Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 Review: Is This Budget Scope Worth Your Money?

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In the world of optics, finding a reliable and affordable scope can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 riflescope aims to bridge that gap, offering a blend of features and performance that won’t break the bank. But does it live up to the hype? This Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 review dives deep into its specifications, performance, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your needs.

Overview of the Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40

The Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 is a variable power riflescope designed for a variety of shooting applications, from hunting to target practice. It boasts a magnification range of 4x to 12x and a 40mm objective lens, providing a versatile platform for different distances and lighting conditions. Marketed towards budget-conscious shooters, it promises decent performance without the hefty price tag of higher-end optics.

Key Specifications

Magnification: 4-12x
Objective Lens Diameter: 40mm
Reticle: Truplex
Eye Relief: 3.75 inches
Field of View (at 100 yards): 31.4 ft (4x) – 10.5 ft (12x)
Adjustment Graduation: 1/4 MOA
Tube Diameter: 1 inch
Weight: 13.2 ounces
Length: 12 inches
Parallax Setting: 100 yards
Finish: Matte Black

Build Quality and Design

The Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 features a durable construction, designed to withstand the rigors of regular use. The matte black finish provides a non-reflective surface, crucial for avoiding unwanted attention in hunting scenarios. While it doesn’t have the robust feel of premium scopes, it certainly doesn’t feel flimsy either. The scope is nitrogen-filled and O-ring sealed, making it fogproof, waterproof, and shockproof – essential qualities for any outdoor optic.

Turrets and Adjustments

The turrets on the Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 offer 1/4 MOA adjustments, which is standard for scopes in this price range. The adjustments are tactile and audible, allowing for precise zeroing and on-the-fly corrections. However, they lack a zero-reset feature, which might be a drawback for some users who prefer quickly returning to their original zero after making adjustments in the field. The elevation and windage adjustments are reasonably accurate, but some users have reported slight inconsistencies, so careful zeroing is crucial.

Reticle

The scope utilizes a Truplex reticle, a simple yet effective design consisting of heavy outer posts that gradually thin towards the center. This provides a clear aiming point without being overly cluttered. The Truplex reticle is particularly useful in low-light conditions, where the thicker posts remain visible, aiding in quick target acquisition. While it lacks the advanced features of more complex reticles, such as bullet drop compensation or ranging capabilities, its simplicity makes it easy to use for beginners and experienced shooters alike. The Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 keeps things straightforward.

Optical Performance

Optical performance is where the Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 truly shines, especially considering its price point. The scope delivers clear and bright images with decent edge-to-edge sharpness. The fully coated lenses enhance light transmission, resulting in a brighter sight picture, even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. However, chromatic aberration (color fringing) is noticeable at higher magnifications, particularly around the edges of the field of view. This is a common limitation in budget scopes, but it’s something to be aware of. Overall, the optical quality is surprisingly good for a scope in this price range, making it a solid choice for recreational shooting and hunting applications.

Image Clarity and Brightness

The 40mm objective lens provides ample light gathering capability, contributing to a bright and clear image. At lower magnifications (4x to 8x), the image quality is excellent, with minimal distortion. As you increase the magnification towards 12x, the image becomes slightly softer, and chromatic aberration becomes more apparent. However, even at 12x, the image remains usable and clear enough for most shooting scenarios. The eye relief of 3.75 inches is adequate for most shooters, providing a comfortable viewing experience without the risk of scope bite.

Performance in the Field

In real-world shooting scenarios, the Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 performs admirably. Its versatile magnification range makes it suitable for a variety of applications, from close-range woodland hunting to longer-range target shooting. The scope holds zero well, even after repeated recoil, ensuring consistent accuracy. The fogproof and waterproof construction provides peace of mind in inclement weather, allowing you to continue shooting regardless of the conditions. While it may not have the ruggedness of higher-end scopes, it’s more than capable of handling typical hunting and shooting environments. The Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 is a reliable companion in the field.

Hunting Applications

For hunting, the Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 is well-suited for medium to large game at moderate distances. The Truplex reticle is easy to use in low-light conditions, allowing for quick and accurate shots. The 4-12x magnification range provides versatility for different hunting environments, from dense forests to open fields. The scope’s lightweight design also makes it comfortable to carry on long hunts. However, if you plan on hunting in extremely challenging conditions or pursuing larger, more dangerous game, you might want to consider a more robust and higher-quality scope.

Target Shooting

For target shooting, the Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 is a great option for beginners and recreational shooters. The 1/4 MOA adjustments allow for precise zeroing, and the clear optics make it easy to see your target. While it lacks the advanced features of target-specific scopes, such as fine reticles or adjustable parallax, it’s more than adequate for casual target practice. The scope’s affordability also makes it an attractive option for those just starting out in the shooting sports.

Pros and Cons

To provide a balanced perspective, here’s a summary of the pros and cons of the Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40:

Pros

Affordable price
Clear and bright optics
Versatile 4-12x magnification range
Durable construction
Fogproof, waterproof, and shockproof
Easy-to-use Truplex reticle

Cons

Noticeable chromatic aberration at higher magnifications
Turrets lack a zero-reset feature
Some inconsistencies in turret adjustments
Not as rugged as higher-end scopes

Alternatives to the Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40

If the Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 doesn’t quite meet your needs, here are a few alternative scopes to consider:

Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×40: A popular choice known for its clear optics and durable construction. Offers a similar magnification range and features Vortex’s excellent warranty.
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn 3-9×40: Another budget-friendly option that excels in low-light conditions. A good choice for hunters who often shoot at dawn or dusk.
Nikon Prostaff P3 Target EFR 3-9×40: A rimfire-specific scope with adjustable parallax, making it ideal for precision target shooting with .22 rifles.

[See also: Best Budget Rifle Scopes Under $200]

[See also: Vortex Crossfire II Review]

Final Verdict

The Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 is a solid budget riflescope that offers a good balance of features and performance. Its clear optics, versatile magnification range, and durable construction make it a suitable choice for recreational shooting and hunting applications. While it has some limitations, such as noticeable chromatic aberration and basic turret adjustments, its affordability makes it an attractive option for beginners and budget-conscious shooters. If you’re looking for a reliable scope that won’t break the bank, the Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 is definitely worth considering. This Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 review should give you a solid base to decide if it’s the right scope for you. Overall, for the price, the Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 is a great value. Buying a Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 could be a good decision. Make sure you research and read other Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 reviews before purchasing. Consider a Simmons ProTarget 4-12×40 for your next optic!