For generations, the quintessential woodland-hunting optic featured a magnification range of 3-9X. The low end of this range provided the required field of view, while the high end allowed for engaging targets at the distances that such terrain generally offers hunters. As technology has improved, however, manufacturers are now better able to design optics with an even greater magnification range that can be contained in a similar-size package. Such is the idea behind Tract’s Response hunting riflescope, a 2.5-10X optic that offers more magnification range on both ends while also being easy on the pocketbook.
The Response line consists of lightweight options built on 1" main tubes; the 2.5-10X tips the scales at a scant 18.6 ozs. A 42 mm objective lens provides ample light at either end of the power spectrum, and all glass is fully multi-coated with a formula specifically designed to excel in low-light conditions. Two reticle styles are available, both of which are set in the second focal plane: a standard T-Plex or a bullet drop compensator. We chose the latter for testing.
We mounted our sample to a Henry X Model lever-action rifle chambered for the 360 Buckhammer cartridge. After sighting-in the scope at 100 yards, we found that we had an additional 30 m.o.a. of elevation adjustment, which is more than enough to dial for a longer-range engagement—but it’s doubtful most users would ever need it. Tract lists 60 m.o.a. of total adjustment, but we found substantially more is possible if the windage adjustment is nearly centered; however, it’s best to stay within the manufacturer’s specifications, lest problems with distortion occur.
The Response’s BDC reticle works in conjunction with the Impact Ballistics software that is available for use on Tract’s website. From this page, a specific cartridge or the parameters of a custom handload can be input to see which target distances coincide with the BDC hash marks. There are also parameters to input muzzleloader projectiles for those seeking better precision from a front-stuffer.
We were impressed to see that not only was the relatively new Buckhammer cartridge on the list, but there was also the option to adjust velocity and other information to make it match our conditions precisely. The page also allows the user to vary power settings to find drops at different magnification levels, which is very useful when running an SFP scope.
Live-fire evaluation included a tall target test as well as “shooting the square” to ensure proper tracking, which the Response was confirmed to deliver. After returning to our 100-yard zero, we set steel out at the distances provided by Impact Ballistics and were able to corroborate the drops prescribed by its software.
Our range day took us into the last hours of daylight, which gave us the opportunity to conduct some low-light testing, and the Response didn’t disappoint. Designed to be the ideal whitetail scope, we found the Tract Response 2.5-10X to be a very capable optic for that purpose, particularly in light of a price tag that most hunters should find to be palatable.
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