As someone who’s spent the last decade guiding hunts and testing gear in the field, I’ve seen a lot of optics come and go. When it comes to finding a reliable and affordable rifle scope, the Bushnell Legend rifle scope consistently comes up in conversation. I’ve personally used various Bushnell models over the years, and I’m here to give you a detailed, honest review of the Legend series, including the popular 6-18x50 version and the newer Ultra HD options. We’ll dive into performance, features, and ultimately, answer the question: is Bushnell a good scope for your needs?
The Bushnell Legend series is positioned as a mid-range offering from a well-established optics manufacturer. Bushnell has a long history – dating back to 1948 – of providing optics to hunters, sport shooters, and law enforcement. They’re known for offering good value for the money, and the Legend series aims to deliver premium features without the premium price tag. The line includes several configurations, but we’ll focus on the most common: the 6-18x50 and the Ultra HD models.
Several key features define the Bushnell Legend. These include:
The Bushnell Legend scope 6-18x50 is a popular choice for long-range shooting and hunting. Its 6-18x magnification range provides versatility for engaging targets at various distances. The 50mm objective lens gathers ample light, making it suitable for dawn and dusk hunting. I’ve used this scope on several whitetail and pronghorn hunts, and it performed admirably.
In my testing, the 6-18x50 delivered reasonably clear and bright images, even in challenging lighting conditions. The multi-coated optics did a good job of reducing glare and maximizing light transmission. The adjustable objective allowed me to eliminate parallax at different ranges, ensuring accurate shots. However, it’s important to note that at the highest magnification (18x), the image quality can become slightly softer, and eye relief can be a bit tight. REI’s expert advice highlights the importance of proper eye relief for a stable and clear sight picture.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatile magnification range | Image quality can soften at 18x |
| Good light gathering ability | Eye relief can be tight at high magnification |
| Adjustable objective for parallax control | Not as bright or sharp as higher-end scopes |
| Affordable price point | Turret adjustments can feel a bit mushy |
Bushnell recently introduced the Legend Ultra HD series, which aims to address some of the shortcomings of the original Legend scopes. These scopes feature upgraded optics, improved turrets, and a more refined overall design. I’ve had the opportunity to test the 4-16x50 Ultra HD model, and I was impressed with the improvements.
The Ultra HD scopes boast several enhancements:
In my opinion, the Ultra HD series represents a significant upgrade over the original Legend scopes. The improved optics and more precise turrets make a noticeable difference in performance. If you’re a serious hunter or shooter who demands the best possible clarity and accuracy, the Ultra HD is worth the extra investment. However, the original Legend still offers excellent value for the money, especially for casual shooters or hunters on a budget.
One common question I get is: is Bushnell a good scope brand in terms of reliability? Generally, yes. Bushnell has a solid reputation for building durable and reliable scopes. The Legend series, in particular, has received positive bushnell rifle scope reviews from users who appreciate its rugged construction and ability to withstand recoil. However, it’s important to note that Bushnell scopes are not in the same league as some of the higher-end brands like Leupold or Vortex in terms of overall quality and performance.
I’ve personally experienced no major issues with Bushnell scopes over the years. However, I’ve heard reports of some users experiencing problems with turret adjustments or internal fogging. Bushnell offers a limited lifetime warranty on its scopes, which provides some peace of mind. You can find details about their warranty policy on their website.
Here are a few tips to help you choose the right Bushnell Legend scope for your needs:
Regardless of the optics you choose, remember to practice responsible hunting and adhere to the principles of Leave No Trace. This includes packing out all trash, minimizing your impact on the environment, and respecting wildlife. The National Park Service and USDA Forest Service offer valuable resources on responsible outdoor recreation.
The Bushnell Legend rifle scope series offers a compelling combination of performance, features, and affordability. While it may not compete with the top-tier optics on the market, it’s a solid choice for hunters and shooters who want a reliable and accurate scope without breaking the bank. The Ultra HD models represent a significant improvement over the original Legend scopes, offering enhanced optics and more precise adjustments. Ultimately, the best Bushnell Legend scope for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. I hope this review has provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision.