Viewing Configuration: Straight
Magnification: 15-45X
Power Variability: Variable
Adjustable Eyepieces: No
Eyepiece included: Yes
Objective Diameter: 60 mm
Close Focus Distance: 35 ft
Length: 11 in
Weight: 37 oz
Field of View: 180-60 ft/1000 yards
Eye Relief/Exit Pupil: 30 mm/4-1.5 mm
Optics Coatings: Fully multi-coated
Glass: BaK-4
Focus System: Collar/Center/Single
Waterproof/Fog-proof: Yes
Digiscope adaptable: Yes
Best Uses: Hunting, For the Range, Tactical Use
Bushnell Legend T-Series 15-45X60 Spotting Scope Review
It's not everyday that you find a ranging spotting scope for under $1000. In fact, Bushnell not only offers one but they have two ranging spotters in this budget range. The Legend T-Series spotter might be not be fanciest ranging spotter out there, but it can still get the job done rather nicely.
It's a low-powered spotter compared its larger counterparts with magnifications of upwards of 20X and apertures of 80mm. However the Legend T keeps mag range at 15-45x with an aperture of 60mm. This gives it a ideal light weight of 37 ounces with a compact size of 11 inches.
The reticle is a simple, non-illuminated, Mil-hash reticle in the first focal plane. It also sits in the center of the field of view like a floating reticle. The mil-based measurements seems to be in 1 mil increments with half mil lines along the crosshairs.
The spotter also features picatinny rails on the top and sides of the body of the scope for mounting additional devices such as lasers, red dot sights, etc. The versatility features seems to be a theme that Bushnell can brag about when it comes to their spotters.
However, some buyers have received a defective product right out the box. The most common complaint is a broken, misaligned, and canted reticle. The nice thing is the Legend spotter is covered under the No Questions Asked Lifetime Warranty. If it comes defective, they'll repair or replace it "no questions asked."
Pros:
- Price
- Mil-hash reticle
- Compatible for device attachment
- ED glass
- PC-3 coatings
Cons:
- Defective spotting scopes
Bushnell Legend T-Series 15-45X60 Q&A:
What are PC-3 Coatings?
These are prism-specific coatings required to allow maximum reflectivity and light transmission through a roof prism optic. The Legend spotting scope has these prism-specific coatings that are exclusive to the Bushnell brand.
What is ED glass?
ED glass is extra-low dispersion glass that contains fluoride elements to bring into sync lightwaves and reduce color fringing. This is for optimal clarity, sharpness, and contrast that can provide HD image quality.
Can people who wear glasses use the Bushnell spotting scope?
With 30mm of eye relief they sure can! The spotter also has twist up eyecups for allows for comfort for glasses-wearers and non-glasses-wearers alike.
What are all the collar/rings on the spotting scope?
On the eyepiece you'll notice the ocular is rubberized. This is for comfort against the eye socket and nose bridge, but it's also the mechanism that allows you to adjust for eye relief. The next ring is the dioptric adjustment. This allows you to focus the reticle for the sharpest and blackest crosshairs you can achieve. This should only be done once as it's adjusting the reticle for your eyesight.
The larger and texturized ring after this is the focus collar. Use this to focus the target according to its distance. Then you have the magnification index and the heavily knurled power ring.
Does the Reticle obstruct view?
The floating reticle might not be to everyone's taste, but it's a FFP reticle meaning that it will less obstructive at the lowest power of 15X. As you increase magnification, the reticle will also increase in size allowing you accurate bullet drop data at all powers.
What is the optical quality like?
Fairly, it's no Zeiss or Leica, but Bushnell has been striving to punch out good quality optics for affordable prices. The spotter does wear some excellent coatings and ED glass that is typically reserved for their higher-end optics. Although the Legend spotter does have ultra wide band coatings, in real life it has a narrow depth of field. You might find that your target is clear and sharp but other targets and terrains in front and behind may be out of focus.
Does the spotting scope come with accessories?
The Legend T spotter does come with a nylon case/protective cover with a strap and lens caps for both the eyepiece and objective lens. It also comes with the expected lens cleaning cloth and paperwork.
Can you use the Bushnell spotting scope free-hand?
For the most effective use, it should be mounted to a tripod. 15X is still high power enough to be sensitive to hand shake and the slightest movements. If you've got a very solid foundation and are relatively experienced with high-power optics, you might be able to use them free-hand, otherwise the recommendation is to mount it.
Noteworthy Features:
- Excellent optical coatings and glass
- RainGuard HD to protect lenses
- Lightweight and compact
- Best value and affordable ranging spotter
- No Questions Asked Lifetime Warranty
Our Verdict on the Bushnell Legend T-Series 15-45x60 Spotting Scope
The scoop on this tactical scope is, the Bushnell Legend T-Series 15-45x60 spotter is a great buy for the average Joe who has a budget like the rest of us. Thanks to Bushnell, you don't have to spend upwards of $1000 for a tactical ranging spotting scope. However, ensure your reticle is calibrated and aligned correctly upon box opening.
Bushnell also has the military-grade ranging spotting scope, the Elite Tactical LMSS 8-40X60. It's about twice the price of the Legend spotter but still under 1000 bucks. The reticle is also different with the mil-based Horus H32 ranging reticle.
However, if you want to brave the scopes that will cost you a pretty penny, you should check out the Leupold Mark 4 20-60x80 spotting scope. As expected for a Leupold, it has excellent optical quality, and it even comes with the option of two different reticles to choose between. However, it's the most expensive ranging spotting scope in our lineup just so you know.
Bushnell has done very well competing against the big boys in the ranging spotting scope market. Like with every spotting scope, there may be some things you might not like, but nothing that makes this scope a deal breaker. To own a spotter without breaking the bank, you may as well own a Legend to be legend!
Further Reading
- Maven S.3A 20-40X67 Spotting Scope Review – Hands-On Field Test!
- Maven CS.1 Review - 15-45x65 Spotting Scope (Real Hands On Field Test)
- Leupold SX2 Alpine HD Spotting Scope Review (Angled)
- Maven S.1A 25-50 X 80mm Spotting Scope Review (Angled Body)
- Zeiss Victory Harpia Spotting Scope Review - 85mm Angled with Dual Speed Focus System