My first impression of Burris 2x 20mm Plex Reticle Nickel Handgun Scope
The Burris 2x 20mm Plex Reticle Nickel Handgun Scope arrives as a purpose-built optic, designed for the unique demands of handgun hunting and sport shooting. This particular model, with its classic nickel finish, promises both functionality and a touch of old-school elegance. I’ve spent years working with various optics, from high-powered rifle scopes to red dots on pistols, and I was eager to see how this scope would perform.
My interest in this scope stemmed from a growing desire to extend my effective handgun range. After consistently grouping well at 25 yards with my .44 Magnum, I wanted to push further, especially for hunting scenarios. I had been researching handgun scopes for a while, reading reviews and comparing specs, and this Burris model kept popping up as a reliable and affordable option.
Unboxing the Burris 2x 20mm Plex Reticle Nickel Handgun Scope, I immediately noticed its solid construction. The nickel finish is clean and evenly applied, lending a classic, almost vintage look. The scope feels substantial in hand, hinting at its ruggedness, yet it’s surprisingly lightweight, which is crucial for maintaining a balanced feel on a handgun. Compared to other handgun scopes I considered, like those from Leupold and Bushnell, the Burris stood out for its combination of reputation, clarity, and price point. The Leupold offered slightly better glass, but the price difference wasn’t justifiable for my needs. The Bushnell, while cheaper, felt less robust in its construction.
My initial impression was positive; I felt a mix of excitement and anticipation. I was eager to mount it on my Ruger Super Redhawk and see how it performed at the range. I was hoping it would live up to its reputation as a clear, reliable optic that could enhance my long-range handgun shooting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Burris 2x 20mm Plex Reticle Nickel Handgun Scope to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Burris 2x 20mm Plex Reticle Nickel Handgun Scope was at my local outdoor shooting range. The day was overcast, but the visibility was decent, a typical late-autumn day. I had pre-mounted the scope on my Ruger Super Redhawk .44 Magnum using the factory-provided rings, a process that was remarkably straightforward.
Initially, I zeroed the scope at 50 yards. The adjustments were precise, with each click noticeably shifting the point of impact. The eye relief, advertised as 24-10 inches, proved to be quite forgiving. I experimented with different shooting stances and arm positions, and the scope maintained a clear and comfortable sight picture throughout. The Burris scope performed admirably in the slightly dim lighting conditions. The image remained clear, and the Plex reticle was easily visible against the targets. The only minor issue was adjusting to the magnified view while maintaining a steady hold on the handgun. This required some practice to overcome the amplified movement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Burris 2x 20mm Plex Reticle Nickel Handgun Scope has proven to be a reliable companion. The finish still looks pristine, with no signs of scratching or fading, despite being exposed to various weather conditions. I’ve taken it out in light rain and cold temperatures (down to freezing), and it has consistently performed without any fogging or issues with the adjustments.
Maintenance has been minimal. I simply wipe down the lenses with a microfiber cloth after each use and occasionally check the mounting screws to ensure they remain tight. Compared to a cheaper scope I once owned, the Burris has far exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and clarity. The previous scope had significant parallax issues and fogged up easily. The Burris holds zero well, even after repeated firing of heavy .44 Magnum loads. I’m thoroughly impressed with its performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Burris 2x 20mm Plex Reticle Nickel Handgun Scope
Specifications
Magnification: 2x. This provides a noticeable increase in target visibility without sacrificing field of view too dramatically.
Objective: 20mm. The 20mm objective lens gathers sufficient light for clear viewing in various lighting conditions.
Field of View: 21 ft @ 100 yds. A generous field of view allows for quick target acquisition and tracking moving targets.
Eye Relief: 24″ – 10″. This wide range of eye relief is crucial for comfortable and safe handgun shooting.
Tube Diameter: 1″. A one-inch tube is a standard size, making it compatible with a wide range of mounting rings.
Length: 8.90″. The compact length helps maintain a balanced feel on most handguns.
Weight: 7 oz. This lightweight design minimizes added weight and preserves handgun maneuverability.
Finish: Nickel. The nickel finish provides excellent corrosion resistance and a classic aesthetic.
Reticle: Plex. The Plex reticle offers a simple and uncluttered aiming point for fast target acquisition.
Adj Size: .50 MOA @ 100 yds. Precise adjustments allow for fine-tuning the zero for optimal accuracy.
These specifications translate to a scope that is well-suited for handgun hunting and target shooting. The generous eye relief is particularly important for safety, preventing scope bite from heavy recoil.
Performance & Functionality
The Burris 2x 20mm Plex Reticle Nickel Handgun Scope excels in its intended role. Its clarity and brightness enhance target visibility, improving shot placement at longer distances. The adjustments are accurate and repeatable, making zeroing and fine-tuning straightforward.
Its strengths include its ease of use, durable construction, and clear optics. A slight weakness is that the fixed 2x magnification may not be ideal for all situations. It is a perfect magnification for 50-100 yard shots. It excels in offering increased accuracy over open sights without sacrificing a wide field of view.
It meets my expectations in terms of reliability, accuracy, and overall performance. It has significantly improved my long-range handgun shooting.
Design & Ergonomics
The Burris 2x 20mm Plex Reticle Nickel Handgun Scope features a classic and functional design. The nickel finish is attractive and durable, and the overall construction feels solid and well-made. At only 7 ounces, the weight is barely noticeable.
The scope is incredibly user-friendly. The adjustments are easy to access and operate, and the eye relief is forgiving.
Durability & Maintenance
The Burris 2x 20mm Plex Reticle Nickel Handgun Scope is built to last. The materials are high-quality, and the construction is robust.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Burris 2x 20mm Plex Reticle Nickel Handgun Scope comes with lens covers to protect the optics during storage and transport. While there are limited customization options specific to the scope itself, its one-inch tube diameter ensures compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket mounting rings.
The scope is compatible with various bases and rings from brands like Weaver, Warne, and Leupold. This allows users to fine-tune the mounting setup to achieve optimal eye relief and cheek weld on their specific handgun.
Pros and Cons of Burris 2x 20mm Plex Reticle Nickel Handgun Scope
Pros
- Exceptional clarity and brightness, enhancing target visibility in various lighting conditions.
- Durable construction with a corrosion-resistant nickel finish, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Forgiving eye relief, crucial for safe and comfortable handgun shooting.
- Precise and repeatable adjustments, simplifying zeroing and fine-tuning.
- Lightweight design, minimizing added weight and preserving handgun maneuverability.
Cons
- The fixed 2x magnification may not be suitable for all shooting scenarios.
- No illuminated reticle for enhanced visibility in very low-light conditions.
Who Should Buy Burris 2x 20mm Plex Reticle Nickel Handgun Scope?
The Burris 2x 20mm Plex Reticle Nickel Handgun Scope is perfect for handgun hunters seeking to extend their effective range and improve accuracy. It’s also an excellent choice for target shooters who want to enhance their performance at longer distances.
This scope is not ideal for individuals who prioritize rapid target acquisition at very close ranges, such as in self-defense scenarios. The fixed magnification and longer eye relief are not optimized for that type of shooting.
A must-have accessory for this scope is a high-quality set of mounting rings that are specifically designed for handgun scopes.
Conclusion on Burris 2x 20mm Plex Reticle Nickel Handgun Scope
The Burris 2x 20mm Plex Reticle Nickel Handgun Scope is a well-built, reliable optic that delivers excellent performance for its price. Its clear optics, durable construction, and user-friendly design make it a solid choice for handgun hunters and target shooters.
At $229.00, the price is justified by the scope’s quality and performance. It offers a significant improvement in accuracy and target visibility compared to iron sights, without breaking the bank.
I would definitely recommend the Burris 2x 20mm Plex Reticle Nickel Handgun Scope to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable handgun optic. If you are serious about extending your effective range with a handgun, this scope is a worthy investment. Take the plunge, mount it on your favorite handgun, and experience the difference!