When it comes to short-range rifle scopes, the Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm is one of the best in LPVO optics.
How do I know? I’ve owned it for over 3 months now and spent 200 rounds through it.
In this Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm review, I’ll tell you everything you’ve ever wanted to know about this scope and more.
Let’s begin!
Features | Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm |
---|---|
Brand | Bushnell |
Color | Black |
Eye Relief | 3.5 Inches |
Magnification Range | 1-4x |
Reticle Type | Drop-Zone 223 (BDC) |
Illuminated? | 6 Setting Adjustable |
Weight | 18oz |
Dimensions | 9.5 x 24.1 cm |
Objective Lens Diameter | 24mm |
Here’s my Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm Review
The Bushnell AR Optics 1–4x24mm is the People’s Champion when it comes to great value AR scopes.
Curiosity got the best of me, and a few months ago I decided to go out and buy it. I’m so glad I did. Let’s just say I won’t be bringing it back to the store… ever. It’s one of the best rifle scopes out there right now.
The result of my stellar shooting outing last weekend is two-fold: one, I’m a very, very happy customer, and two, I’m about to give you the most comprehensive Bushnell AR Optics 1–4x24mm review that you’ll ever see.
And with that, let’s dive right in.
Glass Clarity & Reticle
This great scope has a high-quality reticle with top-of-the-line glass.

This might be surprising given the pricing, but I was absolutely blown away by the quality of the fully multi-coated lens.

It doesn’t have a holographic site, but the visuals on this scope are clear as day.

What really separates the illuminated reticle is its layers of anti-reflective coating that block out whatever other conditions you might face, whether that’s at the range or on the hunt. That said, this scope is best for short-range shooting!

This glass clarity along with the BDC reticle (Bushnell calls this a “drop zone 223” reticle) is just scratching the surface of what makes the AR Optics 1–4x24mm a winner in my book.
What really makes this reticle stand out is the ability to measure bullet drop as the distance of your shot increases.
Although, with a reticle this good, you’ll want to make sure you never scratch the surface.
Eye Relief & Eye Box
The eye relief on the Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm is 3.5 inches.

For a short range rifle scope, you can’t really ask for a better length or focal plane.

This was my first time using the AR Optics 1–4x24mm, and honestly, the first thing I noticed when I stuck my eyeball in the lens was the absolutely perfect eye relief.

Durability
This scope was built to last through anything.

Some scopes are able to survive during rugged conditions, and that’s good for them, but this red dot optic from Bushnell was designed to thrive in severe weather, thunderstorms, and just about anything else that nature can throw at it.

The scope is waterproof, shockproof, and the fully multi-coated optics that I mentioned above reinforces the value that you get out of this scope.

Investing in the Bushnell 1-4x24mm is just like investing in the S&P 500: it’s a winner that is designed for lasting results.

Part of what makes this scope so durable is its 18-ounce weight. If you’re looking for something lighter, check out the best rimfire rifle scopes – specifically the Bushnell TRS 25.
Elevation & Windage Knobs
If the Bushnell AR Optics 1–4x24mm had an Achilles heel, it would be in the windage knobs.

Unfortunately, the turrets do not “click” into place when making adjustments. This makes it a little bit more difficult to zero.

However, not all hope is lost because the scope is exceptional at holding a zero. In 3 trips to the range with my Bushnell, I haven’t had to make an adjustment once.

If you’re skilled enough to zero your own scope (and you should be if you’re investing in a scope like this one) then you’ll have absolutely no problem with the turrets on the Bushnell.

Parallax & Magnification
This great scope has a magnification range of 1-4x.

This scope is designed for shooting close-range targets and wild game. If you’re going on a medium-range or long-range hunt, leave the Bushnell at home and go with something else.

That said, this is one of the best LPVO scopes I’ve ever used.

If you’re looking for something with minimal magnification changes, higher quality adjustments, and all of the accuracy that a short-range shooter could ever desire, this is the scope for you.

Plus, the parallax adjustment is fixed at 100 yards, so you can focus more on shooting and achieving the perfect magnification instead of obsessively adjusting non-locking turrets in bright daylight or worrying about the first focal plane.
Mounting & Rings
Unfortunately, this rifle scope doesn’t come with a mount, so you’ll need to purchase your own.

For a hunting gear guy, I’m using the CCOP USA 30mm Cantilever Scope Mounts, and I’ll stand by them as the best possible option for a mount for your Bushnell.
Luckily for you, these are the best mounts for the Bushnell rifle scope and they’re the most affordable. It’s really a win-win.

These rings are crafted with aircraft-grade aluminum, and they fit any 30mm red dot optics. You won’t regret using them to attach your Bushnell to your gun.
Price
The Bushnell 1-4x24mm is available on Amazon for $143.99. This is a great deal for a top-of-the-line short range scope.
- The feature-packed Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24 gives you the features you need to outfit your AR with a capable and fast-deploying optic. Available in the second focal plane (SFP) Drop Zone-223 with...
- Exposed turrets allow you to dial for windage and elevation adjustments quickly and accurately, and the Throw Down PCL makes magnification changes almost instant. The IPX7 waterproof rating and fully...
- Fully Multi Coated - Multiple layers of anti-reflective coating on all air-to-glass surfaces deliver bright, high-contrast images
If you’re looking for something even less expensive, check out the Bushnell TRS-25.
Is the Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm for you?
If you’re looking for a short-range rifle scope, the Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm is for you.
It’s for every kind of short-range shooter, whether that means shooting a short-range target or aiming for a perfect day at the gun range.

It has:
- 1-4x magnification AR optics
- A strong, durable body
- A Drop-Zone 223 Reticle (BDC)
- An incredibly reasonable price tag
- Waterproof and shockproof abilities
For medium-range scopes, you’ll want something that has greater magnification. When it comes to short range, however, there’s no better bang for your buck than the Bushnell 1-4x24mm.
- The feature-packed Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24 gives you the features you need to outfit your AR with a capable and fast-deploying optic. Available in the second focal plane (SFP) Drop Zone-223 with...
- Exposed turrets allow you to dial for windage and elevation adjustments quickly and accurately, and the Throw Down PCL makes magnification changes almost instant. The IPX7 waterproof rating and fully...
- Fully Multi Coated - Multiple layers of anti-reflective coating on all air-to-glass surfaces deliver bright, high-contrast images
Now It’s Your Turn
I hope you enjoyed my Bushnell AR Optics 1-4x24mm review.
Now I want to turn it over to you:
What do you think about the Bushnell 1-4×24? Or perhaps you already bought it for your gun and would like to share your thoughts.
Either way, let me know by leaving a quick comment down below.
I use mine for NRA/CMP Service Rifle matches, i.e. “Across the Course” competition. We shoot at 2, 3, and 600 yards and even at 600 yards the view is crisp and clear and there’s plenty of turret adjustment that I can actually dial to whatever range I need and don’t have to rely on the bdc and the detents hold well and it repeats well also. For an inexpensive lvpo you’d be hard-pressed to find a better optic.
Will this scope take the recoil of a 45-70 henrys single shot? Thank you Mark.