Burris xtr ii 3-15 - Burris Xtreme Tactical 3-15x50mm 34 mm Tube First Focal Plane (FFP) Rifle Scope

I purchased this scope about two weeks ago to use on an 18" Grendel build. I went back and forth on several scopes but ultimately settled on this one because it seems very feature-rich for the money. Illumination, FFP, and a zerostop mechanism are important to me so when I found this scope at a price under many other scopes with these features I had to try it.I haven't taken it out yet but my initial impressions are mostly positive. In my opinion there are three primary knocks against it so far.
1. Stiff turrets: The turrets are much stiffer than I imagined they would be. Comparing them to my Razor HD I'd say that are twice as hard to turn, but most guys would consider this nothing more than inconvenient, and they would be right. But, for me, I would like them to be a little easier to handle.

2. Lack of cat tail choices: This is another thing that most users wouldn't consider relevant. There are a few companies that make throw levers specifically for this XTR II. I personally went with Aadland (which is a bit bulky but that's what I was shooting for) and it gets the job done pretty well.

3. Weight: At 30.9oz this scope is definitely on the heavy side. However it is not unlike other scopes in it's class, and since this is a dedicated range toys that is meant to shoot off of a bench the weight issue is null and void in my opinion. On the other hand, the weight is reportedly due to its ruggedness and durability. I have NOT had this scope to the range yet but right away I can tell you that it feels well built. When complete (without mag/ammo) my rifle totals nearly 12lbs. Obviously I'm not overly concerned about the Abrams tank that is on top of my rifle.

Overall I like this scope. It defintely has some haters on the web for some reason but I prefer to try something before jumping on the love it or hate it bandwagon. I'll be able to speak with more authority after I get it to the range but for now I'm not regretting my decision to purchase the Burris XTR II 3-15x50.