Burris Signature Hd 5-25×50 E3 Illum Review

The Burris Signature Hd 5-25×50 E3 Illum Made a Bold First Impression

The Burris Signature Hd 5-25×50 E3 Illum rifle scope immediately screams quality. This scope from Burris promises a versatile magnification range coupled with an illuminated reticle, making it a tempting choice for both target shooting and hunting applications. I was seeking a scope that could handle everything from close-range engagements to reaching out and touching targets at significant distances. My primary focus was on clarity, durability, and repeatable adjustments, a combination often requiring a significant investment.

The packaging was clean and functional, providing adequate protection for the scope during shipping. Upon unboxing, the Burris Signature Hd 5-25×50 E3 Illum felt solid and well-constructed, a reassuring sign. The turrets had a tactile and audible click, suggesting precise adjustments. Compared to my older Vortex Viper PST Gen I and a Leupold VX-3i, the Burris seemed to offer a better balance of features and price.

While the Vortex offered similar magnification, the glass quality of the Burris appeared superior, at least initially. The Leupold, while lighter, lacked the illuminated reticle which I desired for low-light hunting situations. My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Burris Signature Hd 5-25×50 E3 Illum seemed promising, but the real test would come in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Burris Signature Hd 5-25×50 E3 Illum to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, under relatively clear and sunny conditions. I mounted the Burris Signature Hd 5-25×50 E3 Illum on my custom AR-10 chambered in .308 Winchester. The first thing I noticed was the ease of zeroing the scope; the turrets were precise and repeatable. I spent the afternoon shooting at targets ranging from 100 to 500 yards, and the clarity of the glass remained consistent throughout the magnification range.

I later tested the scope during a weekend hog hunt in central Texas. The weather was less cooperative, with intermittent rain and low light conditions prevailing. Even in the fading light, the illuminated reticle provided a clear aiming point. The scope performed admirably, allowing me to ethically harvest a hog at approximately 250 yards.

The learning curve was minimal; the controls were intuitive and easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands. One minor issue arose during the rainy hunt: I noticed a slight fogging around the objective lens, although it cleared quickly once the rain stopped.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Burris Signature Hd 5-25×50 E3 Illum has held up remarkably well. I’ve taken it on multiple hunting trips, exposed it to varying weather conditions, and subjected it to the recoil of my .308. The scope continues to maintain its zero, and the turrets remain crisp and reliable.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The finish shows some minor scratches from rubbing against branches, but the glass remains pristine. Cleaning is relatively simple, requiring only a lens cloth and occasional use of a lens cleaning solution. Comparing it to my previous experiences with other scopes, the Burris has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and optical clarity for its price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Burris Signature Hd 5-25×50 E3 Illum

Specifications

• Magnification: 5-25x. This provides excellent versatility for both close-range and long-range shooting scenarios.

• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm. The large objective lens allows for ample light transmission, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions.

• Reticle: E3 Illuminated. The E3 reticle offers precise holdover points and is illuminated for improved visibility in various lighting situations.

• Tube Diameter: 30mm. A 30mm tube allows for a wider range of adjustment and greater light transmission compared to smaller tubes.

• Elevation Adjustment: 50 MOA. This generous elevation adjustment allows for accurate shots at extended ranges.

• Windage Adjustment: 50 MOA. The windage adjustment mirrors the elevation, providing ample correction for wind drift.

• Parallax Adjustment: 50 yards to infinity. This feature allows the shooter to eliminate parallax error at various distances, enhancing accuracy.

• Eye Relief: 3.3-3.5 inches. Sufficient eye relief protects the shooter from recoil-related injuries.

• Weight: 26.8 ounces. While not the lightest scope on the market, the weight is reasonable considering the features and build quality.

• Length: 14 inches. This is a fairly standard length for a scope in this magnification range.

• Finish: Matte Black. The matte black finish reduces glare and provides a tactical appearance.

• Illumination: Red, with multiple intensity settings. The illuminated reticle enhances visibility in low-light conditions.

These specifications combine to create a scope optimized for precision shooting and adaptability to different environments. The generous adjustment ranges and illuminated reticle greatly contribute to overall performance.

Performance & Functionality

The Burris Signature Hd 5-25×50 E3 Illum performs its job exceptionally well. Accuracy is outstanding, thanks to the clear glass, precise adjustments, and well-designed reticle. The illuminated reticle is a significant advantage in low-light situations, allowing for confident shots when other scopes would struggle.

The scope’s strengths lie in its optical clarity, precise adjustments, and rugged construction. One potential area for improvement might be the inclusion of a zero stop feature, which would simplify returning to zero after making elevation adjustments. Overall, it exceeds expectations for a scope in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with durable materials and a robust feel. The weight, while not negligible, is balanced and doesn’t feel cumbersome on my rifle. The turrets are tactile and easy to grip, even with gloves.

The Burris Signature Hd 5-25×50 E3 Illum is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The controls are intuitive and easy to manipulate, allowing for quick adjustments in the field.

Durability & Maintenance

The Burris Signature Hd 5-25×50 E3 Illum appears to be built to last. The rugged construction and durable finish suggest it can withstand harsh conditions. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only basic cleaning and occasional inspection.

Accessories and Customization Options

The scope comes with lens covers. It also includes a sunshade to reduce glare. Being a standard 30mm tube, it is compatible with a wide range of rings and mounts from various brands.

Pros and Cons of Burris Signature Hd 5-25×50 E3 Illum