Trijicon AccuPoint 3-9x 40mm Mil-Dot Crosshair / Amber Dot Reticle Rifle Scope Review

My first impression of Trijicon AccuPoint 3-9x 40mm Mil-Dot Crosshair / Amber Dot Reticle Rifle Scope

The Trijicon AccuPoint 3-9x 40mm Mil-Dot Crosshair / Amber Dot Reticle Rifle Scope promised a battery-free, illuminated aiming solution – a claim that immediately piqued my interest. For years, I’ve relied on illuminated reticles, but the reliance on batteries has always been a nagging concern during extended backcountry hunts. Trijicon, known for their rugged and reliable optics, offered what seemed like the perfect solution: a scope that automatically adjusts brightness based on ambient light, eliminating the need for batteries altogether.

I was specifically looking for a scope that could handle diverse lighting conditions without requiring constant adjustments. My typical hunting grounds in the Pacific Northwest often transition from dense, dark forests to open, sunlit fields in a matter of minutes. This creates aiming point challenges which I was hoping the AccuPoint would solve.

Upon unboxing, the AccuPoint felt solid and well-constructed. The matte black finish was clean, and the overall design exuded quality. The weight, at 12.8 ounces, felt appropriate for a scope of this size. Compared to my older Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm, the AccuPoint felt slightly more robust. I also considered the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15×44, but the battery-dependent illumination and larger size steered me toward the Trijicon for this particular build.

Initially, I was excited but also slightly skeptical. The promise of true battery-free illumination seemed almost too good to be true. Only real-world testing would reveal if the Trijicon AccuPoint 3-9x 40mm Mil-Dot Crosshair / Amber Dot Reticle Rifle Scope could truly live up to its claims.

Real-World Testing: Putting Trijicon AccuPoint 3-9x 40mm Mil-Dot Crosshair / Amber Dot Reticle Rifle Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Trijicon AccuPoint was a whitetail hunt in eastern Montana. The terrain consisted of rolling hills and sparse timber, presenting a variety of lighting conditions. I spent most of the day glassing from elevated positions, transitioning to still-hunting in the late afternoon as shadows lengthened.

The AccuPoint’s dual-illumination system proved its worth almost immediately. The amber dot reticle was clearly visible, and its brightness adjusted seamlessly as I moved between shaded areas and open sunlight. The automatic adjustment was a game-changer, allowing me to focus entirely on finding my quarry without fiddling with brightness settings. There was no need to manually adjust the illumination like with other illuminated reticles.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full hunting season, plus numerous range trips, the Trijicon AccuPoint has proven remarkably durable. Despite being subjected to harsh weather, including rain, snow, and dust, it has performed flawlessly. There are no signs of wear or tear, and the finish remains pristine.

Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe down with a lens cloth after each use is all it requires. Compared to my previous experiences with battery-powered scopes, the AccuPoint has been a revelation. The elimination of battery concerns and the consistent performance across varying lighting conditions have exceeded my expectations. The AccuPoint has delivered superior reliability and performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Trijicon AccuPoint 3-9x 40mm Mil-Dot Crosshair / Amber Dot Reticle Rifle Scope

Specifications

  • Magnification: 3-9x. Offers a versatile range for both close-quarters and longer-range shooting.
  • Objective: 40mm. Provides a good balance between light gathering and overall scope size.
  • Field of View: 33.80 – 11.30 ft @ 100 yds. Allows for a wide field of view at lower magnifications, aiding in target acquisition.
  • Eye Relief: 3.20″ – 3.60″. Ensures comfortable and safe shooting, even with magnum calibers.
  • Tube Diameter: 1″. Standard size, making it easy to find compatible mounting rings.
  • Length: 12.20″. Compact and easy to maneuver.
  • Weight: 12.80 oz. Lightweight, minimizing the impact on overall rifle weight.
  • Finish: Illuminated Mil-Dot Crosshair w/Amber Dot. Provides a clear aiming point in all lighting conditions.
  • Reticle: Illuminated Amber Mil-Dot Crosshair (SFP). Enables precise holdover and ranging.
  • Adj Size: .25 MOA @ 100 yds. Allows for precise adjustments, ensuring accuracy.

These specifications combine to deliver a versatile and reliable scope that excels in various hunting and shooting scenarios.

Performance & Functionality

The Trijicon AccuPoint 3-9x 40mm Mil-Dot Crosshair / Amber Dot Reticle Rifle Scope performs exceptionally well. The glass is clear and bright, providing excellent image quality even in low-light conditions. The dual-illumination system is the standout feature; it delivers a consistent and reliable aiming point without batteries. The Mil-Dot reticle is crisp and easy to use for holdover calculations.

One minor weakness is that in extremely bright conditions, the amber dot can appear slightly washed out. However, this is rare and doesn’t significantly impact overall performance. The scope meets and exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The AccuPoint features a rugged, well-built design. The materials are high-quality, and the overall construction feels solid and dependable. The scope is lightweight and comfortable to use.

The turrets are easy to grip and adjust, and the magnification ring turns smoothly. There is no noticeable learning curve associated with this scope.

Durability & Maintenance

The Trijicon AccuPoint is built to last. The rugged construction and high-quality materials ensure it can withstand harsh conditions. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a lens cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Trijicon AccuPoint 3-9x 40mm Mil-Dot Crosshair / Amber Dot Reticle Rifle Scope doesn’t come with many included accessories beyond basic lens covers. However, its 1-inch tube diameter makes it compatible with a wide range of mounting rings. Some users might opt for aftermarket throw levers for the magnification ring, but these are purely optional.

Pros and Cons of Trijicon AccuPoint 3-9x 40mm Mil-Dot Crosshair / Amber Dot Reticle Rifle Scope

Pros

  • Battery-free illumination: Eliminates the need for batteries and ensures consistent performance.
  • Exceptional glass clarity: Provides bright and clear images, even in low light.
  • Durable construction: Built to withstand harsh conditions.
  • Mil-Dot reticle: Enables precise holdover and ranging.
  • Automatic brightness adjustment: Seamlessly adapts to changing light conditions.

Cons

  • Amber dot can wash out in extremely bright conditions.
  • Price point is higher than some comparable scopes.


Who Should Buy Trijicon AccuPoint 3-9x 40mm Mil-Dot Crosshair / Amber Dot Reticle Rifle Scope?

The Trijicon AccuPoint is perfect for hunters, especially those who hunt in diverse lighting conditions. It’s also an excellent choice for shooters who value reliability and durability over all else. Survivalists and preppers who want an optic that won’t fail due to battery issues will also appreciate the AccuPoint.

Hunters prioritizing the longest-range shots in open, sunlit terrain might prefer a scope with a more powerful magnification range or a different reticle. Those on a very tight budget may find more affordable options, though they will likely sacrifice features and reliability. A must-have accessory is a high-quality set of scope rings.

Conclusion on Trijicon AccuPoint 3-9x 40mm Mil-Dot Crosshair / Amber Dot Reticle Rifle Scope

The Trijicon AccuPoint 3-9x 40mm Mil-Dot Crosshair / Amber Dot Reticle Rifle Scope is a top-tier optic that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. While the price is higher than some competitors, the battery-free illumination and rugged construction justify the cost.

I would highly recommend the AccuPoint to anyone looking for a dependable and versatile hunting scope. It’s an investment that will pay off in the field. If you value peace of mind and want a scope that will perform flawlessly in any condition, the Trijicon AccuPoint is an excellent choice.


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