My first impression of Burris Fullfield IV 4-16x 50mm Illuminated Ballistic E3 Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope
The world of rifle scopes can feel like navigating a dense forest, with a dizzying array of options vying for your attention. As someone who’s spent over a decade guiding people through the thicket of tactical and outdoor gear, I’ve developed a keen eye for quality, value, and real-world performance. That’s why the Burris Fullfield IV 4-16x 50mm Illuminated Ballistic E3 Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope immediately piqued my interest; it promised a potent combination of features and affordability, a claim I was eager to test.
For years, I’d been searching for a reliable optic to top my .308 hunting rifle, something capable of handling both close-range engagements in dense woods and longer shots across open fields. My previous scope, a budget-friendly model from an overseas manufacturer, simply wasn’t cutting it, its image quality fading in low light and its zero drifting inconsistently. I needed an upgrade, but I wasn’t ready to break the bank. The Burris Fullfield IV 4-16x 50mm Illuminated Ballistic E3 Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope, with its promise of Burris quality at a reasonable $369.00, seemed like the perfect solution.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the scope’s solid feel. The matte black finish looked clean and functional. The turrets clicked with a satisfying, precise sound. Compared to my old scope, the Burris Fullfield IV 4-16x 50mm Illuminated Ballistic E3 Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope felt like a significant step up in build quality. I considered a Vortex Diamondback Tactical and a Leupold VX-Freedom, both popular choices in this price range, but the Ballistic E3 illuminated reticle and the reputation of Burris glass ultimately swayed my decision.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. While the scope felt well-made, the real test would be how it performed in the field. I was excited to mount it on my rifle and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Burris Fullfield IV 4-16x 50mm Illuminated Ballistic E3 Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Burris Fullfield IV 4-16x 50mm Illuminated Ballistic E3 Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope was at my local shooting range, a somewhat dusty environment with varying light conditions throughout the day. I wanted to zero the scope and get a feel for its adjustments and clarity. Mounting was simple and straightforward, and within a few minutes, the scope was securely attached to my .308.
Right away, the clarity of the glass impressed me. Even at higher magnifications, the image remained sharp and bright. The Ballistic E3 reticle was easy to see, and the illumination settings were intuitive to adjust, proving helpful as the sun began to set. One minor annoyance was that the parallax adjustment was a bit stiff, requiring more effort than I anticipated. Overall, the initial range session was positive, confirming the scope’s decent optical quality and user-friendly design.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Burris Fullfield IV 4-16x 50mm Illuminated Ballistic E3 Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope has proven itself a reliable companion. I’ve taken it on several hunts, including a particularly wet and muddy deer hunt in the Pacific Northwest. Despite the harsh conditions, the scope held zero perfectly, and the image remained clear.
The matte black finish has proven surprisingly durable, showing only minor signs of wear despite being bumped and scraped against tree limbs and rocks. Cleaning the lenses is a breeze, requiring just a soft cloth and a lens cleaning solution. Compared to my previous budget scope, the Burris Fullfield IV 4-16x 50mm Illuminated Ballistic E3 Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope offers a vastly superior level of performance and reliability, instilling confidence in critical hunting scenarios.
Breaking Down the Features of Burris Fullfield IV 4-16x 50mm Illuminated Ballistic E3 Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope
Specifications
Magnification: 4-16x. This provides a versatile range suitable for both close-quarters and long-range shooting.
Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm. A larger objective lens gathers more light, resulting in a brighter image, especially in low-light conditions.
Tube Diameter: 1 inch. This is a common size, making it compatible with a wide range of mounting options.
Reticle: Ballistic E3 Illuminated. This reticle offers bullet drop compensation points, aiding in accurate long-range shots, and the illumination enhances visibility in low light.
Finish: Matte Black. This finish reduces glare and provides a non-reflective surface, ideal for hunting and tactical applications.
These specifications work in harmony to provide a clear, accurate, and reliable sighting system. The variable magnification allows you to adapt to different shooting scenarios. The illuminated reticle assists in quick target acquisition and accurate shot placement, regardless of lighting conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Burris Fullfield IV 4-16x 50mm Illuminated Ballistic E3 Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope performs admirably in its intended role. Accuracy is excellent, thanks to the clear glass and precise adjustments. The Ballistic E3 reticle is intuitive to use, allowing for quick and accurate holdovers at various distances.
The scope’s strengths lie in its clarity, reliability, and user-friendly design. One area for improvement is the stiffness of the parallax adjustment. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations for a scope in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, with a durable aluminum housing and a scratch-resistant matte black finish. The scope has a comfortable weight, providing a good balance without feeling overly heavy. The magnification ring turns smoothly, and the turrets offer audible and tactile clicks for precise adjustments.
The scope is relatively user-friendly, although the parallax adjustment can be a bit challenging for those with limited hand strength. The illuminated reticle is easy to activate and adjust, and the overall design is clean and functional.
Durability & Maintenance
The Burris Fullfield IV 4-16x 50mm Illuminated Ballistic E3 Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope appears to be built to last, with a robust construction that can withstand harsh conditions. The lenses are multi-coated to resist scratches and smudges. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a soft cloth and a lens cleaning solution.
With proper care, this scope should provide years of reliable service. Burris‘s reputation for quality and durability further inspires confidence.
Accessories and Customization Options
The scope does not come with any specific accessories beyond basic lens covers. Given the 1-inch tube diameter, it’s compatible with a wide variety of aftermarket scope rings and bases. There aren’t any other major customization options, but the scope itself offers a good range of features for most shooters.
Pros and Cons of Burris Fullfield IV 4-16x 50mm Illuminated Ballistic E3 Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope
Pros
- Excellent Glass Clarity: Provides a clear and bright image, even in low-light conditions.
- Ballistic E3 Illuminated Reticle: Offers bullet drop compensation and enhanced visibility in various lighting situations.
- Solid Build Quality: Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance in the field.
- Precise Adjustments: Turrets provide audible and tactile clicks for accurate zeroing.
- Versatile Magnification Range: 4-16x is suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios.
Cons
- Stiff Parallax Adjustment: Requires more effort than anticipated, particularly at lower temperatures.
- Limited Accessories: Does not include any significant accessories beyond basic lens covers.
Who Should Buy Burris Fullfield IV 4-16x 50mm Illuminated Ballistic E3 Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope?
The Burris Fullfield IV 4-16x 50mm Illuminated Ballistic E3 Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope is perfect for hunters seeking a reliable and versatile optic for medium to long-range shooting. It’s also well-suited for recreational target shooters who appreciate clear glass and precise adjustments. This scope hits a sweet spot for those wanting a good balance of quality and affordability.
Someone looking for a high-end, premium optic with advanced features like a first focal plane reticle or extreme long-range capabilities might want to explore other options. If fast parallax adjustments are crucial, this scope might prove frustrating. A must-have accessory would be a high-quality set of scope rings to ensure a secure and stable mount.
Conclusion on Burris Fullfield IV 4-16x 50mm Illuminated Ballistic E3 Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope
The Burris Fullfield IV 4-16x 50mm Illuminated Ballistic E3 Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope is a solid performer that offers exceptional value for its price. It delivers clear glass, reliable performance, and a user-friendly design. The minor drawbacks, such as the stiff parallax adjustment, are outweighed by its numerous strengths.
At around $369.00, the price is definitely justified given the scope’s overall quality and features. I would personally recommend this scope to anyone looking for a dependable and versatile optic for hunting or recreational shooting. If you’re in the market for a mid-range scope that won’t break the bank, give the Burris Fullfield IV 4-16x 50mm Illuminated Ballistic E3 Reticle Matte Black Rifle Scope a serious look; you won’t be disappointed.