My first impression of Burris Fullfield IV 2.5-10x 42mm Plex Reticle Rifle Scope
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless rifle scopes cross my workbench. The Burris Fullfield IV 2.5-10x 42mm Plex Reticle Rifle Scope promised to be a budget-friendly option with the Burris reputation for quality. I was eager to see if it could deliver on that promise, especially considering the crowded market of entry-level optics.
I needed a reliable, all-around scope for my .30-06 hunting rifle, something that could handle everything from deer hunting in dense woods to occasional shots across open fields. My old scope was failing, the glass was foggy, and the adjustments were unreliable. This led me to search for an affordable, yet dependable replacement, and the Burris Fullfield IV seemed to fit the bill.
Upon unboxing, the scope felt solid enough for the price. The finish was clean, and the adjustments, while not silky smooth, felt positive. Compared to a Vortex Crossfire II and a Leupold VX-Freedom I had on hand, the Burris felt like a step up in terms of build quality, surprisingly. But the real test would be in the field.
I was cautiously optimistic after my initial inspection. It wasn’t love at first sight, but it wasn’t a disappointment either; I was eager to get it mounted and see what it could do.
Real-World Testing: Putting Burris Fullfield IV 2.5-10x 42mm Plex Reticle Rifle Scope to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Burris Fullfield IV at my local shooting range, a mix of indoor and outdoor lanes, at distances ranging from 50 to 200 yards. The weather was typical for late fall: overcast, with occasional drizzle. Mounting was straightforward, and zeroing the scope was relatively painless.
The glass clarity was immediately noticeable, even in the less-than-ideal lighting conditions. The Plex reticle was simple and easy to use, providing a clear aiming point without being overly cluttered. The eye box was forgiving enough, allowing for comfortable shooting without having to maintain a perfectly rigid head position.
I did experience a slight stiffness in the magnification ring, especially when adjusting from 2.5x to 10x. Otherwise, the first range session was promising.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including a deer hunting trip and multiple range sessions, the Burris Fullfield IV has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the finish, despite being subjected to brush, rain, and the occasional bump against my rifle case. I also used it during an unexpected ice storm, and it performed perfectly.
Cleaning the lenses is simple, requiring only a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution. Compared to my previous, more expensive scope, the Burris has proven to be just as reliable and significantly easier to maintain. I was honestly expecting to see some degradation in performance over time, but it has consistently delivered solid results.
Breaking Down the Features of Burris Fullfield IV 2.5-10x 42mm Plex Reticle Rifle Scope
Specifications
The Burris Fullfield IV 2.5-10x 42mm Plex Reticle Rifle Scope offers a versatile magnification range suitable for a variety of hunting and shooting applications. It boasts a 42mm objective lens, which provides a good balance of light gathering and scope size. Its field of view ranges from 11 to 46 feet at 100 yards, offering a wide view at lower magnifications for quick target acquisition.
Eye relief is a comfortable 3.5 to 3.8 inches, reducing the risk of scope bite, particularly with larger caliber rifles. The scope features a 1-inch tube diameter, making it compatible with a wide range of mounting options. It’s relatively lightweight at 16.8 ounces, and measures 11.6 inches in length.
The finish is a matte black, which helps to minimize reflections and prevent spooking game. The scope offers .25 MOA adjustments for precise zeroing and holds its zero consistently. The Plex reticle is a classic, simple design that is easy to see in various lighting conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Burris Fullfield IV 2.5-10x 42mm Plex Reticle Rifle Scope performs admirably for its price point. The glass clarity is excellent, providing a bright and clear image, even in low light conditions, far exceeding my expectations at this price. Accuracy is consistent, and the scope holds its zero reliably, even after repeated use and recoil.
One minor weakness is the aforementioned stiffness of the magnification ring. While it loosens up slightly with use, it still requires more effort than some higher-end scopes. However, this is a minor inconvenience that doesn’t significantly detract from the overall performance.
Overall, the scope meets and, in some areas, exceeds my expectations. The combination of clear glass, a simple reticle, and reliable adjustments makes it a solid performer for a variety of shooting scenarios.
Design & Ergonomics
The Burris Fullfield IV features a straightforward and functional design. The build quality is solid, and the scope feels well-made, considering its affordable price point. The matte black finish is practical and aesthetically pleasing.
The scope is relatively lightweight and compact, making it comfortable to carry on a rifle for extended periods. The eye box is forgiving, allowing for comfortable shooting even with less-than-perfect cheek weld. The adjustments are tactile and audible, providing confidence that changes are being made accurately.
There is a slight learning curve associated with the magnification ring stiffness, but it’s easily overcome with practice. Overall, the design is user-friendly and ergonomic, making it a comfortable and practical scope to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Burris Fullfield IV appears to be built to last. The materials used seem durable and the scope has already withstood its fair share of abuse without showing any signs of damage. With proper care, this scope should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses. The finish is also resistant to scratches and abrasions, further enhancing its durability. The scope is nitrogen-filled and waterproof, ensuring reliable performance in all weather conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Burris Fullfield IV 2.5-10x 42mm Plex Reticle Rifle Scope does not come with a vast array of accessories, but it includes the essentials. Lens covers are included to protect the glass from scratches and debris. The scope is compatible with a wide range of 1-inch scope rings and bases, allowing for easy mounting on a variety of rifles.
There are no specific customization options offered directly by Burris, but the scope is compatible with aftermarket accessories such as anti-reflective devices and sunshades. These accessories can further enhance the scope’s performance in specific shooting conditions.
Pros and Cons of Burris Fullfield IV 2.5-10x 42mm Plex Reticle Rifle Scope
Pros
- Excellent glass clarity for the price point.
- Simple and effective Plex reticle.
- Durable construction and reliable performance.
- Forgiving eye box for comfortable shooting.
- Precise and repeatable adjustments.
Cons
- Magnification ring can be stiff.
- Limited included accessories.
Who Should Buy Burris Fullfield IV 2.5-10x 42mm Plex Reticle Rifle Scope?
The Burris Fullfield IV 2.5-10x 42mm Plex Reticle Rifle Scope is perfect for hunters seeking an affordable, yet reliable optic for their rifles. It is also ideal for recreational shooters and those looking for a versatile scope for various shooting applications. New hunters and shooters will appreciate the ease of use of the simple Plex reticle.
This scope might not be the best choice for competitive shooters or those who require advanced features such as bullet drop compensation or parallax adjustment. A higher-end optic with these features would be more suitable for those demanding needs.
Must-have accessories include a quality set of scope rings, a bore sighter for initial zeroing, and a lens cleaning kit for proper maintenance.
Conclusion on Burris Fullfield IV 2.5-10x 42mm Plex Reticle Rifle Scope
The Burris Fullfield IV 2.5-10x 42mm Plex Reticle Rifle Scope is an excellent value for the money. It delivers impressive glass clarity, reliable performance, and durable construction at an affordable price. While the magnification ring stiffness is a minor drawback, it’s easily overlooked considering the scope’s overall quality and performance.
The price is definitely justified given the performance offered by the Burris Fullfield IV. It significantly outperforms other scopes in its price range.
I would absolutely recommend the Burris Fullfield IV 2.5-10x 42mm Plex Reticle Rifle Scope to anyone looking for a budget-friendly, yet dependable optic for their rifle. Don’t let the low price fool you; this scope is a serious contender in the entry-level optics market. Upgrade your shooting experience today with the Burris Fullfield IV!