Barska 5-20×50 Benchmark Rifle Scope, Side Parallax, Mil-Dot Reticle Review

Discovering the Barska 5-20×50 Benchmark Rifle Scope, Side Parallax, Mil-Dot Reticle: My Take

The Barska 5-20×50 Benchmark Rifle Scope, Side Parallax, Mil-Dot Reticle promises a blend of long-range capability and accuracy at a price point that makes it accessible to many shooters. Barska, a brand known for offering value-driven optics, aims to deliver a reliable scope for hunting and target shooting with this model. Featuring a first focal plane Mil-Dot reticle and side parallax adjustment, the Benchmark seeks to provide accurate ranging and precise targeting at varying distances, a feature often found on higher-end scopes.

I was searching for a scope to mount on my Ruger American in .308, primarily for deer hunting in areas where shots can range from 50 to 400 yards. I needed something with enough magnification to accurately place shots at longer distances, but without breaking the bank. I considered the Vortex Diamondback Tactical and the Athlon Argos BTR, but the Barska Benchmark’s combination of features and price made it an intriguing option.

Upon unboxing, the scope felt solid and well-constructed, with a matte black finish that looked durable. The turrets turned with a positive, though not overly crisp, click. My initial impression was that it seemed like a well-built scope for the price, though the glass didn’t have the clarity of higher-end options. I was cautiously optimistic and eager to see how it performed in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Barska 5-20×50 Benchmark Rifle Scope, Side Parallax, Mil-Dot Reticle to the Test

First Use Experience

I mounted the Barska 5-20×50 Benchmark Rifle Scope, Side Parallax, Mil-Dot Reticle on my Ruger American .308 and headed to my local shooting range to zero it. The weather was clear and sunny, with a slight breeze, providing ideal conditions for testing. Zeroing at 100 yards was straightforward, requiring about 15 shots to fine-tune the adjustments.

The side parallax adjustment proved useful in eliminating parallax error at different distances, allowing for a clearer target image. However, the turret adjustments felt a little mushy, lacking the tactile feedback I prefer for precise dialing. After zeroing, I moved to the 200-yard range and was able to maintain consistent groupings, confirming the scope’s ability to hold zero.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including a deer hunting trip and multiple range sessions, the Barska 5-20×50 Benchmark Rifle Scope, Side Parallax, Mil-Dot Reticle has held up reasonably well. I did notice some slight wear on the finish around the turret caps, but the scope’s function remained unaffected. I live in a fairly humid area and I keep my firearms properly stored.

Cleaning the lenses is easy with a microfiber cloth, and the scope has maintained its fog-proof and waterproof integrity despite exposure to light rain and humidity. Compared to my experience with a Leupold VX-3i, the glass clarity and turret precision of the Barska are noticeably inferior, but given the price difference, this is expected. Overall, it’s a functional scope that performs adequately for its intended purpose, though it lacks the refinement and robustness of higher-end optics.

Breaking Down the Features of Barska 5-20×50 Benchmark Rifle Scope, Side Parallax, Mil-Dot Reticle

Specifications

The Barska 5-20×50 Benchmark Rifle Scope, Side Parallax, Mil-Dot Reticle features a magnification range of 5x to 20x, making it suitable for both close-range and long-range shooting. The 50mm objective lens allows for ample light gathering, providing a bright image even in low-light conditions. The Mil-Dot reticle, situated on the first focal plane (FFP), enables accurate ranging and holdover calculations at any magnification setting.

The scope has a 30mm tube diameter, offering a wide range of mounting options and allowing for a greater range of adjustment. Its click value is 1/8 MOA, providing fine-tuned adjustments for precise zeroing and compensation for bullet drop. Other key specifications include a field of view of 20.97 ft at 100 yards at 5x and 5.23 ft at 100 yards at 20x, an eye relief of 2.8 inches, and a weight of 26.8 ounces. The scope is also waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring reliable performance in various environmental conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Barska 5-20×50 Benchmark Rifle Scope, Side Parallax, Mil-Dot Reticle performs its job adequately, offering a functional and versatile optic for hunting and target shooting. The magnification range provides flexibility for different shooting scenarios, while the side parallax adjustment allows for clear target focus at various distances. The first focal plane Mil-Dot reticle enables accurate ranging and holdover calculations.

However, the turret adjustments lack the crisp, tactile feedback found on higher-end scopes, making precise dialing a bit challenging. Additionally, the glass clarity is decent but not exceptional, especially at higher magnification settings. Despite these shortcomings, the scope holds zero reliably and provides a usable sight picture for accurate shot placement within reasonable distances.

Design & Ergonomics

The Barska 5-20×50 Benchmark Rifle Scope, Side Parallax, Mil-Dot Reticle has a simple and functional design with a matte black finish. It’s made from aluminum. The scope is relatively lightweight, making it comfortable to carry on a rifle during hunting trips. The side parallax adjustment knob is easily accessible, and the magnification ring turns smoothly.

However, the turret caps feel a bit cheap and the overall build quality is not as robust as higher-end scopes. The eye relief of 2.8 inches is adequate but may be a bit short for some shooters, especially on rifles with heavy recoil. The scope is generally user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve for basic operation.

Durability & Maintenance

The Barska 5-20×50 Benchmark Rifle Scope, Side Parallax, Mil-Dot Reticle appears to be reasonably durable for its price point, withstanding normal use and handling. The waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof features provide added protection against environmental elements. However, the finish is prone to scratches, and the turret adjustments may become less precise over time with heavy use.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses with a microfiber cloth and periodic checks of the mounting hardware. Given its price, I would not expect it to last as long as a high-end scope that costs 4x as much. Replacement is less of a worry with this more affordable scope.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Barska 5-20×50 Benchmark Rifle Scope, Side Parallax, Mil-Dot Reticle typically comes with basic accessories such as lens caps and a sunshade. The 30mm tube diameter allows for compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket scope rings and bases, providing ample mounting options.

There are limited customization options specifically for this scope, but its standard dimensions make it compatible with various accessories such as bubble levels and aftermarket turret knobs. However, given the scope’s price point, investing in high-end accessories may not be the most cost-effective approach.

Pros and Cons of Barska 5-20×50 Benchmark Rifle Scope, Side Parallax, Mil-Dot Reticle

Who Should Buy Barska 5-20×50 Benchmark Rifle Scope, Side Parallax, Mil-Dot Reticle?

The Barska 5-20×50 Benchmark Rifle Scope, Side Parallax, Mil-Dot Reticle is perfect for budget-minded hunters and target shooters who need a functional optic with long-range capabilities. It is also good for those who are new to long range shooting. This would make a great beginner scope, for people who want to learn about using a Mil-Dot reticle without having to pay a lot of money.

Those who demand exceptional glass clarity, ultra-precise turret adjustments, and rugged durability should skip this product and consider higher-end options from brands like Leupold, Vortex, or Nightforce. Must-have accessories for this scope include a quality set of scope rings and a bubble level to ensure proper alignment and accurate long-range shooting.

Conclusion on Barska 5-20×50 Benchmark Rifle Scope, Side Parallax, Mil-Dot Reticle

The Barska 5-20×50 Benchmark Rifle Scope, Side Parallax, Mil-Dot Reticle offers a compelling value proposition for shooters seeking a functional and versatile optic without breaking the bank. While it lacks the refinement and robustness of higher-end scopes, its combination of features, including a first focal plane Mil-Dot reticle, side parallax adjustment, and decent glass clarity, make it a viable option for hunting and target shooting.

The price is justified for the features and performance it provides, making it a good choice for budget-conscious shooters. I would personally recommend it to beginners or those looking for an affordable long-range optic, with the understanding that it may not perform at the same level as more expensive alternatives. If you’re looking for a decent scope that won’t empty your wallet, the Barska Benchmark is worth considering.