The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x 40mm Black Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.30″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter Made a Bold First Impression
The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x 40mm Black Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.30″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter promises a lot for its price point, aiming to deliver reliable performance for hunters without breaking the bank. My years in the field have taught me to be skeptical of budget optics, but the reputation of Crimson Trace piqued my interest. I was looking for a scope that could handle the rough conditions of deer season here in the Pacific Northwest, and I needed it to be versatile enough for both dense forest shots and longer range opportunities.
Unboxing the Brushline, my first impression was positive. The scope felt surprisingly solid for its lightweight design, and the finish appeared durable. Compared to a similar Vortex Crossfire II I’ve used, the Brushline seemed a touch more compact, which is a plus for maneuverability in thick brush. I also considered a Leupold VX-Freedom, but the price difference was significant, and I wanted to see if the Crimson Trace could offer acceptable performance at a lower cost. My initial excitement was tempered with caution; I knew the real test would be in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x 40mm Black Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.30″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter to the Test
First Use Experience
I mounted the Brushline on my trusted .30-06 and headed to the local shooting range. The range offered distances up to 200 yards, which was perfect for zeroing and getting a feel for the scope. Initial adjustments were straightforward, and the turrets clicked positively, though they felt a bit mushy compared to higher-end scopes. The 3-9x magnification range proved versatile, allowing me to easily acquire targets at various distances.
During my first outing, the weather turned unexpectedly, with a light drizzle setting in. The scope remained clear, and the image didn’t degrade significantly, thanks to its nitrogen-purged and waterproof construction. I did notice a slight decrease in brightness as the light faded, but it was manageable. After a few hours of shooting, I encountered no major issues, but I felt I needed more time with the Brushline to truly assess its reliability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple trips to the range and a weekend deer hunt, the Brushline held up reasonably well. The finish showed minimal signs of wear, despite being bumped against branches and brush. Cleaning the scope was simple; a quick wipe with a lens cloth kept it clear and functional. While the optical clarity isn’t comparable to premium scopes, it’s certainly acceptable for its price range.
The biggest concern I had was the zero drifting slightly after about 50 rounds. This could be due to the budget rings I used, but I’ll be closely monitoring this issue during future outings. Overall, the Crimson Trace Brushline performed adequately, neither exceeding nor disappointing my expectations. It is worth considering as a starting point for a serious build that you may upgrade later.
Breaking Down the Features of Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x 40mm Black Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.30″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter
Specifications
The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x 40mm Black Rifle Scope features a 3-9x adjustable magnification range. It also includes a 40mm objective lens, and 4″ of eye relief. The scope has a 1-inch tube diameter and an overall length of 12.30 inches.
These specifications translate to a versatile scope suitable for various hunting and shooting applications. The 3-9x magnification allows for both close-range and medium-range engagements, while the 40mm objective lens provides sufficient light gathering for dawn and dusk hunting. The 4-inch eye relief is generous, reducing the risk of scope bite during recoil.
Performance & Functionality
The Brushline’s performance is adequate for its price point. Accuracy is acceptable, with consistent groupings achievable once properly zeroed. The magnification adjustment ring is smooth and easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands.
However, the turrets could use some improvement. They lack the crisp, tactile feedback found in higher-end scopes, making precise adjustments a bit challenging. Image clarity is decent in good light, but it diminishes in low-light conditions.
Design & Ergonomics
The Brushline features a lightweight and compact design. This makes it a good choice for hunters who prioritize maneuverability. The scope’s sleek black finish gives it a modern and professional look.
The scope is relatively user-friendly, with simple adjustments and a straightforward reticle. The learning curve is minimal, even for inexperienced shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Crimson Trace Brushline seems reasonably durable. The Aerospace grade 1 tube is designed to withstand harsh conditions. The nitrogen-purged and waterproof construction provides added protection against the elements.
Maintaining the scope is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a lens cloth. With proper care, the Brushline should last for several seasons of hunting and shooting.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Crimson Trace Brushline comes with basic lens covers, but no other accessories are included. Customization options are limited, but the 1-inch tube diameter allows for compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket scope rings. Consider investing in high-quality scope rings to ensure a secure and stable mount.
Pros and Cons of Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x 40mm Black Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.30″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter
Pros
- Affordable Price: Excellent value for budget-conscious shooters.
- Lightweight Design: Doesn’t add significant weight to the rifle.
- Waterproof Construction: Withstands wet and inclement weather conditions.
- Versatile Magnification: Suitable for various hunting and shooting scenarios.
- Generous Eye Relief: Reduces the risk of scope bite.
Cons
- Turret Adjustment: Turrets lack the crispness and tactile feedback of higher-end scopes.
- Low-Light Performance: Image quality diminishes in low-light conditions.
- Drifting Zero: Possible minor drifting of the zero after extended shooting sessions.
Who Should Buy Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x 40mm Black Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.30″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter?
The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x 40mm Black Rifle Scope is perfect for entry-level hunters or shooters on a tight budget. It’s also suitable for those who need a lightweight and versatile scope for general hunting purposes.
Who should skip this product? Experienced shooters who demand top-tier optical clarity and precise adjustments should look at higher-end options. Must-have accessories include high-quality scope rings and a good lens cleaning kit.
Conclusion on Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x 40mm Black Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.30″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter
The Crimson Trace Brushline 3-9x 40mm Black Rifle Scope – 4″ Eye Relief, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 12.30″ Length, 11-30mm Objective Diameter offers a solid value proposition for its $149.95 price tag. While it doesn’t compete with high-end optics, it provides reliable performance and decent image quality for the average hunter or shooter. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and versatile scope, as long as they understand its limitations. If you’re just starting out or need a backup scope, the Brushline is worth considering.