Crimson Trace Hardline 1-6X24 34mm TR1-MIL Riflescope Review

My first impression of Crimson Trace Hardline 1-6X24 34mm TR1-MIL Riflescope

The Crimson Trace Hardline 1-6X24 34mm TR1-MIL Riflescope promises to deliver a versatile low-power variable optic (LPVO) at an accessible price point. Crimson Trace, known for their laser sights and aiming solutions, is venturing further into the optics market with the Hardline series. I was curious to see if this scope could live up to the demands of both close-quarters engagements and mid-range target acquisition, without breaking the bank.

I’ve been searching for a budget-friendly LPVO for my AR-15 build. My goal was to find an optic that offered quick target acquisition at close ranges like a red dot, but also provided some magnification for identifying targets at further distances. After years of using fixed power optics, I wanted to explore the versatility of a 1-6x scope.

Upon unboxing, the Crimson Trace Hardline felt surprisingly solid. The matte black finish appeared durable, and the turrets had a tactile feel. The weight, at 18 oz, seemed reasonable for a 34mm tube optic; it felt well-balanced and not overly bulky.

Compared to a Vortex Strike Eagle and a Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24, the Crimson Trace Hardline initially seemed to offer a slightly clearer sight picture at 6x, but the true test would be at the range. I chose the Hardline because it offered a मिल reticle, which I prefer for holdovers and windage adjustments, and because of the trusted Crimson Trace name. My initial reaction was optimistic; it appeared to be a well-built optic for the price.

Real-World Testing: Putting Crimson Trace Hardline 1-6X24 34mm TR1-MIL Riflescope to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Crimson Trace Hardline was at an outdoor range with distances ranging from 25 to 300 yards. The weather was mild and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing the scope’s optical clarity. I mounted the scope on my AR-15 and zeroed it at 100 yards.

The Hardline performed admirably at close ranges. At 1x, it functioned similarly to a red dot sight, allowing for rapid target acquisition and accurate shots. The illuminated reticle was bright enough to be easily visible against various backgrounds, but not so bright that it caused excessive bloom.

However, I noticed some distortion around the edges of the sight picture at higher magnifications. This edge distortion wasn’t severe, but it was noticeable, especially when scanning across the landscape. I didn’t experience any other issues during my first range session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Crimson Trace Hardline has proven to be a dependable optic. It has withstood the recoil of my AR-15 without any issues, and the zero has remained consistent. I’ve used it in temperatures ranging from 30°F to 90°F without any performance degradation.

I have noticed some minor scratches on the finish, but nothing that affects the scope’s functionality. Cleaning the lenses is simple with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution. Compared to other budget-friendly LPVOs I’ve used, the Hardline holds its own in terms of reliability and durability.

The Hardline has not outperformed more expensive optics, but it has not disappointed me either. It offers a good balance of performance and value for the price. The features and ruggedness have proven to be beneficial, making it a solid choice for a general-purpose AR-15 optic.

Breaking Down the Features of Crimson Trace Hardline 1-6X24 34mm TR1-MIL Riflescope

Specifications

The Crimson Trace Hardline 1-6X24 34mm TR1-MIL Riflescope boasts a magnification range of 1-6x with a 24mm objective lens. It has an eye relief of 3.5 inches, a 34mm tube diameter, and weighs 18 oz. The scope features an illuminated CT TR1-MIL reticle and side focus.

The 1-6x magnification range offers versatility for both close-quarters engagements and mid-range target identification. The larger 34mm tube allows for a wider range of adjustment and potentially increased brightness. The illuminated reticle helps with visibility in low-light conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Crimson Trace Hardline performs well within its intended purpose. At 1x, it’s fast and intuitive, allowing for quick target acquisition. At 6x, it provides enough magnification for accurate shots out to several hundred yards. The illumination is adequate but not daylight bright.

The scope’s greatest strength is its versatility. It functions effectively as both a close-quarters optic and a mid-range scope. The side focus allows for easy parallax adjustment. Its main weakness is the slight edge distortion at higher magnifications.

The Crimson Trace Hardline largely meets expectations for an optic in its price range. It provides reliable performance and a usable feature set. It offers a solid value for those seeking an affordable LPVO.

Design & Ergonomics

The Crimson Trace Hardline has a functional and straightforward design. The matte black finish is non-reflective and durable. The scope feels well-built and solid in hand.

The turrets are easy to grip and have audible clicks. However, the turrets lack locking functionality. The magnification ring is smooth and easy to adjust, even with gloves.

Durability & Maintenance

The Crimson Trace Hardline appears to be reasonably durable. It has held zero consistently through hundreds of rounds. The scope is easy to clean with standard lens cleaning equipment.

The Hardline is not marketed as being extremely rugged, but it should withstand normal use and moderate abuse. Proper maintenance, such as keeping the lenses clean and protected, will extend its lifespan. The overall build and design suggests an optic that can last for a reasonable duration with proper care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Crimson Trace Hardline does not come with many accessories. It includes lens caps and a basic manual. The 34mm tube diameter allows for the use of a wide variety of aftermarket scope mounts.

There are no direct customization options for the Hardline itself. The user can customize the mounting solution to fit their particular firearm and shooting style. The ability to select from numerous 34mm scope mounts is a significant advantage for customization.

Pros and Cons of Crimson Trace Hardline 1-6X24 34mm TR1-MIL Riflescope