Bread Crumb Link
Banner
 

Shop search

Shop categories

Shop pages

  • Buyer's Guide
  

Bushnell® Binocular Tech Talk

A binocular consists of two optical systems that are joined by a hinge and (typically) share a common focusing mechanism. The ability to create an image for both eyes simultaneously provides a realistic perception of depth. Binoculars are available in a great variety of sizes, magnifying powers and features to suit any purpose or preference.

Talk Binocular
Prism Systems Prism Glass Eye Relief
Roof Prism System Coated Optics Eyeglass Wearers - Eyecups
Porro Prism System Types of Coatings Diopter Adjustment
Waterproof/Fogproof Field-of-View (F.O.V.) Rainguard®
Magnification (Power) Resolution PC-3® Phase Coating
Objective Lens Size Exit Pupil Rubber Armor

Prism Systems
The prism system of a binocular reduces the size needed to contain a long optical path and turns what would be an upside-down image right-side-up. There are two types of prism systems, roof and porro.

Roof Prism SystemRoof Prism System
In roof prism binoculars the prisms overlap closely, allowing the objective lenses to line up directly with the eyepiece. The result is a slim, streamlined shape in which the lenses and prisms are in a straight line. Roof prism binoculars are less bulky and more rugged than an equivalent porro model.


Porro Prism SystemPorro Prism System
In porro prism binoculars the objective or front lens is offset from the eyepiece. Porro prism binoculars provide greater depth perception and generally offer a wider field-of-view. Because of the simplicity of this system, some of the best values can be with a porro design.


Waterproof/Fogproof
Some binoculars are O-ring sealed and nitrogen-purged for total waterproof and fogproof protection. These models can withstand complete immersion in water and stay dry inside. The interior optical surfaces won't fog due to rapid temperature change or humidity.

Magnification (Power)
Binoculars are often referred to by two
numbers separated by an "x". For example: 8x32. The first number is the power or magnification of the binocular. With an 8x32 binocular, the object being viewed appears to be eight times closer than you would see it with the unaided eye.

Objective Lens Size
The second number in the formula (8x32) is the diameter of the objective or front lens. The larger the objective lens, the more light that enters the binocular and the brighter the image.

Prism Glass
Most optical prisms are made from borosilicate (BK-7) glass or barium crown (BaK-4) glass. BaK-4 is the higher quality glass yielding brighter images and high edge-to-edge sharpness.

Coated Optics
Lens surface coatings reduce light loss and glare due to reflection for a brighter, higher-contrast image with less eyestrain.

Types of Coatings:
Coated - A single layer on at least one lens surface.
Fully Coated - A single layer on all air-to-glass surfaces.
Multi-Coated - Multiple layers on at least one lens surface.
Fully Multi-Coated - Multiple layers on all air-to-glass surfaces.

Field-of-View (F.O.V.)
The side-to-side measurement of the circular viewing field or subject area. It is defined by the width in feet or meters of the area visible at 1000 yards or meters. A wide-angle binocular features a wide field-of-view and is better for following action. Generally, the higher the magnification, the narrower the field-of-view.

Resolution
Resolution, or definition, is the ability of a binocular to distinguish fine detail and retain clarity.

Exit Pupil
Refers to the size of the circle of light visible at the eyepiece of a binocular. The larger the exit pupil, the brighter the image. To determine the size, divide the objective lens diameter by the power (an 8x32 model has an exit pupil of 4mm).

Eye Relief
The distance a binocular can be held away from the eye and still present the full field-of-view. Extended or long eye relief reduces eyestrain and is ideal for eyeglass wearers.

Eyeglass Wearers - Eyecups
Bushnell® binoculars come with twist-up, pop-up or soft rubber fold down eyecups which go down for eyeglass wearers. These options allow everyone to see the entire field-of-view.

Diopter AdjustmentDiopter Adjustment
A "fine focus" adjustment ring usually provided around one eyepiece to accommodate for vision differences between the right and left eyes.


Rainguard®
Our exclusive, patented, hydrophobic (water-repellent) coating on which condensation from rain, fog or snow forms in much smaller droplets than on standard coatings. Smaller droplets scatter less light, which results in increased light transmission and a clearer image. Makes the binocular useful even when looking directly into the driving rain.

PC-3® Phase Coating
Found on the best roof prism binoculars, this chemical coating is applied to the prisms to enhance resolution and contrast. Would not provide an advantage on porro prism models.

Rubber Armor
Rubber armor provides multiple benefits. It helps protect the binocular from the bumps and scratches that come with day-to-day use. It provides a comfortable gripping surface for making them easier to hold on to. It's easy to wipe clean after a tough day in the field. And it suppresses noise if the binocular bumps aluminum or other non-rubber surfaces, which might otherwise spook wildlife.


Bushnell® Laser Rangefinder Tech Talk

An optical device comprised of high-quality image intensifier tubes and optics that amplify existing light to allow you to see in conditions too dark for the naked eye.

Talk Laser Rangefinder
Through-the-lens LCD Display
How a Laser Rangefinder Works
Reflectivity of Target Types

A. Targeting Modes Scan
The Scan mode allows you to pan across the landscape while viewing a continuously updated LCD display of the distances between you and the targets you scan with the viewfinder.
Rain
This feature compensates for precipitation to guarantee an accurate distance measurement through rain or snow.
Zip
Zip allows you to accurately measure longer ranges (beyond 150 yards) when looking through foreground clutter like brush or branches.
Reflector
This feature increases the maximum measurement range for most highly reflective objects.

Rangefinder display diagram

Laser Rangefinder Features:
B. Meters/Yards
You can quickly choose between these standard measuring units with a simple press of a button.
C. Reticle
The distance to objects targeted in these crosshairs will be displayed on the Distance Readout with the press of a button.
D. Battery Indictor
Flashes when battery power is low.
E. Target Quality Gauge
Gauge indicating amount of energy pulses being received back from the target.

Through-the-lens LCD Display
Bushnell® Yardage Pro® rangefinders are fast and easy to use because everything you need to know is displayed on our built-in, through-the-lens LCD (Liquid Crystal Display).

How a Laser Rangefinder Works
Bushnell's Yardage Pro rangefinders use an invisible, eye-safe Class 1 Laser beam (as classified by the FDA) which is "bounced" off distant objects with the press of a button. Then, the rangefinder's high-speed digital clock measures the time it took for a laser beam to reach a target and return to the unit. Next, using advanced digital electronics, the rangefinder instantly calculates the distance within + / - 1 yard and shows the range in either yards or meters on a through-the-lens LCD Display. The entire process is so fast that less than a second elapses between the time you press the button to generate a laser beam to the time the exact range to your target is displayed.

Reflectivity of Target Types
Because rangefinders "bounce" a laser beam off the target in order to take a measurement, their range is partially determined by the reflectivity of the target. In other words, hard or "reflective" targets - like a rock cliff or semi-truck - can be measured at greater distances than soft surface targets - like a deer. Ranges for moderately reflective targets, like trees, fall somewhere in the middle. Most experienced hunters will use their rangefinder to frequently estimate ranges to near and distant landmarks before they actually encounter a game animal. By "pre-measuring" ranges to spots where a trophy is likely to appear, they can concentrate on making an accurate shot when the moment of truth arrives.


Bushnell® Spotting Scopes Tech Talk

A high-powered, compact optical instrument used to view distant objects like birds, wildlife, boats and landmarks.

Talk Spotting Scopes
Coated Optics Magnification (Power) Roof Prism System
Types of Coating Near or Close Focus Porro Prism System
Exit Pupil Objective Lens Size Rainguard®
Eye Relief Prism Glass Resolution
Field-of-View (F.O.V.) Prism Systems Waterproof/Fogproof
Folded Light Path

Coated Optics
Coatings on lens surfaces reduce light loss and glare due to reflection, resulting in a brighter, higher-contrast image with reduced eyestrain. Bushnell® spotting scopes are coated with a microscopic film of magnesium fluoride. More coating leads to better light transmission.

Types of Coating
Coated - A single layer on at least one lens surface.
Fully Coated - A single layer on all air-to-glass surfaces.
Multi-Coated - Multiple layers on at least one lens surface.
Fully Multi-Coated - Multiple layers on all air-to-glass surfaces.

Exit Pupil
The exit pupil refers to the size of the column of light that exits a spotting scope. The larger the exit pupil, the brighter the image. To determine the size, divide the objective lens diameter by the power. Thus, a 15x45 model has an exit pupil, or useable light, of 3mm (45/15 = 3mm).

Eye Relief
The distance a spotting scope can be held away from the eye and still present the full field-of-view. Extended or long eye relief reduces eyestrain and is ideal for eyeglass wearers.

Field-of-View (F.O.V.)
Field-of-view is the side-to-side measurement of the circular viewing field or subject area. It is defined by the width in feet or meters of the area visible at 1000 yards or meters. A wide field-of-view is better for following fast-moving action or scanning for wildlife. Generally, the higher the magnification, the narrower the field-of-view.

Folded Light Path diagramFolded Light Path
A combination optical configuration using lenses and mirrors to create a total scope length much shorter than the total focal length of the system. This provides a compact design yielding long focal length performance.

 


Magnification (Power)
Spotting scopes are often referred to by numbers separated by an "x". For example: 15-45x60. The first number is the power or magnification of the spotting scope. With a 15-45x60 variable power spotting scope, the object being viewed appears to be 15-45 times closer than you would see it with the unaided eye.

Near or Close Focus
The closest you can be to an object and maintain visual clarity. Multi-Position Eyepiece Bushnell's exclusive multi-position eyepiece is available on our 78-7350 and 78-7360 Spacemaster® models. This revolutionary eyepiece features an infinite number of viewing positions between straight-thru and 90 degrees - providing flexibility for viewing comfortably in any situation.

Objective Lens Size
The number after the "x" in the formula: (15-45x60) is the diameter of the objective or front lens. The larger the objective lens, the more light that enters the spotting scope and the brighter the image.

Prism Glass
Most optical prisms are made from borosilicate (BK-7) glass or barium crown (BaK-4) glass. BaK-4 is the higher quality glass yielding brighter images and high edge-to-edge sharpness.

Prism Systems
The prism system turns what would otherwise be an upside-down image right-side-up.

Roof Prism System diagramRoof Prism System
The prisms overlap closely, allowing the objective lenses to line up directly with the eyepiece. The result is a slim, streamlined shape in which the lenses and prisms that magnify and correct the image are in a straight line.

 

Porro Prism System diagramPorro Prism System
The objective or front lens is offset from the eyepiece. Porro prisms provide greater depth perception and generally offer a wider field-of-view.

 

Rainguard®
Our exclusive, patented, hydrophobic (water-repellent) coating on which condensation from rain, fog or snow forms in much smaller droplets than on standard coatings. Smaller droplets scatter less light which results in increased light transmission and a clearer image.

Resolution
Resolution, or definition, is the ability of a spotting scope to distinguish fine detail and retain clarity.

Waterproof/Fogproof
Some scopes are sealed with O-rings and nitrogen-purged for waterproof and fogproof protection. These models are able to withstand complete immersion and remain dry inside.


Bushnell® Night Vision Tech Talk

An optical device comprised of high-quality image intensifier tubes and optics that amplify existing light to allow you to see in conditions too dark for the naked eye.

Talk Night Vision
Types of Night Vision Infrared (I.R.) Illuminator Phosphor Screen
Angle or Field-of-View Objective Lens Photocathode
Bright Light Protection Circuit Built-In Dual-Beam Infrared Illuminators Resolution
Eyepiece Focus Image Intensifier or Intensifier Tube

How does it work?
1. Image intensifier tube
2. Phosphor screen
3. Objective lens
4. Infrared illuminator
Night Vision diagram Night Vision diagram
How Does It Work?
  1. Available light (energy) is collected by the objective lens and focused on the image intensifier.
  2. Inside the intensifier a photocathode is "excited" by the light and converts the energy into electrons.
  3. The electrons accelerate across an electrostatic field inside the intensifier and strike a phosphor screen (like a monochrome TV screen) which emits an image that you can see. This acceleration of electrons provides gain and enhances the image.

Types of Bushnell® Night Vision

Generation 1
Does not require an active infrared light source. Instead it amplifies available ambient light.

Advanced Night Vision
Utilizes fiber optic bundles to eliminate distortion and noise resulting in a high-resolution, high-contrast premium image. Superior contrast allows you to see dark subjects against darker backgrounds. Lower distortion renders a
flatter, less rounded image with crisper details.

Night Vision Monocular
A Night Vision device for use with one eye.

Audio Monocular
Features direct sound amplification technology.
Headphones, boom microphone and recording port included.

Night Vision Binocular
Two complete sets of optics and image intensifiers that are connected and share a common power supply.

Angle or Field-of-View
The measure of the angle defining the field visible through the Night Vision system at a distance of 100 yards.

Bright Light Protection Circuit
An electronic circuit that turns the power to the Night Vision device down or off when it is exposed to bright light (such as automobile headlights). This protects the image intensifier and extends its life. The device will recover and resume normal operation in 1-2 minutes.

Eyepiece Focus
Used to match your Night Vision scope or binocular to your specific eyesight.

Infrared (I.R.) Illuminator
Provides a light source for the system to amplify, yielding enhanced images in very low light conditions such as caves where no ambient light is available for amplification.

Objective Lens
Collects all available light and focuses it on the image intensifier. It also provides image magnification. The best objective lenses have low magnification (5x or less), are high-speed (f2 or faster) and are coated for maximum efficiency in the near-infrared bandwidth.

Built-In Dual-Beam Infrared Illuminators
Allows you to adjust the I.R. from low to high power according to your needs - high beam for pin-point illumination, and low beam for wide-angle illumination.

Image Intensifier or Intensifier Tube
The active component in a Night Vision system that amplifies light and presents a usable image.

Phosphor Screen
Positioned at the back of the intensifier tube, the green phosphor screen renders a visible Night Vision image. The human eye is most sensitive to green contrasts.

Photocathode
Converts light (photon energy) into electrons (electrical energy) which are then amplified in the intensifier. The objective lens focuses available light on the photo-electric surface of the photocathode which is excited and passes electrons within the tube.

Resolution
A measure of the ability to render and display a detailed image. Image intensifier resolution remains constant and is expressed as the maximum number of line pairs per millimeter (lp/mm) that can be discerned when a black-and-white stripe pattern is focused on the photocathode.  


Bushnell® Telescope Tech Talk

An optical instrument used for viewing distant objects usually in the night sky.

Types of Telescopes How To Choose
Refractor Refractors
Reflector Reflectors
Maksutov-Cassegrain Eyepieces
Talk Telescope Mounts
Barlow Lens Types of Telescope Mounts
Erecting Lens Easy Track® Mount*
Finderscope Equatorial Mount
Focal Length Kinematic Mount*
Focusing Knob Yoke Mount
Objective Lens Size (or Aperture) Tripod
Magnification (Power) Types of NorthStar® Telescopes
Penta Mirror Technology* Real Voice OutputT*
Resolution "GO TO" Computerized Star Locator*
Rotary Power Turret*
*An exclusive feature of Bushnell® models.

Types of Telescopes

Refractor TelescopeRefractor
An optical system that utilizes a series of glass lenses to refract or bend the light from a distant object such that it can be focused to a point and magnified by an eyepiece. Popularized by Galileo in the 17th century, it is sometimes referred to as a Galilean refractor.

Reflector TelescopeReflector
The optical system in a reflector uses a primary mirror to reflect the light from a distant object such that it can be focused to a point and magnified by an eyepiece. Popularized by Sir Isaac Newton in the 17th century, it is sometimes referred to as a Newtonian reflector.

Maksutov-Cassegrain TelescopeMaksutov-Cassegrain
A design that utilizes a spherically curved front lens element in conjunction with a similarly curved primary mirror. This configuration provides incredibly sharp images in a compact folded-light path package. The total optical system provides a focal length much longer than the actual optical tube body length.

Talk Telescope

Barlow Lens
An auxiliary lens that increases the power by a factor. For example, a 2x Barlow doubles the magnification of the telescope.

Erecting Lens
Lens used with a refractor telescope when viewing land-based objects to correct the normally upside-down image provided by an astronomical telescope.

Finderscope
On most astronomical telescopes a lower powered finderscope with a wider field-of-view lets the user quickly locate the object to be viewed by the high-magnification main telescope. There are two types of finderscopes, optical and red dot.

Focal Length
The measured light path of the optical system (tube length), typically measured in millimeters.

Focusing Knob
Controls the rack and pinion focusing system. Permits smooth movement of eyepiece for precise, sharp images.

Objective Lens Size (or Aperture)
The second number in the formula (100x4.5") is the diameter of the objective lens or mirror. The aperture relates directly to how bright images will appear and how much detail is revealed. The larger the objective lens, the better. The size of the telescope's objective lens, or aperture, limits the amount of power that can be used effectively. As the magnification of an object increases, the brightness of the image decreases. This is because the light gathered by the telescope is being spread over a larger area. Aperture also limits the clarity of an image at increased magnification. When magnified beyond an aperture's recommended power, the image dims and becomes fuzzy.

Magnification (Power)
Telescopes are often referred to by two numbers separated by an "x". For example: 100x4.5". The first number is the power or magnification of the telescope. With a 100x4.5" telescope, the object being viewed appears to be 100 times closer than you would see it with the unaided eye. The magnification of a telescope is determined by dividing its focal length by the focal length of the eyepiece being used. For example, a 500mm telescope with a 5mm eyepiece would magnify objects 100x. Thus, a telescope can provide nearly any magnification required depending on the focal length of the eyepiece used. Since most objects in the sky are rather large, high magnification isn't necessary. Rather, a telescope that gathers lots of light is needed to make dim objects appear brighter and sharper. The power or magnification contributes to the overall size and bulk of the telescope. This is because as the power increases, so must the physical size of the objective lens.

Penta Mirror Technology*
This patented Bushnell® technology breakthrough allows for left-to-right correct view of the stars (not backwards - as in most telescope models) taking the guesswork out of where to move the telescope. This feature provides unparalleled ease of use for finding and tracking objects with a 90 degree viewing angle and 1.25" eyepiece adapter.

Resolution
Resolution, or definition, is the ability of a telescope to distinguish fine detail and retain clarity.

Rotary Power Turret*
This patented Bushnell feature allows for magnification and accessory changes to occur through a simple twist of the turret or accessory dial. Accessories are incorporated into the telescope so there are no loose parts, and magnification and accessory changes can be made instantaneously to suit viewing conditions.

How To Choose

When selecting a telescope, consider which target objects you plan to explore as well as your level of experience. For viewing most night sky objects, you'll want a telescope with as much aperture as possible. Keep in mind that as the size of the objective lens or mirror increases, so does the size of the telescope. So be sure to select a telescope that isn't too heavy to manage or too complicated for you to set up - especially if portability is a necessity.

Refractors
Refractors are less affected by atmospheric instabilities, making them perfect for observing the moon and planets. Perfect for first-time and novice astronomers, small refractors are lightweight, portable and require very little maintenance. And, if you're interested in viewing both land and celestial objects, refractors are equipped for both uses.

Reflectors
Reflectors feature larger apertures for a wide range of viewing at an affordable price. Designed with the eyepiece located at the top of the tube, reflectors are more comfortable to use for viewing night-sky objects such as nebulae, the moon, planets and galaxies. Reflectors tend to be heavier and larger than refractors.

Eyepieces
Lower power eyepieces provide a wider field-of-view and a brighter image making them ideal for viewing the full moon and planets, star clusters, nebulae and the constellations. To focus in on the finer details of the moon and planets such as mountains, ridges and craters, use an eyepiece with higher magnification.

Mounts
There are two basic types of telescope mounts, the altitude-azimuth (or altaz) and the equatorial. Altaz mounts are the easiest to maneuver and are ideal for first-time astronomers. Equipped with a manual control or motor drive that allows you to follow the movement of objects across the night sky, equatorial mounts are ideal for more experienced astronomers.

Types of Telescope Mounts

The mount secures the telescope to the tripod. It allows you to move your telescope horizontally and vertically. There are two primary types of telescope mounts, altitude-azimuth (or altaz) and equatorial. Altaz mounts move up-down and left-right. Equatorial mounts are tilted to align with the rotational (polar) axis of the Earth.

Easy Track® Mount*
An altaz mount that allows quicker and easier set-up and storage and reduces image shake caused by wind or ground tremors.

Equatorial Mount
An advanced telescope mount that compensates for the Earth's rotation.

Kinematic Mount*
Undoubtedly the most precise, yet simple telescope mount in years, this high-precision altaz mount uses the principle that it requires three points to form a plane. Designed for optimum shape, the Kinematic mount features three points of contact in both horizontal and vertical planes.

Yoke Mount
A U-shaped altaz mount.

Tripod
A tripod serves as a steady platform for the telescope to allow hands-free use. Because of its powerful magnification, even the slightest jiggle of the telescope is enough to move it from its target. Tripods feature three adjustable legs so the telescope can be used even when the ground is uneven.

Types of NorthStar® Telescopes

Types of NorthStar® Telescopes The NorthStar allows any beginner or amateur to navigate the skies like a professional.

Real Voice OutputT*
Talking telescope describes the night sky with the touch of a button in a real human voice - an interactive and educational way to explore the heavens.

"GO TO" Computerized Star Locator*
This exciting feature utilizes an on-board computer and advanced motorized technology to allow you to quickly locate and automatically follow over 20,000 pre-programmed astronomical objects with the touch of a button. Educational descriptions of each object are also provided.

* An exclusive feature of Bushnell® models. 


Bushnell® Riflescope Tech Talk

A riflescope indicates a bullet's point of impact and makes distant targets and surrounding objects appear closer. A riflescope is recommended for safer, more accurate shooting in the field and on the range.

Talk Riflescopes How To Choose
Coated Optics Ocular Lens Mechanics
Types of Coating Parallax Image Quality
Exit Pupil Precision Adjustments Magnification
Eye Relief Rainguard® Low Power
Field-of-View (F.O.V.) Resolution Medium Power
FireFlyT Rugged Body Construction High Power
Magnification (Power) Sealed, Waterproof and Fogproof Types of Reticles
Objective Lens Size
Custom reticle program

Diagram of a Riflescope

Riflescope diagram

Talk Riflescopes

Coated Optics
Coatings on lens surfaces reduce light loss and glare due to reflection for a brighter, higher-contrast image with reduced eyestrain. Bushnell® riflescopes are coated with a microscopic film of magnesium fluoride. More coatings lead to better light transmission.

Types of Coating
Coated - A single layer on at least one lens surface.
Fully Coated - A single layer on all air-to-glass surfaces.
Multi-Coated - Multiple layers on at least one lens surface.
Fully Multi-Coated - Multiple layers on all air-to-glass surfaces.

Exit Pupil
The size of the column of light that leaves the eyepiece of a scope. The larger the exit pupil, the brighter the image. To determine the size, divide the objective lens diameter by the power (a 4x32 model has an exit pupil of 8mm).

Eye Relief
The distance a scope can be held away from the eye and still present the full field-of-view. Bushnell riflescopes provide an extra margin of comfort and recoil safety with extended eye relief and soft neoprene eyepiece guards.

Field-of-View (F.O.V.)
The side-to-side measurement of the circular viewing field or subject area. It is defined by the width in feet or meters of the area visible at 100 yards or meters. A wide field-of-view makes it easier to spot game and track moving targets. Generally, the higher the magnification, the narrower the field-of-view.

FireFly exampleFireFlyT
Developed by Bushnell® engineers especially for the lowest light hunting situations, the patented FireFlyT reticle illuminates the crosshairs after only a quick 10-second flashlight charge. Unlike battery-powered reticles, which often fail at the absolute worst times - the FireFly will glow green and you will see your crosshairs against your quarry.

Magnification (Power)
Riflescopes are often referred to by two numbers separated by an "x". For example: 4x32. The first number is the power or magnification of the scope. With a "4x", the object being viewed appears to be four times closer than when seen with the unaided eye.

Objective Lens Size
The second number in the formula (4x32) is the diameter of the objective or front lens in millimeters. The larger the objective lens, the more light that enters the scope, and the brighter the image.

Ocular Lens
The lens closest to your eye.

Parallax
A condition that occurs when the image of the target is not focused precisely on the reticle plane. Parallax is visible as an apparent movement between the reticle and the target when the shooter moves their head or, in extreme cases, as an out-of-focus image. Bushnell center fire riflescopes under 11x are factory-set parallax-free at 100 yards; rim fire and shotgun scopes at 50 yards. Scopes of 11x or more have an adjustable objective to adjust for parallax.

Precision Adjustments
The windage and elevation adjustments affect accuracy. Windage is the horizontal (left-to-right) adjustment, usually the side turret of the scope. Elevation is the vertical (up-and-down) adjustment, usually the top turret of the scope. Bushnell scopes feature 1/4 M.O.A. (1/4" at 1 windage 00 yards) or finerand elevation adjustments with audible clicks for greater precision.

Rainguard exampleRainguard®
Bushnell's permanent, patented, hydrophobic (water-repellant) lens coating prevents fogging by causing condensation from rain, sleet, snow or even your own breath to bead up into much smaller droplets than on standard coatings. Smaller droplets scatter less light which results in a clearer, brighter view. Now the hunter won't miss the shot of a lifetime because of rain or accidentally breathing on his eyepiece.

 

 

Resolution
Resolution, or definition, is the ability of a scope to distinguish fine detail and retain clarity.

Rugged Body Construction
Bushnell riflescopes use a high-durability aluminum alloy. They are also anodize-finished and are sealed to protect the inside from the elements. Each riflescope is rustproof, virtually scratch-proof and a beautiful complement to the most expensive firearm.

Sealed, Waterproof and Fogproof
Bushnell riflescopes remain crystal-clear in all types of weather. All 1" and 30 mm diameter riflescopes are not only nitrogen-purged to remove any vestige of internal moisture, but they are also O-ring sealed to prevent the entry of dust or moisture.

How To Choose

A quality riflescope is the key to a successful day at the range or in the field. Riflescopes bring distant targets and surrounding objects up close and personal allowing safer, more accurate shooting. They gather and utilize available light making it possible to shoot in lower light conditions and allowing the hunter to hunt from dawn to dusk.

Pairing just the right riflescope with your gun and ammunition will help you get the most out of each and every shot. Selecting the correct scope to fit your needs involves a number of considerations from mechanics and construction to image quality and magnification. Keep in mind when and where you shoot most often and choose a riflescope with features that best fit the requirements of your particular sport.

Mechanics
The inner workings of a scope have a direct effect on shooting accuracy. As adjustments are made during sight-in, the cam tube, which holds the reticle and lenses in place, moves inside the scope. To stay on target and produce a quality image, this tube must be strong enough to absorb the impact of heavy recoil during shooting and remain in place. When selecting your riflescope look for precision (positive) adjustments, point-of-impact consistency, reticle strength and waterproof, fogproof and shockproof durability. You'll also want to consider weight, bulk and ergonomics, which are especially important during long days in the field.

Image Quality
For optimum image quality, it is important that the optical system of a riflescope deliver as much light as possible to the eye of the shooter. The lighter or brighter the image, the sharper the resolution and the clearer the shot. The quality of the glass, lens design and optical coatings all contribute to a riflescope's ability to manage light effectively. When selecting your scope, consider magnification, objective lens size, exit pupil, resolution, field-of-view and eye relief.

Magnification
Choose a riflescope with the magnification or power that is appropriate for your particular application.

Low Power - (examples: 1.5-6x32, 2-7x32) These riflescopes are ideal at close range and for shooting moving targets. They provide the most effective light management and produce a brighter sight picture and wider field-of-view - even in low-light conditions and thick brush.

Medium Power - (examples: 3-9x40, 2.5-10x50) Select these riflescopes for hunting big game at medium range.

High Power - (example: 6-18x40, 6-24x40) These riflescopes are best for target shooting, when the target is motionless and for varmints and other small game.

Types of Reticles
A reticle is the crosshair or pattern placed in the eyepiece of the scope which establishes the gun's position on the target.

Types of reticles

Custom reticle program

Custom reticles are available for adjustable objective Elite, riflescopes only on a custom basis. Reticles available by scope model are listed below. To order your custom reticle, mail your scope along with a check for $55.00 to:

Bushnell, Elite Riflescopes
Attn: Custom Reticles
8500 Marshall Drive
Lenexa, KS 66214

Your scope will be returned in approximately 6 weeks.

Model Description Reticle (M.O.A.)
32-4124A 4-12 x 40 1/4, 1/2 Dot
42-4164M 4-16 x 40 1/4, 1/2 Dot
42-4165M 4-16 x 50 1/4, 1/2 Dot
42-6244M 6-24 x 40 1/4, 1/2 Dot, Mil Dot
42-8324M 8-32 x 40 1/4, 1/2 Dot, Mil Dot