Trinity Force sent me another optic to take a look at. This is their 1-4x28mm scope with a small-cross reticle.
Reticle
The 1-4×28 has what Trinity Force is calling a small-cross reticle. It has a thicker left, right and bottom post, that narrows to a thin line, with the top post being just a thin line. The reticle also has illuminated center point.
The illumination on the center-point, though it’s hard to tell, works pretty well. It’s not super bright, but it is definitely visible in low light. During the day, it’s not really visible against light targets. That’s the case I’ve seen with most illuminated reticles.
Below is the reticle outdoors and indoors (with illumination on).
I like this style reticle for basic use, it’s simple and just works. More or less, just simple… great for putting rounds down range. There’s no mil-dots for range estimation, etc. But for what this optic is designed for, simple is better. So there are no frills or bells and whistles with this reticle, it just gives you a point of aim and you get to do the rest.
Windage and Elevation / Turrets
The windage and elevation turrets on this optic are capped (not externally adjustable without removing the cap). This is pretty standard on most hunting and lower priced optics. This optic is designed more like a basic hunting optic, something that you zero a couple times a year, and the rest of the time you just shoot. You’re not really going to be making on the fly windage adjustments with this type of optic anyways. And, the capped turrets will provide a better seal to keep out dirt, water and whatever else you may expose your rifle to.
Once you have the turret caps removed, there is a simple dial, with hash markings that you turn to make your adjustments. The only issue I’ve found with this optic in this regard is that the turrets are not very tall, and are quite stiff. So it’s a real pain to adjust them. Also, there is no “coin indent” on the top where you can use a quarter or other object to help turn the turrets.
Another thing to note is that the turrets on this optic are 1/2 MOA, I generally prefer something in the 1/4 or 1/8 MOA range; for more granular adjustments. At close range, 1/2 MOA is generally OK, but if you plan to shoot at longer distances frequently (500+ yds), you will probably want an optic that has 1/4 or 1/8 MOA adjustments.
Mounting
The scope tube is 30mm, so basically any 30mm mounts should work.
Trinity Force sent me out a detachable mount for the optic, something that is an offset AR style mount. So there are mounting options for ARs (basically anything with a 1913 Picatinny rail) and standard rifles with Weaver style mounts.
Warranty
As usual, Trinity Force offers a lifetime no-hassle warranty. If the scope breaks or malfunctions at any time, just send it in and they will ship you a brand new scope.
MSRP: $110.00 USD
Overall
This is a nice scope for the price. If you have a .22LR or some other rifle that you are planning to use at close range, this optic would work out well; especially if you are on a budget. It uses 30mm rings, and should work with most common AR style offset mounts, as well as any standard 30mm scope mounts.
Ratings (out of 5 stars)
Durability: * * *
Trinity Force optics are not designed to be bullet proof, but for the price point, they hold their own. It’s sturdy and will last under normal use.
Usability: * * *
The Trinity Force 1-4×28, with it’s 1x to 4x magnification will work well for any smaller caliber rifle, .22LR, 17HMR, .223/5.56, etc. at ranges from 25 yds to 100+ yds. I wouldn’t recommend this optic for any high impact shooting, but for a normal bench rest gun, it’ll work just fine.
Value: * * * *
At the price point of $110, the 1-4×28 is a good entry level optic for the shooter that just wants to get out to the range and send some rounds down range.
Overall: * * * ½
The 1-4×28 is a good low cost optic with a nice simple reticle. For $110 you can get a rifle out and put some rounds down range. It’s not something that is designed to be beaten up or taken to high impact training. But for the occasional shooter, this optic will workout just fine. If you think you are going to be a little more on the rough side with your rifle or are planning to take it to a tactical training class, you may want to look into something that will take more of a beating… Remember, you don’t have to spend a ton of money on gear to get to the range. Start out with the basics and move up from there!
Gives you a perfect shot. Likes the specifications, specially the usability.