The Burris XTR Pro Matte Black 5.5-30x 56mm 34mm Tube Illuminated Horus TREMOR5 Reticle Made a Bold First Impression
The Burris XTR Pro Matte Black 5.5-30x 56mm 34mm Tube Illuminated Horus TREMOR5 Reticle is not just another riflescope; it’s a purpose-built instrument for serious competition shooters. Designed and manufactured by Burris in Greeley, Colorado, this optic boasts a powerful 5.5-30x magnification range, a robust 34mm tube, and the advanced Horus TREMOR5 reticle with illuminated red/green settings.
For years, I’ve been chasing that winning edge in PRS-style competitions, struggling to find an optic that offered both crystal-clear glass and a reticle advanced enough to handle rapid target engagements at varying distances. My previous scope, while adequate, lacked the refined features and intuitive design needed for shaving seconds off stage times. The Burris XTR Pro’s promise of a quick detach race dial and tool-less zero click stop elevation knob immediately piqued my interest, suggesting a scope designed by shooters, for shooters.
Unboxing the XTR Pro felt like handling a precision instrument, the matte black finish exuding quality and the weight suggesting a durable build. The adjustments felt solid and precise, and the clarity of the glass was immediately noticeable even indoors. Compared to my older Vortex and a friend’s Nightforce, the Burris seemed to offer a better balance of features and price, promising performance without an exorbitant cost.
My initial excitement was tempered with a touch of intimidation; the TREMOR5 reticle, while incredibly powerful, looked dense and required understanding. However, the overall impression was overwhelmingly positive: this wasn’t just another scope; it was a tool that could potentially elevate my competitive game.
Real-World Testing: Putting Burris XTR Pro Matte Black 5.5-30x 56mm 34mm Tube Illuminated Horus TREMOR5 Reticle to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range session with the Burris XTR Pro was at my local outdoor range, known for its challenging wind conditions and varied target distances. I mounted it on my custom-built AR-10 chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor, eager to see how it performed at distances ranging from 100 to 800 yards. Setting up the initial zero was straightforward, thanks to the precise and tactile clicks of the turrets.
Even on a day with swirling winds, the XTR Pro’s glass provided a crisp and clear image, allowing me to easily spot impacts on steel targets. I spent a good amount of time familiarizing myself with the Horus TREMOR5 reticle, learning to quickly estimate holdovers and windage corrections. The illuminated reticle proved especially useful when shooting against darker backdrops, providing a clear aiming point without obscuring the target.
The only initial hiccup was my unfamiliarity with the TREMOR5 reticle, which took some time to fully understand and utilize effectively. However, after a few hours of practice, I began to appreciate its capabilities.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Burris XTR Pro has become an indispensable part of my competition setup. It has endured several PRS matches, exposed to dust, rain, and the occasional bump and scrape. The scope has held zero consistently, and the turrets have remained reliable, even after repeated adjustments.
Despite the rough handling typical of competitive shooting, the XTR Pro’s finish has held up remarkably well, showing only minor signs of wear. Cleaning the lenses is simple, requiring only a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution. Compared to my previous scope, the Burris offers superior optical clarity, a more advanced reticle, and better overall reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Burris XTR Pro Matte Black 5.5-30x 56mm 34mm Tube Illuminated Horus TREMOR5 Reticle
Specifications
The Burris XTR Pro Matte Black 5.5-30x 56mm 34mm Tube Illuminated Horus TREMOR5 Reticle is a high-performance riflescope designed for precision shooting. It features a magnification range of 5.5-30x, allowing for accurate target engagement at both short and long distances. The 56mm objective lens gathers ample light, providing a bright and clear image even in low-light conditions.
The 34mm tube provides a wide adjustment range for both elevation and windage, essential for long-range shooting. The Horus TREMOR5 reticle is a sophisticated tool for calculating holdovers and windage corrections, enabling rapid and accurate shots. With 11 red and 11 green illumination settings, the reticle can be adjusted for optimal visibility in various lighting conditions.
The scope’s 1/10 Mil click value allows for precise and repeatable adjustments. It features a side parallax adjustment ranging from 20 yards to infinity, ensuring a clear image at any distance. The scope is constructed from high-quality aluminum, making it both durable and lightweight, weighing in at 33.60 oz.
The Burris Quick Detach Race Dial and Tool-less Zero Click Stop Elevation Knob make field adjustments quick and easy. With a field of view of 23-4.20 ft @ 100 yds and an exit pupil diameter of 8.60-1.80mm, the XTR Pro offers a comfortable and immersive viewing experience. Its elevation adjustment is 90 MOA and windage adjustment is 51.50 MOA. The optic is fog and waterproof protecting the scope in harsh environments. The scope runs on a CR2032 battery.
These specifications are critical because they directly influence the scope’s performance and usability, providing the shooter with the tools needed for accurate and effective long-range shooting.
Performance & Functionality
The Burris XTR Pro Matte Black 5.5-30x 56mm 34mm Tube Illuminated Horus TREMOR5 Reticle excels in its primary function: providing a clear and accurate sight picture for long-range shooting. The optical clarity is exceptional, allowing for easy target identification and engagement. The Horus TREMOR5 reticle, while complex, proves to be a valuable tool for calculating holdovers and windage corrections, significantly improving accuracy at extended ranges.
The turrets are precise and tactile, making adjustments easy and repeatable, even with gloved hands. The illumination settings are well-calibrated, providing optimal visibility without causing excessive bloom. While the TREMOR5 reticle takes some getting used to, its benefits in terms of speed and accuracy are undeniable.
Overall, the Burris XTR Pro meets and exceeds expectations, providing a level of performance that justifies its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The Burris XTR Pro’s design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The matte black finish is durable and non-reflective, minimizing glare. The scope’s weight is well-balanced, making it comfortable to use on a variety of rifles. The turrets are easily accessible and provide a positive tactile feel, even when wearing gloves.
The side parallax adjustment is conveniently located and easy to operate. While the Horus TREMOR5 reticle may seem daunting at first, its design is logical and intuitive once understood. There is a slight learning curve associated with the advanced reticle, but the overall design is user-friendly and ergonomic.
Durability & Maintenance
The Burris XTR Pro is built to withstand the rigors of competitive shooting and harsh environmental conditions. Its aluminum construction provides excellent durability without adding excessive weight. The scope is fog and waterproof, ensuring reliable performance in all weather conditions.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution. With proper care, the Burris XTR Pro should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Burris XTR Pro Matte Black 5.5-30x 56mm 34mm Tube Illuminated Horus TREMOR5 Reticle comes with a sunshade to reduce glare and a lens cloth for cleaning. The scope is compatible with standard 34mm scope rings, offering a wide range of mounting options. Aftermarket throw levers can be installed on the magnification ring to allow quicker changes.
While the scope itself offers limited customization options, its compatibility with standard accessories makes it easy to tailor to individual preferences.
Pros and Cons of Burris XTR Pro Matte Black 5.5-30x 56mm 34mm Tube Illuminated Horus TREMOR5 Reticle
Pros
- Exceptional optical clarity for easy target identification.
- Horus TREMOR5 reticle for rapid and accurate holdovers and windage corrections.
- Precise and tactile turrets for repeatable adjustments.
- Durable construction for reliable performance in harsh conditions.
- Illuminated reticle with 11 red and 11 green settings for optimal visibility.
Cons
- High price point may be prohibitive for some shooters.
- Horus TREMOR5 reticle has a steep learning curve for new users.
Who Should Buy Burris XTR Pro Matte Black 5.5-30x 56mm 34mm Tube Illuminated Horus TREMOR5 Reticle?
The Burris XTR Pro Matte Black 5.5-30x 56mm 34mm Tube Illuminated Horus TREMOR5 Reticle is perfect for competitive shooters participating in PRS or NRL style competitions. It is also ideal for long-range target shooters who demand the highest level of accuracy and reliability. This optic is a great fit for experienced shooters who are familiar with Mil based reticles.
Those who are new to long-range shooting or prefer simpler reticles should skip this product. Individuals on a tight budget may also find the Burris XTR Pro to be too expensive.
Must-have accessories include high-quality 34mm scope rings and a reliable ballistic calculator.
Conclusion on Burris XTR Pro Matte Black 5.5-30x 56mm 34mm Tube Illuminated Horus TREMOR5 Reticle
The Burris XTR Pro Matte Black 5.5-30x 56mm 34mm Tube Illuminated Horus TREMOR5 Reticle is a top-tier riflescope that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. While its high price point may be a barrier for some, its optical clarity, advanced reticle, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. If you are looking for a scope that will give you a competitive edge, the Burris XTR Pro is definitely worth considering.
The price is justified by the superior build quality, advanced features, and significant performance gains. I would highly recommend it to any competitive shooter or long-range enthusiast looking to elevate their game. Don’t settle for anything less than the best; equip yourself with the Burris XTR Pro and experience the difference.