Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 mm 30 mm Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope Review

A Practical Look at the Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 mm 30 mm Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope

My journey into high-magnification optics often felt like navigating a maze of compromise. I needed something that could offer clarity and precision for longer shots, but without the eye-watering price tag of true premium glass. The Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 mm 30 mm Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope entered my world as a potential answer, promising versatility across a wider magnification range than I typically explored for my hunting and target practice needs. My previous go-to scopes, while excellent for their intended purposes, lacked the reach I sometimes craved, and I was looking for a robust, reliable upgrade. Initial impressions were positive; the heft and build quality felt solid, a testament to its aircraft-grade aluminum construction. I had considered a few other options, including some vortex models known for their clarity, but the Burris seemed to strike a better balance between features and cost. There was an immediate sense of cautious optimism – the promise of enhanced visual capability without breaking the bank.

Real-World Testing: Putting Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 mm 30 mm Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for this optic were a mix of my local deer hunting lease and a familiar prairie dog shooting area. The 6-24x magnification range proved immediately useful, allowing me to identify distant targets with surprising detail and comfortably acquire my sights on game animals at ranges exceeding 400 yards. I found the Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 mm 30 mm Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope to be remarkably user-friendly; the turrets and side parallax adjustment offered smooth, positive engagement without any real learning curve. My only immediate quirk was the parallax adjustment, which at its closest setting, while advertised for 10 yards, became fuzzy before reaching that mark, requiring me to back off slightly for a clear image at closer distances.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including a few accidental tumbles from shooting benches and a rather jarring drop from a deer stand (which, thankfully, did not involve the scope hitting the ground directly, but was a significant jolt), this scope has held up remarkably well. Despite the rough treatment, my zero remained true, a characteristic I’ve come to expect from Burris products. The Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 mm 30 mm Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope shows no discernible signs of wear beyond minor cosmetic scuffs, and the optical clarity remains consistently crisp, even in challenging low-light dawn and dusk conditions. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner is all it has needed. Compared to some of the more budget-oriented scopes I’ve used in the past, this Burris optic clearly punches above its weight class in terms of durability and consistent performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 mm 30 mm Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope

Specifications

The Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 mm 30 mm Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope boasts a formidable set of specifications designed for extended-range engagement. Its 50 mm objective lens diameter is a key feature, gathering ample light for a bright and clear image, especially critical at higher magnifications. The 6-24x variable magnification range provides exceptional versatility, allowing for precise target acquisition at distance and a wider field of view at lower settings. Built on a robust 30 mm tube diameter, this scope offers greater internal adjustment for both windage and elevation compared to standard 1-inch tubes, enhancing its long-range capabilities.

The Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticle placement means the reticle’s size remains constant regardless of magnification, simplifying holdover estimation. For those who prefer finer aiming points, the available Fine Plex reticle, along with the SCR MOA and Ballistic 3 options, provides excellent choices for various shooting disciplines. The scope features a side parallax adjustment that focuses from 10 yards to infinity, crucial for maintaining sharp focus at all distances and eliminating parallax error. Its 1/4 MOA click value for adjustments, while standard, offers precise aiming point corrections.

Constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum and finished in a matte black, this optic is built for rugged use. It is also waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof, ensuring reliable performance in adverse weather conditions. The exit pupil ranges from 2.7 mm at 24x to 9.4 mm at 6x, which is typical for this magnification range and objective size. Eye relief is a comfortable 3.3 to 3.5 inches, providing a safe margin for most rifle calibers. The overall length is 15.6 inches, and it weighs in at a substantial 25.6 oz, reflecting its robust construction and larger objective lens.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of core performance, the Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 mm 30 mm Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope excels at its intended purpose: providing clear, magnified views for precise shooting. The optical clarity is genuinely impressive for its price point; colors are rendered naturally, and edge-to-edge sharpness is maintained across the magnification range, which is a significant advantage. While the fine Plex reticle I used was excellent for general hunting and target acquisition, offering a clean aiming point without obstructing the target, the claim of focusing down to 10 yards proved slightly optimistic. At the absolute closest setting, the image was still a touch fuzzy, requiring a slight adjustment outwards to achieve perfect clarity, a minor but noticeable point for very close-range scenarios.

The turrets are audibly and tactilely distinct, with each 1/4 MOA click providing a confident feel. However, user feedback and my own experience suggest that the actual adjustment might be slightly more than advertised—approximately 20% larger than a true 1/4 MOA. This means that while you can certainly achieve precise zero, shooters relying on exact turret dialing for extreme precision might need to re-verify their click values. The side parallax adjustment is a welcome feature, smoothly moving through its range and allowing for quick adjustments to maintain a sharp image, though the lack of yardage markings on the dial is a missed opportunity for quick reference.

Design & Ergonomics

The Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 mm 30 mm Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope sports a utilitarian and robust design, typical of a workhorse optic. The matte finish is non-reflective, a critical feature for hunting and tactical applications where concealment is paramount. Its substantial 30 mm tube feels solid and provides ample mounting surface for rings, contributing to its overall rugged feel. The focus ring and magnification adjustment ring move with a satisfying resistance—not too stiff, not too loose—allowing for controlled adjustments even with gloves on.

Ergonomically, the side parallax adjustment knob is well-placed and easily accessible without needing to break cheek weld. However, as previously noted, the absence of yardage markings on this dial is a minor ergonomic oversight. The Fine Plex reticle, while aesthetically pleasing and functional for many uses, might be too simple for those who rely heavily on complex ranging or ballistic reticles. It’s a clean design, however, allowing the user to focus on the target without visual clutter.

Durability & Maintenance

The Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 mm 30 mm Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope has demonstrated excellent durability in my experience. Its construction from aircraft-grade aluminum and its waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof ratings mean it can withstand significant abuse. I’ve personally subjected it to jarring impacts and varied weather conditions without any degradation in performance or integrity. Cleaning is straightforward; the lenses are easily accessible for cleaning with appropriate optical solutions, and the body can be wiped down with a damp cloth.

One point of recurring user feedback, which I also experienced, is the lack of included lens covers. This is a surprising omission for a scope of this caliber and price, forcing an additional purchase for protection against dust, scratches, and impacts when not in use. While the scope is robust, protecting the lenses remains paramount for long-term performance, and having to buy these separately is an annoyance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 mm 30 mm Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope comes with the essential components needed for mounting and basic use, but notably lacks some expected accessories. Included are the scope itself and likely some basic instruction manual. However, as many users, myself included, have pointed out, lens covers are not provided. This is a significant omission, as they are crucial for protecting the valuable objective and ocular lenses from damage and environmental contaminants.

While the scope itself offers limited internal customization beyond the choice of reticle at the time of purchase, its standard 30 mm tube diameter means it is compatible with a vast array of aftermarket scope rings and mounts from numerous manufacturers. This allows shooters to tailor the mounting solution to their specific rifle and preferred shooting style. The objective bell is also not threaded for a sunshade, which limits the ability to reduce glare in very bright shooting conditions, a feature commonly found on other scopes in this magnification class.

Pros and Cons of Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 mm 30 mm Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope

Who Should Buy Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 mm 30 mm Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope?

The Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 mm 30 mm Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope is an excellent choice for hunters and recreational shooters who need a versatile optic capable of reaching out to longer distances without a premium price tag. It is particularly well-suited for those who engage in varmint hunting, target practice at the range, or general deer hunting where shots might occasionally extend beyond 300-400 yards. Shooters who appreciate a clear, bright image and a robust, durable construction will find this optic a reliable companion. This scope is ideal for someone looking for a step up from entry-level optics, offering enhanced magnification and optical quality.

However, those who demand absolute precision with turret adjustments for competitive long-range shooting or who require the ability to quickly and accurately range targets using their reticle might find its limitations frustrating. It is also less ideal for extreme close-quarters scenarios where the parallax focus is a significant concern. Buyers who are budget-conscious regarding accessories should also be aware of the need to purchase lens covers and potentially a sunshade separately. For optimal use, I’d recommend investing in a good set of scope rings that properly fit the 30 mm tube and ensure a secure mount.

Conclusion on Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 mm 30 mm Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope

The Burris Fullfield IV 6-24×50 mm 30 mm Tube Second Focal Plane (SFP) Rifle Scope stands out as a remarkably capable optic that delivers impressive performance and durability for its price. Its clear, bright optics and wide magnification range make it a fantastic tool for extending your effective shooting distance, whether you’re pursuing game or ringing steel at the range. The robust construction inspires confidence, and the zero retention capabilities are a testament to its reliable build. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the slightly imprecise click values and the initial parallax focus fuzziness at very close range, these are often acceptable compromises at this price point, especially when weighed against its substantial strengths.

The value proposition here is undeniable; you get a lot of optical quality and ruggedness for your money. While the omission of lens covers is an annoyance, it doesn’t fundamentally detract from the core functionality of the scope itself. I would confidently recommend this optic to any shooter looking for a versatile, reliable, and clear scope that can handle a variety of hunting and shooting tasks, provided they understand its limitations regarding extreme precision dialing and very close-range parallax focus. It’s a workhorse that punches well above its weight, offering a solid return on investment for practical field use.