Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Hunting Optics Thoughts on Bushnell Elite Tactical SMRS 1-8.5x24mm - Illuminated BTR-2

I currently have a SS 1-6x illuminated mil-mil and like it very much but I was considering the Bushnell Elite Tactical SMRS 1-8.5x24mm - Illuminated BTR-2 to get a little more magnification on the back end. My biggest concerns are the 34mm diameter tube which will be more expensive to mount and weigh more overall as well as a user review about the reticle failing after a relatively small number of rounds. So can anyone here weigh in with their experience on this one??

FWIW we are running the Bushnell Elite Tactical SMRS 1-8.5x24mm - Illuminated BTR-2 for only $679.99 on sale.

Please give us a call to discuss it

Decent scopes, however reticle is all but completely useless on 1x in daylight. Illumination is not daylight usable at all.


If 1-3x is important, not the scope to get.

Thanks for that....think I'll keep looking!

How about the Burris XTR II 1-8x24 - Ballistic Circle Dot Illuminated which is on sale for $749.99, reduced from $1,299.99?

Provides true 1x magnification for optimal situational awareness and accurate, both-eyes-open shooting

8x magnification creates excellent target acquisition at longer ranges

The riflescope has dimensionally-matched precision adjustment knobs and Zero Click Stop technology.

High-performance optics offer Hi-Lume® multi-coated lenses. The lenses optimize target resolution, contrast, and low-light performance.

The Burris looks like a nice option. What kind of mounting options do you have to go with it??

We carry Burris rings

I have one of the Bushnell Elite Tactical SMRS 1-8.5x24mm - Illuminated BTR-2 scopes. I also have their 1-6.5 version.

I find them both to be great all purpose scopes. I have no trouble using the reticle at low power during the day. I've had luck with mine from up close to about 325 yards.

I'm particularly fond of the "on-off-on-off" aspect of the illumination. Find the brightness you need and click it once and the reticle is off. One click brings it back. Very easy.

I paid significantly more than $679.99 for mine.

We are living in a good time for optics.

I have been very impressed with the 1-6.5 Bushnell Elite tactical in SFP. I find the eye relief to be more forgiving then others. The FFP on the 1-6.5 can go in the trash IMO. The SFP with BTR-2 is a winner in my book. With it on 1x, you can not even see the outer edges of the scope and the field of view is outstanding. I picked another one up a few months ago on sale for $680 bucks. I make hits at 600 no problem on the 6.5 power on a paper plate target. For the money, I cant see going wrong on the Bushnell. Just my .02