The BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope – 3″ Eye Relief, 11.50 – 34.20 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 12.13″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification Made a Bold First Impression
The BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope promises to be a dedicated optic for the increasingly popular 450 Bushmaster cartridge. This scope, manufactured by BSA, features ballistically calibrated turrets, an adjustable objective (AO), and a robust aluminum construction, all at a price point that’s hard to ignore.
I was looking for a dedicated scope for my new 450 Bushmaster rifle. I was tired of using generic scopes and wanted something tailored to the unique ballistics of this hard-hitting round, especially for hunting whitetail in thick brush.
Upon unboxing, the BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster felt surprisingly solid for its price. The matte black finish looked clean, and the adjustments felt reasonably smooth, immediately signaling a step up from some truly bottom-tier optics I’ve encountered.
Compared to a Vortex Crossfire II or a Bushnell Banner, the BSA felt like a more purpose-built tool for the 450 Bushmaster. I picked the BSA for its ballistic turrets, as I liked that it was engineered specifically for that cartridge instead of using a more generic solution. My initial feeling was cautiously optimistic; a blend of excitement and the awareness that at this price, compromises are inevitable.
Real-World Testing: Putting BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope – 3″ Eye Relief, 11.50 – 34.20 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 12.13″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster at my local shooting range, dialing it in at 100 yards. I then took it out on a deer hunt in the dense forests of northern Wisconsin. The weather was typical for late fall, with intermittent rain and temperatures hovering around freezing.
The scope performed surprisingly well in the overcast conditions, offering a clear sight picture, especially after adjusting the objective lens. Initially, I had a bit of trouble getting used to the ballistic turrets and understanding how they corresponded to my specific 250-grain load, but with some experimentation, I quickly figured it out. The first issue I had was the included Weaver rings were a low quality and required replacement before I even mounted the scope.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster is holding up reasonably well. I’ve put approximately 100 rounds through my 450 Bushmaster with the scope mounted. The matte black finish has proven to be surprisingly resistant to scratches and abrasions.
I’ve noticed some slight loosening of the turrets, requiring occasional re-tightening. Cleaning the lenses is easy enough, and the scope seems to be maintaining its zero after several range trips and hunts. I will say that it has been disappointing that the turrets don’t have a more positive “click” when making adjustments. Compared to higher-end scopes I’ve used, the BSA falls short in terms of overall durability and refinement, but considering the price point, it’s performing adequately.
Breaking Down the Features of BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope – 3″ Eye Relief, 11.50 – 34.20 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 12.13″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification
Specifications
The BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope features a 3-9x adjustable magnification range. Its objective diameter ranges from 11-30mm, and the tube diameter is 1 inch. The scope offers a 3″ eye relief and a field of view ranging from 11.50 – 34.20 ft at 100 yards, and it has a length of 12.13″.
The most important specification is the inclusion of three ballistically calibrated turrets designed for 245gr, 250gr, and 260gr 450 Bushmaster cartridges. The adjustable objective allows for parallax correction at various distances, enhancing accuracy. This is crucial when hunting in varied terrains.
Performance & Functionality
The BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster performs its primary function reasonably well, offering adequate accuracy for hunting within typical 450 Bushmaster ranges (under 200 yards). The ballistic turrets are a useful feature, but they require careful calibration and understanding of your specific load. The biggest weakness is the somewhat mushy and imprecise turret adjustments.
Overall, the scope meets expectations for its price range, providing a clear sight picture and functional ballistic compensation, but it doesn’t exceed expectations due to some compromises in build quality and turret feel.
Design & Ergonomics
The BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster is constructed from aluminum with a matte black finish. The weight is manageable, not adding excessive bulk to the rifle, and the 3″ eye relief provides a comfortable shooting experience. The design is functional and straightforward, prioritizing practicality over aesthetics, however I’ve found that 3 inches of eye relief is a bit short when using heavier recoiling rounds, so be wary of “scope bite”.
There is a slight learning curve associated with the ballistic turrets. You’ll need to understand how to match them to your specific load and distances.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction should provide reasonable longevity, but the turret mechanism is a potential weak point. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a lens cloth and occasional wipe-down of the exterior. Repairing it might be difficult given its price point.
Accessories and Customization Options
The BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster includes 2 pc. Weaver rings, which, as I mentioned earlier, I would recommend replacing immediately. There aren’t significant customization options beyond replacing the mounting rings. The 1-inch tube diameter ensures compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket rings and bases, but beyond that, what you see is what you get.
Pros and Cons of BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope – 3″ Eye Relief, 11.50 – 34.20 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 12.13″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification
Pros
- Dedicated Ballistic Turrets: The inclusion of pre-calibrated turrets for common 450 Bushmaster grain weights is a significant advantage for quick and accurate adjustments in the field.
- Adjustable Objective: The adjustable objective allows for parallax correction, improving accuracy at varying distances.
- Affordable Price: The price point makes it accessible to hunters and shooters on a budget.
- Acceptable Clarity: The fully coated lenses provide adequate light transmission and a reasonably clear sight picture, even in low-light conditions.
- Lightweight Design: The scope doesn’t add significant weight to the rifle, making it comfortable to carry during long hunts.
Cons
- Turret Quality: The turret adjustments lack a distinct “click” and can feel mushy, making precise adjustments challenging.
- Included Rings: The included Weaver rings are low quality and may require immediate replacement, adding to the overall cost.
- Eye Relief: The 3 inch eye relief may be too short for some shooters, and those using higher recoiling loads.
Who Should Buy BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope – 3″ Eye Relief, 11.50 – 34.20 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 12.13″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification?
The BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster is perfect for budget-conscious hunters who want a dedicated scope for their 450 Bushmaster rifle. It’s also suitable for those who primarily hunt within 200 yards and appreciate the convenience of pre-calibrated ballistic turrets.
Anyone seeking high-end glass clarity, superior build quality, or ultra-precise adjustments should skip this product. If you’re regularly shooting at longer ranges or demand exceptional optical performance, consider investing in a higher-tier scope. A must-have accessory is a set of higher-quality scope rings to replace the included Weaver rings.
Conclusion on BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope – 3″ Eye Relief, 11.50 – 34.20 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 12.13″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification
The BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope offers a compelling value proposition for 450 Bushmaster enthusiasts on a budget. It’s a functional and purpose-built optic with some compromises in build quality and refinement.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. It would be hard to get a better performing scope for this cartridge at a similar price point.
I would recommend it to anyone who understands its limitations and seeks an affordable, dedicated scope for their 450 Bushmaster rifle. If you’re looking to put meat on the table without breaking the bank, give the BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster a shot. You might be pleasantly surprised!