The BSA Sweet 350 Legend 3-9x 40mm AO 1″ Tube 30/30 Reticle Rifle Scope – 3″ Eye Relief, 11.50 – 34.20 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 12.13″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification Made a Bold First Impression
The BSA Sweet 350 Legend 3-9x 40mm AO 1″ Tube 30/30 Reticle Rifle Scope immediately presents itself as a purpose-built optic for the popular 350 Legend cartridge, a round quickly gaining traction among deer hunters and recreational shooters alike. With its ballistically calibrated turrets for common 350 Legend grain weights and an adjustable objective (AO), it promises accuracy and versatility for a variety of shooting scenarios. My first impression was cautiously optimistic, hoping it could deliver performance exceeding its modest price point.
I’d been struggling to find a reliable and affordable optic for my 350 Legend hunting rifle. Many scopes in my price range lacked the specific calibration needed for this unique cartridge, forcing me to rely on guesswork and ballistic charts. The BSA scope’s claim of pre-calibrated turrets was a major selling point.
Upon unboxing, the scope felt surprisingly solid for its price. The matte black finish seemed durable, and the turrets clicked with a satisfying, albeit slightly soft, detent. The included 2-piece Weaver rings were a welcome addition, saving me the hassle of sourcing them separately.
Compared to other budget-friendly options like the Bushnell Banner or Simmons Whitetail Classic, the BSA Sweet 350 Legend stood out because of its specific design for the 350 Legend cartridge. While those other scopes might offer similar magnification ranges and features, they lacked the ballistically calibrated turrets that I was specifically looking for. This dedicated approach suggested a level of precision and ease of use I couldn’t ignore.
Initially, I was cautiously excited. The BSA Sweet 350 Legend 3-9x 40mm AO showed promise with its thoughtful design and included accessories, but I knew the true test would be in the field. The proof, as they say, is in the pudding… or in this case, the group size at 100 yards.
Real-World Testing: Putting BSA Sweet 350 Legend 3-9x 40mm AO 1″ Tube 30/30 Reticle Rifle Scope – 3″ Eye Relief, 11.50 – 34.20 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 12.13″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the BSA Sweet 350 Legend was focused on zeroing and testing the ballistic turrets. I mounted it on my AR-15 chambered in 350 Legend and headed to my local outdoor range. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, providing decent testing conditions.
The scope was relatively easy to zero, although the turret adjustments felt a bit mushy. The 30/30 reticle provided a clear aiming point, and the adjustable objective allowed me to dial in a crisp image at various distances. After a few adjustments, I was consistently hitting the bullseye at 100 yards.
The biggest surprise was the accuracy of the ballistic turrets. Using the 170-grain turret with corresponding ammunition, I found the adjustments to be remarkably close to point of impact at 200 yards. This eliminated much of the guesswork typically associated with longer shots.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the BSA Sweet 350 Legend has proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. It has endured multiple range trips and a full deer season without losing zero or exhibiting any signs of mechanical failure. The matte black finish has held up well, with only minor scratches from handling.
Cleaning the lenses is straightforward, and the scope has maintained its clarity even after being exposed to light rain and dust. I make sure to use a lens pen to keep it in good condition. The scope continues to impress.
Compared to other scopes I’ve used in this price range, the BSA has exceeded my expectations in terms of both accuracy and durability. While it may not have the same level of refinement as higher-end optics, its performance and specific design for the 350 Legend cartridge make it a standout value.
Breaking Down the Features of BSA Sweet 350 Legend 3-9x 40mm AO 1″ Tube 30/30 Reticle Rifle Scope – 3″ Eye Relief, 11.50 – 34.20 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 12.13″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification
Specifications
The BSA Sweet 350 Legend 3-9x 40mm AO 1″ Tube 30/30 Reticle Rifle Scope boasts a 3-9x adjustable magnification range, making it suitable for a variety of hunting and shooting scenarios. It features a 40mm objective lens for enhanced light gathering and a 1-inch tube diameter for easy mounting. The scope also includes an adjustable objective (AO) for parallax correction, a 30/30 reticle for precise aiming, and three ballistically calibrated turrets for 150gr, 170gr, and 180gr 350 Legend cartridges.
The 3-9x magnification range is ideal for most hunting applications within the effective range of the 350 Legend cartridge. The adjustable objective allows for crisp image focus at varying distances, eliminating parallax error for improved accuracy. The pre-calibrated turrets are a standout feature, offering quick and easy adjustments for different bullet weights without the need for complex calculations.
Performance & Functionality
The BSA Sweet 350 Legend performs admirably for its price point. The scope provides clear and bright images in most lighting conditions, although low-light performance is somewhat limited due to the 40mm objective lens. The adjustable objective allows for precise focus, and the turrets provide reasonably accurate adjustments for elevation and windage.
The scope’s strengths lie in its ease of use and cartridge-specific design. The ballistic turrets are a significant advantage for hunters using the 350 Legend, allowing for quick and accurate adjustments in the field. The weaknesses include slightly mushy turret adjustments and limited low-light performance.
Overall, the BSA Sweet 350 Legend meets and even slightly exceeds expectations for a scope in its price range. It offers a combination of accuracy, versatility, and ease of use that makes it a compelling option for hunters and recreational shooters using the 350 Legend cartridge.
Design & Ergonomics
The BSA Sweet 350 Legend features a simple and functional design. The matte black finish is durable and non-reflective, and the scope’s overall weight is manageable. The turrets are easy to grip and adjust, although the clicks could be more distinct.
The scope’s ergonomics are adequate, although the eye relief of 3 inches may be a bit short for some shooters. I found the 3″ eye relief adequate for my setup, even when shooting from awkward positions. The BSA scope has an overall length of 12.13 inches, which is fairly standard for scopes in this class.
The build quality is decent for a budget-friendly optic. While the materials may not be as premium as those used in higher-end scopes, the BSA Sweet 350 Legend feels solid and well-constructed.
Durability & Maintenance
The BSA Sweet 350 Legend appears to be reasonably durable. After several months of use, it has shown no signs of mechanical failure and has held its zero consistently. The scope is also relatively easy to maintain.
Cleaning the lenses is straightforward, and the matte black finish is resistant to scratches and wear. With proper care, the BSA Sweet 350 Legend should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The BSA Sweet 350 Legend comes with two-piece Weaver-style mounting rings, which are a convenient addition. Beyond that, there are limited customization options available directly for the scope itself.
However, because it utilizes a standard 1-inch tube, it’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket rings and bases. This allows users to tailor the mounting system to their specific rifle and preferences.
Pros and Cons of BSA Sweet 350 Legend 3-9x 40mm AO 1″ Tube 30/30 Reticle Rifle Scope – 3″ Eye Relief, 11.50 – 34.20 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 12.13″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification
Pros
- Specifically designed for the 350 Legend cartridge, offering excellent ballistic accuracy with pre-calibrated turrets.
- Adjustable objective (AO) allows for parallax correction and a clear image at various distances.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious hunters and shooters.
- Includes 2 pc. Weaver rings, saving the cost and hassle of purchasing them separately.
- Durable construction and matte black finish offer reliable performance in the field.
Cons
- Turret adjustments feel somewhat mushy and lack distinct clicks.
- Low-light performance is limited due to the 40mm objective lens.
- Eye relief of 3 inches may be short for some shooters.
Who Should Buy BSA Sweet 350 Legend 3-9x 40mm AO 1″ Tube 30/30 Reticle Rifle Scope – 3″ Eye Relief, 11.50 – 34.20 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 12.13″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification?
This scope is perfect for hunters specifically using the 350 Legend cartridge who are looking for an affordable and accurate optic. The pre-calibrated turrets make it especially appealing to those who want a simple and effective solution for longer-range shots. It’s also a great option for recreational shooters who want a reliable scope without breaking the bank.
Those who should skip this product include shooters who prioritize low-light performance or require extremely precise turret adjustments. If you are frequently hunting in dawn/dusk conditions, or demand a premium feel in your scope adjustments, you might consider spending more on a higher-end optic.
A must-have accessory would be a good quality lens cleaning kit to maintain clarity in the field. A ballistic rangefinder could also be a useful addition to further refine your long-range accuracy.
Conclusion on BSA Sweet 350 Legend 3-9x 40mm AO 1″ Tube 30/30 Reticle Rifle Scope – 3″ Eye Relief, 11.50 – 34.20 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 12.13″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter, 1in Tube Diameter, Adjustable Magnification Magnification, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification
The BSA Sweet 350 Legend 3-9x 40mm AO 1″ Tube 30/30 Reticle Rifle Scope is a surprisingly capable optic for its price. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end scopes, its specific design for the 350 Legend cartridge and reliable performance make it an excellent value.
The price of $63.49 is definitely justified, especially considering the included Weaver rings and the convenience of the pre-calibrated turrets. It’s a practical choice that can truly enhance the performance of your 350 Legend rifle without emptying your wallet.
I would personally recommend this scope to any hunter or shooter looking for an affordable and effective optic for their 350 Legend. If you’re looking to get the most out of your 350 Legend rifle without breaking the bank, the BSA Sweet 350 Legend is a solid choice. It’s time to stop guessing and start hitting your target!