Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope Review

My first impression of Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope

The Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope promises rugged reliability and illuminated reticle precision, all at a price point that’s competitive in today’s market. Trijicon is a name synonymous with quality optics, and I was eager to see if this Credo lived up to the brand’s reputation.

For years, I’ve relied on a fixed-power scope on my dedicated hunting rifle, finding it simple and effective. However, my aging eyes were starting to struggle with longer shots in varied lighting conditions. I needed a scope that could offer some magnification flexibility and an illuminated reticle for those crucial dawn and dusk hunts. The Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope seemed like it could be the answer.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the scope’s solid feel. The lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum housing gave me the impression of a durable optic, ready to withstand the rigors of the field. Compared to a cheaper, no-name scope I once owned, the difference in build quality was immediately noticeable. It felt more substantial and well-crafted than a similar Vortex Diamondback I considered, though not quite as premium as the Leupold VX-3i in the same magnification range. My initial thought was, “This feels like a tool, not a toy.”

The brightness of the illuminated reticle was impressive and easy to adjust. I was excited to get it mounted and see how it performed in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope was at my local shooting range, zeroing it on my .308 Winchester hunting rifle. The weather was typical for late fall in the Pacific Northwest: damp and overcast. I wanted to test the illuminated reticle in low-light conditions.

The scope was easy to mount with standard 1-inch rings I had on hand. Adjusting the magnification from 3x to 9x was smooth and consistent. The MOA Precision Hunter reticle was clear and uncluttered, even at the highest magnification. The illuminated green dot was particularly helpful against the dark targets at the range, allowing for quick target acquisition. I experienced no issues with fogging or loss of clarity, despite the damp conditions.

After about 50 rounds, the zero held steady. I was impressed with the scope’s performance right out of the gate.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including multiple hunting trips and range sessions, the Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope continues to perform admirably. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the housing, and the anti-scratch coating has held up well against brush and accidental bumps. I’ve found it easy to clean with a lens cloth, and haven’t had to do any major maintenance.

Compared to my old fixed-power scope, the Credo provides a much more versatile shooting experience. The variable magnification allows me to quickly adapt to different shooting scenarios, from close-range shots in dense timber to longer shots across open fields. The illuminated reticle is especially useful during dawn and dusk, providing a clear aiming point even when the light is fading. I’ve successfully harvested deer and elk using this scope in challenging conditions, and I have full confidence in its reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope

Specifications

The Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope boasts a well-rounded set of specifications tailored for hunting and general shooting applications.

• Magnification: 3-9x. Offers versatile magnification for a range of shooting distances.
• Objective: 40mm. Provides ample light gathering capability for clear images, especially in low-light conditions.
• Field of View: 35.50-11.80 ft @ 100 yds. Offers a wide field of view at lower magnification for quick target acquisition and a narrower field of view at higher magnification for precise aiming.
• Eye Relief: 3.50″-3.70″. Ensures comfortable and safe shooting, even with magnum calibers.
• Tube Diameter: 1″. Compatible with a wide range of mounting options and rings.
• Length: 12.30″. A compact design that won’t add excessive bulk to your rifle.
• Weight: 17.02 oz. Lightweight enough to not significantly impact rifle balance.
• Finish: LED Illuminated Green MOA Precision Hunter. Provides a clear aiming point in all lighting conditions.
• Adj Size: .25 MOA. Allows for precise adjustments for accurate zeroing.

These specifications are important because they translate directly into real-world performance. The variable magnification and illuminated reticle provide versatility and accuracy in a variety of hunting scenarios. The lightweight design ensures that the scope doesn’t add unnecessary weight to your rifle.

Performance & Functionality

The Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope excels in its primary function: providing a clear and accurate sight picture for precise shot placement. The adjustments are crisp and repeatable, and the zero holds true even after repeated recoil. The green illuminated reticle is easy to see in various lighting conditions.

The main strength of this scope is its balance of performance, durability, and value. One area for improvement could be the turret adjustments. While functional, they lack the tactile clicks found on higher-end scopes.

Overall, it meets expectations and provides a reliable and accurate shooting experience.

Design & Ergonomics

The Credo features a sleek and functional design. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction feels robust and well-made. The scope is lightweight and comfortable to handle.

The magnification ring is easy to grip and adjust, even with gloves on. The illuminated reticle brightness settings are easily accessible. There’s no learning curve. It’s intuitive and straightforward to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope is built to last. The rugged aluminum housing and anti-scratch coating provide excellent protection against the elements and accidental bumps.

Cleaning is simple with a lens cloth, and no special tools or maintenance are required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, but its 1-inch tube diameter makes it compatible with a vast range of aftermarket rings and mounting systems.

While there are no direct customization options for the reticle or internal components, users can easily upgrade the rings and bases to suit their specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope

Who Should Buy Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope?

The Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope is perfect for hunters seeking a reliable and versatile optic for a variety of game and terrains. It’s also suitable for recreational shooters who want a quality scope without breaking the bank.

If you are a long-range competition shooter who needs very precise turret adjustments with tactile feedback, or someone who demands the absolute highest level of optical clarity, you might want to consider a higher-end scope.

A must-have accessory would be a good set of lens caps to protect the glass from scratches and debris.

Conclusion on Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope

The Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope is a solid performer that delivers on its promises. For the price, it offers an excellent balance of durability, accuracy, and versatility.

At $586.99, the Credo offers excellent value for money, competing favorably with similar scopes from other manufacturers.

I would definitely recommend it to hunters and shooters who are looking for a reliable and versatile optic that won’t break the bank. If you are in the market for a new scope, give the Trijicon Credo 3-9x 40mm MOA Precision Hunter Reticle Rifle Scope a serious look. You won’t be disappointed.