With 13 models whose magnification ranges from 1X fixed to a 3-12X variable, there is a broad range of Burris handgun scopes suitable for a wide variety of handgun competition and hunting. The Burris 3X-12X LER (long eye relief), has adjustable parallax, Burris' Ballistic Plex reticle and Posi-Lock system. This latest addition is a scope that truly represents just how accurate and powerful long-range handguns have become.

Our initial inspection of the 3X-12X LER left a favorable impression. The hard, matt-black anodized finish was evenly applied, the power and parallax adjustment rings turned smoothly. Elevation and windage adjustments were calibrated for 1/8-inch m.o.a. increments at 100 yards, and our sample weighed 16 ozs. and measured 10 3/4 inches in length.

We mounted the Burris 3X-12X LER on a Thompson/Center G2 Contender with medium rings to provide clearance for the scope's 32 mm objective bell. Although the scope is called a long eye relief scope, optimum eye relief varies from 10 to 19 inches on the lower powers and 10 to 12.5 inches on the higher settings.

As Pat Beckett of Burris explained to us, "the 3X-12X LER is designed for long-range handgun hunting where the hunter, in most cases, will employ a rest and a slightly bent arm position, so eye relief can vary somewhat. What we truly strive for in our handgun scopes is the widest field of vision at each magnification." In this regard, the scope has a field of view of 14 feet at 100 yards at its lowest setting (3X). At its highest setting, the scope's field of view narrows to 4 feet at 100 yards.

Resembling modified dual-X crosshairs, the Ballistic Plex provides four aim points below the crosshairs to aid trajectory compensation. Burris includes thirty calibration labels with each scope for most of the popular calibers and loads on the market. Also included are detailed instructions on how to sight-in and use the Ballistic Plex to compensate for the bullet drop of custom loads. With solid range work and a good rangefinder, the Ballistic Plex system makes it possible to get the most out of today's powerful long-range handguns.

Another unique feature of Burris handgun scopes is the Burris Posi-lock system. Once a scope is properly sighted-in, the shooter can lock the erector tube in place with a special key supplied with the scope.

The 3X-12X LER is admittedly too heavy and bulky for use on most medium-frame hunting revolvers, but it is right at home on larger single-shot or bolt-action handguns. Accordingly we mounted our test scope on a T/C G2 Contender in .375 JDJ and a .22 LR. Adjustments proved to be repeatable. In fact, our last five-shot group printed over our first after "shooting the square," despite the fierce recoil of the JDJ chambering.

Guns like the T/C Contender have raised our expectations of handgun performance. At distances over 200 yards, many of these handguns will outshoot a rifle chambered for the same caliber. So it makes sense to fit them with a scope whose features enhance long-range accuracy like the Burris 3X-12X LER with its range-finding reticle, generous variable magnification. For the serious long-range handgunner, this new Burris is certainly worth a look.

Manufacturer: Burris Co.; (888) 228-7747; Burrisoptics.com
Model: 3-12-32 Handgun
Magnification and objective: 3-12X 32mm
Finish: Black matte
Field of view (feet @ 100 yds.): 14'-4'
Eye relief (inches): 10"-19"
M.O.A. @ 100 yds.: 1⁄8"
Windage and elevation adjustment range: 28"
Reticle: Ballistic Plex
Length: 10.8"
Weight: 16 ozs.
Suggested Retail Price: $608