Rifle Scopes Optical clarity: Bushnell 3200 10x vs. Weaver GST 3-10x40

[BoilerUP]

I own two Weaver GS Tactical 3-10x40s from Midway. I like them quite a bit having shot them to 900yd and hunting with them in hardwoods and river bottoms, and think they are the best option for a budget variable power mil/mil optic.

I am considering a Bushnell 3200 10x40 from Midway for a budget range-only rifle to save a few bucks, as I don't think variable power is necessary for that use. I am curious if anybody has used both of these two budget scopes, and if so, how the Bushnell optically compares with the Weaver when it is set on 10x.

 

[Will Fennell]

I've had both, and liked the Weaver slightly better. That being said, I like the 10x SS MUCH better, and have been slowly replacing the Weaver 3-10x40's with Mil/Mil SS's.

 

[ddavis]

I've put them side by side and cannot tell a difference. Obviously there are variations from scope to scope, but I think you'll be happy with the Bushnell for $100 cheaper if you don't need variable power.

 

[ridenrunwv]

I would also recommend a fixed power SWFA SS instead. I have a 10x Bushnell and just bought a 3-15 SS and am considering selling the Bushnell for a 6x SS now. I guess I need to try them both on 10x side by side but I was used to the Bushnell and felt that the SWFA glass was an upgrade when I first used it.

Just thought to add that the SWFA uses a 30mm tube so if you upgrade scopes and decide to sell yours later you will have a better chance of being able to reuse your rings.

 

[SomeOtherGuy]

I've owned one of each, both bought in 2008-09 from MidwayUSA as their mil/mil special models. In my examples with the Weaver was noticeably better for clarity and brightness. They both worked "fine" in very moderate use. I wouldn't buy either one today - I'd look at the SS fixed power, or if the budget allows the Burris MTAC 3.5-10x, which has a gen2 reticle and really good glass relative to its price.