Rifle Scopes Burris XTR3!!!

[Glassaholic]

Ok, so I just compared the two again 25X, 19X, 10X, and low power. 25X was easy because the magnification ring on both scopes is engraved with a "25" but after that it gets a little iffier because they are engraved the same. The NF is engraved with "19" but I had to go just past the "20" on the XTR III, same for "10", the NF isn't labeled so I lined it up between "9" and "11".

Now all that being said, the object that I was viewing was about 1,200 yards away with an adjacent field on the left side and trees the other side. Due to my positioning I also had a power pole about 75 yards away that will come into play later.

25X: It was really too close to call between the two, what I could see in the FOV was pretty much the same.

19X: Still pretty close to call definitively.

10X: The edge goes to the XTR III as the wider FOV is becoming more noticeable, I can see a little more into the adjacent field and a good bit of the power pole in the right side of my field of view. With the NF the FOV is more narrow and I'm not seeing as much of the power pole.

Low power (5X for the NF, 5.5X for the XTRIII): Yeah the difference in FOV here is pretty stunning, the Burris is much wider compared to the NF, I'm seeing way back to the corner of the adjacent field and the whole width of the power pole and then some. In the NF, I have about half the pile of lumber that's in the back corner of the field in the left side of my FOV and can't quite see the entire width of the power pole in the right side.

In terms of edge to edge clarity both scopes are good, I didn't notice any major edge distortion or anything in either scope. Again, the eye box is a lot better on the Burris at just about every magnification compared to my ATACR but the ATACR had better IQ in my opinion, that being said the difference really wouldn't hold you back.

So there you have it. In my opinion, both have great fit and finish, perfectly functional, tracking is spot on. An edge goes to the NF for overall image quality but concedes some ground to the Burris in terms of eye box and FOV at lower magnification.

Thank you for that TM, I have known that while the NF has narrow FOV at the low end it quickly picks it up throughout the mag range due to the optical design. Good to know about the edge clarity/sharpness between both and I'm actually surprised the XTR III had the better eyebox throughout. Appreciate you taking the time to do this.

 

[Trigger Monkey]

I'm an unabashed fan of Nightforce but this XTR III is pretty legit.

 

[Bangin]

Ok, so I just compared the two again 25X, 19X, 10X, and low power. 25X was easy because the magnification ring on both scopes is engraved with a "25" but after that it gets a little iffier because they are engraved the same. The NF is engraved with "19" but I had to go just past the "20" on the XTR III, same for "10", the NF isn't labeled so I lined it up between "9" and "11".

Now all that being said, the object that I was viewing was about 1,200 yards away with an adjacent field on the left side and trees the other side. Due to my positioning I also had a power pole about 75 yards away that will come into play later.

25X: It was really too close to call between the two, what I could see in the FOV was pretty much the same.

19X: Still pretty close to call definitively.

10X: The edge goes to the XTR III as the wider FOV is becoming more noticeable, I can see a little more into the adjacent field and a good bit of the power pole in the right side of my field of view. With the NF the FOV is more narrow and I'm not seeing as much of the power pole.

Low power (5X for the NF, 5.5X for the XTRIII): Yeah the difference in FOV here is pretty stunning, the Burris is much wider compared to the NF, I'm seeing way back to the corner of the adjacent field and the whole width of the power pole and then some. In the NF, I have about half the pile of lumber that's in the back corner of the field in the left side of my FOV and can't quite see the entire width of the power pole in the right side.

In terms of edge to edge clarity both scopes are good, I didn't notice any major edge distortion or anything in either scope. Again, the eye box is a lot better on the Burris at just about every magnification compared to my ATACR but the ATACR had better IQ in my opinion, that being said the difference really wouldn't hold you back.

So there you have it. In my opinion, both have great fit and finish, perfectly functional, tracking is spot on. An edge goes to the NF for overall image quality but concedes some ground to the Burris in terms of eye box and FOV at lower magnification.

Thank you for that

 

[Birddog6424]

I'm an unabashed fan of Nightforce but this XTR III is pretty legit.

Great comparison. Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts!

Using the reticle as Koshkin suggests, if my memory serves me, my scope at 30x versus a 7-35x NF set at 30x gave the Burris about an extra .4 to .5 mils per side. By the time they were down to 15x it was like 1.2mils per side. I dont remember the numbers exactly, and that was of course using the mag ring as the power indicator.

The NX8 is the only scope I've seen that comes close to the Burris FOV. The 20x NF versus my scope set on 20x gave the Burris a .2 advantage per side.

 

[CarlM]

I'm an unabashed fan of Nightforce but this XTR III is pretty legit.

I'm not a scope snob, but I have to agree, I put an XTR III on my wife's rifle and I really like it. Other than the reticle being a little thin for my eye's it's solid. I'd can't say I like it better than my ATACR but damn, it was over a thousand dollars cheaper and my wife likes it.
Carl

 

[Birddog6424]

PM that info if you don't mind.

No kidding

Here's a source for a good buy..

XXXTra Special XTR III 3.3-18x SCR 2 MIL Deals Anyone?

Got a good amount of XTR IIIs on the way, wanted to see if the 'Hide was interested in some coupon codes. MAP is $1749 I'm thinking: Scope Only-Coupon for $325 off Scope w/ Installed Lever & Level-Coupon for $250 off Scope w/ Installed Lever & Level, in a Warne Skyline Mount of your...

www.snipershide.com

 

[tam4511]

I put my XTRIII through the ringer at 2 matches so far this year (my first year competing!) and it's awesome. Having used it practically and under stress I have zero complaints.

Clarity is awesome, adjustments are crisp, and it tracks dead on. You can't ask for much more.

Just thought I'd chime in with an update on mine since I've had it for about 6mo now.

 

[FredHammer]

I can get these at a Hide price option if anybody interested. It just might take a while for shipping. If this is allowed.

I put my XTRIII through the ringer at 2 matches so far this year (my first year competing!) and it's awesome. Having used it practically and under stress I have zero complaints.

Clarity is awesome, adjustments are crisp, and it tracks dead on. You can't ask for much more.

Just thought I'd chime in with an update on mine since I've had it for about 6mo now.

If you have an XTRII or used one, How does the III compare?

 

[Trigger Monkey]

The XTR III is pretty much better in every way save for being non-illuminated. The XTR III has better image quality, turret feel, a better reticle option (SCR2), locking diopter adjustment, better parallax adjustment range, covered windage knob with optional replacement, Race Dial option, I could probably go on.

 

[FredHammer]

The XTR III is pretty much better in every way save for being non-illuminated. The XTR III has better image quality, turret feel, a better reticle option (SCR2), locking diopter adjustment, better parallax adjustment range, covered windage knob with optional replacement, Race Dial option, I could probably go on.

Thank you, Sir. I have 3 XTR II scopes. 5-25X50, 1.5-8X28, and 1-8X24. That 1-8 is LOW Jap made. I have looked and looked and tried to find a difference in glass between the two LPVOs. I can't tell a difference. I do notice a difference in graphics and turret feel. The LOW 1-8 has slightly more positive clicks and the logos are brighter/cleaner. Both of these scope are top notch though. The 1.5-8 helped my dump some TX hogs without mercy! Lol

My 5-25X50 XTR II was compared to my new Bushnell Elite Tactical HDMR II. I couldn't tell a difference in glass quality. The DMR eye box is a bit more forgiving. The biggest difference was the parallax adjuster dial. On the Bushnell, the dial is engaged at all times and smooth like a stereo dial. The XTR II is loose, picks up the adjuster, then gets loose again when dialing. You just don't recognize these little differences until you do direct comparisons.

SO, I told you all this to say I have a hard-on for this XTR III I'm seeiing so much about. I am a bit up-in-the-air about getting an XTR III or get another Bushnell HDMR II.

 

[Trigger Monkey]

I used to own a XTR II and a Bushnell ERS and I would say that the two were on equal footing for the most part, just like you noted. That being said, in this day and age I'd take the XTR III over a Bushnell any day.

 

[Sogan]

I think I’ll be making a purchase once the illuminated models come out. Probably don’t need it but I’d rather have it and never use it than have the opposite situation occur

 

[Birddog6424]

I got a great care package today. I'm excited about playing with it.

A new 30x XTR3 with the SCR2 reticle, a couple new Race Dials, and a handful of the Burris throw levers.

I like the lever. Machined aluminum and very simple clamshell design. Notches on the inside for solid purchase. Pretty bulletproof. These throw levers are designed to fit the XTR3, XTR2, and Veracity..

I'm very excited about the Race Dial. I love the ease of use this offers for both PRS and NRL22. Im excited about the prospect of zeroing at 50 yards and setting it as zero for my 22. Then marking 75, 100, and any greater distances on the turret and taping it over. All dope for the match day completed. So much potential here.

The turrets are fantastic on this scope. Tight and very audible. It looks great, I played with it in the failing light I love how bright it is.

Good stuff!!

 

[Birddog6424]

Does anyone have a part number for the throw lever and race dial?

Part number for the MIL Race Dial is #626027.

I'm working on getting a part number for the throw lever.

Edit; Throw lever is #626025

 

[tam4511]

I can get these at a Hide price option if anybody interested. It just might take a while for shipping. If this is allowed.


If you have an XTRII or used one, How does the III compare?

Yes I had an XTRII for about a year before I upgraded to the III. As anyone with the II knows, it's a great scope all around, but the optical quality is lacking. The XTRIII sustains the robustness, tracking, and quality of the II and adds great glass, an impressive spec sheet, and even better turrets. I've compared the glass to two NF ATACR's and they were very close to the XTRIII.
It's a solid upgrade and the best scope in the price point for most needs.

 

[tam4511]

Part number for the MIL Race Dial is #626027.

I'm working on getting a part number for the throw lever.

Edit; Throw lever is #626025

The only place I can find them is shooting sports, but for $80 that seems extremely steep. Is that really what they are going for?

 

[Chasing3]

I bought @wjm308’s XTR3 and it’s been great. I am very impressed with it and glad I went with it over a Vortex G2 Razor 3-18. I sold a S&B US 3-20 and went to this and don’t really feel like I lost a lot besides illumination. Scopes have come a long way recently and Burris really did a good job with this one in my opinion.

 

[Basher]

I bought @wjm308’s XTR3 and it’s been great. I am very impressed with it and glad I went with it over a Vortex G2 Razor 3-18.

Aside from weight savings, any particular reason you prefer the XTRIII to the Razor? Just curious what your thoughts are. Thanks!

 

[Chasing3]

I have been behind the Razor at classes and feel the XTR3 had better field of view and was brighter. The brightness and clarity stood out to me compared to Razor. They really did pick up their game with the glass compared to the XTR2

 

[tam4511]

Aside from weight savings, any particular reason you prefer the XTRIII to the Razor? Just curious what your thoughts are. Thanks!

XTRIII has a better fov and is much lighter.

 

[Glassaholic]

I bought @wjm308’s XTR3 and it’s been great. I am very impressed with it and glad I went with it over a Vortex G2 Razor 3-18. I sold a S&B US 3-20 and went to this and don’t really feel like I lost a lot besides illumination. Scopes have come a long way recently and Burris really did a good job with this one in my opinion.

That is a sweet rig Chasing, I just bought an AI AT and it should ship tomorrow hopefully. I'm glad you're enjoying the XTR III, it is a sweet scope and looks really nice on your AI.

 

[Radar20]

Does anyone have any inside knowledge or any info as to the release of illumination?

 

[MTB doc]

Great match this weekend. Was lucky to pull off a 2nd place. Was first rolling into the last stage up by 2 shots over dude that won. Went up and missed first 3 shots on a skylined targets. Darn it darn it lol. He cleaned the stage. Still happy.

Elevation was flat right on and during sight in I thought I missed the target a couple times as my shot went inside my previous shot. This bad boy is flat shooting.


MAN this blackbear action is crazy smooth. Literally had to check a couple times to make sure a round fed into chamber. I have or have owned all actions except for an Impact, and this guy is noticeably by far the smoothest Ive ran.

The only down side is the flat base of the action I cant swap into other stocks BUT XLR makes a chassi that is inletted for it. I hope other companies start to do the same. Will be a big selling pt but I guess I cant complain my Kelblys bedded KTS stock had no problems with accuracy dept.

SPECS
- Blackbear Action
- Krieger barrel 26"
- VV N140 30.0 grains
- 105 bergers going 2800
- Kelbly KTS stock
- Burris XTR3 with race dial (very very useful)
- SCR2 retc
- SAP 2 rnd holder (short br version)


View attachment 7274608


View attachment 7274607


Regards
DT

Lots of great scope talk here, but man, that is one sweet bandana!

 

[Birddog6424]

The only place I can find them is shooting sports, but for $80 that seems extremely steep. Is that really what they are going for?

I know a bunch of them have shipped per the Burris management I spoke to early last week. I've never heard a number on pricing.

I have been behind the Razor at classes and feel the XTR3 had better field of view and was brighter. The brightness and clarity stood out to me compared to Razor. They really did pick up their game with the glass compared to the XTR2

I agree.

I've compared to the G2 Razor on numerous occasions now. It's been the same thing every time with crazy consistancy. The Razor is a little deeper when looking at blue colors, the Burris is brighter and has more FOV. And I personally believe the eyebox is a little better on the Burris at max magnifications, but it's a small margin.

The Burris is a better low light scope than the Razor or ATACR. I havent compared to the MK5 as yet in those conditions.

Does anyone have any inside knowledge or any info as to the release of illumination?

I don't have a date for release. But I have been told that Burris has taken the illumination design back to the drawing board for this optic. Rather than use the components and methods used on the XTR2, they've decided to engineer a new system that will be more robust from the ground up. They have an all new scope, with an in house etched reticle using state of the art equipment, they decided they wanted to suffer the delay to get it right the first time.

The attitude with this optic is to step up to a high quality scope where they pulled out all the stops to get it right, and didn't cut corners. All while maintaining a decent price point. Just as they did with the release date delay, they know this may slow down the time it takes to bring the illuminated versions to market. But I think they really want to get this right.

 

[mi223]

Is there any speculation to the price of the illuminated model?

 

[Glassaholic]

I don't have a date for release. But I have been told that Burris has taken the illumination design back to the drawing board for this optic. Rather than use the components and methods used on the XTR2, they've decided to engineer a new system that will be more robust from the ground up. They have an all new scope, with an in house etched reticle using state of the art equipment, they decided they wanted to suffer the delay to get it right the first time.

The attitude with this optic is to step up to a high quality scope where they pulled out all the stops to get it right, and didn't cut corners. All while maintaining a decent price point. Just as they did with the release date delay, they know this may slow down the time it takes to bring the illuminated versions to market. But I think they really want to get this right.

A "good news and bad news" situation The bad news being that illumination is going to be delayed some, the good news is they want to rework the design and make it even better. Any chance they might consider making the SCR2 a bit thicker in the illuminated version, I like the design of the reticle but wish it were a bit thicker.

 

[Birddog6424]

Is there any speculation to the price of the illuminated model?

If you're ok with just speculation, I would guess $150'ish.

Based off the price reduction the XTR2 models received when they rolled out non-illuminated models.

A "good news and bad news" situation The bad news being that illumination is going to be delayed some, the good news is they want to rework the design and make it even better. Any chance they might consider making the SCR2 a bit thicker in the illuminated version, I like the design of the reticle but wish it were a bit thicker.

My thoughts exactly. I was bummed to hear they were delaying it, but glad to hear they are taking the extra effort to make sure its solid.

I won't say a thicker reticle is off the table for illuminated models. They may discover it aids in the quality. I will bump it up that a thicker reticle is a recurring request. And it makes sense when you consider that the illuminated versions will most likely be the crossover hunting optic.

 

[Birddog6424]

@wjm308
As soon as I posted above, I immediately kicked off a text to a Burris sales manager that I speak to periodically.

The official feedback is that the non-illuminated SCR2 was intentionally designed as a very thin, unobtrusive reticle for competition purposes. The illuminated models will have a thicker version of the SCR2 to aid in the quality of the illumination and better serve as a hunting crossover optic.

Ask and you shall receive

The trick being at this point, to patiently/impatiently await the arrival of the illuminated models.

 

[Glassaholic]

@wjm308
As soon as I posted above, I immediately kicked off a text to a Burris sales manager that I speak to periodically.

The official feedback is that the non-illuminated SCR2 was intentionally designed as a very thin, unobtrusive reticle for competition purposes. The illuminated models will have a thicker version of the SCR2 to aid in the quality of the illumination and better serve as a hunting crossover optic.

Ask and you shall receive

The trick being at this point, to patiently/impatiently await the arrival of the illuminated models.

Fantastic news on the SCR2 being thicker for the illuminated and I’m not too surprised as it’s harder to illuminate thinner reticles in these scope designs.

 

[beetroot]

@wjm308
As soon as I posted above, I immediately kicked off a text to a Burris sales manager that I speak to periodically.

The official feedback is that the non-illuminated SCR2 was intentionally designed as a very thin, unobtrusive reticle for competition purposes. The illuminated models will have a thicker version of the SCR2 to aid in the quality of the illumination and better serve as a hunting crossover optic.

Ask and you shall receive

The trick being at this point, to patiently/impatiently await the arrival of the illuminated models.

This is great news.

Just need Burris to make the scope.
The world to come out of lock down.
My local exchange rate to improve against the USD.

Maybe 2022 will be the year I buy a XTR3......

 

[jhr1986]

I see a few have mentioned the XTRIII having a brighter image and better FoV than the gen 2 Razor. I have one of the Razors but have never used a Burris.

For those that have used both extensively, how does the new XTR compare to the Razor in terms of resolution and handling chromatic aberration?

 

[SNOW JW]

I can't decide if my dedicated prs scope should be RZR 2 or XTR III?

 

[Cuda-dude]

Awesome thread guys. I have XTR 2 and didn’t realize how sub-par the glass was until I looked through newer Rzr. Glad to hear XTR 3 is on par as I have really like all me Burris optics and plan to get a 3 as soon as this do do is finished.

 

[Sogan]

I can't decide if my dedicated prs scope should be RZR 2 or XTR III?

Right there with you. Im still holding out hope for a RZR Gen 3 this year and an illuminated XTRIII. XTRIII will still win out if you have hunting in mind since im sure it will still be a pound lighter than a new RZR but who knows.

 

[Birddog6424]

I would think it's a little late in the game for a higher magnification Gen III Razor this year. I suspect Shot 2021 will offer some clues.

 

[Sogan]

I would think it's a little late in the game for a higher magnification Gen III Razor this year. I suspect Shot 2021 will offer some clues.

I was holding out for the NRA show that was suppose to be April 17th. So One more chance, maybe.

 

[beetroot]

I would think it's a little late in the game for a higher magnification Gen III Razor this year. I suspect Shot 2021 will offer some clues.

Vortex did a product announcement in July last year.
This July they will announce the new PST G2 4-20x50, 5-25x56 and a 2-10x32 with the EBR-9 reticle, and Gen 3 Razor line.

Dreams are free...........

 

[Birddog6424]

Vortex did a product announcement in July last year.
This July they will announce the new PST G2 4-20x50, 5-25x56 and a 2-10x32 with the EBR-9 reticle, and Gen 3 Razor line.

Dreams are free...........

Interesting..

Well there you have it..

 

[McMillan]

I got a great care package today. I'm excited about playing with it.

A new 30x XTR3 with the SCR2 reticle, a couple new Race Dials, and a handful of the Burris throw levers.

I like the lever. Machined aluminum and very simple clamshell design. Notches on the inside for solid purchase. Pretty bulletproof. These throw levers are designed to fit the XTR3, XTR2, and Veracity..

I'm very excited about the Race Dial. I love the ease of use this offers for both PRS and NRL22. Im excited about the prospect of zeroing at 50 yards and setting it as zero for my 22. Then marking 75, 100, and any greater distances on the turret and taping it over. All dope for the match day completed. So much potential here.

The turrets are fantastic on this scope. Tight and very audible. It looks great, I played with it in the failing light I love how bright it is.

Good stuff!!

You might want to lock tight the top part on the new race dial mine kept coming in done. The old one didnt

 

[Birddog6424]

You might want to lock tight the top part on the new race dial mine kept coming in done. The old one didnt

What do you mean by the top part? The set screws?

 

[McMillan]

T

What do you mean by the top part? The set screws?

The knuled part above the white. It unscrews off the white turret when you dial. I'd take a photo but I put lock tight on it to stop it happening.

 

[Birddog6424]

T

The knuled part above the white. It unscrews off the white turret when you dial. I'd take a photo but I put lock tight on it to stop it happening.

Good to know..

 

[DJL2]

I’ve been waiting for the illuminated XTR3 since...well, this time last year, I’m pretty sure. It might just be time to grab an MPO and be done with it.

 

[Chasing3]

At the price that some of these “used” XTR3’s are selling for in the PX section, I think it is worth jumping on for the quality of scope you are getting at a discounted price. Don’t get me wrong, illumination is nice but I never really found myself needing it in most environments.

 

[Birddog6424]

At the price that some of these “used” XTR3’s are selling for in the PX section, I think it is worth jumping on for the quality of scope you are getting at a discounted price. Don’t get me wrong, illumination is nice but I never really found myself needing it in most environments.

That's me too. I've said it repeatedly that it's just never been an issue. Even when I've hunted with illumination I've never needed it.

Though I do think when these finally release, the thicker reticle of the illuminated version will make the SCR2 reticle a little more effective as a crossover scope.

I probably wont bother picking up an illuminated version. I'll hunt with what I have or buy one with the SCR as a dedicated hunting scope. I like that reticle better than the SCR2 for hunting.

 

[Snipe2]

I don't have a date for release. But I have been told that Burris has taken the illumination design back to the drawing board for this optic. Rather than use the components and methods used on the XTR2, they've decided to engineer a new system that will be more robust from the ground up. They have an all new scope, with an in house etched reticle using state of the art equipment, they decided they wanted to suffer the delay to get it right the first time.

The attitude with this optic is to step up to a high quality scope where they pulled out all the stops to get it right, and didn't cut corners. All while maintaining a decent price point. Just as they did with the release date delay, they know this may slow down the time it takes to bring the illuminated versions to market. But I think they really want to get this right.

So I guess the illuminated version undergoing re-engineering, won't be released until 2021 in addition due to current pandemic crisis causing further production delays. Was also considering newer LR Razor HD Gen III version (except 1-10x24) that also won't be released any sooner either. The wait is killing me since last year with a scope less rifle.

 

[Birddog6424]

So I guess the illuminated version undergoing re-engineering, won't be released until 2021 in addition due to current pandemic crisis causing further production delays. Was also considering newer LR Razor HD Gen III version (except 1-10x24) that also won't be released any sooner either. The wait is killing me since last year with a scope less rifle.

Yeh, 2021 is quite likely. I get it, it sucks waiting.

In your shoes I would buy a decent used optic with good value retention and run it for a year. Then sell it. Lots of decent sub 1k scopes that will treat you well.

 

[D_TROS]

My boy mounting my 3-18 on my JP 223. I had a 4-20 on it i really like. excited for the upgrade. i had loaned this to a couple friends. bad arse scope on a bad mambo rifle

So the one piece mount is a 6 screw rings leaving not enough room to mount a level and a red dot on the front of turret. i dont like anything behind turret as i really try to not lift my head when i dial to not only maintain cheek weld but also to save time.

This forced me to get creative. i tried mounting the level upside down on left side but still hit mount so had to put on right side which i can barely still see maintaining cheek weld.

in that spot there isna perfect window to see red dot.

now i have nvr ran a red dot on a rifle before and laughed at those that have. that being said the last several years there have been stages in the Competition Dynamics matches assault courses with either cardboard human shape targets at point blank (1-100 yds) and also a stage once where you had 15 sec to engage a ispc at 60 yds or so with as many hits as you can. both instances would been easier with a red dot.

so shall see!! if we get to shoot this yr
???


regards
DT

 

[Chasing3]

What mount did you go with to include the red dot?

 

[Birddog6424]

I love the Burris Fast Fire III mount. But I can see the problem. Not much real estate on the short 18x..