Aim Sports Sniper Tactical 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope – 2.70″ – 3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60 – 13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.50″ Length Review

First Thoughts on the Aim Sports Sniper Tactical 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope – 2.70″ – 3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60 – 13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.50″ Length

The world of rifle optics can be daunting, especially for newcomers or those on a tight budget. The Aim Sports Sniper Tactical 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope – 2.70″ – 3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60 – 13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.50″ Length aims to bridge that gap, offering an entry-level optic with features that promise versatility and functionality. At a price point hovering around $45, this scope is an attractive option for budget-conscious shooters looking to improve their accuracy.

I was tasked with outfitting a youth rifle for my niece, and the budget was extremely limited. My primary goal was finding an optic that provided sufficient magnification for target practice at 50-100 yards without breaking the bank.

Upon unboxing, the Aim Sports scope felt surprisingly solid for its price. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction, while not comparable to higher-end scopes, instilled a sense of reasonable durability. Its matte black finish was clean, and the adjustable objective (AO) feature immediately caught my eye, a feature often absent in scopes at this price range.

I considered the CVLIFE Hunting Rifle Scope 2.5-10x40e and the Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Rifle Scope, but opted for the Aim Sports due to the adjustable objective and overall price. While the Bushnell has a strong reputation, it lacked the AO, and the CVLIFE scope had mixed reviews regarding its clarity at higher magnifications. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic – could this budget-friendly scope actually deliver on its promises?

Real-World Testing: Putting Aim Sports Sniper Tactical 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope – 2.70″ – 3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60 – 13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.50″ Length to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Aim Sports Sniper Tactical 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope was at my local outdoor shooting range. The scope was mounted on a .22LR rifle, making it ideal for testing its capabilities without subjecting it to heavy recoil.

The weather was partly cloudy with a slight breeze, a typical day for shooting in my area. Mounting was straightforward using standard 1-inch scope rings, though I recommend investing in a decent set for optimal stability. Zeroing the scope was relatively easy, with the windage and elevation turrets providing audible and tactile clicks. However, the adjustments felt a bit mushy and lacked the precise feel of higher-end scopes.

After getting the scope dialed in, I began shooting groups at 50 yards. The image clarity was acceptable at lower magnifications (3-6x), but became noticeably softer at higher settings (7-9x). The adjustable objective did its job, allowing me to fine-tune the focus and eliminate parallax at various distances. There were no major surprises during the first session, but I did notice a slight tunnel effect at the lower end of the magnification range.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Aim Sports scope has held up reasonably well. It’s important to remember the price point when evaluating its durability.

While the finish shows some minor scratches from handling, the scope has maintained its zero and continues to function as intended. The fog-proof and shock-resistant features seem to be working effectively, as I’ve used it in both damp and sunny conditions without any noticeable issues. Cleaning is simple: a lens cloth and occasional wipe-down are all that’s needed.

Compared to a more expensive Leupold scope I use on my hunting rifle, the Aim Sports obviously falls short in terms of optical clarity and overall build quality. However, for its intended purpose of recreational shooting and introducing beginners to optics, it performs adequately. I’ve seen far worse scopes at similar price points, and some even costing more.

Breaking Down the Features of Aim Sports Sniper Tactical 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope – 2.70″ – 3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60 – 13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.50″ Length

Specifications

• Magnification: 3-9x Adjustable. This variable magnification range provides flexibility for different shooting distances and target sizes, making it suitable for both close-range and longer-range shooting.
• Objective Diameter: 40mm. The 40mm objective lens gathers sufficient light for a reasonably bright image, especially during daylight hours.
• Eye Relief: 2.70″ – 3.30″. This eye relief range offers a comfortable viewing distance for most shooters, reducing the risk of scope bite during recoil.
• Field of View: 36.60 – 13.60 ft @ 100 yds. The field of view changes with the magnification, providing a wider view at lower magnifications and a narrower, more focused view at higher magnifications.
• Length: 12.50″. The overall length of 12.5 inches makes it a relatively compact scope that won’t add excessive weight or bulk to your rifle.
• Tube Diameter: 1in. The 1-inch tube diameter is a standard size, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of scope rings and mounting options.
• Reticle Illumination: Non-illuminated. This scope features a traditional non-illuminated reticle, which relies on ambient light for visibility.
• Finish: P4 Sniper. The P4 Sniper finish provides a matte black appearance, reducing glare and offering a tactical look.

These specifications combine to create a basic, yet functional, scope suitable for entry-level shooting and hunting applications. The adjustable magnification and objective, along with its compact size, make it a versatile option for various rifles.

Performance & Functionality

The Aim Sports Sniper Tactical 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope performs its primary function of magnifying targets adequately, particularly at lower magnification settings. The image clarity is decent for its price, though it does suffer from softness at higher magnifications.

Its strengths include its affordability, adjustable objective, and ease of use. The windage and elevation adjustments, while not perfect, allow for reasonably precise zeroing. The primary weakness is the optical clarity at higher magnifications, and the somewhat mushy feel of the turrets.

The scope meets expectations for its price range, but it won’t outperform higher-end optics. It’s a serviceable option for recreational shooting, plinking, and introducing beginners to the world of rifle scopes.

Design & Ergonomics

The Aim Sports scope has a simple and functional design. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction provides a decent level of durability without adding excessive weight.

The scope is comfortable to use, with a generous eye relief that accommodates a variety of shooting positions. There is a slight learning curve associated with using the adjustable objective, but it’s relatively straightforward.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the Aim Sports Sniper Tactical 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope is adequate for light to moderate use. While it’s not designed to withstand extreme conditions, it should last for several years with proper care.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses and exterior surfaces. There are no user-serviceable parts, so repairs would likely involve replacing the entire scope.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Aim Sports Sniper Tactical 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope comes with flip-up lens covers to protect the lenses from dust and scratches. Beyond that, there are limited customization options.

The scope is compatible with any standard 1-inch scope rings, allowing users to choose their preferred mounting system. Aftermarket accessories, such as sunshades and kill flashes, may also be compatible, but it’s important to verify compatibility before purchasing.

Pros and Cons of Aim Sports Sniper Tactical 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope – 2.70″ – 3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60 – 13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.50″ Length

Who Should Buy Aim Sports Sniper Tactical 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope – 2.70″ – 3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60 – 13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.50″ Length?

The Aim Sports Sniper Tactical 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope is perfect for recreational shooters, beginners, and those on a very tight budget. It’s ideal for mounting on .22LR rifles, air rifles, or other low-recoil firearms for target practice and plinking.

Those seeking high optical clarity, precise adjustments, and rugged durability should skip this product. This scope is not suitable for serious hunters, competitive shooters, or anyone requiring top-tier performance.

A must-have accessory is a good set of 1-inch scope rings. While the scope is functional out of the box, upgrading the rings will enhance stability and accuracy.

Conclusion on Aim Sports Sniper Tactical 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope – 2.70″ – 3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60 – 13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.50″ Length

The Aim Sports Sniper Tactical 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope – 2.70″ – 3.30″ Eye Relief, 36.60 – 13.60 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.50″ Length is a budget-friendly optic that offers reasonable performance for its price. While it has its limitations, such as reduced optical clarity at higher magnifications and less precise turret adjustments, it provides adequate functionality for recreational shooting and introducing beginners to the world of rifle scopes.

The $45 price tag is justified, given the features and performance offered. It’s an excellent value for those who need an affordable and functional scope without breaking the bank.

I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for an entry-level scope for light-duty applications. If you’re on a tight budget and need a basic optic for plinking or introducing a new shooter to the sport, the Aim Sports Sniper Tactical 3-9x 40mm AO Rifle Scope is a viable option. Just remember to set your expectations accordingly and understand its limitations.