Let’s Dive into Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x42mm Spotting Scope, – 1 out of 2 models
The Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x42mm Spotting Scope (Tactical Edition) arrives as a compact, high-performance optic promising exceptional clarity and versatility. From the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD lineage, this spotting scope boasts ED Prime glass, RainGuard HD lens coating, and a tan tactical finish, making it a strong contender for outdoor enthusiasts and tactical professionals alike. This particular model also features a mil-hash reticle for ranging and holdover estimations, adding another layer of functionality.
I needed a lightweight, portable optic that could perform double duty: providing clear views during scouting trips and assisting with target observation at the range. The promise of Bushnell’s renowned glass quality and the added tactical features of this model piqued my interest. This seemed like the perfect tool.
Unboxing revealed a surprisingly compact and lightweight unit. The tan finish and robust construction gave an immediate impression of durability. It felt solid in hand, and the twist-up eyecup mechanism operated smoothly.
Compared to my Vortex Diamondback HD 8×42 binoculars and a Konuspot-70 20-60×70 spotting scope, the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD aims for a sweet spot. The Vortex provides a wider field of view at the expense of magnification, while the Konuspot offers higher magnification but sacrifices portability and image quality. The Bushnell appeared to bridge the gap.
Initial impressions were positive; I was excited to test its clarity and practical application in the field. The size and weight alone were a huge selling point. It’s ready to go.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x42mm Spotting Scope, – 1 out of 2 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test was at a local shooting range during a moderately overcast day. I primarily used the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD to spot bullet impacts on targets at 100, 200, and 300 yards. It delivered a crisp, clear image, even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
The optic performed well even as light conditions changed. During a brief rain shower, the RainGuard HD coating did its job, shedding water quickly and maintaining a clear view. The ease of use was remarkable; minimal adjustment was needed to acquire a clear picture.
Initially, I did find the eye relief a little short for comfortable extended viewing with glasses. This was a minor inconvenience that I quickly adapted to by removing my glasses. Otherwise, no major issues arose during its initial outing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. It’s accompanied me on several hiking trips, a backcountry camping excursion, and numerous range sessions. It has held up beautifully.
The durable construction has stood up to bumps and scrapes without showing significant wear and tear. The tan finish still looks as good as new. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a lens cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to my older spotting scopes, the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD is a clear winner in terms of portability, image quality, and overall usability. While it doesn’t offer extreme magnification like some larger models, the 10x magnification is more than sufficient for most practical applications, particularly in a compact package. It is now an essential piece of my gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x42mm Spotting Scope, – 1 out of 2 models
Specifications
- Magnification: 10x. A fixed 10x magnification offers a good balance between magnification and field of view.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm. A 42mm objective lens gathers ample light for bright images, even in low-light conditions.
- ED Prime Glass. Extra-low dispersion glass reduces chromatic aberration, providing sharper, clearer images with accurate color rendition.
- Ultra Wide Band Coating. This coating optimizes light transmission across the entire visible spectrum, maximizing brightness and contrast.
- RainGuard HD Lens Coating. A hydrophobic coating repels water, fog, and oil, ensuring a clear view in adverse weather conditions.
- Waterproof and Fogproof. Nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed construction ensures reliable performance in all environments.
- Fully Multi-Coated Lenses. Multiple layers of coatings on all lens surfaces maximize light transmission and image brightness.
- PC-3 Phase Coated BaK-4 Prisms. Phase correction coatings on the prisms enhance resolution and contrast.
- Twist-Up Eyecup. Allows for comfortable viewing with or without eyeglasses.
- Picatinny Rail Mount. Provides a mounting platform for accessories such as lasers or red dot sights.
- Mil-Hash Reticle. Offers precise ranging and holdover capabilities for accurate shot placement.
- Tan Finish. The tactical tan finish provides a low-profile, non-reflective appearance.
- Bushnell’s No Questions Asked Lifetime Warranty. Provides peace of mind knowing that Bushnell stands behind its products.
These specifications contribute to the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD’s exceptional performance and usability. The quality glass and coatings ensure bright, clear images, while the durable construction and tactical features make it a versatile tool for a variety of applications. Its compact size and light weight enhances portability and ease of use.
Performance & Functionality
The Bushnell Legend Ultra HD excels at its primary job: providing a clear, magnified view of distant objects. The image quality is excellent, with sharp details and accurate color rendition. Its clarity and functionality are impressive.
The mil-hash reticle is a valuable tool for ranging and holdover estimations, especially when shooting at longer distances. It is clear, and easy to use. The scope’s fixed 10x magnification provides a stable and easily viewable image.
One minor weakness is the somewhat limited eye relief, which may be an issue for some users with glasses. However, the twist-up eyecup helps to mitigate this issue. Overall, it vastly exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bushnell Legend Ultra HD features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and user comfort. The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials and robust construction. The tan finish provides a non-reflective surface and a tactical aesthetic.
The scope is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry and handle. The twist-up eyecup and diopter adjustment allow for comfortable and customized viewing. The included Picatinny rail offers versatility in terms of accessory mounting. The design and weight are ideal.
Durability & Maintenance
The Bushnell Legend Ultra HD is built to last. The rugged construction and waterproof/fogproof design ensure reliable performance in harsh environments. It feels durable, and dependable.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Cleaning the lenses with a lens cloth is usually sufficient to keep the scope in good working order. The warranty provides added peace of mind. This is a durable product that requires very little maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bushnell Legend Ultra HD comes with a lens cover and a carrying case. The Picatinny rail mount allows for the attachment of various accessories, such as lasers, red dot sights, or small flashlights. These enhance the scope’s versatility.
While there aren’t many aftermarket accessories specifically designed for this particular model, the Picatinny rail provides compatibility with a wide range of universal accessories. It is also tripod compatible, allowing for stable use on longer duration observation.
Pros and Cons of Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x42mm Spotting Scope, – 1 out of 2 models
Pros
- Exceptional Image Quality: The ED Prime glass and Ultra Wide Band coatings provide bright, clear, and sharp images with accurate color rendition.
- Durable and Weatherproof: The rugged construction and RainGuard HD coating ensure reliable performance in harsh conditions.
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry and handle, making it ideal for mobile use.
- Mil-Hash Reticle: Provides precise ranging and holdover capabilities.
- Bushnell’s No Questions Asked Lifetime Warranty. Provides peace of mind knowing that Bushnell stands behind its products.
Cons
- Limited Eye Relief: May be an issue for some users with eyeglasses.
- Fixed Magnification: Some users may prefer a variable magnification range.
Who Should Buy Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x42mm Spotting Scope, – 1 out of 2 models?
The Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x42mm Spotting Scope is perfect for hunters needing a lightweight, portable optic for scouting and target observation. Tactical shooters who require precise ranging and holdover capabilities will also benefit from the mil-hash reticle. It is also ideal for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts who want a high-quality, compact spotting scope.
This product may not be suitable for users who require very high magnification for long-distance observation. Users who prefer a wider field of view at closer ranges may also prefer binoculars.
A sturdy tripod is a must-have accessory for stable viewing at longer distances. Lens cleaning supplies are also recommended for maintaining optimal image quality.
Conclusion on Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x42mm Spotting Scope, – 1 out of 2 models
The Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x42mm Spotting Scope is an outstanding optic that delivers exceptional performance in a compact and durable package. The image quality is superb, the tactical features are well-executed, and the overall usability is excellent. This is a versatile and essential tool.
At $219.99, the price is justified by the quality of the glass, the rugged construction, and the inclusion of tactical features like the mil-hash reticle. This is an excellent value for the money.
I would highly recommend the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x42mm Spotting Scope to anyone looking for a high-quality, portable optic for hunting, shooting, or general observation. Invest in the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD 10x42mm Spotting Scope, – 1 out of 2 models today and experience the difference!