Review: Burris XTRII 1.5x-8x 34mm Scope and FastFire 3 Red Dot Combo
Major Pandemic 10.10.16
One of the nicest optics setups I’ve seen for both close and long-range tactical shooting is this Burris combo optic, which combines both a 1.5-8x scope with a FastFire 3 red dot piggybacked on. This type of arrangement allows very fast transition shots between close and longer-range targets and has become “the” hot setup for the 3-Gun crowd.
Fit, Finish, Feel, Features, and Functions
When I first saw the Burris 1.5-8x-34mm FastFire 3 Combo optic at the SHOT Show, I fell in love with its clarity, features, and the factory assembled combo complete with mounts.
The Scope
I’m a believer in reticles that deliver real shot data.The Burris XTR II Tactical 1.5x-8x 34mm is one of the few sub-$1000 optics that delivers true dual focal plane capability that zooms the reticle with the magnification. This allows the ranging function to work at any magnification level, and that can significantly increase the speed at which you can make accurate shots.
The scope boasts a giant 34mm tube for maximum light transmission, stunning clarity, a Dual Focal Plane reticle, calibrated CQB trajectory illuminated reticle, 5x magnification, 25% thicker tube construction, and Zero Click Stop technology.
If you want to impress others with the quality of your optic, it had better be clear when you start looking through it. That is what has impressed me here. The XTR II line features Hi-Lume multi-coated lenses to optimize target resolution and contrast and low-light performance, which delivers a crisp image that surprises everyone looking through it. The internals are hand-fitted and are triple-spring tensioned for shock-proofing.
The Red Dot
I’ve been a fan of the Burris FastFire line since its introduction. The FastFire 3 delivers everything I loved about the FastFire line plus upgraded features that include a top-mounted battery (1 CR1632) for easier battery replacement, upgraded windage and elevation adjustments, and a power button that provides three manual brightness settings and an automatic brightness setting with low battery indicator.
You even have manual override of the auto-brightness feature if you want it. The FastFire 3 features a Steel body construction and is waterproof.
The Combo
From a functional perspective, you end up with the best of both worlds: a scope for magnifying targets that are out there a ways and a red dot for fast engagement of close-up targets.
You may have noted that the large 34mm tube of the scope means you won’t find scope rings at most gun shops, but fear not. Burris has included AR co-witness height rings, and the entire setup comes completely assembled and ready to mount on your AR format rifle.
Final Thoughts
The Burris 1.5-8x-34mm FastFire 3 Combo optic has a street price of around $1200, which is not a bad deal if you look at the combo in total versus a single optic. In the Burris combo you get the scope, FastFire 3 and mount, and a picatinny mount for the whole shebang.
Personally, I love this combo and featured it on my Ultimate AR15 build. It should speak volumes that this optic was riding on my highest-end AR.
Manufacturer Description and Specs
Burris XTR II Tactical 1.5-8x28mm Scope:
The Burris XTR II 1.5-8x28mm 34mm tube Riflescope w/ 5.56 Gen 3 Illuminated Dual Focal Plane Reticle has been designed using the state of the art technology that competitors and tactical operators are going to love. This Riflescope from Burris image features a five-times zoom system, 25% thicker tube construction, perfected CQB trajectory reticles, and Zero Click Stop technology. Superb, high-performance optics on the Burris XTR II Illuminated Weapon Scope are made with Hi-Lume multi-coated lenses, optimizing target resolution, contrast, and low-light performance. All hand-fitted internal assemblies are triple-spring tensioned for absolute shock-proofing, even under severe recoil, and vibration resistant, even on extended vehicular patrols. For a great way to make sure you have the best optics available, choose the Burris 28mm Xtreme Tactical Riflescope XTR II.
Reticle:XTR II Ballistic 5.56 Illum (DFP)
- Finish: Matte
- Field Of view (ft @ 100 yds): 65 Low – 13.3 High
- Exit Pupil: 12mm Low – 3.5mm High
- Click Value: 1.10 MIL
- Elevation Adjustment: 90 MOA
- Windage Adjustment: 90 MOA
- Eye Relief: 3.75 – 4in
- Length: 12.75in
- Features of Burris XTR II Riflescope:
- Fives Times Zoom System
- Zero Click Stop Adjustment Knobs
- Rear & Dual Focal Plane Reticles
- Advanced Windage & Elevation Adjustment
Burris FastFire 3 Red Dot Sight
The next generation of FastFire 3 Red-Dot is here with the introduction of the FastFire 3. The popular FastFire II is even better with upgraded features that include a top mounted battery ((1) CR1632) for easier battery replacement, upgraded windage and elevation adjustments and a power button that provides three manual brightness settings and an automatic brightness setting with low battery indicator. The precision FastFire 3 allows for manual brightness adjustment and includes a protective cover and battery. Just like the rugged FastFire II, the FastFire 3 features a Steel body construction for extreme durability and is 100% waterproof. The ultimate CQB sight is perfect for mounting on your pistol, shotgun or rifle, and includes a picatinny-style mount. Covered by the Burris 1-year factory warranty.
- Style: Reflex
- Magnification: 1x
- Sight Window: 21mm x 15mm
- Adjustment Range @ 100 yards: 190″
- Reticle: 8 MOA Dot
- Reticle color: Red
- Housing material: Steel
- Recoil resistance: 1000 G’s
- Battery Type: (1) CR1632 3V
- Length: 1.8″
- Weight: 0.9 oz.
- Warranty: 1-year factory warranty
- MSRP $1577
- Street $1200
