Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope Review

Let’s Dive into Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope

The Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is a classic optic, offering a blend of affordability and functionality that has made it a popular choice for hunters and recreational shooters for years. Manufactured by Bushnell, a well-known name in the optics industry, this scope promises reliable performance in a straightforward package. This scope is particularly attractive for those seeking a dependable, no-frills optic without breaking the bank.

I was looking for a scope to mount on my son’s new deer rifle. My primary requirement was clarity and reliability without spending a fortune, as this would be his first hunting season. Upon unboxing the Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope, I was initially impressed by its solid feel and the clarity of the glass. The matte finish gave it a practical, non-reflective look, appropriate for hunting situations.

Compared to a Leupold VX-Freedom (which is significantly more expensive) and a Vortex Crossfire II (in a similar price bracket), the Bushnell Trophy felt surprisingly robust. I chose the Bushnell for its reputation for durability and the fully multi-coated optics, promising good light transmission. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; it seemed like a solid scope, but I knew the real test would be in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope at my local shooting range and during a weekend deer hunt in the Pennsylvania mountains. The range offered controlled conditions for initial sighting and accuracy testing. Out in the field, the scope faced varying light conditions, from bright sunlight to overcast skies and even a light drizzle.

The scope performed admirably in good light, providing a clear and bright image. However, as dusk approached, the image quality noticeably degraded, requiring more effort to acquire targets in low light. Getting used to the fingertip adjustments for windage and elevation was easy, though they felt a bit mushy compared to more premium scopes. My initial concern was low-light performance, which proved to be a valid point after the first hunting session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Bushnell Trophy has held up relatively well. There are no major signs of wear and tear, although the matte finish has picked up a few minor scratches. Maintenance is straightforward, primarily involving cleaning the lenses with a microfiber cloth.

Compared to my previous scope, a higher-end Zeiss Conquest, the Bushnell Trophy falls short in overall image quality and low-light capabilities. However, considering the price difference, it has proven to be a reliable and functional optic for its intended purpose. It gets the job done, and has proven to be accurate out to 200 yards in good conditions.

Breaking Down the Features of Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope

Specifications

The Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope boasts several key specifications that define its performance.

• Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm. This size offers a good balance between light gathering and scope size, making it suitable for various hunting scenarios.
• Magnification: 3 – 9 x. The variable magnification allows for both close-range and mid-range targeting, increasing versatility.
• Tube Diameter: 1 in. The one-inch tube is a standard size, making it compatible with a wide range of mounting options.
• Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP). This means the reticle size remains constant regardless of magnification, which can be preferable for hunters.
• Exit Pupil: 4.44 – 13.33 mm. The exit pupil size impacts brightness, especially in low light.
• Field of View, Linear: 13 – 38 ft at 100 yds. This determines how much you can see at a given distance.
• Eye Relief: 4 in. This is ample eye relief for comfortable shooting, and recoil absorption.
• Weight: 14.3 oz. This is a relatively lightweight scope that won’t add excessive weight to your rifle.
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.25 in at 100 yds. This provides precise adjustments for accurate targeting.
• Adjustment Range: 60 in at 100 yds. The adjustment range is sufficient for most hunting distances.
• Optical Coating: Fully Multi-Coated. This enhances light transmission for brighter images.
• Light Transmission: 91 %. A decent light transmission rate, though not as high as premium scopes.
• Water Resistance Level: Waterproof. This ensures the scope can withstand wet conditions.
• Shockproof: Yes. Designed to withstand recoil and impacts.
• Fogproof: Yes. Prevents internal fogging for clear vision in humid conditions.

These specifications collectively contribute to a scope that balances performance, durability, and affordability, making it a solid choice for many shooters.

Performance & Functionality

The Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope performs its job reliably, providing sufficient accuracy for most hunting and recreational shooting scenarios. Its 3-9x magnification offers a versatile range for different distances, and the 1/4 MOA adjustments allow for precise zeroing. The scope’s strengths lie in its simplicity and dependability.

However, its low-light performance and somewhat mushy adjustments are areas needing improvement. The scope meets the basic expectations of a hunting optic, but it doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bushnell Trophy features a straightforward and functional design. The matte black finish is practical for hunting, minimizing glare and reflection. The one-piece tube construction contributes to its durability and waterproof capabilities.

While the scope is user-friendly with minimal learning curve, the fingertip adjustments could benefit from a more tactile and precise feel.

Durability & Maintenance

The Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is built to last, with its rugged construction and shockproof design. The waterproof and fogproof features add to its durability, making it suitable for various weather conditions. Maintenance is simple, primarily requiring occasional cleaning of the lenses.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bushnell Trophy doesn’t come with many accessories, typically just including lens covers. There aren’t extensive customization options, but its standard one-inch tube makes it compatible with a wide variety of aftermarket rings and bases from brands like Weaver, Talley, and Leupold. You can easily find compatible mounts to fit almost any rifle platform.

Pros and Cons of Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope

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Who Should Buy Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope?

The Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is perfect for entry-level hunters and recreational shooters seeking a reliable and affordable optic. It’s also a solid choice for those who primarily hunt during daylight hours and don’t require top-tier low-light performance. This scope is ideal for youth rifles, or backup rifles where budget is a concern.

Those who should skip this product are serious hunters needing exceptional low-light capabilities or precision shooters requiring more tactile and precise adjustments. A must-have accessory would be a good set of scope rings, and perhaps a sunshade for bright conditions.

Conclusion on Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope

The Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is a solid, dependable optic that delivers good performance at an affordable price. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end scopes, it provides reliable accuracy and durability for most hunting and recreational shooting needs. The price is absolutely justified for the level of performance and build quality.

I would personally recommend the Bushnell Trophy to anyone looking for a budget-friendly scope that gets the job done. If you’re in the market for a no-nonsense, reliable optic without breaking the bank, the Bushnell Trophy 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is definitely worth considering. Go ahead and give it a try – you might be surprised at how much performance you can get for the price.