February 16, 2018
By Game & Fish Staff
Turkey optics lowdown: Like shells and guns, optics have greatly improved over the last few decades. Here are a few of our favorites.
By Brian Lovett
Leupold VX-1 2-7x33mm with Turkey Plex Reticle This scope's unique Turkey Plex reticle will change the way you aim at a gobbler. When the scope is at 7X — the power at which it was designed to be used — the head of an adult turkey at 40 yards fills the center circle. If the head appears to be twice that large, the bird is at 20 yards, and if it's half that size, the turkey is 80 yards away. The scope's heavy post quickly draws the eye to the center point, which is critical when a bird appears suddenly. Low profile and waterproof, the scope is built to Leupold's demanding requirements for ruggedness and reliability. leupold.com
Trijicon MRO This sight takes the science of red-dot scopes to the next level. Light and rugged, the Miniature Rifle Optic is tough enough for combat yet perfect for turkey hunting. It mounts easily, zeros quickly and is waterproof to 100 feet. The MRO's large objective lens and shortened optical length almost eliminate the tunnel vision or tube effect common with many red dots, and its 2-MOA dot is bright, crisp and perfectly sized for quick target acquisition. The sight features eight brightness settings and provides five years of continuous use from a 2032 battery. It's parallax free, with infinite eye relief for quick, accurate engagement. trijicon.com
Bushnell AR Optics Enrage Red Dot This new member of Bushnell's AR Optics line has eight brightness settings that lock, with an off setting between each. The Enrage's 2-MOA red dot is housed in multi-coated optics, providing a bright view and offering easy target acquisition. It has a 1X magnification and weighs just 9.8 ounces. The sight has the longest battery life of any Bushnell red dot, lasting twice as long as previous models. In addition, the Enrage includes an optional high-rise mount. bushnell.com