My first impression of Konus KonusPro EVO 3-12x 50mm Blue / Red Engraved 30 / 30 Floating Cross Reticle Rifle Scope
I’ve been mounting scopes on everything from AR platforms to vintage lever-actions for over a decade. The Konus KonusPro EVO 3-12x 50mm Blue / Red Engraved 30 / 30 Floating Cross Reticle Rifle Scope promised features often found in higher-priced optics, and that piqued my interest. Would it deliver on its promise of ruggedness, clarity, and versatility without breaking the bank?
I was looking for a scope to outfit my hunting rifle. The goal was to find an optic that offered a versatile magnification range for both close-quarters woodland shots and longer-range field engagements. I was looking for something rugged enough to withstand the elements.
Unboxing the KonusPro EVO, I immediately noticed its solid feel. The finish was a clean matte black, and the adjustments seemed tactile and deliberate. It wasn’t featherlight, but it didn’t feel overly heavy either.
Compared to similar scopes in this price range, like some offerings from Bushnell or Vortex, the KonusPro EVO stood out with its illuminated reticle. I was looking for a scope with an illuminated reticle. The others in this price range didn’t offer this feature or they didn’t have a reticle I liked.
My first impression was a blend of cautious optimism and excitement. It looked the part. Now it was time to see if it could perform.
Real-World Testing: Putting Konus KonusPro EVO 3-12x 50mm Blue / Red Engraved 30 / 30 Floating Cross Reticle Rifle Scope to the Test
First Use Experience
I mounted the KonusPro EVO on my trusted .308 bolt-action and headed to the range. The weather was typical for early fall in the Midwest. The weather included a mix of sun, clouds, and a slight drizzle.
Zeroing at 100 yards was straightforward. The adjustments were consistent and predictable. I spent the day dialing in my groups at various distances, from 50 to 300 yards. The 3-12x magnification range proved useful for target acquisition at different ranges.
I did notice that at higher magnifications, the image became slightly less crisp around the edges. That was more noticeable during low-light conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of range sessions, the KonusPro EVO remained consistent. I also took it on a weekend deer hunt. I was able to take the deer at 200 yards in heavy fog.
I subjected it to bumps and jostles in my rifle case and the back of my truck. There were no signs of zero shift or internal damage. The matte finish has proven resistant to scratches and abrasions.
Cleaning is straightforward; a lens cloth and some compressed air are all it takes. It appears that the Konus KonusPro EVO 3-12x 50mm will be a reliable addition to my gear. It outperforms other budget-friendly scopes I’ve used.
Breaking Down the Features of Konus KonusPro EVO 3-12x 50mm Blue / Red Engraved 30 / 30 Floating Cross Reticle Rifle Scope
Specifications
The Konus KonusPro EVO 3-12x 50mm boasts several key specifications. It features a 3-12x magnification range and a 50mm objective lens.
The scope is constructed with a 1-inch tube diameter and offers .25″ MOA adjustments at 100 yards. It has a dual-illuminated red/blue 30/30 engraved floating cross reticle. The field of view ranges from 31.53-9.43 ft at 100 yards.
These specs combine to offer a versatile optic suitable for various hunting and shooting scenarios. The adjustable objective provides parallax correction, essential for accurate long-range shots.
Performance & Functionality
The KonusPro EVO’s performance is generally strong for its price point. Accuracy is commendable, holding zero even after rough handling.
The illuminated reticle is a standout feature, providing excellent visibility in low-light conditions. However, the edge clarity at higher magnifications could be improved. Overall, it meets expectations, especially considering the price.
Design & Ergonomics
The scope has a solid build with a matte black finish that minimizes glare. The weight is manageable at 33.10 oz.
The turrets offer positive clicks, making adjustments easy and precise. There is a slight learning curve to using the parallax adjustment effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
The Konus KonusPro EVO appears to be built to last, being advertised as waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. The rugged construction gives confidence that it can withstand typical field conditions.
Maintenance is minimal. Keeping the lenses clean and dry is generally all that’s required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The KonusPro EVO includes a sunshade, which is a welcome addition for reducing glare in bright conditions. Being a standard 1-inch tube scope, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket rings and mounts. This provides plenty of customization options for different rifle platforms.
Pros and Cons of Konus KonusPro EVO 3-12x 50mm Blue / Red Engraved 30 / 30 Floating Cross Reticle Rifle Scope
Pros
- Excellent value for the price: The KonusPro EVO offers a lot of features at a price point that’s hard to beat.
- Dual-illuminated reticle: The red/blue illumination provides excellent visibility in various lighting conditions.
- Durable construction: The scope feels solid and well-built, able to withstand field use.
- Versatile magnification range: The 3-12x magnification is suitable for both close-quarters and long-range shooting.
- Included sunshade: A practical addition for reducing glare and improving visibility.
Cons
- Edge clarity at higher magnifications could be better. The user should be aware of this if clarity is vital.
- Eye relief at 2.85″ might be short for some shooters or certain rifle setups.
Who Should Buy Konus KonusPro EVO 3-12x 50mm Blue / Red Engraved 30 / 30 Floating Cross Reticle Rifle Scope?
The Konus KonusPro EVO 3-12x 50mm is perfect for budget-conscious hunters seeking a versatile and reliable scope. It’s great for those who need an illuminated reticle for low-light conditions.
This scope is also a good choice for recreational shooters and beginning marksmen looking to upgrade from basic factory sights.
Someone looking for premium glass clarity at long range should skip this product and invest in a higher-end optic. Also, those with rifle setups requiring long eye relief may find the KonusPro EVO unsuitable.
A must-have accessory would be high-quality scope rings appropriate for your rifle platform.
Conclusion on Konus KonusPro EVO 3-12x 50mm Blue / Red Engraved 30 / 30 Floating Cross Reticle Rifle Scope
The Konus KonusPro EVO 3-12x 50mm Blue / Red Engraved 30 / 30 Floating Cross Reticle Rifle Scope offers a compelling blend of features and affordability. It’s not perfect, with some minor shortcomings in edge clarity at high magnification, but its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.
At a price of $195.99, the value proposition is excellent. It delivers performance and features typically found in scopes costing significantly more.
I would personally recommend it to hunters and shooters on a budget who need a reliable and versatile optic. If you’re looking for a scope that offers a lot of bang for your buck, the KonusPro EVO is well worth considering. It’s a solid choice that won’t disappoint.