clarity and precision, it provides a reliable and versatile platform for close to mid-range shooting.
At around $80, the price is certainly justified considering the features offered, including the illuminated reticle and durable construction. For the price, the Firefield Barrage is a great value.
I would personally recommend the Firefield Barrage to anyone looking for an affordable and functional optic for their AR-15 or similar platform. If you’re looking for an entry-level optic, buy the Firefield Barrage!