After developing its 2.5-16X Elite 6500 riflescope, which featured an industry first 6.5X magnification ratio, Bushnell re-employed the technology to create a higher-magnification variant for long-range and varmint applications. The result was the versatile 4.5-30x50 mm riflescope. There are two reticle options-a mil-dot and a fine, multi-X-available.

Like its 2.5-16X brethren, the 4.5-30X Elite 6500 features a one-piece, cold-molded 30 mm magnesium/aluminum tube; however, unlike its predecessor, which is offered with a choice of either a 42-mm or 50-mm objective lens, the 4.5-30X version is only available with the latter. The 50 mm objective lens aids light gathering, particularly at the higher end of the 4.5-30X Elite 6500's wide magnification range-the exit pupil's diameter measures 11.1 mm at 4.5X and 1.6 mm at 30X. Eye relief is a constant 4 inches, and the field of view at 100 yards is 21.6 feet and 3.4 feet at 4.5X and 30X, respectively. The 4.5-30x50 mm Elite 6500 measures 13.5 inches in length.

Mimicking Bushnell's other Japanese-manufactured Elite-series riflescopes-the 4200 and 3200-windage and elevation adjustments are valued at 1/4 m.o.a.; however, unique to the 6500-series riflescopes is an extended 80 m.o.a. of elevation and windage adjustment travel. Another uncommon feature is the scope's new push/pull-style turrets. When set, or pushed inward, rotating the turret provides both tactile and audible verification of reticle movement.

Pulled outward, the turret is disengaged, thereby preventing reticle movement, yet allowing the "0" setting to be aligned with a corresponding black reference mark for a quick, repeatable return to zero. Numbers and marks allow for precise turret movement. The scope's reticle is located in the second focal plane.

The Elite 6500-series riflescopes feature a third, side-mounted turret-graduated from 25 yards to infinity-to correct parallax, as well as a fast-focus eyepiece. The magnification band is traditionally placed, and raised sections aid purchase when changing magnification. The scope's lenses are fully multi-coated with a magnesium-fluoride coating, and the external surfaces are finished with Rainguard-Bushnell's patented water-repellent coating. Dry nitrogen gas is added to prevent fogging.

Mounted atop a Savage Model 25 in .223 Rem. for testing, "shooting the square" revealed the Elite 6500 4.5-30x50 mm's prescribed 1/4-m.o.a. click value as accurate, consistent and repeatable, and the push/pull-style turrets made returning to zero fast and fail-proof. A 15-minute submersion test verified the company's waterproof claims, and after an hour in the freezer, returning to room temperature showed no signs of internal fogging.

Overall, the scope offered contrast, resolution and brightness comparable with more expensive glass, and our only grievances were the scope's hefty 21-ounce weight and the close proximity of the higher settings on the magnification band, particularly 16X-30X, which were tightly clustered. The Bushnell Elite 6500 4.5-30x50 mm also comes with a "one year, no questions asked" policy and the company's limited lifetime warranty. Considering the Elite 6500 4.5-30x50 mm's features and price, and backed by Bushnell's guarantee, it represents a solid value.

Importer: Bushnell Outdoor Products (800) 423-3537; Bushnell.com
Model: Elite 6500 4.5-30X 50 mm
Magnification and Objective: 4.5-30X 50 mm
Finish: matte black
Field of View (Ft. @ 100 Yds.): 21.6 ft. (4.5X), 3.4 ft. (30X)
Eye Relief: 4"
Click Value: 1/4" @ 100 yds.
Windage and Elevation Adjustment Range: 80 m.o.a. (windage and elevation)
Reticle: fine, multi-X (tested), mil-dot
Length: 13.5"
Weight: 21 ozs.
Features: side-focus knob for parallax correction from 25 yds. to infinity; fast-focus eyepiece; push/pull-style turrets
Accessories: scope cover; 5" sunshade
Suggested Retail Price: $936