Looking for the best .450 Bushmaster scope? You have come to the right place. Today’s post highlights the best Vortex scopes for 450 Bushmaster and attaches a comprehensive buyer’s guide to help in the quest for a top performer.
There is nothing more frustrating to a hunter whether seasoned or a beginner than a non-performing weapon. The 450 Bushmaster was a breath of fresh optimism when it first hit the market.
The past experiences of outdoor enthusiasts in big game hunting like me and you have led to the rise in popularity of the 450 Bushmaster cartridge.
Shooters are happy with this cartridge because it is large and it could be easily fired from a semi-automatic rifle killing big game in one shot. The 450 Bushmaster is also preferred for its versatility from mid to long-range shooting during hunting expeditions.
What Makes a Great Scope for 450 Bushmaster?
Since the 450 bushmaster is a cartridge generally developed for use in rifles for big game hunting, several factors are crucial for the optimal performance of the rifle.
Key among them is an efficient Riflescope that helps the hunter/shooter to easily land a kill with the first shot so as not to scare the target away.
The features below guarantee a rifle scope that works best with the 450 Bushmaster.
- Long eye relief to ensure the shooter’s eye does not strain on instances of prolonged focusing
- Strong and sturdy construction to ensure durability and performance even on rough terrain
- An illuminated reticle is preferred for better performance in low-light environments
- The second focal plane reticle offers the shooter better options in magnification and estimation
- Capped turrets for easier adjustments without the shooter having to look away from the lens to make the adjustments.
5 Best Vortex Scopes for 450 Bushmaster
Straight-wall cartridges have experienced a significant growth over the years. For enhanced performance with the .450 Bushmaster, a rifle scope is a key addition to your weapon. The following optics made the cut as the best Vortex scopes for 450 Bushmaster.
1) Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
The Crossfire II 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is a pocket-friendly scope while maintaining the features and performance for a perfect big game hunt with the 450 Bushmaster. It allows a flat trajectory and combined with the large bore round it allows for mid to long-range scope.
This particular scope is manufactured with a wide range of magnification levels that gives the hunter the utmost precision. Complementing the wide power range is a state-of-the-art optical system. The lenses are fully multi-coated to increase light transmission and give the shooter crisp images across all the magnification settings.
Durably constructed, Crossfire II 3-9x ranks high among the best Vortex scopes for 450 Bushmaster. The main tube is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum conferring making it tough and rigid to deliver relentless performance for many years.
Weather elements will not slow you down when on a hunt. This scope is purged with nitrogen and fully sealed to ensure weatherproof performance. When focusing the reticle, the reset turrets will let you make the right adjustments to zero after sighting in the rifle scope. The turrets are capped to prevent accidental dials after zeroing on the target.
If you are looking for a medium-range hunting scope for your .450 Bushmaster rifle, look no further than the Crossfire II 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope. Its robust construction, reliable turrets, bright images in almost all lighting conditions and hard-anodized finish to hide your position make this scope the perfect pair for your weapon.
Features
- Fully multi-coated optics enhance light transmission
- Capped windage and elevation turrets for effortless re-indexing to zero
- Fast-focus eyepiece aids in reticle focusing
- Single-piece tube for optimal visual performance
- Superior glass for clarity and high-quality images
- Repeatable, reliable and relentless
- Shockproof, fogproof and waterproof
Pros
- Quick to dial in on the target and reset back to zero
- Easy to target from the long eye relief that gives a clear-cut picture
- Easy on the eye because the lenses are fully multi-coated to protect from glare.
- Reasonably priced
- Covered under the VIP warranty
Cons
- The scope does not come with flip-up scope covers
2) Vortex Viper HS 2.5- 10x44mm Rifle Scope
Harboring an array of phenomenal features, Viper HS 2.5-10x44mm Rifle Scope is a great companion for the .450 Bushmaster. If you are on the hunt for a well-balanced scope for hunting, the Viper HS rifle scope meets your criteria. As one of the best Vortex scopes for 450 Bushmasters, it features superior optics, innovative features and a sturdy body.
Vortex Viper HS rifle scopes are fitted with a superior 4x zoom range that offers magnification versatility enabling consumers an easy target and quick eye relief. The 2.5-10x44mm Viper HS is preferred by shooters and hunters due to its ability to ensure increased windage and elevation travel for optimal adjustment.
This rifle scope is well known for its quality performance in hunting expeditions within hilly areas that are extremely windy. The tube is purged with argon gas and its O-rings are sealed completely to lock out any moisture to keep the interior of the tube fog-free. Engineered with the latest shockproofing standards, this scope will shrug off recoil from the rifle.
Another hallmark of the Viper HS riflescope is the best-in-class optics. The glass used to make the lenses doesn’t compromise light transmission and delivers sharp and images across all the powers.
Furthermore, the lenses have coatings that improve transmission. Externally, the lenses are coated with a scratch-resistant coating so they stay clear for life.
The tube is fitted with capped reset turrets that help maintain a sharp focus. Re-indexing of these turrets is both effortless and flawless. The caps prevent accidental dials after zeroing in the scope. The adjustment knobs are fitted with a precision-force spring system that enhances repeatability and allows for smooth adjustments.
Features
- Ultra-strong 30mm one-piece machined aluminum tube.
- Proprietary coatings to increase light transmission.
- Capped elevation and windage adjustment knobs
- Shockproof
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Ultra-hard and scratch-resistant coating on the exterior of lenses
- Hard-anodized low glare finish conceals your position
- Seamless focusing of the reticle through the fast-focus eyepiece
- Repeatable and tracks excellently.
Pros
- Vivid images for easy aiming
- Relentless performance in all weather conditions
- Clear sight picture and holds zero well
- Easy-to-use controls
- Rugged construction to guarantee durability
- Clear glass with unrivaled resolution
- Easy to make adjustments
- Firm and positive clicks
- Shockproof construction keeps the internal components working at their best
- Covered by the Vortex’s lifetime VIP warranty
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
3) Vortex Diamondback 3.5-10x50mm Riflescope
The Diamondback 3.5-10x50mm is a high-performance riflescope that costs significantly lower compared to its peers with similar features. Reliability is one of the positive aspects that make this Diamondback optic a prime choice among the best Vortex scopes for 450 Bushmaster.
You cannot mention fog-proof and waterproof riflescopes without this particular riflescope being at the top of that list. The tube housing the optics is supported by Vortex’s argon purging technology that locks moisture out arresting internal fogging.
It has an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy construction allowing the hunters and shooters to use it across any terrain conceivable since it is simply indestructible. The durability of the internal lenses to provide magnification over a long period is guaranteed by the O-ring seals that prevent moisture, dust and debris from penetrating.
Another positive attribute of the Diamondback 3-5-10×50 riflescope is top-quality optics. The lenses are coated with multiple anti-reflective coatings to increase light transmission resulting in crisp images. Coupled with high-quality glass, you will have a dependable shooting solution you can rely on regardless of the prevailing light conditions.
The tube housing the optics is fitted with capped reset turrets to facilitate fluent windage and elevation adjustments. Caps offer protection and prevent accidental dials after zeroing in the scope. To ensure smooth power changes, the zoom lens uses the precision-glide erector system.
Features
- Hard-coat anodization that provides a low-glare matte surface
- Multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces
- Fast focus eyepiece allows effortless reticle focusing
- Fitted with a Precision-guide Erector system
- The main tube is made of aircraft-grade aluminum
- Capped windage and elevation adjustment knobs
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Shockproof
- Highly repeatable and tracks excellently
- The reticle is easy to focus through the fast eyepiece
Pros
- A customized dot design to eliminate guesswork and enhance precision
- Accurate as listed reticle sub-tensions maintain the same ideally-sized appearance
- Reasonably priced
- Fully multi-coated optics deliver crystal clear and sharp images
- Easier to use as compared to products with similar features from other companies.
- Perfect for use in a low-light environment
Cons
- Lacks an illuminated reticle
- Accessories are sold separately
4) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Riflescope
Vortex tops the charts in the manufacture of premium rifle scopes. Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Riflescope is one of the finest optics from this manufacturer. The scope is ideal for close-range engages and performs superbly in stretching out your rifle.
This scope ranks high among the best Vortex scopes for 450 Bushmaster. Incomparable versatility and high-quality performance define this optic. Reticle illumination makes this scope stand out. It is perfect for hunting in low-lighting environments.
The Strike Eagle is a true 1x on the low end. The 1-8x24mm scope, in particular, has the versatility that allows the hunters to aim for targets successfully in far and near distances and whatever is in between.
Vortex Strike Eagle is delivered with a complementary thread-in throw lever that enables the shooter to be on target faster even with successive shots. The reticle provides a precise point of aim and the BDC ensures you stay on target no matter the distance you are taking the shot.
The durability of the lens in this riflescope is guaranteed by a superior technology that includes protecting the lens between two layers of glass. The hunter can venture into the woods confident by concealing their positions from dangerous prey through the anodized design of the scope that will not give away their position.
Features
- Thread-in throw lever for swift magnification changes
- Glass-etched reticle for increased durability and reliability
- Top-notch glass with high resolution and color fidelity
- The solid construction of aircraft-grade aluminum
- Scratch–resistant coating keeps lenses clear for the life
- Illuminated reticle for efficiency under low-light environment
- Waterproof
- Shockproof
- Fogproof
Pros
- Covered under the Vortex lifetime warranty
- Easy to use
- Gives the shooter accuracy guided by the AR-BDC3 reticle.
- Perfect for use on automatic rifles
- Unbeatable accuracy on successive shots is boosted by a thread-in-throw lever.
- An illuminated glass-etched reticle
- Makes a great heavy gun scope
- Fits easily and is efficient for hunters who own both rifles and crossbows
Cons
- Insufficient eye relief at higher powers
5) Vortex viper HS 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex viper HS 4-16x44mm is engineered to offer marksmen maximum ease in aiming through an advanced optical system for better zoom. The ease of use extends to well-designed capped turrets that in turn help the shooter to easily adjust height and wind corrections.
This riflescope is built with a strong and sturdy 30mm single-piece tube. A versatile addition to your rifle, the Vortex viper HS 4-16x44mm is highly recommended for outdoor shooting activities where the aiming distances vary because it is easy to set and reset.
The dead hold BDC reticle is designed to boost the hunter’s confidence as it eliminates the need to guess the wind corrections.
Features
- 4x zoom range
- 30mm diameter tube
- Protective lens caps
- Lens cloth
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- XR fully multi-coated lenses
- Second focal plane (SFP) Reticle
- Aircraft-grade Aluminum construction material
- Non-illuminated lens
- Hard anodized finish
- Capped reset turrets
- Precision-force spring system
- Fast focus eyepiece
- MAG-view fiber optic
- Precision-glide erector system
Pros
- Covered under the unlimited lifetime warranty
- Fully transferable from one rifle to another due to its versatility in use
- Enhanced eye relief
- Optimal adjustment options from increased windage and elevation travel
- Clarity of images from the extra-low dispersion glass
- The SFP feature offers better magnification and easier estimation from other riflescopes
- Optimal performance in all weather conditions
- Rugged construction makes it shockproof
- Quicker re-indexing from the capped turrets
- A highly visible reference point for quicker magnification setting
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
Further Reading
- Best Vortex Varmint Scopes
- Vortex Scopes for 300 Win Mag
- Best 350 Legend BDC Scopes
- Leupold Scopes for 45-70
- Best Leupold Scopes for 444 Marlin
Choosing the Best Vortex Scopes for 450 Bushmaster
The Vortex riflescopes are rated as some of the most budget-friendly scopes for use on any rifle. They are especially well suited for use on a 450 Bushmaster cartridge due to their wide variety of features and applications.
There are several Vortex branded rifle scopes that are perfect for use on a 450 bushmaster and below are some of the features that every hunter should look out for when buying an optic:
Construction
Some rifles are designed to produce more recoil than others and therefore a hunter/shooter should always consider a Vortex scope with construction able to absorb recoil.
The high-quality construction of materials like aircraft-grade aluminum synonymous with Vortex rifle scopes is rigid and tough to tolerate any abuse directed towards an optic.
The best Vortex scopes for 450 Bushmaster should feature rugged construction for reliability and durability.
Magnification
The 450 Bushmaster is designed for mid to long-range kills and should therefore be accompanied by a riflescope that can at least achieve a magnification of 3-9x. The 3-9x power range is considered the ideal hunting magnification range but the needs of hunters differ.
Your individual needs and the distance you intend to take shots from should reign when choosing the best scope magnification for your .450 Bushmaster.
The Vortex scopes for 450 Bushmaster outlined above have varying power ranges to mirror the diverse applications of this straight wall cartridge.
Tube Sealing
Vortex rifle scopes with argon/nitrogen purging and O-ring seals are best recommended for hunting as they can be used even in the most extreme weather conditions without the quality of visibility being downgraded.
The advanced sealing methods used at Vortex and dry gas purging are evident in the relentless nature of their optics. The scopes have stood the test of time and can be trusted to deliver outstanding performance in any terrain.
All the Vortex scopes for 450 Bushmaster are engineered with hunter’s needs in mind and when put into use they exceed your expectations. Conquer the fields with a reliable partner.
Read: Best Vortex Spotting Scopes
Budget
Depending on the amount of money that you are willing to spend, there are specific vortex riflescopes that are reasonably priced but still maintain a high level of efficiency with the 450 Bushmaster e.g. The Vortex Diamondback 3.5-10x50mm, among others.
You get what you pay for. This applies to hunting gear as well. A higher price tag is a good indicator of a high-quality optic.
From glass quality and convenience features that improve functionality to type of construction, highly-priced scopes will have extra features to offer you a competitive edge.
While the extra features are well received by shooters, if you will never use them or your skill level doesn’t need them, there is no need for spending your money to get features you will not use.
Read: Best Vortex Scope for 45-70
Field of View & Eye Relief
For a 450 Bushmaster, a scope with a large field of view is highly recommended. Often overlooked when choosing a rifle scope is the eye relief. It refers to the distance from the ocular lens of the scope to your eye.
The distance varies in a variable power scope with the longest distance when using low power and the shortest distance when using the highest power. Scopes manufacturers provide both numbers so you know what to expect when you crank up the scope to the highest power.
Eye relief is important as it will determine whether you get scoped after firing your rifle or not. For the best experience with the 450 Bushmaster, choose a scope with an eye relief of 4 inches.
Bullet Drop Compensator (BDC) Reticle
A BDC Reticle on a vortex rifle scope enhances the performance of the 450 Bushmaster cartridge since the scope can now provide the hunter with accurate holdovers and rapid target acquisition.
Fitting of the Rings
While purchasing a vortex Riflescope, it is always important to check on how the Vortex rings are fitted.
This is because extra tightened rings may affect dialing down to zero which in turn negatively affects the performance of the .450 Bushmaster.
Read: Best Vortex Whitetail Scopes
First Focal Plane vs. Second Focal Plane
The Plane refers to where the scope reticle is placed internally in relation to the scope’s lenses. A First focal plane (FFP) refers to a Riflescope that has a Reticle that is placed in front of the scope’s magnification lenses.
In an FFP Riflescope, the reticle will appear to change size depending on the magnification power because the reticle is placed in front of the magnification lens. In FFP Rifle scopes, the reticle is usually more prone to damage because it is not protected by the lenses.
SFP Rifle scopes, also referred to as Rear Focal Plane scopes are scopes whose reticle is placed either behind the magnification lenses or in between the magnification lenses for better security of the reticle within the erector tube assembly.
In an SFP scope, the reticle will appear the same size regardless of the magnification giving the shooter an accurate pictorial representation of the target object.
SFP scopes are preferred on the 450 Bushmaster in long-range shooting since it allows the hunter to use the highest magnification.
Read: Best Scopes for 300 Yards
What is the Best Magnification for 450 Bushmaster?
The 450 Bushmaster cartridge is best suited to take long-range shots. This is because a rifle fitted with the 450 Bushmaster drops and that is why even hunters prefer this cartridge while taking a big game from a distance.
Long-range hunters generally consider a distance of 150-200 yards an acceptable long-range shot and from this, a maximum magnification of 3-9x is sufficient to comfortably aim and make a successful kill.
In cases where the shooter has a varying distance from mid-range i.e., 25-50 yards to long-range, the hunter requires a rifle scope with a wide magnification range and one that has capped turrets for easier adjustment.
The Reticle should also be well advanced to provide clear-cut and crisp pictures throughout the various levels of magnification, especially where the hunter is aiming for successive numbers of prey through varying distances.
The construction of the scope contributes to the stability of the scope which is key in helping the shooter maintain a preferred magnification especially when the 450 is used on semi-automatic and automatic rifles.
Conclusion
Settling on a preferred scope to mount on the 450 Bushmaster can at times be a daunting decision to make. Not to worry, this article has delved into detail to help you arrive at that decision more easily and in an informed manner.
We hope the information was insightful and you were able to find an optic that will take your hunting experience with .450 Bushmaster to a whole new level.