First Thoughts on the Konus KonusPro 3-12x 50mm Engraved 30 / 30 Duplex AO Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.90″ Eye Relief, 31 – 7.80 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-12x Adjustable Magnification, 14″ Length
The Konus KonusPro 3-12x 50mm riflescope promises a blend of rugged durability and optical clarity at a price point that’s accessible to many shooters. With its engraved reticle, adjustable objective (AO), and variable magnification, it’s designed to perform across various shooting disciplines, from hunting to target practice. My initial curiosity was piqued by the KonusPro’s reputation for being a reliable workhorse without breaking the bank.
I had been searching for a versatile optic for my hunting rifle, capable of handling both close-range woodland shots and longer-distance engagements in open fields. I needed a scope that offered clarity in low-light conditions, crucial for dawn and dusk hunts, and the KonusPro’s 50mm objective lens seemed promising. The adjustable objective was also a key factor, allowing for precise parallax correction at different distances, something I’ve found essential for accurate shooting.
Upon unboxing, the scope felt surprisingly solid for its price. The matte black finish looked clean and the turrets had a reassuring click to them. While it didn’t have the silky smoothness of higher-end optics, the KonusPro seemed well-constructed and ready for the field.
I considered other scopes in the same price range, like the Bushnell Banner and the Simmons Whitetail Classic. I ultimately chose the KonusPro due to its engraved reticle, which I believed would offer superior durability compared to wire reticles. The adjustable objective was another significant factor, providing a level of precision often missing in budget-friendly scopes.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Konus KonusPro 3-12x 50mm didn’t scream high-end, but it seemed like a capable and well-featured optic that could potentially exceed my expectations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Konus KonusPro 3-12x 50mm Engraved 30 / 30 Duplex AO Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.90″ Eye Relief, 31 – 7.80 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-12x Adjustable Magnification, 14″ Length to the Test
First Use Experience
I mounted the KonusPro on my .308 Winchester and headed to the range to zero it in. The range offered distances from 25 to 200 yards, perfect for testing the scope’s capabilities. I also took it on a weekend deer hunt in the Pennsylvania woods.
The KonusPro performed adequately in sunny conditions. However, it truly shined during the low-light hours of dawn and dusk. Adjusting the magnification was smooth, and the adjustable objective allowed me to sharpen the image at various ranges.
Zeroing the scope was straightforward, although the turret clicks felt a bit mushy compared to higher-end optics. I had to make a few extra adjustments to achieve perfect zero. The only real issue I encountered was a slight stiffness in the magnification ring when temperatures dropped below freezing during my hunting trip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the KonusPro has held up surprisingly well. It has withstood the recoil of my .308 without losing zero, a testament to its robust construction. I also subjected it to some rough handling, including accidental bumps against trees and rocks during my hunts.
Despite the abuse, the KonusPro’s finish remains largely intact, with only minor scratches and scuffs. Cleaning the lenses is simple, and the scope hasn’t shown any signs of fogging, even in humid conditions. The engraved reticle remains crisp and clear, showing no signs of shifting or breaking.
Compared to my previous scope, a budget-friendly Simmons, the KonusPro offers significantly better light transmission and image clarity, especially at higher magnifications. While it doesn’t quite reach the optical performance of premium scopes from Leupold or Zeiss, it punches well above its weight class.
Breaking Down the Features of Konus KonusPro 3-12x 50mm Engraved 30 / 30 Duplex AO Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.90″ Eye Relief, 31 – 7.80 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-12x Adjustable Magnification, 14″ Length
Specifications
The Konus KonusPro 3-12x 50mm features adjustable magnification from 3x to 12x, making it suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios. It has a 50mm objective lens that gathers ample light for clear images even in low-light conditions. The scope also features a 30/30 Duplex AO reticle, engraved directly onto the glass for increased durability and precision.
The eye relief is 2.9 inches, which is adequate for most shooters but may be a bit short for those using high-recoil rifles. The field of view ranges from 31 feet at 3x to 7.8 feet at 12x at 100 yards. The scope’s length is 14 inches and the tube diameter is 1 inch, making it compatible with most standard scope rings.
The click value for windage and elevation adjustments is 1/4 MOA, allowing for precise zeroing. The scope is nitrogen purged for fogproof performance and waterproofed to withstand harsh weather conditions. It also includes a rayshade to reduce glare.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the scope’s performance in the field. The variable magnification allows for versatility in different shooting situations. The large objective lens ensures a bright, clear image, while the engraved reticle provides enhanced durability.
Performance & Functionality
The Konus KonusPro 3-12x 50mm performs admirably for a scope in its price range. Its optical clarity is surprisingly good, providing a sharp image with decent color rendition. The adjustable objective is a welcome feature, allowing for precise parallax correction and improved accuracy at various distances.
The windage and elevation adjustments are functional, but the clicks are not as crisp or tactile as those found on higher-end scopes. However, they do hold zero reliably, which is the most important factor. The 30/30 Duplex reticle is simple yet effective, providing a clear aiming point without being overly cluttered.
The scope’s strengths lie in its versatility, durability, and low-light performance. However, its weaknesses include the somewhat mushy turret clicks and the slightly short eye relief. Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly scope, offering a good balance of features and performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The KonusPro’s build quality is decent, with a solid feel and a durable matte black finish. Its weight is moderate, not too heavy to make the rifle unwieldy, but substantial enough to feel well-made. The turrets are easy to grip and adjust, even with gloves on.
The scope is relatively user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive design. The adjustable objective is easily accessible, and the magnification ring turns smoothly, albeit with some stiffness in cold weather. There’s no significant learning curve associated with using the Konus KonusPro 3-12x 50mm.
Durability & Maintenance
The KonusPro appears to be built to last, withstanding the recoil of my .308 and enduring some rough handling without issue. Its waterproof and fogproof construction gives confidence in its ability to perform in harsh weather conditions. The engraved reticle is a significant advantage in terms of durability, as it is less likely to break or shift than a wire reticle.
Maintaining the scope is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses with a lens cloth. The finish is reasonably scratch-resistant, and the overall construction seems robust enough to withstand years of use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Konus KonusPro 3-12x 50mm comes with a rayshade to reduce glare, which is a useful addition. There are no other included accessories, but the scope is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket scope rings and bases.
The scope itself offers limited customization options, as it is a fixed-power optic. However, users can customize their shooting experience by selecting different scope rings to achieve their desired mounting height and eye relief.
Pros and Cons of Konus KonusPro 3-12x 50mm Engraved 30 / 30 Duplex AO Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.90″ Eye Relief, 31 – 7.80 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-12x Adjustable Magnification, 14″ Length
Pros
- Surprisingly good optical clarity for the price, offering a sharp image and decent color rendition.
- Durable engraved reticle ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to recoil.
- Adjustable objective allows for precise parallax correction, enhancing accuracy at various distances.
- Excellent low-light performance, making it suitable for dawn and dusk hunting.
- Waterproof and fogproof construction provides reliable performance in harsh weather conditions.
Cons
- Turret clicks are somewhat mushy and lack the tactile feedback of higher-end scopes.
- Eye relief is a bit short for some shooters, particularly those using high-recoil rifles.
Who Should Buy Konus KonusPro 3-12x 50mm Engraved 30 / 30 Duplex AO Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.90″ Eye Relief, 31 – 7.80 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-12x Adjustable Magnification, 14″ Length?
The Konus KonusPro 3-12x 50mm is perfect for hunters on a budget who need a reliable and versatile scope for various game and terrains. It’s also a good choice for recreational shooters who want a decent optic without breaking the bank. This scope can improve performance, as well as give a shooter some experience before buying a more expensive optic.
This product is not ideal for competitive shooters who demand the utmost precision and repeatability in their adjustments. Also, those using very powerful rifles or requiring a long eye relief may want to consider other options.
A must-have accessory is a good set of scope rings that are compatible with your rifle’s mounting system. Also consider lens cleaning supplies to keep the optic in the best shape possible.
Conclusion on Konus KonusPro 3-12x 50mm Engraved 30 / 30 Duplex AO Reticle Rifle Scope – 2.90″ Eye Relief, 31 – 7.80 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-12x Adjustable Magnification, 14″ Length
The Konus KonusPro 3-12x 50mm is a surprisingly capable scope that offers a lot of value for its price. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end optics, it provides good optical clarity, durable construction, and a useful set of features. It is definitely a step up from the most basic budget scopes.
At around $145, the price is justified. The ruggedness and performance of the product, even in difficult conditions, makes it a worthwhile purchase.
I would personally recommend the Konus KonusPro 3-12x 50mm to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable riflescope for hunting or recreational shooting. If you need an optic that won’t break the bank, the KonusPro deserves a serious look.