Magnification: 3-9X
Power Variability: Variable
Objective Diameter: 40 mm
Length/Weight/Tube Diameter: 12.3"/13.1 oz/1"
Field of View: 33.8-11.3 ft/100 yards
Eye Relief/Exit Pupil: 3.6"/4.4-13.3 mm
Reticle: BDC
Adjustment Info: 1/4" MOA/Click
Optics Coatings: Fully Multi-Coated
Finish: Black/Matte
Waterproof/Shockproof: Yes/Yes
Parallax Setting: Factory-set 100 yards
Airgun rated: No
Illuminated Reticle: No
Mounting Rings Included: No
Best Uses: Big Game Hunting, Varmint Hunting, Small Game Hunting, Target Shooting
Nikon has discontinued their rifle scope lines including this 3-9x40 Buckmaster II. For some great affordable rifle scope alternatives, why not check out Athlon Optics and Vortex Optics.
Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9X40 BDC Scope Review
When it comes to Nikon, what's not to love? They seem to always hit it out of the ballpark when it comes to providing exactly what the masses want. That's probably why they're an authority in the field.
The Nikon Buckmasters II rifle scope is a lifetime keeper despite its significantly low price tag. When you see a scope that's so affordable, you might wonder if its a lemon or a cheap piece of junk. But, this is a Nikon - no junk allowed! The Buckmasters II has withstood the criticisms of a skeptical market, and it's withstood the test of time.
The simple yet solid scope has a BDC reticle with see-through ballistic circles to up the ante for long-range hunters. Optimize reticle use with Nikon's Spot On Ballistic Match Technology to maintain accurate shots for various distances for your ammunition and load.
The scope is O-ring sealed and purged with nitrogen gas for fog-proof integrity. It's fully waterproof and shockproof to withstand inevitable abuse in the field. Without the need for parallax correction, it's been factory-set at 100 yards. Fully multi-coated optics lends to optimum light transmission for vivid and pristine image quality.
If you're a no-fuss, no-nonsense hunter like the majority of buyers in the market, then you'll appreciate the high quality simplicity of this rifle scope. There's barely a small percentage of unhappy buyers that experienced lack of image clarity and other various quality control issues. However, we should mention that this Buckmaster has an excellent warranty that we'll reveal soon.
Pros:
- Price
- BDC reticle
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Fully weatherproof
- Excellent warranty
Cons:
- Quality control issues
- Poor image quality
Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9X40 BDC Q&A:
What constitutes Poor Image Quality?
The Buckmasters II has fully multi-coated optics that improves light transmission and helps to provide clear and vivid image quality. While Nikon is a reputed brand that has excellent glass, some buyers complained of blurring images at very close to mid range.
What is the Nikon Warranty on the Buckmaster II?
This rifle scope comes with Nikon's No-Fault Repair/Replacement Policy and Limited Lifetime Warranty. If your product arrives defective or damaged, Nikon will cover it no problem. Just be sure to not lose or have your scope stolen if you're trying to take advantage of the warranty since that will exclude you from making a claim.
What is Spot On Ballistic Technology?
It's Nikon's online program that allows you to customize your scope reticle for your ammunition and load. By entering specific cartridge data into the program, you can set your zero and make use of each aiming point on the reticle for various ranges for bullet holdovers. Access Nikon's Spot On Program here.
What are all the Available Buckmaster II Models?
The entire, original Buckmaster line has been discontinued, but Nikon has released the Buckmaster II line. It consists of the 3-9X40, 3-9X50, and 4-12X40 models.
Is there a Buckmaster II rifle scope with Parallax?
Currently, there isn't a Buckmaster rifle scope with parallax correction. All the models in the line sport identical features with various optical specs.
What is the Benefit of See-through Aiming Circles?
The BDC reticle features see-through aiming circles that allow you to view the target through the dots. While it's unlikely that you'll see much detail through the circles themselves, it's a nice feature that improves positive vital zone acquisition.
Can the Eyepiece be Focused?
The scope has a quick-focus eyepiece for fast and smooth action to achieve pristine focus for your eyesight. The magnification ring is also well-built and easy to adjust, however, it may lose resolution at max power.
Is the Nikon rifle scope air gun rated?
No. This rifle scope is for centerfire rifles, and it will suit many rifles even with heavy recoil force. It may be "too much" for a .22 rimfire rifle, but it will still work just as well.
What is the Eye Relief of the Buckmasters II?
Nikon has listed eye relief at 3.6 inches for the Buckmasters II 3-9X40 rifle scope. However, some users have reported eye relief to generally be shallow. If you wear glasses, you may want to rethink this aspect in the buying process.
Noteworthy Features:
- BDC reticle with see-through aiming circles
- Compatible with use of Nikon's Spot On Ballistic Technology
- For mid-range and long range hunting
- Designed for the deer hunter in mind
- Fully weatherproof with multiple layers of anti-reflective compounds
Our Verdict on the Nikon Buckmasters 2 Rifle Scope
According to the bull's-eye, the Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9X40 BDC rifle scope is an accurate, little thing. The best aspects about it? It's affordable, simple, and easy to use. It does exactly what a deer hunter needs it to do.
If you have a little more money to burn, you might want to consider the Prostaff 4-12X40 rifle scope. It sports the same features as the Buckmasters II, but it has a few more upgrades like zero-reset turrets and the option to go with the Nikoplex reticle.
However, the Buckmasters II equivalent from another brand is the Leupold VX-1 3-9X40 rifle scope. It tops the charts with its excellent glass and coatings, eco-friendly glass, and its Made in America status. Still under $200, it's more than worth the time for your consideration.
The bottom line is, Nikon knows how to deliver high performance optics in a simple package with the right kind of price. The incredible reputation of the Buckmasters II is evidence of its quality. To add a rack to your wall, the Buckmasters is what you need!
Nikon has discontinued their rifle scope lines including this 3-9x40 Buckmaster II. For some great affordable rifle scope alternatives, why not check out Athlon Optics and Vortex Optics.
Further Reading
Nikon has put several trophy racks on our shed in the yard as well as a few nice one on the walls of our house