Barska 6.5-20×50 AO Varmint Rifle Scope – Waterproof / Fogproof Rifle Scope w/ Adjustable Objective – AC10048 Review

Let’s Dive into Barska 6.5-20×50 AO Varmint Rifle Scope – Waterproof / Fogproof Rifle Scope w/ Adjustable Objective – AC10048

The Barska 6.5-20×50 AO Varmint Rifle Scope – Waterproof / Fogproof Rifle Scope w/ Adjustable Objective – AC10048 is a versatile optic designed for precision shooting at extended ranges. Manufactured by Barska, it offers a variable magnification range, a large objective lens for enhanced light gathering, and an adjustable objective for parallax correction. This scope aims to provide accuracy and clarity for varmint hunters and tactical shooters alike, all at a budget-friendly price point.

My pursuit of this scope stemmed from a need for an optic that could deliver consistent accuracy on my .223 rifle, primarily used for prairie dog hunting. My previous scope lacked the magnification and parallax adjustment necessary for accurate shots beyond 200 yards. I was looking for something that wouldn’t break the bank but still offered the essential features for long-range varminting.

Upon unboxing, the scope felt surprisingly solid for its price. The matte black finish looked clean, and the turrets had a reassuring click when adjusted. The weight felt balanced, neither too heavy nor flimsy, suggesting decent build quality.

I considered the Bushnell Banner 6-18×50 and the Simmons Whitetail Classic 6.5-20×50 before settling on the Barska. I chose the Barska primarily for its combination of features and affordability, hoping it would bridge the gap between budget and performance effectively. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic – I was eager to test its performance on the range.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Barska 6.5-20×50 AO Varmint Rifle Scope – Waterproof / Fogproof Rifle Scope w/ Adjustable Objective – AC10048 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Barska 6.5-20×50 AO Varmint Rifle Scope – Waterproof / Fogproof Rifle Scope w/ Adjustable Objective – AC10048 was at my local shooting range, specifically focusing on targets at 100, 200, and 300 yards. The weather was clear and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing. Mounting the scope was straightforward, fitting snugly onto standard Weaver-style rings.

The adjustable objective was key to achieving a clear image at each distance, making parallax adjustment simple and effective. Even with the bright conditions, the multi-coated lenses provided a bright and relatively clear image, though chromatic aberration was noticeable at maximum magnification. After a few adjustments, I was consistently hitting within a 1-inch group at 100 yards, a significant improvement over my previous setup.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Barska 6.5-20×50 AO Varmint Rifle Scope – Waterproof / Fogproof Rifle Scope w/ Adjustable Objective – AC10048 has held up remarkably well. I’ve taken it on several varmint hunts in varying weather conditions, including a few drizzly mornings. The scope has remained fogproof and waterproof as advertised, maintaining a clear sight picture.

While the finish has shown some minor wear and tear from rubbing against my rifle case, the scope’s internal components appear to be holding zero consistently. Cleaning is simple, requiring just a lens cloth and occasional wipe-down of the exterior. It certainly outperforms my initial expectations, considering its price point, although it doesn’t match the optical clarity of higher-end scopes.

Breaking Down the Features of Barska 6.5-20×50 AO Varmint Rifle Scope – Waterproof / Fogproof Rifle Scope w/ Adjustable Objective – AC10048

Specifications

• Magnification: 6.5-20x allows for versatile use, from close-range scanning to long-distance target acquisition. The variable magnification is useful in adapting to different target distances quickly.
• Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm provides ample light gathering for a brighter image, especially in low-light conditions. A larger objective lens typically equates to a brighter image, which is crucial for early morning or late evening hunts.
• Reticle: Target Dot offers a precise aiming point without obscuring the target. The simple dot design is effective for varmint hunting and target shooting, ensuring minimal target obstruction.
• Field of View: 16 ft at 100 yards (6.5x) and 5.7 ft at 100 yards (20x) provides a decent viewing area. While not exceptionally wide, the field of view is adequate for most varmint hunting scenarios.
• Eye Relief: 3.6 inches offers enough space to prevent scope bite, even with heavier recoiling rifles. Adequate eye relief is essential for safety and comfort, especially on rifles with significant recoil.
• Click Value: 1/8 MOA allows for precise adjustments when sighting in the scope. The fine adjustments enable precise zeroing and accurate corrections for windage and elevation.
• Tube Diameter: 1 inch provides a standard platform for mounting rings. The one-inch tube is a common size, making it easy to find compatible mounting hardware.
• Length: 15.95 inches is relatively long, potentially affecting rifle balance. The scope’s length might be a concern for some rifles, potentially impacting balance.
• Weight: 22.3 oz (1.4 lbs) is a moderate weight, adding to the overall rifle weight but not excessively. The weight is manageable and doesn’t make the rifle feel overly cumbersome.
• Finish: Black Matte reduces glare and provides a tactical look. The matte finish minimizes reflections, making the scope less visible in the field.
• Adjustable Objective (AO): Allows for parallax correction, ensuring a clear image at various distances. This feature is crucial for accuracy, especially at higher magnifications and varying distances.
• Waterproof, Fogproof, and Shockproof: Enhances durability and reliability in various environmental conditions. These features ensure the scope remains functional and clear regardless of weather or field conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Barska 6.5-20×50 AO Varmint Rifle Scope – Waterproof / Fogproof Rifle Scope w/ Adjustable Objective – AC10048 performs admirably for its price range. Its adjustable objective is highly effective at eliminating parallax, leading to improved accuracy at different distances. The scope holds zero relatively well, although minor adjustments may be required after extended periods of use or rough handling.

The optical clarity is decent, providing a bright image under most lighting conditions. The edge-to-edge clarity isn’t perfect and chromatic aberration is noticeable at higher magnifications, however, it remains acceptable for varmint hunting and target shooting. The turrets offer tactile and audible clicks, but they can feel slightly mushy compared to higher-end scopes.

Design & Ergonomics

The Barska scope has a functional, if not particularly stylish, design. The matte black finish is practical and the scope feels reasonably sturdy. The adjustable objective and turrets are easy to grip and manipulate, even with gloved hands.

The eye relief is adequate, but could be more generous at higher magnifications, potentially causing slight discomfort for some users. Mounting is straightforward using standard one-inch rings.

Durability & Maintenance

The Barska 6.5-20×50 AO Varmint Rifle Scope – Waterproof / Fogproof Rifle Scope w/ Adjustable Objective – AC10048 seems reasonably durable for its price. The waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction enhances its reliability in various conditions. Regular cleaning with a lens cloth is sufficient to maintain optimal performance.

The scope also comes with Barska’s limited lifetime warranty, offering some reassurance regarding its longevity. This warranty provides additional peace of mind.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Barska 6.5-20×50 AO Varmint Rifle Scope – Waterproof / Fogproof Rifle Scope w/ Adjustable Objective – AC10048 comes with basic lens caps to protect the glass. There aren’t many customization options directly associated with the scope itself, aside from choosing different mounting rings to suit your rifle. It’s compatible with any standard one-inch scope rings, allowing for a variety of mounting solutions.

Pros and Cons of Barska 6.5-20×50 AO Varmint Rifle Scope – Waterproof / Fogproof Rifle Scope w/ Adjustable Objective – AC10048

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Barska 6.5-20×50 AO Varmint Rifle Scope – Waterproof / Fogproof Rifle Scope w/ Adjustable Objective – AC10048?

The Barska 6.5-20×50 AO Varmint Rifle Scope – Waterproof / Fogproof Rifle Scope w/ Adjustable Objective – AC10048 is perfect for budget-conscious varmint hunters, recreational target shooters, and those looking for an affordable optic for their .22LR or centerfire rifle. It’s a great choice for shooters who need adjustable parallax for precision at varying distances but don’t want to spend a fortune on high-end optics. This scope offers good functionality for its price point.

Those seeking exceptional optical clarity, extremely precise adjustments, or ruggedized construction for heavy-duty use should consider higher-end options. Shooters who prioritize a wide field of view at higher magnifications may also find this scope limiting. A bipod or shooting rest is a must-have accessory to maximize the scope’s accuracy potential.

Conclusion on Barska 6.5-20×50 AO Varmint Rifle Scope – Waterproof / Fogproof Rifle Scope w/ Adjustable Objective – AC10048

The Barska 6.5-20×50 AO Varmint Rifle Scope – Waterproof / Fogproof Rifle Scope w/ Adjustable Objective – AC10048 offers a compelling value proposition for shooters seeking a versatile and affordable optic. While it doesn’t match the performance of high-end scopes, it delivers a solid feature set, including adjustable parallax, variable magnification, and decent optical clarity, at a fraction of the cost. Its features and budget friendly price point make it very popular with varmint hunters.

The price is certainly justified, considering its functionality and durability. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for an entry-level or intermediate-level varmint scope on a budget. If you’re in the market for a scope that offers a good balance of features and affordability, the Barska 6.5-20×50 AO Varmint Rifle Scope – Waterproof / Fogproof Rifle Scope w/ Adjustable Objective – AC10048 is definitely worth considering.