First Thoughts on the Konus KonusPro-Plus Long Range 6-24x 50mm AO Blue / Red Engraved Crosshair / Dot Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.40″ Eye Relief, 16.20 – 4.45 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 6-24x Adjustable Magnification, 16.40″ Length
The Konus KonusPro-Plus Long Range 6-24x 50mm AO Blue / Red Engraved Crosshair / Dot Reticle Rifle Scope promises long-range precision at an accessible price point. Marketed towards varmint hunters and target shooters, its adjustable magnification and illuminated reticle suggest versatility across various lighting conditions.
As someone who has spent years guiding hunters in challenging environments, I needed a scope that could handle both the recoil of larger caliber rifles and provide clear target acquisition in low light. My primary goal was to find an optic that wouldn’t break the bank but still offered reliable performance for ethical, long-range shots on predators.
Unboxing the KonusPro-Plus, I was immediately struck by its solid feel. While not featherlight, it felt substantial, suggesting a robust build. The turrets had a positive click, and the adjustable objective (AO) ring moved smoothly, inspiring confidence in its adjustability. Compared to other budget-friendly scopes I’ve used, like some offerings from Simmons or Bushnell’s lower-end lines, the Konus seemed to offer more features for the price.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It certainly looked the part of a long-range scope, but I knew the real test would be at the range, dialing in adjustments and seeing how the reticle performed in different light levels. I was eager to mount it on my precision .308 and see what it could do.
Real-World Testing: Putting Konus KonusPro-Plus Long Range 6-24x 50mm AO Blue / Red Engraved Crosshair / Dot Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.40″ Eye Relief, 16.20 – 4.45 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 6-24x Adjustable Magnification, 16.40″ Length to the Test
First Use Experience
I mounted the KonusPro-Plus on my Savage 10 .308 and headed to my usual range, which offers distances out to 600 yards. The initial setup was straightforward, and the scope rings held securely to the one-piece tube.
The range day started clear, but quickly turned overcast and drizzly; this gave me the perfect opportunity to test the illuminated reticle. Adjusting the magnification was smooth, but I immediately noticed the eye relief was critical, especially at higher magnifications; a slight shift off-axis resulted in significant scope shadow. While the glass clarity was acceptable in good light, the edges softened noticeably at higher magnifications, and the clarity diminished as the light faded.
After the first 20 rounds, I noticed the point of impact had shifted slightly, requiring a minor adjustment; nothing catastrophic, but a concern nonetheless.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and a few short predator hunts (no shots taken), the KonusPro-Plus has held zero reasonably well, although minor adjustments were still needed more frequently than with higher-end optics. The finish has proven surprisingly durable, showing no scratches despite being bumped around in my rifle case.
Cleaning the lenses is simple, and the turrets still offer positive clicks, though they feel a bit mushy compared to the crisp adjustments of a Leupold or Nightforce. Compared to a Vortex Diamondback Tactical I’ve used extensively, the KonusPro-Plus lags in optical clarity and overall robustness but costs significantly less.
While the scope has held up adequately, it hasn’t blown me away in terms of consistent reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Konus KonusPro-Plus Long Range 6-24x 50mm AO Blue / Red Engraved Crosshair / Dot Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.40″ Eye Relief, 16.20 – 4.45 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 6-24x Adjustable Magnification, 16.40″ Length
Specifications
- Magnification: 6-24x Adjustable Magnification: This allows for versatility in target acquisition at varying distances.
- Objective Diameter: 50mm: Provides a larger light-gathering capability, theoretically improving performance in low-light conditions.
- Eye Relief: 3.40″: This is a standard eye relief, but may feel short at higher magnifications, potentially causing discomfort for some shooters.
- Field of View: 16.20 – 4.45 ft @ 100 yds: The field of view narrows considerably as magnification increases, making it more challenging to track moving targets.
- Reticle: Engraved Crosshair / Dot Reticle: The engraved reticle enhances durability, and the illuminated dot aids in low-light target acquisition.
- Reticle Illumination: Blue / Red: Offers illumination options to suit different lighting conditions and personal preferences.
- Tube Diameter: Not Specified: While not explicitly stated, a 1-inch tube is the likely standard for scopes in this price range.
- Length: 16.40″: A longer scope can sometimes affect balance on certain rifles.
- Adjustment: 1/8 M.O.A: This allows for very precise adjustments, beneficial for long-range shooting.
- Optics: Fully Multi-Coated: This aids in light transmission and image clarity.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the scope’s performance in real-world scenarios. A larger objective lens, combined with multi-coated optics, should provide a brighter, clearer image, especially in low light. The adjustable magnification allows you to zoom in for precise shots at longer distances.
Performance & Functionality
The KonusPro-Plus performs adequately for its price point. The adjustable magnification works as expected, providing a range of options for different target distances.
However, the optical clarity is a noticeable drawback, especially at higher magnifications; image quality degrades, and edge distortion becomes apparent. The illuminated reticle is a useful feature in low light, but the illumination is not particularly bright, even on the highest setting; this makes it difficult to see in bright daylight conditions. While the 1/8 M.O.A. adjustments are precise, the turrets themselves lack the positive, tactile feel found in higher-end scopes.
Design & Ergonomics
The KonusPro-Plus has a utilitarian design. The build quality is acceptable for the price, but it doesn’t feel as refined as more expensive options.
The scope is relatively easy to mount and adjust, but the critical eye relief at higher magnifications can make it challenging to maintain a consistent sight picture. The adjustable objective is a useful feature for correcting parallax, but the markings are not particularly precise, requiring some trial and error to find the optimal setting.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my testing, the KonusPro-Plus appears to be reasonably durable. The finish has held up well to normal wear and tear.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution.
Accessories and Customization Options
The KonusPro-Plus comes with basic lens covers and a cleaning cloth. No other accessories are included.
Customization options are limited to mounting rings and bases, which are readily available from various manufacturers to fit different rifle platforms. The scope’s standard 1-inch tube diameter ensures compatibility with a wide range of rings. The lack of included accessories is disappointing but understandable given the price point.
Pros and Cons of Konus KonusPro-Plus Long Range 6-24x 50mm AO Blue / Red Engraved Crosshair / Dot Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.40″ Eye Relief, 16.20 – 4.45 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 6-24x Adjustable Magnification, 16.40″ Length
Pros
- Precise 1/8 M.O.A. adjustments allow for fine-tuning at long ranges.
- Adjustable magnification (6-24x) provides versatility for various shooting distances.
- Illuminated reticle (blue/red) aids in low-light target acquisition.
- Durable engraved reticle enhances longevity and visibility.
- Affordable price makes it accessible for budget-conscious shooters.
Cons
- Optical clarity diminishes at higher magnifications.
- Eye relief is critical and can be unforgiving, especially at maximum zoom.
- Turrets lack the tactile feedback of higher-end scopes.
Who Should Buy Konus KonusPro-Plus Long Range 6-24x 50mm AO Blue / Red Engraved Crosshair / Dot Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.40″ Eye Relief, 16.20 – 4.45 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 6-24x Adjustable Magnification, 16.40″ Length?
The Konus KonusPro-Plus Long Range 6-24x 50mm AO Blue / Red Engraved Crosshair / Dot Reticle Rifle Scope is perfect for entry-level long-range shooters, varmint hunters on a tight budget, or those needing a temporary optic. It is ideal as a first scope for someone learning the fundamentals of long-range shooting without making a substantial financial commitment.
Those who require exceptional optical clarity, forgiving eye relief, and highly reliable tracking should skip this product. Competitive shooters or serious hunters who demand top-tier performance would be better served by investing in a higher-end optic from brands like Leupold, Vortex, or Nightforce.
A must-have accessory would be a quality set of scope rings to ensure a secure and stable mount.
Conclusion on Konus KonusPro-Plus Long Range 6-24x 50mm AO Blue / Red Engraved Crosshair / Dot Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.40″ Eye Relief, 16.20 – 4.45 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 6-24x Adjustable Magnification, 16.40″ Length
The Konus KonusPro-Plus Long Range 6-24x 50mm AO Blue / Red Engraved Crosshair / Dot Reticle Rifle Scope is a budget-friendly option that offers decent performance for the price. While it has limitations in optical clarity and turret feel, its adjustable magnification, illuminated reticle, and precise adjustments make it a viable choice for those on a tight budget.
The value proposition is reasonable, considering the features offered at this price point. However, it is essential to manage expectations and understand that this scope will not perform at the same level as higher-end optics.
I would recommend it with reservations. If budget is the primary concern and the intended use is for occasional varmint hunting or recreational target shooting, the KonusPro-Plus can be a worthwhile investment. However, if you demand top-tier performance and reliability, you should consider spending more on a higher-quality optic. Do your research, weigh the pros and cons, and make an informed decision based on your specific needs and budget. Happy shooting!
