The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope Made a Bold First Impression
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope isn’t just another piece of glass; it’s a purpose-built optic designed to maximize the potential of the hard-hitting 450 Bushmaster cartridge. Burris has a reputation for ruggedness and reliability, and this scope seemed tailored to the thick brush and close-quarters hunting scenarios where the 450 Bushmaster truly shines. The promise of a clear sight picture and a reticle specifically calibrated for the round piqued my interest, promising better accuracy and faster target acquisition.
I needed a scope that could withstand the recoil of the 450 Bushmaster while providing accurate holdovers at various distances. The vast majority of my hunting takes place in dense, wooded areas where shots are typically within 150 yards, but the ability to reach out a bit further when necessary is crucial. Many scopes offer generic MOA adjustments, but the Burris Fullfield E1 promised something more specific, something tailored to the 450’s trajectory.
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope arrived in a no-frills cardboard box, but the scope itself felt solid and well-built. The matte finish was even and seemed durable, ready to withstand the inevitable bumps and scrapes of hunting in the bush. Its weight felt appropriate – substantial enough to convey quality, but not so heavy as to make the rifle unwieldy.
Compared to a Leupold VX-Freedom I had been using on another rifle, the Burris felt slightly more robust, if perhaps a touch less refined in its finish. I also considered a Vortex Crossfire II, but the Burris‘s 450 Bushmaster specific reticle was the deciding factor. The others offered clarity, but not the specialized support for my round.
My initial impression was definitely excitement. This seemed like a well-thought-out scope, precisely designed for a specific purpose. I couldn’t wait to get it mounted and see how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope was at my local shooting range, zeroing it on my AR-15 chambered in 450 Bushmaster. I tested it from 50 to 200 yards. The weather was overcast with a slight drizzle, typical for late autumn in the Pacific Northwest.
Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, the glass remained clear and bright. The 450 Bushmaster Plex E1 reticle was easy to see against the dark targets, allowing for quick target acquisition. The windage and elevation adjustments were positive and repeatable, making the zeroing process straightforward.
The initial use was surprisingly easy; I was concerned about the learning curve of a new reticle, but I was ringing steel at 100 yards within just a few shots. There were no issues and zero surprises other than a pleasantly clear sight picture.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple hunting trips and range sessions, the Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope has held up admirably. There are no visible signs of wear and tear beyond some minor scratches on the finish. The scope continues to hold zero perfectly, even after being subjected to the significant recoil of the 450 Bushmaster.
Maintaining the scope is simple. A quick wipe down with a lens cloth after each use keeps the glass clean and clear. I haven’t had to re-tighten any screws or make any adjustments beyond the initial zeroing.
Compared to my previous scopes, the Burris offers a clearer sight picture and a more intuitive reticle for the 450 Bushmaster. It outperforms generic scopes in terms of accuracy and speed of target acquisition, making it a valuable asset in the field. The 450 Bushmaster reticle has made a marked improvement in my long-range accuracy with that specific round.
Breaking Down the Features of Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope
Specifications
Magnification: 3-9x. This provides versatility for close-range and mid-range shots, ideal for hunting in varied terrain.
Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm. This offers a good balance between light gathering and overall scope size.
Tube Diameter: 1 inch. Standard size for easy mounting with readily available rings.
Reticle: 450 Bushmaster Plex E1. This is the key feature, providing ballistic drop compensation specifically calibrated for the 450 Bushmaster cartridge.
Finish: Matte. Reduces glare and reflection, crucial for avoiding detection while hunting.
Adjustment Increments: 1/4 MOA. Standard adjustment for precise zeroing.
Eye Relief: 3.1-3.8 inches. Provides ample space between the eye and the scope, mitigating the risk of recoil-related injury.
Field of View (at 100 yards): 33 feet at 3x, 13 feet at 9x. Offers a wide view at low magnification for fast target acquisition, and a narrower view at high magnification for precise aiming.
Weight: 13 ounces. Lightweight design prevents unnecessary weight addition to the rifle.
These specifications matter because they are tailored to the 450 Bushmaster cartridge and hunting applications. The 450 Bushmaster Plex E1 reticle, in particular, takes the guesswork out of long-range shots, while the durable construction ensures the scope can withstand the rigors of hunting.
Performance & Functionality
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope performs its job exceptionally well. Its accuracy, reliability, and usability make it a top choice for 450 Bushmaster enthusiasts.
The strengths lie in its clear glass, durable construction, and the incredibly useful 450 Bushmaster Plex E1 reticle. The only minor improvement could be slightly more tactile adjustment knobs, though they function perfectly as is.
It meets and exceeds expectations for a scope in this price range. The tailored reticle makes it perform far beyond its cost.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent for the price. The matte finish is even and durable, and the scope feels solid and well-constructed.
It is very user-friendly with a minimal learning curve. The 450 Bushmaster Plex E1 reticle is intuitive and easy to use, even for those new to ballistic drop compensation.
Durability & Maintenance
The Burris Fullfield E1 is built to last. The rugged construction and durable finish ensure it can withstand the rigors of hunting and shooting.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning of the lenses is all that is required to keep the scope in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope comes with basic lens caps, but no other accessories.
Customization options are limited to mounting rings, as the reticle and magnification are fixed. However, it is compatible with any standard 1-inch scope rings. This wide compatibility makes mounting easy and affordable.
Pros and Cons of Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope
Pros
- Specifically Calibrated Reticle: The 450 Bushmaster Plex E1 reticle is a game-changer for accurate shots with this cartridge.
- Clear Glass: The scope offers a bright and clear sight picture, even in low-light conditions.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the recoil of the 450 Bushmaster and the rigors of hunting.
- Easy to Use: The intuitive reticle and simple adjustments make it easy to zero and use in the field.
- Excellent Value: Offers exceptional performance for its price point.
Cons
- Adjustment Knobs: While functional, the adjustment knobs could be more tactile.
- Limited Accessories: Comes with minimal accessories.
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. The reticle’s specific calibration for this round makes it a must-have.
- Hunters who frequent dense, wooded areas. The magnification range is ideal for typical brush hunting scenarios.
- Shooters seeking an affordable, high-quality optic. This scope provides excellent performance without breaking the bank.
Who should skip this product?
- Hunters using other calibers. The 450 Bushmaster reticle is only useful for that specific cartridge.
- Shooters who prioritize long-range shooting beyond the 450 Bushmaster’s effective range. While capable at longer ranges, other calibers and scopes might be more suitable.
A must-have accessory is a quality set of 1-inch scope rings to ensure secure mounting. Consider a ballistic rangefinder for even more accurate holdovers at extended distances.
Conclusion on Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope
The Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope is an excellent optic specifically designed for the 450 Bushmaster cartridge. Burris has created a scope that is both affordable and highly effective.
The price is absolutely justified. The specialized reticle alone makes it worth the investment for 450 Bushmaster shooters.
I would wholeheartedly recommend it. For anyone looking to maximize the potential of their 450 Bushmaster, this scope is a no-brainer. Equip your rifle with the Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x 40mm 450 Bushmaster Rifle Scope and experience the difference a purpose-built optic can make!