Introduction
The pursuit of precision is a journey that demands the best equipment, and at the heart of that quest lies the rifle scope. For hunters, target shooters, and anyone who values accuracy, the scope is a critical component, serving as their window to the target. The market is saturated with options, each vying for a place atop your rifle. Today, we delve into a highly regarded, yet often overlooked, contender: the Burris Fullfield II 4.5-14×42 scope. This isn’t just another product review; this is a thorough examination designed to reveal the scope’s true capabilities and whether it warrants a place on your firearm. We’ll dissect its features, evaluate its performance, and ultimately help you determine if it’s the right fit for your shooting needs.
The Burris Fullfield II series has earned a reputation for providing quality optics at a price point that makes it accessible to a wide range of shooters. The 4.5-14×42 model, in particular, offers a versatile magnification range, making it suitable for various shooting scenarios. But does its performance live up to the promise? Let’s find out.
Specifications and the Details That Matter
Before we assess its performance, let’s get acquainted with the specifications that define this scope. Understanding these details is crucial to forming an accurate assessment. The 4.5-14×42 designation, in itself, tells a great deal: it refers to a scope offering a magnification range from 4.5x to 14x, with an objective lens diameter of 42 millimeters. This range allows for close-range shooting and a magnification level sufficient for longer-distance targets.
The objective lens is critical; it’s the portal through which light enters the scope. The 42mm diameter provides a balance between light gathering capability and overall scope profile. A larger objective lens gathers more light, improving performance in low-light conditions, but can also add to the scope’s weight and overall size.
The tube diameter, a key element in mounting and adjustment, is another crucial specification. The Fullfield II 4.5-14×42 typically features a tube diameter of one inch. This is a common standard, ensuring broad compatibility with mounting rings.
The heart of any scope is its reticle, the aiming point visible within the lens. The Burris Fullfield II 4.5-14×42 is offered with a variety of reticle options. The Ballistic Plex reticle is a popular choice, designed to help shooters compensate for bullet drop at extended ranges. It features a series of holdover points calibrated for common hunting calibers. Other reticle options may include a Fine Plex, favored for its simplicity and clear sight picture. Choosing the right reticle depends on your shooting style and the typical distances at which you engage targets.
Eye relief, the distance between your eye and the scope’s eyepiece, is another key consideration. The Burris Fullfield II generally offers a comfortable eye relief, typically around four inches. This is a generous amount, crucial for preventing the dreaded scope bite—a painful consequence of recoil that can occur if your eye is too close to the eyepiece.
The field of view, measured at a given distance (usually one hundred yards), defines the width of the image visible through the scope. A wider field of view is generally preferable, particularly at closer ranges, as it allows for easier target acquisition and a better sense of the surrounding environment.
Click value refers to the amount the point of impact shifts on the target with each click of the adjustment turrets. The Fullfield II typically features MOA (Minute of Angle) adjustments, where each click moves the point of impact by a quarter inch at one hundred yards. This fine-tuning capability allows you to accurately zero your rifle and make precise adjustments for windage and elevation.
Construction matters greatly in any scope, directly affecting its durability and longevity. The Fullfield II is constructed with a focus on ruggedness. Its design commonly utilizes aircraft-grade aluminum, providing a robust foundation that can withstand the rigors of hunting or target shooting. The scope is also built to be waterproof and fogproof, generally through nitrogen purging. This means that the internal components are protected from moisture and condensation, ensuring clear vision regardless of environmental conditions.
The weight and dimensions of the scope are also important. This is a consideration for the balance and handling of your rifle. The Fullfield II models are designed to strike a balance between durability and manageable weight.
Performance Revealed: The Optics, Accuracy, and Handling Experience
The moment of truth arrives when we evaluate the scope’s performance under real-world conditions. Optical clarity is the foundation of any scope’s effectiveness. The glass used in the Fullfield II is coated to enhance light transmission and reduce glare. This results in a bright and clear image, even in challenging lighting conditions. The image sharpness and resolution are generally good throughout the magnification range, allowing for clear target identification, especially with the higher magnifications used for more distant targets. The contrast and color accuracy provide a natural-looking image, aiding in target acquisition and shot placement.
The adjustment system is crucial for achieving accurate shots. Tracking ability, the ability of the scope to maintain its adjustments, is crucial for long-range shooting. The Fullfield II typically provides consistent and reliable adjustments, allowing you to dial in your shots with confidence. The scope’s turrets should provide positive and tactile feedback, with each click easily felt and heard.
When your rifle recoils, you want the scope to hold zero, the point where your bullet hits the target. The Fullfield II is designed to withstand recoil and maintain its zero, ensuring your shots land where you intend.
Ease of use is another essential aspect of performance. The turrets should be easy to operate, offering clear markings and a smooth feel. The focus ring and magnification ring should also be easy to manipulate, allowing for quick adjustments in the field. The eye relief should be comfortable, ensuring you can quickly acquire the target without straining your eye. The scope’s overall design should feel intuitive and ergonomic.
Advantages and Limitations: The Full Spectrum of Capability
Let’s examine the advantages of the Burris Fullfield II 4.5-14×42. One of the main selling points of the scope is its value for the price. It delivers excellent performance at a cost that makes it an attractive option for many shooters. The scope’s durable construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use, from harsh weather conditions to the bumps and jostles of hunting. The clear optics, particularly when considering the price point, provide a bright and crisp image. The scope can be used for a wide variety of shooting activities, including hunting, target shooting, and long-range plinking. The available reticle options further enhance the scope’s versatility, allowing you to tailor it to your specific shooting needs.
Of course, no scope is perfect. Some potential limitations exist. While the optical quality is good, it may not match the performance of premium scopes. The low-light performance might be limited compared to more expensive options. The scope’s overall features may not be as advanced as those found in more expensive models. These are minor drawbacks that have to be weighed against the scope’s affordability and overall performance.
Comparative Analysis: Finding Your Place in the Market
To truly understand the value of the Burris Fullfield II 4.5-14×42, it’s necessary to compare it to other scopes within the same price range. Competitors may include scopes from brands like Vortex, Nikon (though they have since discontinued their scope production), and Leupold. While each brand offers its own strengths, the Burris often shines in terms of its balanced performance and its exceptional value proposition. It typically delivers clearer optics and more robust construction than some of its competitors. The Burris often comes at a lower cost than other scopes that offer a similar magnification range and level of performance.
Who Should Consider This Scope: A Target Audience Assessment
The Burris Fullfield II 4.5-14×42 is well-suited for a variety of shooters. Hunters who need a versatile scope for different terrains and game sizes will find it a great choice. Target shooters looking for an accurate and reliable scope without breaking the bank will be pleased with its performance. Recreational shooters, who enjoy plinking or long-range shooting, will appreciate the scope’s magnification range and clarity.
The Final Verdict: Is the Investment Worth It?
In conclusion, the Burris Fullfield II 4.5-14×42 scope is a solid performer that provides excellent value. It delivers clear optics, a durable construction, and a versatile magnification range at a price that makes it accessible to a wide range of shooters. It’s a reliable choice for various shooting activities, whether you’re hunting, target shooting, or engaging in recreational shooting. The scope does offer a few minor limitations, but the benefits are undeniable.
So, is the Burris Fullfield II 4.5-14×42 scope worth the purchase? Absolutely. It’s a smart investment for anyone seeking a quality scope without exceeding their budget. It offers an impressive combination of features, performance, and affordability, making it a strong contender in the market. The Burris Fullfield II 4.5-14×42 is a smart choice that provides a great value for the price.
