The Bushnell Legend 4-12x40 riflescope sits comfortably in the mid-range of hunting optics, offering a compelling blend of features and affordability. This review delves deep into its performance, build quality, and overall value, helping you decide if it's the right scope for your needs.
Optics and Clarity
The heart of any riflescope is its optical performance, and the Legend 4-12x40 doesn't disappoint. Bushnell utilizes fully multi-coated lenses, resulting in bright, crisp images even in low-light conditions. The 40mm objective lens gathers ample light, crucial for dawn and dusk hunting scenarios. While not at the level of high-end scopes, the clarity is excellent for its price point, offering sharp detail and good color rendition. Chromatic aberration (color fringing) is minimal, even at the edges of the field of view.
Eye Relief and Field of View
Eye relief is a crucial factor for comfortable shooting, especially with higher-powered scopes. The Legend 4-12x40 provides approximately 3.7 inches of eye relief, adequate for most shooters even with recoil. The field of view is reasonably wide at lower magnifications, allowing for quick target acquisition. As you zoom in, the field of view naturally narrows, but remains sufficient for precise shots.
Build Quality and Durability
Constructed with a durable one-piece tube, the Legend 4-12x40 is built to withstand the rigors of the field. It's nitrogen-purged and waterproof, ensuring reliable performance in various weather conditions. The external construction is robust, featuring a matte black finish that reduces glare. While it's not designed for extreme abuse, the Legend 4-12x40 displays solid construction that should hold up well under normal hunting conditions.
Adjustment Turrets and Reticle
The capped windage and elevation turrets offer precise adjustments, with ΒΌ MOA clicks that are tactile and easy to feel. The reticle is typically a standard duplex, providing a good balance between aiming precision and target acquisition. The reticle's visibility against various backgrounds is generally good, although it can appear slightly thick at higher magnification.
Performance in the Field
Having personally tested the Bushnell Legend 4-12x40 on several hunting trips, I can confirm its dependable performance. The clarity and brightness were consistently impressive, aiding target identification in varying light conditions. The adjustment turrets were easy to use, even while wearing gloves. The scope remained zeroed reliably, with no noticeable shift in point of impact during recoil.
Value and Conclusion
The Bushnell Legend 4-12x40 offers excellent value for its price. It provides a good balance of features, performance, and durability, making it a suitable choice for a wide range of hunting applications. While not competing with top-tier scopes in terms of absolute clarity or feature set, its performance surpasses its price point significantly.
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Good optical clarity and brightness
- Durable construction
- Reliable tracking and zero retention
- Adequate eye relief
Cons:
- Reticle can appear slightly thick at higher magnification.
- Not as feature-rich as higher-end models.
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars. The Bushnell Legend 4-12x40 is a highly recommended riflescope for hunters seeking a reliable and affordable optic that delivers strong performance in the field. It's a solid choice for those who prioritize value without sacrificing quality.