A Legacy of Excellence
Bushnell’s reputation is built on a foundation of reliable, well-built optics. They have consistently delivered scopes that perform admirably in the field, offering clear views and accurate adjustments. The Legend series, in particular, has garnered a loyal following. It’s a series that understands the needs of the average hunter and shooter, offering a balance between performance, build quality, and a price point that’s accessible. The Legend line, at its heart, is about bringing high-quality optics to a broader audience.
Features That Matter
Let’s explore the key features that define a Bushnell Legend scope and contribute to its popularity. The specific model reviewed will dictate exact numbers, but the core components remain consistent across the Legend family. The core component of any scope is the lens. Bushnell leverages its technologies to ensure bright, clear images.
Lens Coatings
A defining characteristic of the Legend series is its commitment to high-quality lens coatings. Multi-coated lenses are standard, often with full multi-coating. This means multiple layers of anti-reflective coatings are applied to all air-to-glass surfaces. The result? Increased light transmission, reduced glare, and a brighter, more vibrant image. In low-light conditions, this can make a significant difference, helping you identify your target when other scopes might fall short.
Magnification and Objective Lens
The magnification range will vary depending on the specific model. Whether it’s a 3-9x40mm or a 4-12x40mm, each offers flexibility for different shooting distances and hunting scenarios. The objective lens diameter, indicated by the second number (e.g., 40mm) is also crucial, it dictates the amount of light entering the scope. Larger objective lenses typically gather more light, further enhancing image brightness, particularly in twilight hours.
Reticle Options
The Bushnell Legend scope typically offers several reticle options. These are the crosshairs (or aiming points) you see when looking through the scope. Some popular options include the Multi-X reticle (a simple, versatile design) or specialized reticles designed for ballistic compensation (DOA, etc.). The choice of reticle often depends on the user’s preferred shooting style and the distances at which they expect to be shooting.
Tube Diameter
The tube diameter is a vital consideration for mounting the scope to your firearm. Bushnell Legend scopes often use a one-inch tube diameter, which is standard and allows for a wide range of compatible mounting rings. A proper mount ensures that the scope is securely attached to the rifle and maintains its zero.
Adjustments and Turrets
The turrets are the external dials used to adjust windage (left to right) and elevation (up and down). The Legend scopes provide clear, tactile clicks for each adjustment, making it easy to fine-tune your aim. Adjustment increments are typically MOA (minute of angle), which is a standard unit of measurement in the shooting world. The overall range of adjustment is also an important factor, allowing you to zero the scope effectively and make necessary corrections at various distances.
Construction and Durability
Bushnell understands that a scope needs to withstand the rigors of the field. The Legend series often employs durable construction materials like aircraft-grade aluminum. They are also built to be waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. This ensures that the scope remains reliable even when exposed to harsh weather conditions or accidental impacts.
Optical Performance: Seeing is Believing
The real test of any scope is its optical performance. When you look through a Bushnell Legend scope, what can you expect?
Clarity and Brightness
The fully multi-coated lenses work to deliver exceptionally bright and clear images. In good lighting conditions, the image will be crisp and vibrant. Even in low-light scenarios, the scope performs admirably, allowing you to see your target with relative ease.
Image Quality
The sharpness and resolution of the image are impressive for the price range. You’ll be able to distinguish fine details, and the image will remain relatively sharp across the entire field of view. Distortion is usually kept to a minimum.
Color Fidelity
The scope generally provides accurate color representation. Colors appear natural, which is important for target identification and understanding the surrounding environment, especially when hunting.
Light Transmission
The lens coatings are designed to maximize light transmission. This helps to maximize the amount of light that reaches your eye, giving you a brighter image.
Field of View
The width of the field of view varies based on magnification. The field of view is still ample and provides a good balance between target acquisition and situational awareness.
Build Quality and Durability: Built to Last
A scope is an investment, and you want it to withstand the test of time and challenging conditions. The Bushnell Legend scope offers solid build quality.
Materials and Construction
The use of high-quality materials, such as durable aluminum, is a testament to the scope’s longevity. The scopes are designed to withstand the bumps and drops that are inevitable during outdoor use.
Waterproofing and Fog-proofing
The seals and construction of the scope keep water and moisture out. The scopes also undergo rigorous testing to ensure they are fog-proof. These features are critical for hunting and shooting in diverse weather conditions.
Shock Resistance
The scope is designed to withstand the recoil of various firearms. The internal components are built to withstand the shock of repeated firing.
Finish
The finish of the scope is typically matte, providing a non-reflective surface. This is beneficial when hunting as it reduces the chances of alerting game animals.
Reticle and Turrets: Precision at Your Fingertips
The reticle and turrets are the tools you use to aim and adjust your shot.
Reticle
The reticle in a Bushnell Legend scope is usually well-designed and user-friendly. The simplicity of the Multi-X reticle, for instance, is ideal for many hunters. The reticle will typically be easy to see and allows for quick target acquisition.
Turrets
The turrets are designed for precise adjustments. The clicks are typically audible and tactile, making it easy to adjust for windage and elevation. The turrets often feature clear markings that help you to keep track of your adjustments.
Ease of Use: Getting Started
A good scope should be easy to use and integrate with your shooting system.
Mounting
The Bushnell Legend scope is designed to be easily mounted on a variety of rifles. A variety of mounting rings are typically compatible.
Adjustments
The adjustment dials are typically smooth and easy to operate. Making adjustments to the magnification and focus is straightforward.
Eye Relief and Eye Box
The eye relief is generous, which is a plus, providing a comfortable shooting experience. The eye box is usually forgiving, meaning you don’t have to be perfectly aligned to see a full image.
Real-World Performance: Putting it to the Test
In the field, the Bushnell Legend scope excels. Whether you are hunting or target shooting, the scope will provide a bright, clear view. The adjustments are precise, and the reticle makes it easy to aim. The scope has demonstrated its ruggedness by withstanding the bumps and jars of actual use. The clarity and light transmission often make the difference during dawn and dusk.
Pros and Cons: A Balanced Perspective
Advantages
Excellent Value: The Bushnell Legend scope offers a combination of performance and features at a competitive price.
Clear Optics: The scope provides bright, clear images with good light transmission.
Durable Construction: The scope is built to withstand the rigors of the field.
User-Friendly: The scope is easy to mount, adjust, and use.
Disadvantages
There may be other scopes available with slightly more advanced features at higher price points.
Depending on specific models some features may not be present.
Value and Comparison: The Bottom Line
The Bushnell Legend scope delivers exceptional value. When comparing it to similar scopes, it is clear that this scope offers features and performance levels normally associated with scopes costing significantly more. This scope is a fantastic entry point for anyone looking for quality glass.
A Final Verdict
The Bushnell Legend scope is a fantastic optic that offers an excellent balance of performance, durability, and value. It is a great choice for hunters and shooters of all levels.
Where to Buy and Recommendations
Bushnell Legend Scopes can be found at most major sporting goods retailers and online marketplaces. Look for a specific model and shop around for the best deal.
The Bushnell Legend scope is a testament to the brand’s commitment to providing quality optics at an accessible price point. The scope is highly recommended for anyone looking for a reliable, high-performing optic.
