The Simmons 8-Point 3-9x 50mm Truplex Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.75″ Eye Relief, 31.40 – 10.50 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 31-60mm Objective Diameter Made a Bold First Impression
The Simmons 8-Point 3-9x 50mm Truplex Reticle Rifle Scope is a classic entry-level scope designed for hunters seeking reliable performance without breaking the bank. Marketed by Simmons as a dependable optic for various hunting applications, it boasts a 3-9x magnification range, a 50mm objective lens for enhanced light gathering, and a simple Truplex reticle. With its reputation for affordability, I was eager to see how it would perform compared to other budget-friendly options on the market after years of using higher-end glass.
I was looking for an optic to top my son’s new .243 Winchester; a rifle he’ll use for deer hunting in the thick woods of Pennsylvania. We needed something with decent light transmission for those low-light dawn and dusk hours, and enough magnification to comfortably take shots out to 200 yards. The Simmons 8-Point seemed like a good fit based on its specs and price point.
Upon unboxing, the Simmons 8-Point felt surprisingly solid for its price. The matte black finish seemed reasonably durable, and the turrets had a tactile click when adjusted. Compared to a Bushnell Banner I’ve used in the past, the Simmons felt a bit more robust, though not quite as refined as a Leupold VX-Freedom.
Honestly, I was cautiously optimistic. The price was certainly right, but I’ve learned over the years that you often get what you pay for when it comes to optics. The Simmons 8-Point 3-9x 50mm Truplex Reticle Rifle Scope had the potential to be a great value, or it could be another case of cheap glass that underperforms in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Simmons 8-Point 3-9x 50mm Truplex Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.75″ Eye Relief, 31.40 – 10.50 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification to the Test
First Use Experience
I mounted the Simmons 8-Point on my son’s rifle and headed to the range on a crisp autumn afternoon. The range offered distances from 25 to 200 yards, perfect for assessing the scope’s performance. After bore-sighting, it took about 15 rounds to get it zeroed at 100 yards.
The image clarity was acceptable for the price, but definitely not as bright or sharp as higher-end optics. In bright daylight, the Truplex reticle was easy to see, however in lower light conditions, the fine crosshairs were difficult to pick up against dark targets. After about 50 rounds, everything was still holding zero, which was a relief.
The biggest issue was the eye relief. The advertised 3.75 inches was accurate, but it was very unforgiving. If my eye wasn’t perfectly aligned, I’d get a dark crescent in the image, which became annoying after a while.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Simmons 8-Point has held up reasonably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, although I have been careful to protect it from scratches and impacts. It’s been through a couple of light rain showers, and there’s no sign of any water ingress.
Cleaning is straightforward, just wiping the lenses with a microfiber cloth. While I haven’t taken it apart for deep cleaning, the exterior is easy to maintain. Compared to my experience with a more expensive Vortex Diamondback, the Simmons doesn’t offer the same level of image clarity or ease of use, but it’s also significantly cheaper.
Despite the shortcomings, it has allowed my son to accurately place shots on target during practice. This gives me confidence that it will perform adequately during our upcoming deer season, though the low-light performance is still a concern. The fact that it is still holding its zero after repeated range trips speaks to its ability to perform adequately and not fall apart after heavy use.
Breaking Down the Features of Simmons 8-Point 3-9x 50mm Truplex Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.75″ Eye Relief, 31.40 – 10.50 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 31-60mm Objective Diameter
Specifications
- Magnification: 3-9x adjustable magnification, providing versatility for close-range and longer-distance shots. This range is suitable for most hunting scenarios, especially in wooded areas.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm, allowing for a larger exit pupil and improved light gathering. This improves visibility in low-light conditions, such as dawn and dusk.
- Eye Relief: 3.75 inches, the distance from the rear lens to the shooter’s eye for a full field of view. While sufficient for most shooters, it’s not particularly generous and requires consistent cheek weld.
- Field of View: 31.40 – 10.50 ft @ 100 yds, determining the width of the area visible through the scope at 100 yards. The wider field of view at lower magnifications is beneficial for acquiring targets quickly.
- Reticle Type: Truplex, a simple duplex reticle with thicker outer posts and a fine crosshair in the center. This provides a clear aiming point without being overly cluttered.
- Tube Diameter: 1 inch, the standard diameter for most rifle scopes, offering compatibility with a wide range of mounting rings. This allows for flexible mounting options.
Performance & Functionality
The Simmons 8-Point performs adequately for its intended purpose, providing sufficient magnification and a clear aiming point for hunting. Its strengths lie in its simplicity and ease of use, while its weaknesses are most apparent in low-light conditions and with its less-than-ideal eye relief. For the price, it meets expectations, but it doesn’t exceed them.
The scope’s functionality is straightforward. The magnification ring turns smoothly, and the turrets provide audible clicks when adjusting the zero. However, the adjustments are not as precise as those found on higher-end scopes. It would be a struggle to accurately and repeatedly dial in shots over long distances as it is hard to dial precisely.
Design & Ergonomics
The Simmons 8-Point features a basic, no-frills design. The matte black finish is practical, and the scope’s weight is reasonable, not adding excessive bulk to the rifle. The turrets are easy to grip, even with gloves, but they lack the tactile feedback of more expensive scopes.
The scope’s ergonomics are acceptable, but not exceptional. The eye relief requires a consistent cheek weld, and the overall build quality feels somewhat basic. This is not a scope that is going to win any awards for its design.
Durability & Maintenance
The Simmons 8-Point seems reasonably durable, though I haven’t subjected it to extreme conditions. The finish has held up well so far, and the lenses are relatively scratch-resistant. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a microfiber cloth.
Given its price point, I don’t expect the Simmons 8-Point to last a lifetime, but with proper care, it should provide several years of reliable service. It is well worth the price when you account for its estimated lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Simmons 8-Point comes with basic lens covers, but it doesn’t offer many customization options. The 1-inch tube diameter allows for the use of aftermarket mounting rings and bases. However, there are no other readily available accessories specifically designed for this scope.
It’s compatible with most standard scope rings, allowing you to choose the height and style that best suits your rifle and shooting preferences. Be sure to use high-quality rings to ensure a secure and stable mount. Otherwise, there isn’t much else to say about adding on to it.
Pros and Cons of Simmons 8-Point 3-9x 50mm Truplex Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.75″ Eye Relief, 31.40 – 10.50 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 31-60mm Objective Diameter
Pros
- Affordable price point, making it accessible to budget-conscious hunters. It is one of the cheaper options to get you out in the field with a capable optic.
- Decent image clarity in good lighting conditions. It offers a clear enough image to successfully hunt or practice.
- Simple and easy to use, with a straightforward design and intuitive adjustments. It is a great scope for beginners or those who do not want to fiddle with the turrets too much.
- Reliable performance, holding zero after repeated shots and through moderate use. It has been proven to stay zeroed under heavy recoil.
- Versatile magnification range, suitable for a variety of hunting applications. It will suffice for both close and long range encounters.
Cons
- Unforgiving eye relief, requiring a consistent cheek weld for a clear image. Those not accustom to strict eye relief may find this frustrating.
- Limited low-light performance, struggling to provide a bright and clear image in dawn and dusk conditions. This may hinder shots in low light settings.
Who Should Buy Simmons 8-Point 3-9x 50mm Truplex Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.75″ Eye Relief, 31.40 – 10.50 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 31-60mm Objective Diameter?
Perfect for: Budget-conscious hunters, new shooters, and anyone seeking a reliable and affordable scope for general-purpose hunting. This is the perfect scope for a first time hunter looking to get an optic for their deer rifle without breaking the bank.
Who should skip this product? Serious hunters who require exceptional low-light performance, those who prioritize long-range precision, or shooters who demand a more forgiving eye relief. These experienced shooters will be better served spending the money on a higher end optic.
Must-have accessories or modifications? High-quality scope rings, a scope level, and potentially an aftermarket neoprene scope cover to protect the lens from scratches and impacts. Purchasing these accessories will increase the lifespan of the Simmons 8-Point 3-9x 50mm Truplex Reticle Rifle Scope.
Conclusion on Simmons 8-Point 3-9x 50mm Truplex Reticle Rifle Scope – 3.75″ Eye Relief, 31.40 – 10.50 ft @ 100 yds Field of View, 3-9x Adjustable Magnification, 31-60mm Objective Diameter
The Simmons 8-Point 3-9x 50mm Truplex Reticle Rifle Scope is a decent entry-level optic that offers reasonable performance for its price. While it’s not without its shortcomings, particularly in low-light conditions and with its tight eye relief, it provides a reliable and affordable option for budget-conscious hunters.
At around $70, the Simmons 8-Point represents a solid value proposition for those who need a functional scope without breaking the bank. It is well worth it to purchase this scope if you have a tight budget and need to get out in the field as soon as possible.
I would recommend the Simmons 8-Point to anyone who is just starting out in hunting or who needs a budget-friendly scope for a backup rifle. It’s a simple, reliable, and affordable option that will get the job done. If you’re looking for exceptional performance or advanced features, you’ll need to spend more money. But for the average hunter, the Simmons 8-Point is a perfectly viable option. Get yours today and get out in the field!