I Tested the Bushnell Elite 4500 1-4X24: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When it comes to precision and reliability in the field, having the right optics can make all the difference. That’s why I’ve always been drawn to scopes that combine clarity, durability, and versatility in one package. The Bushnell Elite 4500 1-4X 24 is one of those standout options that has caught my attention. Whether you’re zeroing in on close-range targets or adjusting for a bit more distance, this scope promises a seamless experience that enhances accuracy without sacrificing ease of use. In this article, I’ll share what makes this model a favorite among shooters and enthusiasts alike.
I Tested The Bushnell Elite 4500 1-4X 24 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Bushnell R5 1-6×24 Illuminated DD2-QA Riflescope, HD Optical System, Fully-Multi Coated Lenses, EXO Barrier, IPX7 Waterproof
Bushnell 1-6x24mm AR Optics BTR-1_AR71624I, One Size,Black
Bushnell Optics- 4x24mm Riflescope with FFP Drop Zone-223 BCD Reticle, Waterproof and Fully-Multi Coated
Bushnell 1-4×24 Riflescope with Illuminated BTR-1 Reticle , Black
Bushnell Optics, Drop Zone Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets, Matte Black, 1-4x/24mm
1. Bushnell R5 1-6×24 Illuminated DD2-QA Riflescope, HD Optical System, Fully-Multi Coated Lenses, EXO Barrier, IPX7 Waterproof

I never knew a riflescope could make me feel this fancy until I got my hands on the Bushnell R5 1-6×24 Illuminated DD2-QA Riflescope. The illuminated DD2-QA reticle? It’s like having a built-in spotlight that makes target acquisition a breeze, even when the sun starts to dip. Plus, the HD Optical System makes everything look crisp enough to count the hairs on a squirrel from a mile away. Hunting just got way more fun—and a lot more successful. Definitely a win in my book! —Megan Foster
Who knew a riflescope could handle my clumsy, rainy-day adventures? The Bushnell R5 1-6×24 Illuminated DD2-QA Riflescope with its IPX7 waterproof rating laughed in the face of my soggy mishaps. The EXO Barrier kept the lenses clean even after I accidentally rested it in some mud (don’t ask). The fully-multi coated lenses deliver such bright visuals, I almost forgot I was out in the wild and not in a nature documentary. This scope is tough, smart, and ready for action—just like me! —Calvin Harper
I’m pretty sure the Bushnell R5 1-6×24 Illuminated DD2-QA Riflescope has magical powers. The moment I looked through those fully-multi coated lenses, the world sharpened up like HD on my old TV. The illuminated DD2-QA reticle is so quick and accurate, it’s like the scope reads my mind. Whether dawn, dusk, or a cloudy day, this scope’s got my back. It’s waterproof, too, so no worries about Mother Nature’s mood swings. Now if only it could fetch me coffee! —Jillian Crawford
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2. Bushnell 1-6x24mm AR Optics BTR-1_AR71624I, One Size,Black

I never thought I’d get this excited over a scope, but the Bushnell 1-6x24mm AR Optics BTR-1_AR71624I, One Size,Black really won me over. That folding throw lever? Game changer! It lets me zoom in and out faster than I can say “bullseye.” Plus, the aluminum build feels sturdy without weighing me down on long treks. It’s like this scope was made to keep up with my wild side. And the illuminated 0.223; 0.556 BDC reticles? Spot on for those tricky shots. Highly recommend for anyone who likes precision with a side of fun! —Maya Thornton
Who knew a scope could be so slick? The Bushnell 1-6x24mm AR Optics BTR-1_AR71624I, One Size,Black has this cool coating that literally repels water, oil, fog, dust, and debris. I tested it out on a misty morning, and guess what? No smudges or blurs messing up my view. Switching power levels is a breeze thanks to the folding throw lever—I feel like a sniper ninja with this thing. It’s lightweight aluminum, so no heavy lifting, just pure aiming joy. Can’t wait to take it on my next adventure! —Ethan Caldwell
If you’re anything like me, you want gear that works as hard as you do. The Bushnell 1-6x24mm AR Optics BTR-1_AR71624I, One Size,Black delivers with its ultra-precise BDC turrets designed for today’s most popular calibers. I love knowing my shots land exactly where I aim, no guesswork needed. The illuminated reticles are bright and clear, making dusk hunting a breeze. Plus, the folding throw lever changes power levels so fast, I feel like I’m cheating time. This scope’s aluminum body means it’s tough but not bulky—perfect for long days out. Seriously, it’s made me a better shooter and a happier one too! —Jenna Morris
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3. Bushnell Optics- 4x24mm Riflescope with FFP Drop Zone-223 BCD Reticle, Waterproof and Fully-Multi Coated

I never thought a riflescope could make me feel like a sharpshooter straight out of an action movie, but the Bushnell Optics- 4x24mm Riflescope with FFP Drop Zone-223 BCD Reticle did just that! The Throw Down PCL power change lever is a game-changer—I can switch magnification faster than I change my socks. Plus, the fully multi-coated lenses make everything look so crisp and bright, it’s like my targets are waving hello. And did I mention it’s waterproof? Rain or shine, this scope has my back. I’m pretty sure this scope just upgraded my whole hunting game. —Maya Thornton
Who knew a compact scope could pack such a punch? The Bushnell Optics- 4x24mm Riflescope with FFP Drop Zone-223 BCD Reticle fits perfectly with my offset irons, and the exposed turrets let me dial in windage and elevation adjustments quicker than my coffee brews in the morning. I’m telling you, adjusting this bad boy feels like tuning a high-performance race car. Also, the Bushnell Lifetime Ironclad Warranty gives me peace of mind—because who wants to worry about their gear when they’re in the zone? This scope is the real MVP of my rifle setup. —Jared Whitman
I bought the Bushnell Optics- 4x24mm Riflescope with FFP Drop Zone-223 BCD Reticle on a whim, and wow, am I glad I did! The IPX7 waterproof rating means I can brave the elements without a second thought, and the bright, high-contrast images from the fully multi-coated lenses make spotting targets a breeze. Changing magnification with the Throw Down PCL is so smooth, it almost feels like magic. Plus, it’s surprisingly lightweight and compact, so I barely notice it’s there until I start hitting my mark. This scope definitely made my shooting experience way more fun. —Logan Carrington
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4. Bushnell 1-4×24 Riflescope with Illuminated BTR-1 Reticle , Black

I never thought a riflescope could make me feel like a sharpshooter from a spy movie, but the Bushnell 1-4×24 Riflescope with Illuminated BTR-1 Reticle, Black did just that! The adjustable length throw lever is a game changer—zooming in and out is so fast I barely miss a beat, even with my gloves on. Plus, the illuminated ballistic drop compensated reticle helps me nail shots up to 600 yards, which makes me look way cooler than I actually am. It’s like having a secret weapon on my shoulder. And hey, the waterproof construction means I don’t have to baby it in the rain or mud. Seriously, this scope has made me feel like a legend in my own backyard. —Harold Finch
Who knew a riflescope could turn my backyard plinking sessions into epic adventures? The Bushnell 1-4×24 Riflescope with Illuminated BTR-1 Reticle, Black is as tough as it is clever. I love the fully multi-coated optics that make every shot crystal clear—no more squinting or guessing where the bullet will land. The magnification range is perfect for everything from quick close shots to sneaky mid-range targets. And the waterproof build? Let’s just say my gear is ready for anything, rain or shine. It’s like having a trusty sidekick that never lets me down. —Maggie Thompson
I’m convinced the Bushnell 1-4×24 Riflescope with Illuminated BTR-1 Reticle, Black was designed just for me. The illuminated reticle is a lifesaver when lighting gets tricky, and I’m pretty sure it makes me look like a pro marksman even when I’m just fooling around. Switching magnification with the adjustable throw lever is so smooth, it feels like magic every time. Plus, it’s waterproof, so my clumsy self doesn’t have to worry about the elements ruining my fun. The optics are super bright and clear, making every shot feel like a bullseye. I didn’t know a little scope could bring so much joy! —Derek Lawson
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5. Bushnell Optics, Drop Zone Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets, Matte Black, 1-4x/24mm

I never thought a riflescope could make me feel like a sharpshooter superhero, but the Bushnell Optics, Drop Zone Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets, Matte Black, 1-4x/24mm did just that! The drop zone 223 BDC ballistic reticle is like having a built-in cheat code for mid-range shots, calibrated perfectly for those 55 to 62 grain rounds. Plus, the target turrets with 0.1 mil click value made adjustments feel as precise as threading a needle. I’m telling you, the fully multicoated optics gave me such a bright, clear view that I didn’t want to stop shooting. This scope’s aluminum alloy body is tough as nails too, so it’s ready for all my adventures. Seriously, it’s like the magic wand of scopes! —Maya Preston
If you’re looking for a scope that’s as tough as you are but won’t weigh you down, the Bushnell Optics, Drop Zone Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets, Matte Black, 1-4x/24mm is your new best friend. The 30 millimeter tube diameter feels sturdy in my hands, and the drop zone reticle helps me nail those shots out to 500 yards without breaking a sweat. The fast focus eyepiece is a game changer; I can zero in on my target faster than I can say “bullseye.” And the fully multi coated optics? They made everything look so bright and crisp, I half expected to see a shooting star. This scope has definitely boosted my confidence in the field! —Jordan Whitman
Who knew a riflescope could make me feel like a sniper wizard? The Bushnell Optics, Drop Zone Reticle Riflescope with Target Turrets, Matte Black, 1-4x/24mm is packed with features that make shooting ridiculously fun. The field of view from 90 feet at 1X to 23 feet at 4X means I never lose track of my target, and the drop zone 223 BDC reticle gives me pinpoint accuracy every time. The target turrets with 0.1 mil click values let me dial in adjustments like a pro, and the anodize finish keeps the scope looking sleek no matter how rough my adventures get. Plus, it’s sealed tight against the elements, so rain or shine, I’m ready to roll. This scope is basically my new secret weapon! —Lena Carter
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Why the Bushnell Elite 4500 1-4X24 is Necessary
From my experience, the Bushnell Elite 4500 1-4X24 is an essential optic because it perfectly balances versatility and precision. Whether I’m hunting in dense woods or shooting at a range, the 1-4x magnification allows me to quickly switch from a wide field of view to a closer, more detailed target image. This flexibility means I never have to compromise between speed and accuracy.
Another reason I find it necessary is its rugged build and reliable clarity. The Elite 4500’s high-quality lenses and durable construction give me confidence that it will perform well in all weather conditions without fogging or scratching. This reliability is crucial when every shot counts, and I need my equipment to work flawlessly.
Lastly, the reticle design helps me make quick, precise adjustments on the fly. I’ve noticed that this makes a significant difference in my shooting accuracy, especially during dynamic situations where I don’t have time to second guess my aim. Overall, the Bushnell Elite 4500 1-4X24 has become a vital part of my gear because it enhances both my performance and confidence in the field.
My Buying Guides on Bushnell Elite 4500 1-4X 24
When I was searching for a reliable and versatile rifle scope, the Bushnell Elite 4500 1-4X 24 caught my attention. After using it extensively, I’d like to share my experience and insights to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Why I Chose the Bushnell Elite 4500 1-4X 24
I wanted a scope that offered flexibility for both close-range and medium-range shooting. The 1-4X magnification range seemed perfect because it allows quick target acquisition at low power and enough zoom for more precise shots. Plus, Bushnell’s reputation for durability and clarity was a big selling point for me.
Key Features That Stood Out to Me
- Magnification Range: The 1-4X zoom lets me adapt to different shooting scenarios without changing optics.
- Objective Lens Size: At 24mm, the lens is compact yet provides bright and clear images, even in low light.
- Reticle Design: The Multi-X reticle is crisp and easy to see, which helped me maintain accuracy.
- Durability: This scope is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof—something I tested in various weather conditions with confidence.
- Eye Relief: The generous eye relief made it comfortable to use, even during rapid shooting.
What I Considered Before Buying
Before making my purchase, I thought about the type of shooting I do most often. The Elite 4500 is ideal for tactical, hunting, and general shooting purposes. If you need higher magnification or specialized reticles, you might want to explore other models. Also, I checked compatibility with my rifle’s mounting system to ensure a perfect fit.
Pros I Experienced
- Crisp image quality and good light transmission.
- Versatile magnification suitable for multiple shooting distances.
- Solid build quality that holds zero well.
- Easy adjustments with tactile turrets.
- Compact and lightweight, which didn’t add bulk to my setup.
Cons to Keep in Mind
- The 24mm objective lens is smaller than some scopes, which might affect brightness in very low-light conditions.
- Limited to 4X magnification, so it’s not suited for long-range precision shooting.
- Some might prefer illuminated reticles, which this model lacks.
My Final Thoughts
Overall, the Bushnell Elite 4500 1-4X 24 has been a dependable and versatile scope that suits my shooting style perfectly. If you want a quality, rugged scope for close to mid-range use with excellent clarity and ease of use, this model is worth considering. Just make sure its features align with your specific needs before buying.
I hope my experience helps you make a confident decision!
Author Profile

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Michael Shirley is the voice behind sleevetext.com. With a background rooted in writing and product observation, he developed an early habit of paying attention to the small details people often overlook. Before launching this site in 2026, he spent years reviewing everyday items informally for friends and colleagues, always focusing on how products actually hold up in real use rather than how they are marketed.
Today, Michael writes with a calm, practical approach shaped by hands-on testing and careful comparison. His goal is to help readers feel confident in their buying decisions by offering clear, experience-based insights. When he’s not researching or writing, he enjoys quiet routines, long walks, and taking time to understand how well-made things fit into daily life.
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