As an avid hunter and night vision enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of testing numerous riflescopes over the years. However, few have left as lasting an impression as the Burris Veracity 3-15x50mm. This scope has quickly become my go-to choice for a wide range of hunting scenarios, from tracking elusive elk in dense forests to nailing long-range shots on prairie dogs. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into what makes the Burris Veracity stand out in a crowded field of hunting optics.
Optical Excellence: Crystal Clear Viewing
The heart of any great riflescope lies in its optical quality, and the Burris Veracity doesn’t disappoint. The first time I peered through this scope at dusk, waiting for a whitetail to emerge from the treeline, I was struck by the remarkable clarity, even in low light conditions. The 50mm objective lens is a light-gathering powerhouse, providing that crucial edge when the sun dips below the horizon and most animals become active.
Burris has employed high-grade optical glass in the Veracity, which contributes significantly to its excellent brightness and clarity. The lenses are treated with Burris’s proprietary Hi-Lume® multi-coating, which enhances low-light performance and effectively eliminates glare. This coating is particularly beneficial during those golden hours of dawn and dusk when many hunters find themselves in the field.
- Designed for serious big game and varmint hunters
- Its Ballistic Plex E1 FFP reticle has trajectory-compensating technology and cascading dots for wind drift compensation when using nearly any big game hunting cartridge
- Calculated in MOA, the reticle features trajectory compensation out to 600 yds.
- Wind dots representing a 10 m. p. h. wind adjustment are located at every hash mark out to 500 yds.
Versatile Magnification: From Close Encounters to Long-Range Precision
One of the standout features of the Veracity 3-15x50mm is its versatile magnification range. The 3-15x zoom ratio has long been popular in tactical shooting circles, and it’s easy to see why it’s gaining traction among hunters as well. At the lower 3x setting, you’ve got a wide field of view that’s perfect for close encounters in thick brush or for quick target acquisition. Crank it up to 15x, and suddenly you’re equipped to make precise shots at distances that would’ve seemed daunting with lesser optics.
This versatility has served me well in various hunting situations. I’ve used the Veracity for everything from stalking deer in dense forests, where the wide field of view at 3x was invaluable, to picking off coyotes across open fields where the 15x magnification allowed for precise shot placement at extended ranges.
The 5x zoom system is a key factor in this scope’s versatility. It provides a larger field of view at close ranges and better target acquisition at long ranges. This feature alone makes the Veracity an excellent choice for hunters who find themselves in diverse terrain and shooting scenarios.
Front Focal Plane Reticle: Precision at Any Magnification
A feature that truly sets the Veracity apart from many hunting scopes in its class is the front focal plane (FFP) reticle design. For those new to FFP scopes, here’s why this matters: as you zoom in or out, the reticle size increases or decreases proportionally to the target. This means your holdover and windage corrections remain accurate at any magnification setting.
The importance of this feature cannot be overstated, especially for long-range shooting. When you’re trying to compensate for wind drift or bullet drop on a 400-yard shot, having consistent and accurate reticle measurements is crucial. I’ve found this particularly useful when hunting in windy conditions or when dealing with significant elevation changes.
Ballistic E1 Reticle: Your Built-in Ballistic Calculator
Speaking of long-range shooting, the Ballistic E1 reticle in the Veracity is a true game-changer. This sophisticated reticle offers trajectory compensation out to 600 yards and includes wind drift dots calibrated for a 10 mph crosswind. I vividly remember using these features during a particularly windy day at the range, and it felt like having a built-in ballistic calculator at my disposal.
The reticle features cascading dots for wind drift compensation, making it compatible with nearly any big game hunting cartridge. It’s calculated in MOA, with trajectory compensation hash marks out to 600 yards. The wind dots, representing a 10 mph wind adjustment, are located at every hash mark out to 500 yards.
While it does take some practice to become proficient with all the reticle features, once you’ve mastered it, it’s an incredibly powerful tool. I’ve found it particularly useful for making quick adjustments in the field without having to dial my turrets constantly.
Built to Last: Rugged Durability for the Toughest Conditions
When you’re investing in a hunting optic, durability is crucial. The Veracity is built like a tank, designed to withstand the harshest conditions you might encounter in the field. The scope features a solid, one-piece 30mm outer tube made from aircraft-grade aluminum. This construction not only ensures durability but also helps the scope maintain zero even under heavy recoil or rough handling.
Burris has gone the extra mile to make the Veracity waterproof and fog-proof. The scope is nitrogen-filled, which prevents internal fogging in cold and rainy conditions. I’ve taken mine through some pretty rough terrain, including unexpected downpours and freezing temperatures, and it’s performed flawlessly every time.
The scope also features a double internal spring-tension system. This clever design allows the scope to hold zero through shock, recoil, and vibrations. Whether you’re using it on a hard-kicking magnum rifle or subjecting it to the bumps and jolts of off-road travel, you can trust the Veracity to maintain its point of impact.
M.A.D. Knob System: Customization at Your Fingertips
One feature that really impressed me about the Veracity is the M.A.D. (Modular Adjustment Dial) Knob System. This innovative system allows for a level of customization that you don’t often see in scopes at this price point. You have the option to swap between capped turrets for a sleek, snag-free profile, or uncapped tactical-style turrets for quick adjustments in the field.
But the customization doesn’t stop there. Burris offers the option to work with them on creating custom etched turrets that match your specific load and shooting conditions exactly. This level of personalization can be a game-changer for serious hunters who have a preferred load and want to streamline their shooting process.
The turrets themselves are low-profile and feature finger-adjustable zero for windage and elevation. They’re easy to reset to zero once you’ve sighted in your rifle, which is a feature I’ve come to appreciate after making field adjustments.
Parallax Adjustment: Fine-Tuning Your Focus
The Veracity includes a side focus knob for parallax adjustment, which I’ve found to be ergonomically placed and easy to use. This feature allows you to adjust parallax from 50 yards to infinity, ensuring a crisp, parallax-free image at any distance. It’s particularly useful when shooting at longer ranges or in situations where precise range estimation might be challenging.
Value for Money: Premium Features at a Competitive Price
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room – price. The Burris Veracity 3-15x50mm typically retails for around $700-$800, which places it in the mid-to-upper tier of hunting scopes. However, when you consider the features and performance it offers, it’s punching well above its weight class.
I’ve used scopes costing twice as much that don’t perform as well or offer the same level of versatility. The Veracity provides premium features like the front focal plane reticle, high-quality glass, and robust construction at a price point that’s accessible to many serious hunters.
Real-World Performance: From the Range to the Field
I’ve had this scope mounted on my .308 for over a year now, and it’s become my go-to for medium to long-range hunting. Last fall, I used it to take a mule deer at just over 300 yards in windy conditions. The clarity of the glass, combined with the precision of the Ballistic E1 reticle, made what could have been a challenging shot feel almost routine.
On the range, the Veracity has consistently impressed me with its ability to hold zero and make precise adjustments. The tactile clicks of the turrets are satisfying and allow for confident adjustments without taking your eye off the target.
Lifetime Warranty: Peace of Mind for Your Investment
One aspect of the Burris brand that gives me great confidence is their “Forever Warranty”. This transferable warranty doesn’t require a receipt or registration, which is a level of customer service that’s increasingly rare these days. Knowing that your investment is protected, regardless of how long you’ve owned the scope or whether you’re the original owner, provides invaluable peace of mind.
Final Thoughts: A Versatile Powerhouse for Serious Hunters
The Burris Veracity 3-15x50mm is more than just a riflescope – it’s a versatile tool that can elevate your hunting experience across a wide range of scenarios. Its combination of optical clarity, durability, and advanced features make it a standout choice for hunters who demand performance without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a seasoned marksman looking to extend your effective range or a developing hunter wanting a scope that can grow with your skills, the Veracity deserves a spot at the top of your list. Its ability to perform in various hunting situations, from dense forests to open plains, makes it a true all-rounder in the world of hunting optics.
Remember, the best scope is ultimately the one that fits your specific needs and shooting style. But if you’re in the market for a high-quality, versatile riflescope that can handle everything from close-quarters brush hunting to long-range precision shots, the Burris Veracity 3-15x50mm is a choice you won’t regret. Happy hunting, and may your shots always find their mark!