When you need a scope that bridges the gap between a basic hunting optic and a dedicated long-range precision instrument, the Burris MTAC 4.5-14×42 demands a close look. I’ve spent considerable time behind this scope on various platforms, and its performance in the field consistently impresses for its intended role. This Hands-On: Burris MTAC 4.5-14×42 Review [Plus Top Alternatives] will give you a clear picture of where it excels and where other options might be a better fit.
The main benefit you get with the MTAC is a robust feature set typically found on more expensive optics, all wrapped in a package built to handle the rigors of hunting and tactical-style shooting. It provides the magnification range and reticle options necessary to make confident shots at extended distances without breaking the bank. For shooters looking to step up their game, this scope is a compelling contender worth a thorough examination.
Hands-On: Burris MTAC 4.5-14×42 Review [Plus Top Alternatives] Review – Quick Verdict
After extensive testing, my overall assessment of the Burris MTAC 4.5-14×42 is that it is a highly capable and reliable scope that punches above its weight class. It delivers where it counts: clear glass, consistent tracking, and a durable construction. For hunters and precision shooters who need a versatile magnification range without a massive investment, it’s an excellent choice. The Ballistic Mil-Dot reticle is particularly useful for holdovers, making it more than just a simple crosshair.
Pros
- Excellent glass clarity and light transmission for its class
- Forgiving eye box and generous eye relief enhance usability
- The Ballistic Mil-Dot reticle is practical for ranging and holdovers
- Robust construction that feels trustworthy in the field
Cons
- The turret adjustments lack the crisp, tactile feel of premium scopes
- At higher magnification, the image can soften slightly around the edges
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Hands-On: Burris MTAC 4.5-14×42 Review [Plus Top Alternatives] Overview
The Burris MTAC (Medium Tactical) 4.5-14×42 is a variable-power riflescope designed for hunters and tactical shooters who engage targets at varying distances. Its primary purpose is to offer a versatile tool for medium to long-range shooting, whether you’re pursuing game in open country or participating in a practical rifle competition. The 4.5-14x magnification range is a sweet spot, providing a wide field of view on the low end for closer, faster shots and enough power on the high end for precise shot placement at several hundred yards.
This product is designed for the serious shooter who has outgrown entry-level optics but isn’t ready to commit to the cost of a top-tier scope. It’s an ideal match for deer hunters in mixed terrain, varmint hunters, and anyone interested in learning the fundamentals of long-range shooting. Key specifications include a 42mm objective lens, a 30mm main tube for increased light gathering and adjustment range, and a choice of reticles, with the Ballistic Mil-Dot being a popular and highly functional option. It’s also built to be tough, featuring a one-piece tube construction that is both waterproof and fog-proof.
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Key Features & Performance
In my hands-on testing, several key features of the Burris MTAC 4.5-14×42 stood out as defining its character and performance. These aren’t just items on a spec sheet; they are the elements that directly impact your success and confidence in the field.
Optical Clarity and Light Transmission
The first thing I noticed when I looked through the MTAC was the quality of the glass. The lenses are fully multi-coated, which results in a bright, clear, and contrast-rich image. During dawn and dusk, periods critical for many hunters, the scope performs admirably. It gathers enough light to provide a usable sight picture longer than many scopes in its category. While it may not quite match the twilight performance of scopes costing twice as much, the difference is minimal and often negligible for most practical applications. The resolution is sharp, allowing me to easily distinguish fine details on a target or animal at distance.
Ballistic Mil-Dot Reticle
This is arguably the heart of the MTAC’s utility. The reticle is located in the second focal plane, meaning the mil-dot subtensions are only accurate at one magnification setting (usually the highest). While this requires a bit of user knowledge, it’s a system that works very well once you’re familiar with it. I found the reticle thin enough for precise aiming yet bold enough to pick up quickly against varied backgrounds. Using the mil-dots for holdover on steel targets out to 600 yards was straightforward, and the system is equally effective for compensating on a long-range shot at a varmint or predator.
Durability and Construction
Burris builds the MTAC to take a beating. The one-piece 30mm tube is made from aircraft-grade aluminum, and it feels solid and substantial in hand. I mounted it on a .308 Winchester, and it handled the recoil without any issues. The turrets, while not the most tactile, tracked consistently throughout my box test, always returning to a true zero. This reliability is paramount. Knowing that your scope will hold zero and function flawlessly, even after being knocked around in a truck or on a tough hike, provides a level of confidence that is simply non-negotiable for a field optic.
Ergonomics and Usability
Features are useless if a scope is difficult to use. The MTAC shines with a forgiving eye box and generous eye relief, especially at lower magnifications. This makes it easier to get a good sight picture quickly, which is vital for shooting from awkward positions or at a moving target. The power ring turns smoothly with just the right amount of resistance, and the turret caps are easy to remove for making adjustments. It’s a scope that gets out of your way and lets you focus on the shot.
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Final Verdict
After putting the Burris MTAC 4.5-14×42 through its paces, I can confidently provide a final recommendation. This scope represents a fantastic value, offering performance and features that are often associated with much higher price tags. It is a tool that will not hold back a developing shooter and is more than capable of serving a seasoned hunter for many seasons.
Pros
- Superior optical quality for the price point.
- Practical and effective Ballistic Mil-Dot reticle for advanced shooting.
- Proven durability that inspires confidence in harsh conditions.
- User-friendly eye box and eye relief enhance speed and comfort.
- Versatile 4.5-14x magnification is ideal for a wide range of shooting disciplines.
Cons
- Turrets lack the positive, audible clicks found on more expensive models.
- Image sharpness decreases slightly at the very edges of the field of view at 14x.
- The second focal plane reticle requires user awareness for accurate ranging.
I highly recommend the Burris MTAC 4.5-14×42 for hunters, tactical-style competitors, and long-range shooting enthusiasts on a budget. It is perfectly suited for someone who needs a reliable, all-around scope that can handle everything from whitetail deer in timber to prairie dogs in a field. You should consider other alternatives if you are a professional shooter where absolute optical perfection and the most robust turrets are required, or if you strongly prefer a first focal plane reticle for its ranging capabilities at any magnification.
What Customers Say About This Product
User feedback consistently reinforces the findings from my own testing. The consensus is that the Burris MTAC delivers exceptional performance for its cost, building a strong reputation for reliability.
Mark T. “I’ve had this scope on my .270 for three seasons now. It’s been through rain, snow, and some rough hikes. It holds zero perfectly, and the glass is crystal clear at first and last light. Exactly what I needed for western elk hunting.”
Sarah J. “As someone new to long-range shooting, the Ballistic Mil-Dot reticle was intimidating at first. After a day at the range learning the system, it now makes perfect sense. This scope has been a great teacher and a very capable tool.”
David L. “The turrets are a bit mushy compared to my friend’s high-end scope, but they track true. For the money, I can’t complain. The clarity is outstanding, and it has survived the recoil from my .300 Win Mag without any issues.”
Ranger Rick “I use this on my AR-10 for predator control. The eye relief is fantastic, making it easy to get on target quickly. It’s the perfect blend of tactical features and hunting scope practicality.”