I'm thinking about replacing the factory supplied scope that came with my TenPoint Titan Extreme with a Hawke crossbow scope for deer hunting. I don't expect I would ever shoot beyond 40 yards or so since the stated speed is in the range of 315 - 330 fps. It seems like the fixed 3x would be all I need, but are there tangible benefits to have a variable like a 1.5-5x? I am ambivalent about having an illuminated reticle because I can just leave it off if it doesn't seem to help.

Get a variable power scope so you can dial the power to match your arrow speed and reticle sub-tensions for various yardages. Can't do that with a fixed power scope.

I would also make sure it is the reticle you like. I have found that means a lot to me while hunting.

The majority of crossbow scopes that are variable power need to be locked in (no more power adjustment) when you determine speed and arrow weight. I have a discontinued Zeiss crossbow scope like this and its good. Also have the top line Hawke crossbow scope. I purchased the Sig Sauer SIERRA3BDX 2.5-8x32mm and really like it. You can adjust the power up or down and still use the 20,30 40 etc.

I bought the Burris because i can’t see those numbers, too small!

I skipped all the crossbow specific scopes. Reticles were too busy, crappy glass, short eye relief etc. I put a 1-4X Leupold w/ heavy duplex and it has served me well. Zero at 25 yds then adjust the magnification until the thicker part of the duplex hits POI at 40 then leave it alone. I did use extension rings on my Excalibur.

I just shot my new Vortex crossfire ii crossbow scope today. To get it to shoot correctly with my crossbow speed it has to be on 3x. I decided to leave it on 4x , 20 yard line is dead on , 30 line is 25 yards , 40 line is 35 yards , 50 line is 40 yards. Decent glass. I almost wish I would of just got a bdc or mil dot scope sight the cross hair at 20 yards then just figure out what yards the bdc of mil dot reticle shoots. Pretty much what I did with the Vortex scope but could of done it cheaper the other way .

Well, I found a Hawke XB 30 Pro for about half of the MSRP. Need to chronograph the bolts before I mount it.