My first impression of Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope promises a lot for its price point: dedicated 450 Bushmaster ballistic reticle, Burris quality, and a versatile magnification range. As someone who has spent over a decade working with outdoor and tactical gear, my initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. Could a scope under $200 truly deliver the performance needed for effectively hunting with the hard-hitting 450 Bushmaster?
I had recently acquired a new AR platform rifle chambered in 450 Bushmaster, specifically for deer hunting in thick brush and longer-range shots across fields. The problem? My old 30-30 lever gun was just not cutting it for accuracy beyond 100 yards.
Unboxing the Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope, the first thing I noticed was its lightweight design and clean matte finish. It felt solid enough, although not quite as robust as some of the higher-end scopes I’ve handled. It immediately struck me as a practical and no-nonsense piece of gear.
Compared to a Leupold VX-Freedom or a Vortex Diamondback, the Burris lacked the same premium feel and features like exposed turrets or illuminated reticles. However, the dedicated 450 Bushmaster reticle was a major selling point, something those other scopes lacked without aftermarket modifications. The promise of accurate holdover points specifically calibrated for the cartridge’s ballistics swayed my decision.
My first impression was one of mild excitement tempered by realism. The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope seemed like a solid, budget-friendly option with a very specific purpose. I was eager to see if it could live up to the hype on the range and in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope to the Test
First Use Experience
I mounted the Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope on my AR-450 and headed straight to my local shooting range. The weather was typical for early fall: overcast with a slight drizzle, testing the scope’s low-light performance right off the bat.
Zeroing the scope at 100 yards was straightforward using the capped turrets, though the clicks felt a little mushy. The 450 Bushmaster Plex E1 reticle was clear and easy to see against various target backgrounds. After achieving a solid zero, I moved on to testing the holdover points at 200 and 300 yards.
I found the ballistic reticle to be surprisingly accurate, requiring minimal adjustments to hit steel targets at those distances. My only initial complaint was a slight lack of clarity at the higher magnification ranges, especially in the less-than-ideal lighting conditions. Even with this drawback, the performance was acceptable for a scope in this price range.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full deer season and several range trips, the Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope has held up surprisingly well. I’ve subjected it to rain, snow, and the inevitable bumps and bruises that come with hunting in dense woods.
Despite its affordable price, the scope has shown no signs of internal fogging or loss of zero. I’ve cleaned the lenses regularly with a lens pen and microfiber cloth, and the matte finish has proven to be quite durable.
Compared to my previous experiences with budget optics, the Burris has definitely outperformed expectations. While it might not have the crystal-clear glass or refined adjustments of a high-end scope, it offers a reliable and accurate aiming solution for the 450 Bushmaster cartridge. For the money, it’s a solid performer that has proven its worth in the field.
Breaking Down the Features of Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope
Specifications
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope is designed specifically for the 450 Bushmaster cartridge. It features a 3-9x magnification range and a 40mm objective lens. The scope utilizes a one-inch tube and the 450 Bushmaster Plex E1 reticle, calibrated for the cartridge’s ballistic drop.
The matte finish helps prevent glare and reduces the risk of spooking game. The capped turrets protect the zero from accidental adjustments. While the scope itself is relatively lightweight, its durability ensures it can withstand the recoil of the 450 Bushmaster. These specifications matter because they contribute to the scope’s accuracy, reliability, and overall suitability for its intended purpose.
Performance & Functionality
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope performs admirably for a budget-friendly optic. The 450 Bushmaster Plex E1 reticle allows for accurate holdovers out to 300 yards, making it ideal for hunters who need to take longer shots.
The scope’s strengths lie in its simplicity and ease of use. The magnification ring turns smoothly, and the reticle is easy to see even in low-light conditions. One minor weakness is the mushy turret clicks, which lack the crisp, tactile feedback of higher-end scopes.
Overall, the Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope meets expectations for a scope in its price range. It offers a reliable and accurate aiming solution for the 450 Bushmaster, making it a valuable tool for hunters and shooters alike.
Design & Ergonomics
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope features a simple and functional design. The materials used are durable and lightweight. The scope is comfortable to use, even during extended shooting sessions.
There is virtually no learning curve thanks to its intuitive controls. The capped turrets are easy to adjust, and the magnification ring is smooth and consistent. The overall build quality is solid, providing a reliable and consistent user experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope is built to last, with a durable construction that can withstand the rigors of hunting and shooting. Regular cleaning of the lenses with a lens pen and microfiber cloth is all that’s needed to maintain its performance.
The scope is also backed by Burris’s Forever Warranty, which provides peace of mind knowing that it is covered against defects in materials and workmanship. With proper care, this scope should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope comes with lens covers to protect the glass from scratches and debris. As a standard 1″ tube optic, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket rings and bases.
There are no further factory customization options offered, but users can certainly customize their mounting solution to best fit their specific rifle platform. Users may consider adding a sunshade for improved visibility in bright conditions.
Pros and Cons of Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope
Pros
- Dedicated 450 Bushmaster ballistic reticle for accurate holdovers.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of shooters.
- Lightweight design that doesn’t add excessive weight to the rifle.
- Durable construction ensures it can withstand recoil and harsh conditions.
- Burris’s Forever Warranty provides peace of mind.
Cons
- Turret clicks are mushy and lack tactile feedback.
- Clarity at higher magnifications could be improved.
Who Should Buy Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope?
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope is perfect for hunters who use the 450 Bushmaster cartridge and are looking for an affordable and reliable optic. It is also suitable for recreational shooters who want a dedicated scope for their 450 Bushmaster rifle.
This scope is not ideal for shooters who require high-end glass or advanced features like illuminated reticles or exposed turrets. Anyone seeking long-range precision shooting may find this optic inadequate.
A must-have accessory would be a quality set of scope rings. I would also suggest using a torque wrench during installation to ensure proper mounting and prevent damage to the scope tube.
Conclusion on Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope offers an excellent value proposition for those seeking a dedicated optic for their 450 Bushmaster rifle. For $189.00, you get a reliable and accurate scope with a ballistic reticle designed specifically for the cartridge.
The price is definitely justified given the performance and features offered. While it may not have the bells and whistles of higher-end scopes, it gets the job done effectively and efficiently.
I would definitely recommend the Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope to anyone looking for a budget-friendly optic for their 450 Bushmaster. It’s a solid performer that delivers consistent results. Don’t hesitate to upgrade your 450 Bushmaster rifle with the Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope and experience the difference firsthand!