First Impressions of Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope, 30 mm Tube, Second Focal Plane (SFP)
The Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope is a name synonymous with rugged reliability and crystal-clear optics. Trijicon has long been a trusted provider of sighting solutions for military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters alike. This particular model promises to extend your effective range with its 5-20x magnification, while its fiber optic/tritium illumination system ensures confident aiming in any light condition – a claim I was eager to verify.
For years, I’ve relied on a trusty, but aging, Leupold scope for my long-range shooting, finding it increasingly difficult to acquire targets quickly in low light conditions. I needed a scope that offered both enhanced magnification for those distant shots and a reticle that remained visible without batteries, regardless of the ambient light. After researching various options, the Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 seemed to offer the perfect blend of optical performance and innovative illumination.
Upon unboxing the Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33, I was immediately struck by its solid construction and clean lines. The hard-anodized aluminum body felt incredibly robust, reassuring me of its ability to withstand the rigors of field use. The weight, at 26.9 oz, felt substantial but well-balanced, and the satin finish gave it a professional, non-reflective appearance.
Compared to my older Leupold, the AccuPoint TR-33 immediately felt more modern and feature-rich. While my Leupold relied solely on etched reticles, the Trijicon offered the self-illuminating reticle with its automatic brightness adjustment. I also considered a Vortex Viper PST Gen II, known for its illuminated reticle and affordability, but ultimately chose the Trijicon for its battery-free illumination and proven track record.
My initial excitement was tempered only by a slight concern about the Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticle. I am accustomed to First Focal Plane (FFP) scopes for ranging at different magnifications. However, the reputation of Trijicon‘s glass quality and the promise of exceptional low-light performance ultimately swayed my decision; overall, I was incredibly eager to get it mounted and zeroed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope, 30 mm Tube, Second Focal Plane (SFP) to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 came at my local shooting range, an outdoor facility that allows for targets out to 1000 yards. I mounted the scope on my Sako S20 using a set of medium-height scope rings and bore-sighted it before heading to the range. Conditions were overcast, with a light drizzle falling intermittently, presenting a decent challenge for any optic.
Even with the less than ideal weather, the Trijicon‘s glass immediately impressed me. The image was bright and clear, with excellent edge-to-edge clarity. The illuminated reticle, a green dot in my case, was easily visible against the dark targets, and the automatic brightness adjustment worked flawlessly, adapting to the changing light conditions.
Zeroing the scope was straightforward, thanks to the easy-to-use external turret controls. The clicks were positive and tactile, and the adjustments were precise and repeatable. After only a few rounds, I had the rifle zeroed at 100 yards, and I began stretching out the distance, engaging targets at 300, 500, and 700 yards. I did have to keep in mind that the subtensions of the reticle are only accurate at the highest magnification, a characteristic of SFP scopes.
The only minor issue I encountered during my initial range session was the eye relief, which, while generous at lower magnifications, became slightly more critical at 20x. It took a bit of adjusting to find the perfect head position for a full field of view, but once I found it, the image was stunning.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 has proven to be an incredibly reliable and durable optic. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, from the scorching heat of the summer desert to the damp chill of autumn mornings in the mountains. Through it all, the scope has performed flawlessly.
The hard-anodized aluminum body has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of scratches or wear, even after being bumped and jostled during several hunting trips. The fully multi-coated lenses remain clear and scratch-free, and the scope has maintained its zero consistently, even after being subjected to significant recoil. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a lens cloth is all it takes to remove dust and fingerprints.
Compared to my previous scope, the Trijicon offers a significant improvement in low-light performance and overall clarity. While my old scope would often struggle to resolve targets in fading light, the AccuPoint TR-33 continues to provide a bright and clear image, allowing me to extend my shooting hours. The battery-free illumination is a game-changer, eliminating the worry of dead batteries at critical moments.
Breaking Down the Features of Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope, 30 mm Tube, Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Specifications
The Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope boasts a range of specifications designed to enhance accuracy and reliability in various shooting scenarios.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm – This large objective lens gathers ample light for bright, clear images, especially in low-light conditions.
- Magnification: 5-20 x – The variable magnification allows for both close-range target acquisition and long-range precision.
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm – The larger tube diameter provides increased internal adjustment range for windage and elevation.
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP) – The reticle size remains constant regardless of magnification, simplifying target acquisition but requiring careful consideration for ranging at different magnifications.
- Exit Pupil: 0.39 – 0.22 in – The exit pupil size, while small at higher magnifications, is sufficient for comfortable viewing.
- Illumination Color: Green – The green illumination is highly visible to the human eye and performs well in both bright and low-light conditions.
- Finish: Satin – The satin finish reduces glare and provides a non-reflective surface for concealment.
- Field of View, Linear: 22.8 – 5.7 ft at 100 yds – The field of view provides a good balance between situational awareness and target magnification.
- Eye Relief: 3.1 – 3.8 in – The generous eye relief protects against recoil, even with higher caliber rifles.
- Weight: 26.9 oz – While not the lightest scope on the market, the weight is balanced and manageable.
- Length: 13.6 in, 345.44 mm – The overall length is compact enough for comfortable use on most rifles.
- Parallax: 10 yds to infinity – The adjustable parallax ensures a clear image and eliminates parallax error at various distances.
- Illumination Type: Fiber Optics/Tritium – This innovative system provides battery-free illumination that automatically adjusts to ambient light.
- Fabric/Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum – The aircraft-grade aluminum construction provides exceptional strength and durability.
- Lens Material: Glass – High-quality glass lenses contribute to excellent image clarity and light transmission.
- Optical Coating: Fully Multi-Coated – Full multi-coating maximizes light transmission and minimizes glare for optimal image quality.
- Operating Temperature: -20 – 140 Fahrenheit – The wide operating temperature range ensures reliable performance in extreme conditions.
- Water Resistance Level: Waterproof – The scope is waterproof, protecting it from rain and moisture.
- Water Resistant Mark: 10 ft – The scope is submersible to a depth of 10 feet.
- Shockproof: Yes – The shockproof construction ensures reliable performance, even with heavy recoil.
- Fogproof: Yes – The fogproof design prevents internal fogging in humid conditions.
These specifications translate to a high-performing optic that is well-suited for a variety of shooting applications. The combination of high magnification, excellent glass, and battery-free illumination makes the Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 a formidable tool for both hunting and tactical shooting.
Performance & Functionality
The Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 excels in its primary function: providing a clear and accurate sight picture for engaging targets at various distances. The image quality is exceptional, with minimal distortion and excellent color fidelity. The illuminated reticle is a standout feature, offering rapid target acquisition in virtually any lighting condition.
The windage and elevation adjustments are precise and repeatable, allowing for accurate zeroing and reliable tracking. The side parallax adjustment is smooth and effective, eliminating parallax error and enhancing accuracy at long range. The scope meets and exceeds expectations, delivering consistent performance and reliability.
However, the SFP reticle requires careful consideration, as the subtensions are only accurate at maximum magnification. This can be a drawback for shooters who prefer to range targets at lower magnifications.
Design & Ergonomics
The Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 features a robust and well-thought-out design. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction provides exceptional durability. The scope feels substantial in hand, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of field use.
The external turret controls are easy to grip and manipulate, even with gloves on. The side parallax adjustment is conveniently located and smooth to operate. The magnification ring is also easy to turn, allowing for quick and precise magnification adjustments. The eye relief is generous, providing a comfortable and safe shooting experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 is built to last. Its rugged construction and high-quality materials ensure long-term reliability. The scope is designed to withstand extreme conditions.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a lens cloth. The scope’s waterproof and fogproof design ensures reliable performance in wet and humid environments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 comes with basic accessories, including lens caps and a Trijicon logo sticker. The scope is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including scope rings, scope mounts, and sunshades.
The 30mm tube allows for compatibility with most standard scope rings and mounts. The scope can also be customized with various reticle options, including different shapes and sizes.
Pros and Cons of Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope, 30 mm Tube, Second Focal Plane (SFP)Pros
- Exceptional glass clarity provides a bright and detailed sight picture.
- Battery-free illumination ensures reliable reticle visibility in any lighting condition.
- Rugged construction guarantees long-term durability and resistance to harsh conditions.
- Precise and repeatable adjustments allow for accurate zeroing and reliable tracking.
- Versatile magnification range makes it suitable for both close-range and long-range shooting.
Cons
- Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticle requires consideration for ranging at different magnifications.
- Eye relief can be critical at higher magnifications.
Who Should Buy Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope, 30 mm Tube, Second Focal Plane (SFP)?
Pros
- Exceptional glass clarity provides a bright and detailed sight picture.
- Battery-free illumination ensures reliable reticle visibility in any lighting condition.
- Rugged construction guarantees long-term durability and resistance to harsh conditions.
- Precise and repeatable adjustments allow for accurate zeroing and reliable tracking.
- Versatile magnification range makes it suitable for both close-range and long-range shooting.
Cons
- Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticle requires consideration for ranging at different magnifications.
- Eye relief can be critical at higher magnifications.
The Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 is perfect for serious hunters, tactical shooters, and law enforcement professionals who demand exceptional optical performance and rugged reliability. This scope is ideal for anyone who values a battery-free illumination system and needs a scope that can perform in any lighting condition. It is also well-suited for shooters who prioritize durability and are willing to invest in a high-quality optic that will last for years.
However, this scope might not be the best choice for shooters who primarily engage targets at varying distances and require a First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle for accurate ranging at all magnifications. Shooters on a tight budget may also find the Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 to be prohibitively expensive.
A must-have accessory for this scope is a high-quality set of scope rings and a sunshade to reduce glare in bright sunlight.
Conclusion on Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope, 30 mm Tube, Second Focal Plane (SFP)
The Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 5-20x50mm Rifle Scope is a premium optic that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. Its outstanding glass clarity, battery-free illumination, and rugged construction make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. While the SFP reticle may not be for everyone, the overall quality and performance of this scope are undeniable.
The price is certainly justified by the Trijicon‘s superior quality, innovative features, and long-term durability. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a high-performance rifle scope that can handle any shooting situation. If you demand the best, the Trijicon AccuPoint TR-33 is a worthy contender. Take the plunge and experience the difference that true quality makes.
