Bushnell R3 Series: Affordable excellence for hunters 

By Billy Allen 

Bushnell has long been a trusted name in hunting optics, with the new R3 series being a testament to their commitment to delivering quality gear for hunters on a budget. The R3 lineup, comprising the R3 3-9×40 riflescope, R3 10×42 binoculars and R3 6×25 laser rangefinder, is designed to bring reliable, high-performing optics to entry-level price points without compromising on durability or functionality.  

The Report was given the opportunity to test these three products in the Australian bush. From unboxing to field performance, the R3 series impressed me with its thoughtful design, robust construction and value for money. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a beginner looking to equip your first hunting adventure, the R3 series is worth a serious look. 

The gear arrived in sturdy boxes adorned with camo tones of green and black, immediately signalling their purpose-built design for hunting and outdoor pursuits. The packaging exudes confidence, giving you the sense that you’ve invested in tools meant for the rugged Australian landscape. Upon opening each box, I was greeted with the words ‘Welcome to Team Bushnell’, a sentiment that feels genuine. It’s clear that Bushnell has crafted the R3 series to make quality hunting optics accessible to everyone, regardless of budget. This inclusive approach sets the tone for what’s to come: reliable, practical gear that invites hunters of all levels to join the fold. 

I took the R3 scope, binoculars and rangefinder into the bush to see how they’d perform under real-world conditions and to give you my unbiased opinion on this gear.  

Bushnell R3 3-9×40 Riflescope 

First impressions 

Straight out of the box, the R3 3-9×40 riflescope makes a strong statement. The matte black finish is sleek and professional, inspiring confidence in its build quality. A standout feature is the vibrant green ring in the front lens housing—a small but striking detail that adds a pop of character and shows Bushnell’s attention to presentation. The scope feels solid in hand, with a compact, lightweight design that promises durability without weighing down your rifle. 

The Bushnell R3 3-9×40 Riflescope with Multi-X reticle, unboxed and ready for my initial impressions. 

Technical specifications 

• Reticle: Multi-X 
• Field of view @ 100 yards: 11.6m–4.0m 
• Eye relief: 3.5 inches 
• Total elevation/Windage: 65 MOA 
• Turret adjustments: ¼ MOA graduations 
• Tube size: 1 inch 
• Weight: 414g 
• Length: 316mm 

Features: HD optical system, multi-coated optics, EXO Barrier lens coating, IPX7 waterproof and fog-proof construction, nitrogen-purged, single-piece shockproof tube, second focal plane design, adjustable objective focus. 

The R3 scope is built with Bushnell’s HD optical system for maximum light transmission, contrast and resolution. The multi-coated optics enhance brightness, while the EXO Barrier coating repels water, oil, dust and debris. Its IPX7 waterproof and nitrogen-purged construction ensures reliability in harsh conditions, and the 1-inch aircraft-grade aluminium tube is shockproof for rugged use. 

In the field 

Mounted on my .243 Winchester, the R3 scope proved its worth. The clarity was exceptional right out of the box, with sharp, edge-to-edge visuals even at the maximum 9x magnification. During testing, it held zero flawlessly and the turrets tracked accurately when adjustments were made, providing confidence in its precision. The EXO Barrier coating kept the lenses clear in damp conditions. Whether stalking through dense bush or scanning open paddocks, the scope performed reliably, delivering bright, clear images without distortion. 

Final thoughts 

The R3 3-9×40 riflescope is a fantastic option for hunters seeking quality optics at an entry-level price. Its lightweight design, durable construction and excellent optical clarity make it a versatile choice for a range of hunting scenarios. The attention to detail and the robust build ensure it can handle the rigours of the Australian bush. For the price, this scope punches well above its weight. 

Bushnell R3 10×42 Binoculars 

First impressions 

The R3 10×42 binoculars immediately feel solid and well-constructed. Weighing just 623.7g, they’re lightweight yet robust, with a rugged design that inspires confidence. The rubber armour is professionally finished, providing a secure grip and added durability. The included chest carry harness, which is also used in Bushnell’s higher-end R5 series, is a standout addition—adjustable, well-made and an extra thought from the Bushnell Team in providing a quality product that you don’t need to go and purchase to aid your field use experience and hunting. A neoprene neck strap is also provided, adding versatility for those who prefer a traditional carry option. 

The Bushnell R3 10×42 Binoculars were comfortable for extended use, offering clear visuals and excellent performance in low-light conditions. 

Technical specifications 

• Size (HxW): 150mm x 125mm 
• Weight: 623.7g 
• Interpupillary distance: 59–74mm 
• Eye relief: 17mm 
• Close focus: 4.87m 
• Field of view: 101.6m

Features: HD optical system, anti-reflective coating, EXO Barrier lens coating, IPX7 waterproof with nitrogen-purged chassis, durable shockproof ergonomic construction with rubber over-mould, tripod-ready (adaptor sold separately). 

The binoculars feature Bushnell’s HD optical system and anti-reflective coatings for maximum light transmission. The EXO Barrier coating ensures clarity in adverse conditions, and the IPX7 waterproof chassis is built to withstand Australia’s unpredictable weather. 

In the field 

In the bush, the R3 binoculars shone. Their low-light performance was impressive, thanks to the lens coatings, making them ideal for dawn and dusk hunts. I tested them in light rain, and the EXO Barrier coating worked as advertised, keeping the lenses free of water droplets. The field of view was wide with minimal distortion, and the adjustable focus knob was smooth and precise. The binoculars felt comfortable in hand, with solid, cushioned eyecups that made extended use a breeze. Whether glassing for deer across ridgelines or spotting birds in low light, these binoculars delivered a sharp image. 

Final thoughts 

The R3 10×42 binoculars are a standout in their price range. Their rugged construction, excellent low-light performance and included chest harness make them a fantastic value proposition. Bushnell has created a pair of binoculars that are purpose-built for hunting, offering durability and optical quality that rival more expensive models. For hunters looking for reliable, high-performing binoculars without breaking the bank, the R3 is unmatched in its class. 

Bushnell R3 6×25 Laser Rangefinder 

First impressions 

The R3 6×25 rangefinder is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry in the bush. Its robust carry case, finished in a hunting-appropriate khaki colour, is well-made and includes a solid lanyard—a thoughtful addition that enhances its practicality. The rangefinder’s glass is crystal clear, and the silent one-button operation is intuitive, making it user-friendly straight out of the box. 

The Bushnell R3 6×25 Laser Rangefinder, unboxed and ready for my initial evaluation. 

Technical specifications 

• Accuracy: 1 yard accuracy out to 1200 yards 
• Max range: 1200 yards (reflective surfaces), 350 yards (deer) 
• Magnification: 6x 

Features: Digital reticle, Angle Range Compensation (ARC) for bow mode, EXO Barrier lens coating, high-definition optics, scan mode (up to 4x per second) 

The R3 rangefinder is designed for precision, with ARC modes for bow hunters and a fast scan mode for quick ranging. The EXO Barrier coating ensures clarity in tough conditions, and the high-definition optics provide a sharp view. 

In the field 

The R3 rangefinder’s performance was exceptional. Its response time was lightning-fast, outpacing my 15-year-old entry-level rangefinder and even my high-end range finding binoculars. I ranged animals out to 300 yards with 100 per cent reliability and accuracy, and the rangefinder handled close ranges as near as five metres—a win for bow hunters needing precise short-distance measurements. The ARC mode worked admirably, providing accurate angle-adjusted ranges. The setup was straightforward, and the clear glass and digital reticle made ranging effortless, even in low light. The silent operation ensured I didn’t spook game, and the lightweight design made it easy to carry all day with the carry case neatly attaching to the binocular’s chest carry harness. 

Final thoughts 

The R3 6×25 rangefinder is a game-changer for hunters on a budget. Its fast response time, close-range capability and robust construction make it a versatile tool for both rifle and bow hunters. The included carry case and accurate performance add significant value; it’s intuitive to use, making it accessible for beginners and experienced hunters alike. Adding this rangefinder to your kit will boost your confidence and reduce margins of error, ensuring ethical shots in the field. 

Conclusion 

The Bushnell R3 series—comprising of the 3-9×40 riflescope, 10×42 binoculars and 6×25 laser rangefinder—is a triumph of value and performance. Each product is thoughtfully designed, ruggedly built and tailored for the demands of Australian hunters. The scope’s clarity and reliability, the binoculars’ low-light performance and included harness, and the rangefinder’s speed and accuracy make this lineup a compelling choice for hunters at any stage of their journey. 

What sets the R3 series apart is Bushnell’s lifetime unconditional warranty, which provides peace of mind that these products are built to last. Whether you’re hard on your gear, introducing your kids to hunting or starting out yourself, the R3 series offers quality optics that won’t break the bank. Compared to the gear I started out using 25 years ago, which cost significantly more and were not specifically designed for the hunter, the R3 lineup is a revelation. It delivers exceptional value, performs reliably in the field and ensures you have dependable tools for years to come. Even if you upgrade to higher-end gear in the future, the R3 series will remain a solid backup option. 

Bushnell has crafted a lineup that truly welcomes hunters to ‘Team Bushnell’. The R3 series is unmatched at its price point (each less than $500), and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking to get into the bush with confidence. Go Team Bushnell!