BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope Review

My first impression of BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope

The BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope promises to be a purpose-built optic for a hard-hitting cartridge. For years, I’ve relied on versatile scopes, but the allure of a scope tailored to the .450 Bushmaster’s unique ballistics was too strong to resist. The BSA name, while not always synonymous with top-tier optics, has often delivered reliable performance at a reasonable price point.

I was looking for a scope to specifically optimize my .450 Bushmaster for deer hunting in thick, brushy areas. I needed something that would give me accurate shots out to 200 yards. My previous scope was a generic 3-9x, and I constantly had to make adjustments and guess at holdovers.

Unboxing the BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope, my initial impression was… practical. The matte black finish and aluminum construction seemed sturdy enough, and the weight felt appropriate for a scope of this size. The inclusion of Weaver rings was a welcome bonus.

Compared to my Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm (a significantly more expensive scope), the BSA felt less refined. My Nikon ProStaff 3-9×50, a closer competitor in price, had a slightly brighter and clearer image in my initial assessment. I picked the BSA because of its dedicated .450 Bushmaster turrets, a feature neither of the other scopes offered.

I was cautiously optimistic after the initial inspection. The BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope had a specific purpose, and I hoped its dedicated features would outweigh any perceived shortcomings in build quality or optical clarity. The price was certainly right, but performance would be the ultimate judge.

Real-World Testing: Putting BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope was at my local shooting range. I mounted it on my Ruger American .450 Bushmaster and zeroed it at 100 yards using 250-grain Hornady FTX ammunition. The conditions were sunny, with a slight breeze.

Adjusting the turrets to match the corresponding grain weight (250gr in this case) felt positive. I noticed the clicks were a bit mushy, not as crisp as higher-end scopes, but they were audible and functional. Once zeroed, I tested the ballistic compensation at 200 yards. The bullet drop was surprisingly accurate.

The adjustable objective (AO) was useful for fine-tuning the focus at different ranges. The image clarity, while not exceptional, was adequate for target shooting. One initial issue was that the eye relief seemed a bit short, requiring a precise cheek weld to avoid scope shadow.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use and about 100 rounds downrange, the BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope has held up reasonably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear beyond minor scuffs. The scope has maintained its zero, even after being transported in a rifle case and exposed to temperature fluctuations.

Cleaning the lenses is straightforward, and the matte black finish is easy to wipe down. I have noticed some slight fogging on the inside of the lenses after a particularly humid day, which is a concern. I hadn’t experienced that with my other scopes.

Compared to my Leupold, the BSA certainly doesn’t offer the same level of optical performance or ruggedness. However, it’s a significant improvement over using a generic scope and guessing at holdovers with the .450 Bushmaster. For its intended purpose – accurate shots within 200 yards – it performs adequately.

Breaking Down the Features of BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope

Specifications

The BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope is built specifically for the .450 Bushmaster cartridge. It boasts a 3-9x magnification range, a 40mm objective lens, and an adjustable objective. The scope also features three ballistically calibrated turrets for 245gr, 250gr, and 260gr cartridges.

• Magnification: 3-9x, providing versatility for close-quarters and longer-range shots.
• Objective: 40mm AO, offering a decent balance between light gathering and size.
• Field of View: 11.50 – 34.20 ft @ 100 yds, providing adequate situational awareness.
• Eye Relief: 3″, which is somewhat short and requires a consistent cheek weld.
• Tube Diameter: 1″, making it compatible with standard scope rings.
• Length: 12.13″, a reasonable length for a 3-9x scope.
• Weight: 22.30 oz, fairly heavy for its size.
• Finish: Matte Black, a durable and non-reflective coating.
• Reticle: 30/30, a simple and effective reticle design.
• Parallax Adjustment: 7.5 yds-Infinity, allowing for precise focusing at various distances.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the scope’s performance in the field. The magnification range, objective lens size, and eye relief are all crucial factors in determining the scope’s suitability for different hunting scenarios. The dedicated ballistic turrets are what set this scope apart.

Performance & Functionality

The BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope performs its intended job of providing accurate aiming points for the .450 Bushmaster cartridge. The ballistic turrets are reasonably accurate out to 200 yards, after initial zeroing. The adjustable objective helps to sharpen the image at different distances.

The scope’s strengths lie in its dedicated ballistic compensation and affordability. Its weaknesses include somewhat mushy turret clicks, a short eye relief, and less-than-stellar optical clarity. Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly, purpose-built optic.

Design & Ergonomics

The BSA scope features a fairly standard design for a 3-9x optic. The aluminum construction feels reasonably solid, although the overall fit and finish aren’t as refined as higher-end scopes. The weight is noticeable but manageable.

The scope is generally user-friendly, but the short eye relief can be problematic for some shooters. There’s a slight learning curve associated with understanding how to properly use the ballistic turrets.

Durability & Maintenance

The BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope seems reasonably durable, but it’s unlikely to withstand the same level of abuse as a premium optic. Regular cleaning of the lenses and exterior is essential to maintain its performance. The potential for internal fogging is a long-term durability concern.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only lens cleaning cloths and a soft brush. It’s not designed to be user-repaired.

Accessories and Customization Options

The BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope comes with 2 pc. Weaver rings, which is a nice addition. There are no other included accessories. Customization options are limited, as it’s a fairly basic scope.

It’s compatible with any standard 1-inch scope rings, allowing users to choose their preferred mounting system. There are no other obvious customization options beyond that.

Pros and Cons of BSA Sweet 450 Bushmaster 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope