Bushnell Excursion-mil dot: expecting too much?

[M40_A1]

I recently got ahold of a Bushnell Excursion model in mil dot. I'd like to know if mine is par for the model, or sub-par, and would appreciate feedback of first-hand experiences with this model.

I find that when the mag is changed, there is a need to fine tune the focus. Is this normal?

I find that the reticle can be focused for between 15 and 32 power (with some minor in and out focus within that range), but then needs a BIG focus change for anything between 32 and 45 power (or vice versa). Is that par for the course on these?

I only got a very generic spotting scope "manual" with the unit. Did these ever come with model-specific manuals covering reticle focus and operation?

The reticle rotates slightly when the focus is turned one way to the other. When to it's clockwise-most position the reticle is just barely vertical, but tilts slightly counter-clockwise when the focus ring is turned counter-clockwise. Not a big deal, I suppose, as the reticle can be manually turned upright, but I'm wondering if others have experienced this.

The image is blurred (distortion) around the outer 1/3rd at low power (referenced from center), and at higher power the blur actually begins to extend into the periphery of the reticle. Should I expect better?

The reticle itself has some small "dingleberries" hanging from it in spots, which can readily be seen at higher powers. Anyone else notice this?

Thanks.

 

[HillbillyfromAL]

Re: Bushnell Excursion-mil dot: expecting too much?

I'd almost be afraid to send in to be repaired since they don't seem to be making these anymore, but it may be your best bet. I would expect the outer edges to have some distortion, and the focus to be critical at higher powers. The amount of blur your describing I would not. The reticle tilting I haven't really heard much about but at the least I would be asking Bushnell if they all did that or not. The debris on the lens could have been from production, or maybe there's a seal that's gone bad or been compromised. You don't say where your at but if I were you I'd leave it setup outside overnight and check for moisture on the inside early in the morning. If its too cold or dry then get it warm by keeping it near a heater the toss it in the fridge. If the water condensates inside the scope it needs to be fixed.

 

[goober]

Re: Bushnell Excursion-mil dot: expecting too much?

do you know if they intend remaking this model?

 

[HillbillyfromAL]

Re: Bushnell Excursion-mil dot: expecting too much?

I know that no one I've asked has any info on them. I had a mil hash on order through a group buy that fell through. I haven't seen them in stock anywhere either.

 

[goober]

Re: Bushnell Excursion-mil dot: expecting too much?

apppauling PR from Bushnell

 

[ceylonc]

Re: Bushnell Excursion-mil dot: expecting too much?

This topic has come up several times since last September, when Bushnell cancelled the updated version of the Excursion FLP Spotter with Mil-Hash reticle. I have spoken NUMEROUS times with various members of Bushnell's brass, and all have indicated that we are not going to see this spotter anytime soon. As of a conversation with one of these upper management gentlemen about 2 weeks ago, he said this project is not on the drawing board for 2012 and there is no guarantee that it will be resurrected in 2013.

I hate to keep saying it but this spotter, for all the promise & excitement it held, is not on Bushnell's radar. While I would LOVE to be able to come here and say that we're going to have an affordable, quality spotter with ranging reticle, it just isn't coming anytime soon from Bushnell. They know there is a niche market that would gobble them up in a heartbeat (so long as it lives up to the performance & pricing expectations). I have spent over 2 hours, while at SHOT in January and during numerous phone conversations over the last 12 months or so, stumping for the new Excursion spotter. Other dealers & some military contacts have also shown Bushnell that there is a lot of interest in this product. But right now it isn't doable for Bushnell, so we're all going to have to wait or find another option out there.

Sorry to rain on the optimism of folks here, but this just isn't around the corner guys...

Regarding the OP's questions, I don't see where it would hurt to call Bushnell's CS & see how they would handle a warranty issue. This way, you can make a decision how to move forward. Also, ask them if there are any 3rd party contractors who can do the repair and not void the unit's warranty.

Best of luck!
Ceylon
deltaoutdoorsman.com

 

[rhantz]

Re: Bushnell Excursion-mil dot: expecting too much?

I have the same model and while the magnification ring is <span style="text-decoration: underline">VERY</span> hard to turn, I've had none of the other problems you speak of. Over all I'm happy with it, I just don't change the magnification much.