My Real Take on the Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover
The Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover. It’s a seemingly simple product, but one that plays a crucial role in protecting arguably the most important part of your rifle: the optic. For over a decade, I’ve relied on various scope covers in the field, from flip-ups to neoprene sleeves, but the Butler Creek bikini style has always held a certain appeal due to its simplicity and lightweight design.
I was looking for an affordable, low-profile solution to protect the lenses of my hunting rifles during storage and transport. Scratched lenses are the bane of any serious shooter’s existence, and preventative measures are always preferred. The Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover seemed like an ideal solution, offering basic protection without adding bulk or complexity.
Upon receiving the covers, my initial impression was positive. They are lightweight, made of a flexible rubber, and seemed well-suited to their intended purpose. The rubber felt durable enough to withstand some abuse, and the one-piece design eliminated any concerns about losing separate pieces.
Compared to flip-up scope covers, the bikini style is far less bulky and doesn’t interfere with the scope’s adjustments. Compared to a full neoprene cover, it’s much quicker to deploy and stow. While other scope covers offer arguably more robust protection, the Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover shines in its minimalist design.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The price was certainly right, and the design was appealing, but I was eager to see how it performed in real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover on my primary hunting rifle, a .30-06 topped with a Leupold VX-3 3.5-10×40 scope, during a week-long deer hunt in the rugged terrain of the Pennsylvania mountains. The conditions ranged from dry and crisp mornings to wet and snowy afternoons. During my hunt I encountered snow, rain, and general moisture.
The covers were easy to install, stretching snugly over the objective and ocular lenses. They stayed securely in place, even when the rifle was slung over my shoulder while hiking through dense brush. Removing them was just as easy, allowing for a quick shot opportunity when a buck presented itself.
The first time removing them in the field, I was surprised by how easily they could be pocketed. Their thin design makes them convenient for transport. No real issues presented themselves, but I did notice that after a period of rain, some moisture was trapped between the cover and the lens.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover has held up surprisingly well. The rubber hasn’t cracked or become brittle, and the covers still fit snugly on my scopes. There are no visible signs of wear and tear.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth removes any dirt or grime. I’ve experienced no issues with the covers degrading or losing their elasticity.
Compared to previous scope covers I’ve used, the Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover offers a great balance of protection and convenience. While it might not be as rugged as some of the higher-end options, it provides sufficient protection for most hunting and range situations, and its low price point makes it an excellent value.
Breaking Down the Features of Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover
Specifications
The Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover is designed to fit a wide range of scopes with objectives up to 62mm outside diameter. The covers are made of durable rubber, providing a dustproof and moisture-proof seal. It comes in a matte black finish.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40 – 62 mm
- Manufacturer: Butler Creek
- Fabric/Material: Rubber
- Color: Black
- Finish: Matte
- Additional Features: Objective Cap
These specifications are important because they determine the scope’s compatibility and the level of protection offered. The rubber construction provides a degree of impact resistance, and the tight fit prevents dust and moisture from damaging the lens coatings.
Performance & Functionality
The Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover performs its primary function admirably: protecting the scope lenses from dust, moisture, and minor impacts. The covers are easy to install and remove, and they stay securely in place during normal use.
- Strengths: Simple design, lightweight, affordable, and effective at protecting lenses.
- Weaknesses: Not as robust as other scope covers, may trap moisture.
It meets my expectations for a basic scope cover, providing adequate protection without adding unnecessary bulk or expense.
Design & Ergonomics
The Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover features a simple, one-piece design made from flexible rubber. The matte black finish blends well with most scopes and rifles.
There is essentially no learning curve; installation is intuitive and straightforward. The covers are easy to grip and manipulate, even with gloved hands.
Durability & Maintenance
The rubber construction of the Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover is surprisingly durable, and should last for several seasons of regular use. However, keep in mind that rubber can degrade over time, especially with constant exposure to the elements.
Maintenance is minimal. Simply wipe the covers clean as needed with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover is a standalone product and doesn’t require any additional accessories. It’s designed to be a universal fit for scopes with objectives up to 62mm, so there aren’t any specific customization options.
The Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover are compatible with most rifle scopes as long as you get the correct size.
Pros and Cons of Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover
Pros
- Great Value: At under $10, this scope cover offers exceptional value for the level of protection it provides.
- Durable: The rubber construction is surprisingly resilient and can withstand regular use in the field.
- Easy to Use: The simple design makes installation and removal quick and effortless.
- Lightweight & Compact: The bikini design adds minimal bulk to your rifle and can be easily pocketed when not in use.
- Versatile: Fits a wide range of scopes with objectives up to 62mm.
Cons
- Moisture Trapping: Can trap moisture against the lens in wet conditions.
- Limited Protection: Does not offer the same level of impact protection as flip-up or neoprene covers.
Who Should Buy Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover?
The Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who wants a simple and affordable way to protect their scope lenses. It’s especially well-suited for those who prioritize lightweight and low-profile design.
This product might not be ideal for individuals who require maximum protection in extreme conditions or those who prefer the convenience of flip-up scope covers.
A lens cleaning kit is a must-have accessory to deal with any trapped moisture.
Conclusion on Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover
The Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover is an excellent value for the money. It’s a simple, effective, and affordable way to protect your valuable scope lenses from dust, moisture, and minor impacts.
The price is absolutely justified considering the protection you get, especially when you consider the cost of replacing damaged optics.
I would definitely recommend the Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover to anyone looking for a basic and reliable scope cover.
For a minimal investment, you can significantly extend the life and performance of your scope. Don’t wait until your lenses are scratched or damaged; invest in a Butler Creek Bikini Scope Cover today and enjoy worry-free shooting for years to come.