Long range scopes don’t really come in “one size fits all” configurations. You need to get your hands on the scope, try it out, and see what works best for your own particular shooting style. Bushnell isn’t making that process easier, what with their rather daunting combination of tube size, magnification range and reticle choice, so when I picked one to test for a review, I wasn’t exactly sure of what I was getting. But from the second I took it out of the box, I knew I had something downright nifty on my hands . . .
First things first: this thing is MASSIVE.
I thought the 30mm tube scope I usually have on my rifle was large, but Bushnell’s scope uses a rather amazingly rotund 34mm tube. In fact, it’s so large that none of the local stores had rings to fit it. Luckily, Warne makes a set of scope rings that are just about perfect for this optic and only cost about $100. But more on those later.
The massiveness doesn’t stop with the main tube. Everything on this scope has been super sized, from the magnification adjustment knob to the adjustment turrets. Having just adjusted my Trijicon Accupoint earlier that day with a 1 inch tube and rather small adjustment dials, it felt like I was using a Fisher Price “My First Scope” by comparison. Not that it felt at all cheap — everything was just over-sized so you could get a better grip.
One feature I really liked about the adjustment knobs is the way they lock. In order to move the dials, you first need to pull them up so that they can rotate — pushing them back down locks them into place again. This keeps them from being knocked around and losing zero, which brings some added peace of mind when you’re in the field.
The reason for the larger tube becomes apparent as soon as you look through the scope. And that view is rather amazing. The larger tube means larger lenses and more light traveling through the scope. All that adds to optical clarity and allows for better low light performance. Bigger is definitely better when you’re looking for quality glass.
But it was the reticle on this thing I was talking about when I said it was downright nifty. This is the G2-DMR reticle, a first focal plane etching that’s the compromise between the standard mil-dot reticle (which is simply a large dot every 1 Mil along the crosshairs) and a horus reticle (which has markings for windage and elevation 1 Mil in every direction under the aiming point).
It allows for both range estimation and the use of “pure holds,” where the shooter simply uses the markings on the reticle instead of dialing the windage and elevation knobs for every new distance, without cluttering up the scope too much. Pictured above are steel plates at 500 yards.
The major selling point (besides the actual lines) is the fact that this is a first focal plane scope, which means that the distance between the dots on the reticle are exactly 1 mil no matter what magnification you’re set at. It’s great for doing range estimation on the fly, but it adds significantly to the cost of construction.
All that scope does have one big drawback, though: it’s like tying a lead brick to your rifle. The optic weighs almost twice as much as the Primary Arms scope I’m rather fond of using on this rifle, which makes it a real pain in the ass if you’re doing anything besides shooting from a stationary position. I couldn’t imagine trying to lug this boat anchor through the woods on a hunting trip, unless I had a mule to schlep the whole set-up.
Here’s the real kicker though: Vortex does an similar scope with a slightly less complex reticle (and slightly higher base magnification) for damn near half the price. One that’s smaller, lighter and illuminated to boot. It also takes standard 30mm rings instead of the super fancy 34mm ones the Bushness requires.
But the real improvement this scope offers is that reticle. The G2-DMR reticle in the first focal plane is really nice if you’re looking for a compromise between a horus and mil dot. But if you’re not sold on the reticle and want something lighter and half the price, I’d look into the Vortex instead.
Specifications: Bushnell HDMR 3.5-21x50mm w/ G2-DMR Reticle
Weight: 32.5 oz
Length: 13.2mm
Adjustments: 1/10 mil
Eye Relief: 37.5ā³
Tube: 34mm
MSRP: $2,119.95
Ratings (out of five):
(Final rating IS NOT calculated from the constituent ratings, and is based on how well the scope compares to other similar products)
Optical Clarity * * * * *
The large scope tube allows a ton of light to pass through the glass, which makes the images appear quite clear. My camera doesn’t do it justice.
Feel & Function * * * * *
While everything on the scope is massive, it all feels really well put together. There’s no wobble in the turrets, and the magnification adjustment knob feels downright solid.
Overall Quality * * * * *
Its a great, quality scope.
Overall Rating * * *
If you absolutely must have a horus or G2 reticle in the first focal plane, one with a low base magnification, then this is a pretty snazzy scope. But its size, weight and price make it somewhat less attractive compared to other comparable offerings.
OW, was very nice until I looked at the MSRP….Think I will go to vortex…
Street price is 1400.
Street price is only 1400.
If your shooting skills are advanced to the point you can use an H-58 or similar Horus type reticle, this might be an option. I would think this is made to compete with a higher end scope than the straight mil dot vortex.
I have a lot to learn, and thus purchased a mid-range mil-dot vortex. If my shooting skills progress to pure holds and successful wind calls, I would like to move up to the next level of scope, which this looks to be.
The Vortex Viper is similar, but definitely not the same. It has a 4-16 x or 6-24 x magnification. A 3.5 – 21 x magnification range on the Bushnell is truly exceptional. That magnification range is possible due to the 34 diameter of the body tube, which necessitates a heavy weight. On a dedicated long range rifle, weight doesn’t matter as much. I am currently not aware of another scope other than Bushnell Elite series which offers that level of magnification range.
For my “money,” I would much prefer the Leupold Mark 6 3-18x 44mm scope on a hunting or tactical platform. Looks like a winner to me, and I hope y’all get a chance to review it soon.
A 6 x 24 is not “virtually identical” to a 3.5 x 21. Nothing against the Vortex, but its fully 2 & 1/4 inches longer than the Bushnell, and only has a rather pedestrian 4x optical range. Scopes that have 5x and 6x optical range are always going to cost more than old-technology scopes with 4x optical range. Furthermore, making the scope more compact requires much more sophisticaled glass. Not to mention that the 6x low magnification on the Vortex is highly problematic when shooting anything moving at close range. Those two scopes are not even in the same league.
Nick, another big reason for the tube size is it greatly increases the vertical adjustment range, which means you can dial out much more distance. You should look at vertical adjustment ranges for this and the vortex you offer as an alternative. Another great thing about the HDMR is the great 4″ eye relief. Also, you should move that front ring back against the turret structure so its not possible for the scope to creep forward under recoil.
Necroposting, I know, but your review just sold me on this scope, which had been recommended to me. The eye relief sounds wonderful.
After I bought the XRS I sold all my Vortex glass.
I think Nick is full of BS thinking Vortex glass comes any where near this scope.
Review the scope and don’t be recommending a lesser product.
Just take a look at what the PRS shooters are using.
If ya can’t afford the glass then don’t review it.
Fellas,
I bought this scope for my LR 308 AR10 Build. It is really quite amazing. When dialed back to 3.5 everything within 25 meters is crystal clear and when dialed out to 21 the Recital is amazing. If you are looking for a very adaptive scope for both hunting and Long Range precision shooting, take a serious look at this scope. I got mine for $1200 off amazon (not sure I can say that on this website). Using their card give you 12 month same as cash to pay for it. My Dad has a Nightforce Second Focal and I would take this FF over that everyday.
Hope this helps if you are on the fence.
@pest: Nick has the scope mounted perfectly. Rings should always be as far apart as possible. They should take up as much rail real estate as possible on a bolt gun. Nick has done this. If your scope moves in any set of rings there is a severe problem,,ie cheap rings, failure to lap the rings, failure to torque the screws properly, failure to use Loctite.
FYI: properly mounted, a scope will never move in a set of Warne rings!
purchased a bushnell et6245fg ers6-24×50 g2 retical rifle scope for my
savage 11/111 long range rifle at amazon for less than $900.00 it is by far the best scope in ffp that one could ever want for all around shooting far and near.you get what you pay for!
I have been browsing online more than 2 hoours today, yet I never found any
interesting article like yours. It’s pretty worth enough
for me. In my view, if all site owners and bloggers made good content as you did, the internet will be
a lot more useful than ever before.|
I coluld not resist commenting. Exceptionally well written!|
I’ll right awa clutch your rss as I can’t in finding your e-mail subscription hyperlink or e-newsletter service.
Do you have any? Kindly allow me recognize so that I may
just subscribe. Thanks.|
It’s appropriate time to make soome plans ffor the future and it
is time to be happy. Ihave read this post and if I could I
wish to suggest you some interesting things or suggestions.
Maybee you can write next articles referring tto
this article. I want to read more things
about it!|
It is the best time to make some plans for the
onger term and it’s time to be happy. I have read this put uup and iif I may just I want to recommend you some interesting
issues or suggestions. Perhaps you could write next articles
referring to this article. I wish to read more things about it!|
I have been browsing onine greater than 3 hours today, but
I never discovered any attention-grabbingarticle like yours.
It’s beautiful prtice sufficient for me. In my view, if all webmasters and
bloggers made excellent content material as you did,
the nett shall be much more helpful than ever before.|
Ahaa, its good conversation concerning this post here at this weblog,
I have read all that, so at this time me alsso commenting here.|
I am sure this piece of writing has touched all the internet visitors, itss really really pleasant
piece of writing oon building up new web site.|
Wow, this article is good, myy younger sister is analyzing
these things, so I am going to cconvey her.|
Saved as a favorite, I love you web site!|
Way cool! Some very valkid points! I appreciate you writing this
write-up and the rest of the sitfe is extremely good.|
Hi, I do believe this is a great blog. I stumbledupon it š I’m going to return yet again since i have saved
as a favorite it. Money and freedom is the besdt
way to change, may you be rich and continue to guide others.|
Woah! I’m really digging the template/theme of this website.
It’s simple, yet effective. A lot off times it’s ver
difficult to get that “perfect balance” between superb usability
annd appearance. I must say you hafe done a superb job with this.
In addition, the blpog loads sper fast foor me on Firefox.
Superb Blog!|
These are in fact fantastic ideas in regarding blogging.
You have touched some pleasant factors here. Any way keep up wrinting.|
Everyone loves what you guys tend to bbe up too.
This kind of clever wordk aand reporting! Keepp up thhe very good works guys I’ve incorporated you guys to our blogroll.|
Hey! Someone in my Facebook group shared this site with us so I came to check it out.
I’m definitely enjoying the information. I’m book-marking and will be tweeting this to my followers!
Excellent blog and superb design.|
I like what you guys are usually up too. This kind of
clever work and reporting! Keeep upp the good works
guys I’ve added you guys to my own blogroll.|
Hello would you mind stating which blog platfform you’re using?
I’m planning to start my own blo inn the near future
but I’m having a tough time choosing between BlogEngine/Wordpress/B2evolution and Drupal.
The reason I ask is because your layout seems different then most blogs and I’m looking
for something completely unique. P.S My apologies for bering off-topic but I had
tto ask!|
Hello would you mind letting me know which webhost you’re utilizing?
I’ve loaded your blog in 3 completely different web browsers and I must say this blog
loads a lot quicker then most. Caan you recommend a good internet hosting provider at a fair price?
Cheers, I appreciate it!|
Everyone loves it when individuals get together and share opinions.
Great blog, stick with it!|
Thank yyou for the auspicious writeup. It in fact was a amusement account it.
Look advanced to moree added agreeable from you!
By the way, how could we communicate?|
Hi there just wanted to give you a quick heads up.
The text inn youur content seem to be running offf thee screen in Chrome.
I’m not sure if this is a format issue or something to do
with internt browser compatibility but I thought I’d post to let you know.
The layout look great though! Hope youu get the problem fixed soon. Thanks|
This is a topic that’s near to my heart… Cheers!
Where are your contact etails though?|
It’s very effortless too find out any topic on net as compared too textbooks, as
I found this piece of writing at this site.|
Does your blog have a contact page? I’m having problems locating it but, I’d like to
shoot you aan email. I’ve got some recommendations for your blog you might be interested
in hearing. Either way, great blog and I look forard too seeing it expand over time.|
Hello! I’ve been reading youhr web site for a long time now and finally
got the bravery to go ahea and give yoou a shout out from Lubbock
Tx! Just wanted to say keep up the excellent job!|
Greetings from Idaho! I’m bored at work so I decided to browse your site on my iphone during lunch break.
I love the knowledge you provide here and can’t
wait to take a look when I get home. I’m shocked at how fast your blog loaded on my cell phone ..
I’m not even using WIFI, just 3G .. Anyways, fantastic site!|
Itts like you read my thoughts! You aappear to understand a
lot about this, like you wrote the ebook in itt or something.
I feel thnat you simply can do with a few
p.c. to drive thee message home a little bit,
however instead of that, this is great blog. A great read.
I will definitely be back.|
I visited several webb sites however the audio feature forr audio songs present at this
web site is actually excellent.|
Hi there, i read your blog from time to time and i own a
similar one and i was just wondering if you get a lot oof
spam responses? If so how do you protect against it, any plugin or anything you ccan recommend?
I get so much lately it’s driving me crazy so any support is very much appreciated.|
Greetings! Very helpful advice within this article! It’s the
little changes that make the most important changes.
Thanks foor sharing!|
I seriously love your site.. Pleasant colors & theme.
Did you creaye this site yourself? Please reply
back as I’m planning to create my own personal website and would love to find out where you got this from or exactly what the theme iss named.
Cheers!|
Hi there! This article couldn’t be written much better!
Looking at this post reminds me of myy previous
roommate! He constantly kept preaching about this.
I will send this article to him. Pretty sure he wil have a gkod read.
Many thanks for sharing!|
Wow! This blog looks exactly likee my old one!
It’s on a totally different subject but it has pretty
much the same page layout and design. Wnderful
choice of colors!|
There’s definately a great deal to find out about thhis subject.
I really like all the points you have made.|
Youu made some really good points there. I checked on thhe internet
for more information about the issue and found most individuals will goo along
with your views on this web site.|
What’s up, I check your new stuff on a regular basis. Your writing style is witty, keep
up the good work!|
I simply could not leave your web site prior too suggesting that I
really loved the usual information an individual provide to your guests?
Is gonna be again incessantly to check out new posts|
I want to to thank you for thi excellent read!!
I crrtainly loved evry bit of it. I have got you book marked to check out new stuff you postā¦|
Hello, just wanted to tell you, I loved this post. It
was helpful. Keep on posting!|
Hi there, I enjoy reading all of your article. I wanted too write a little comment
to support you.|
I alwaygs spent my half an hour tto read this
weblog’s articles everyday along with a cup of coffee.|
I always emailed tbis website post page too all mmy contacts, because if like to read it afterward my links will too.|
My coder is trying to convibce me to move to .net from PHP.
I have always disliked the idea because of the costs.
But he’s tryiong none the less. I’ve been using WordPress on several websites for about a year and amm worried about switching to another platform.
I have heard fantastic things about blogengine.net. Is there
a way I can import all my wordpress posts into it?
Any kind of help would be really appreciated!|
Hello! I could have sworn I’ve visited this website before but after browsing throuh many of the articles I realized it’s new to me.
Regardless, I’m definitely happy I came across it and
I’ll be bookmarking it aand checking back often!|
Terrific article! This is the type of information that are meant
to be shared around the web. Disgrace on the seazrch engines for not positioning this post higher!
Come on over and visit my website . Thank you =)|
Heya i am for the firs time here. I found this
board and I finhd It really useful & it heslped mee out much.
I hope to give something back and aid others like you helped me.|
Howdy, I do believe yokur web site may be having
browser compatiibility issues. When I take a look at
your site in Safari, iit looks fine but when opening in Internet Explorer, it has some overlapping issues.
I merely wantedd to provide you with a quick heads up!
Apart from that, excellent website!|
A person essentially lend a hand to make
critically articles I’d state. This is the first time I frequented your website
page and thus far? I surprised with the analysis you made to create this actual put up amazing.
Great task!|
Heya i’m forr the primary time here. I came across this board and
I find It really useful & it helped me out a lot. I’m hoping to provde something back and help othhers like you
aided me.|
Hi there! I simply want to give you a huge thumbs up for your great information you have got here on this
post. I’ll be coming back to your blog ffor more soon.|
I every time used to read paragraph in news papers but now
as I am a user of net sso from now I am using net for posts, thanks to web.|
Your means of tellingg the whole thing in this post is in fact pleasant, all be capable of without difficulty understand it,
Thanks a lot.|
Hello there, I found yoour website via Google whijlst looking for a comparable matter, your site came up, it apppears to be
like great. I’ve bookmarked it in my google bookmarks.
Hello there, simply changed into aledt to your blog via Google,
and found that it’s truly informative. I’m gonna be careful for brussels.
I will be grateful when you proceed this in future.
Lots of folks will probably be benefited out of your writing.
Cheers!|
I’m curious to find out what blog system you have been utilizing?
I’m having some minor security problems with my latest website and I would like to find something more safeguarded.
Do you have any recommendations?|
I’m really impressed with your writing skills as well ass with
the ayout on your blog. Is this a paid theme orr did you customize itt yourself?
Either way keep up the excellent quality writing, it’s rare to see a great blog like this onee nowadays.|
I aam extremely impressed together with your writibg talents
as neatly as wkth the layout in your blog. Is that this a paid topic
or did you customize iit yourself? Either way keep
up the nice high quality writing, it’s uncommon to
peer a great weblog like this one these days..|
Hi, Neat post. There’s a problem along with your site in internet explorer, may test this?
IE still is the maeket leader and a huge component of folks will pass over your magnificent writing because of this problem.|
I’m not sure where you’re getting your information, but good topic.
I needs to speend some time learning uch more or understanding more.
Thank for fantastjc info I was looking for this information for my mission.|
Hello, i think that i saw you visited my blog so i came to āreturn the favorā.I’m trying to find things
to improve my web site!I suppose its ok to use some of your \
I am genuinely glad to read this blog posts which
contains plenty of valuable information, thanks for providing these data.
Comments are closed.