Burris
Burris Optics: In Depth
Founded in 1971, Burris Optics has established itself as a pioneering force in the optics industry, creating high-performance riflescopes, sights, and accessories. Based in Greeley, Colorado , Burris has built a reputation for innovation, reliability, and precision in the shooting sports market, catering to hunters, competitive shooters, and tactical professionals alike.
Burris is best known for its comprehensive selection of optics designed for virtually every type of firearm and shooting application. Their product lines include everything from hunting scopes and tactical optics to red dot sights and mounting systems. Each product is engineered with precision to ensure exceptional optical clarity and durability. Burris's commitment to quality is evident in their extensive testing protocols and continuous innovation, ensuring each optic performs reliably in the most challenging conditions.
A notable achievement in Burris's history is the creation of the revolutionary "Posi-Lock" system, which is incorporated into many of their riflescopes. This technology significantly enhances the precision and durability of their optics, providing superior performance for hunting and competitive shooting.
In addition to their technological advancements, Burris also offers a variety of mounting solutions and accessories, which are popular among those who demand secure, reliable connections between their optics and firearms. Their mounting systems are recognized for their robustness and innovation, allowing shooters to achieve optimal performance from their optical setups.
For those who value optical excellence, rugged construction, and practical innovation, Burris stands out as a dependable choice. With over fifty years of experience, Burris continues to lead the way in the optics industry, providing trustworthy and innovative products that are relied upon by shooters and hunters worldwide. Whether you are pursuing big game in challenging terrain or engaging in precision shooting competitions, Burris delivers exceptional quality and performance.
History and Development
Burris Optics has been an influential player in the sport optics industry since its founding in 1971. The company was established by Don Burris, whose expertise in optics design and commitment to quality laid the foundation for what would become one of the most respected optics manufacturers in the world.
Burris began its journey when Don Burris, after working for Redfield for over 15 years, decided to venture out on his own to create optics that prioritized innovation and performance. Don's philosophy centered on providing hunters and shooters with optics that offered exceptional clarity, reliability, and value. This focus on practical excellence became the driving force behind the brand.
In the early years, Burris was a modest operation, but its dedication to innovation led to significant growth. A key milestone came in the 1980s when Burris introduced the Fullfield line of riflescopes, which combined quality optics with affordability, making premium features accessible to more hunters. Another significant development was the introduction of the "Ballistic Plex" reticle, which simplified holdover shooting for hunters taking long-range shots.
Ownership of Burris changed in 2002 when it was acquired by Beretta Holding Group, a move that provided the resources needed for further expansion and development. Despite the change in ownership, Burris has maintained its commitment to innovation and quality, preserving the vision of its founder while expanding its global reach.
Burris's influence extends beyond commercial success; it is also recognized for introducing several groundbreaking technologies to the optics market. For example, Burris was one of the first companies to offer a lifetime warranty on their products, demonstrating their confidence in the durability and quality of their optics.
Throughout its history, Burris has been at the forefront of technological advancements in the optics industry. The company introduced the Signature Ring system, featuring steel inserts that prevent scope tube damage and allow for alignment adjustments. This innovation exemplifies Burris's ongoing commitment to providing shooters and hunters with the most advanced optical solutions possible.
Today, Burris remains a leader in the optics industry, known for its high-quality products, innovative spirit, and dedication to the shooting sports community. The company's optics are highly regarded by military, law enforcement, hunters, and competitive shooters alike, ensuring its place as a trusted name in the global optics market.
Complete Timeline of Burris's Development:
Burris Optics Products Overview
Burris is a leading manufacturer of high-performance optics, known for its innovative and precision-engineered products. They offer a wide range of optical solutions tailored to specific shooting needs, from hunting and tactical applications to competition shooting. Here's a detailed look at each of their specialized lines:
1. Burris Fullfield Series
Use Case: This flagship line is designed for hunters seeking reliable, high-quality optics at accessible price points. It's favored for its versatility across various hunting scenarios.
Unique Features:
- Features the Ballistic Plex reticle system for improved trajectory compensation
- Quad-seal technology prevents internal fogging in extreme conditions
- Double internal spring-tension system maintains zero through recoil and vibration
2. Burris Veracity Series
Use Case: Developed for serious hunters and competitive shooters who demand premium optical quality and precision adjustments.
Unique Features:
- Utilizes high-grade optical glass with index-matched Hi-Lume® multi-coatings
- Features advanced reticle options including the E1 FFP (First Focal Plane) system
- Zero Click Stop adjustment system for precise return to zero
3. Burris Eliminator Series
Use Case: This line is engineered for long-range hunters who want integrated laser rangefinding capability with automatic trajectory compensation.
Unique Features:
- Built-in laser rangefinder with readings out to 1,500+ yards
- X96 reticle with automatic holdover and wind drift compensation
- Programmable for custom ballistic data for specific loads
4. Burris XTR Series
Use Case: Specifically crafted for tactical shooters, law enforcement, and military personnel who require precision in high-stress environments.
Unique Features:
- 5x zoom system provides versatility from CQB to long-range engagements
- Zero Click Stop adjustment system with MIL or MOA precision adjustments
- First focal plane reticles maintain accurate subtensions at all magnifications
5. Burris FastFire Red Dot Sights
Use Case: Ideal for rapid target acquisition in dynamic shooting environments, popular for handguns, shotguns, and as secondary optics.
Unique Features:
- Compact, lightweight design for minimal impact on weapon handling
- Parallax-free design allows for both-eyes-open shooting
- Automatic brightness adjustment responds to ambient light conditions
6. Burris Oracle Rangefinding Bow Sight
Use Case: Designed specifically for bowhunters, providing precise rangefinding capabilities integrated with an archery sight.
Unique Features:
- Features one-button laser rangefinding technology
- Automatically calculates and displays the correct aiming point for the target distance
- Adjustable for various arrow speeds and shooting styles
7. Burris Signature Ring System
Use Case: Tailored for shooters who demand the most secure and precise mounting solutions for their optics.
Unique Features:
- Polymer inserts prevent scope tube damage from metal-on-metal contact
- Allows for alignment adjustments to compensate for barrel/receiver irregularities
- Double steel-ring construction provides unmatched durability and holding power
Each of Burris's product lines is designed with a specific shooter in mind, making them highly specialized for their intended applications. Whether you are hunting in variable conditions, engaging targets at extreme distances, or competing in tactical shooting events, Burris offers optical solutions that promise reliability and precision.
Burris Optics Awards and Recognitions
Burris has received numerous awards for their innovative optical products and technologies over the years.
| Award | Product | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Outdoor Life Editor's Choice | Veracity 4-20x50mm Riflescope | 2023 |
| Petersen's Hunting Editor's Choice Award | Signature HD Spotting Scope | 2022 |
| NASGW-POMA Optic of the Year | Oracle X Bow Sight | 2020 |
| Shooting Illustrated Optic of the Year | RT-8 1-8x24mm Tactical Scope | 2018 |
| Field & Stream Best of the Best | Eliminator III LaserScope | 2016 |
Where are Burris Optics Made?
Burris Optics maintains its headquarters and some manufacturing operations in Greeley, Colorado, USA. This location is the heart of Burris's engineering and design operations, where they have been developing innovative optical solutions since the company was founded in 1971 by Don Burris.
In addition to their Colorado facilities, Burris has expanded their manufacturing capabilities with an international presence. Their parent company, Beretta Holding Group, has facilitated production of some Burris products in facilities in the Philippines, allowing the company to offer different product lines at various price points while maintaining their quality standards.
The Greeley facility focuses on high-end optics manufacturing, product development, and quality control. Here, Burris engineers and designs many of its premium lines, including the Veracity, XTR, and Eliminator series. Each product line undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it meets the standards expected by hunters and shooters worldwide.
Regardless of manufacturing location, all Burris products adhere to the same quality control standards and testing protocols established by the company's engineering team in Colorado. This global approach to manufacturing has enabled Burris to remain competitive in the optics market while continuing to innovate and develop new technologies for the shooting sports industry.
More Burris Optics Resources:
- Burris Optics Official Website
- Burris's LinkedIn Page
- Burris on X
- Burris on Facebook
- Burris on Instagram
- Burris on YouTube
Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Burris Optics
1. Are Burris scopes made in the USA?
Burris Optics is headquartered in Greeley, Colorado, where some of their premium optics are designed and manufactured. However, to maintain competitive pricing, some Burris product lines are manufactured overseas in facilities in the Philippines under the Beretta Holding Group. Regardless of manufacturing location, all Burris products adhere to the same rigorous quality control standards established by their engineering team in Colorado.
2. What warranty does Burris offer on their optics?
Burris offers their Forever Warranty™ on all riflescopes, spotting scopes, and binoculars. This warranty is transferable, doesn't require a receipt, and covers repair or replacement of the product if it is damaged or defective. The warranty is valid for the life of the product and covers all functional aspects except for cosmetic damage, loss, theft, or deliberate damage. Electronic components typically carry a warranty of 3 years from date of purchase.
3. What is the Ballistic Plex E1 reticle and how does it work?
The Ballistic Plex E1 reticle is one of Burris's advanced trajectory-compensating reticle systems. It features cascading dots along the lower vertical crosshair that serve as holdover points for longer distances. The reticle is calibrated for specific cartridge ballistics, allowing hunters and shooters to make accurate shots at extended ranges without adjusting the elevation turret. The E1 version includes windage hash marks for wind drift compensation at various distances.
4. What makes the Burris Eliminator different from standard riflescopes?
The Burris Eliminator is a laser rangefinding riflescope that combines traditional optics with an integrated laser rangefinder and ballistic calculator. When you range a target, the Eliminator automatically calculates the bullet drop compensation and illuminates the correct aiming point in the reticle. This eliminates the need for manual holdover estimation or elevation adjustments, making long-range shooting more accessible. The scope can be programmed with your specific load data for customized ballistic solutions.
5. What is the Burris Signature Ring System and why is it beneficial?
The Burris Signature Ring System uses polymer inserts between the scope tube and the ring, which provides several benefits: it prevents scope tube damage from metal-on-metal contact; it eliminates the need for lapping; it allows for alignment adjustments to compensate for barrel/receiver irregularities; and it distributes clamping pressure evenly around the scope tube. These features help maintain zero, prevent scope damage, and can even improve accuracy by allowing proper optical alignment.
6. How does the Burris Posi-Lock system work?
The Burris Posi-Lock system is a mechanical retention feature that secures the elevation and windage adjustments in place after zeroing. This system prevents the internal erector tube assembly from moving due to recoil, vibration, or impact, ensuring your scope maintains its zero under all conditions. When engaged, the Posi-Lock effectively clamps down on the erector system, eliminating the possibility of point-of-impact shift while still allowing for precise adjustments when needed.
7. Which Burris scope is best for hunting?
The best Burris scope for hunting depends on your specific needs, but the Fullfield series is widely regarded as an excellent choice for most hunting applications. For general-purpose big game hunting, the Fullfield E1 3-9x40mm offers versatility and reliability at a reasonable price point. For those who hunt in low light or need more magnification, the Fullfield IV 4-16x50mm provides better light gathering and extended range capability. For specialized long-range hunting, the Eliminator series offers integrated rangefinding and ballistic compensation.
8. How do I properly mount a Burris scope?
To properly mount a Burris scope: First, select appropriate rings for your rifle and scope (Burris Signature Rings are recommended). Position the scope with proper eye relief (3-4 inches typically). Level the reticle using a bubble level or plumb line. Tighten ring screws in a crisscross pattern to Burris's recommended torque specifications (typically 15-18 inch-pounds for ring caps). Avoid overtightening, which can damage the scope tube. If using Signature Rings with offset inserts, position them to compensate for any misalignment in your rifle's receiver.
9. What's the difference between first and second focal plane reticles in Burris scopes?
In Burris scopes with first focal plane (FFP) reticles, the reticle size changes proportionally with magnification, ensuring that holdover points, ranging features, and subtensions remain accurate at any magnification setting. This is ideal for long-range precision shooting. In second focal plane (SFP) reticles, the reticle size remains constant while the target image changes size with magnification. With SFP scopes, ballistic reticle features are typically calibrated at one specific magnification setting (usually the highest). Burris offers both options, with tactical-oriented scopes like the XTR series often featuring FFP reticles, while many hunting scopes use SFP designs.
10. How do Burris FastFire red dot sights compare to competitors?
Burris FastFire red dot sights are known for their compact size, lightweight design, and durability. Compared to competitors, they offer a good balance of features at a mid-range price point. The FastFire sights feature tool-less windage and elevation adjustments, automatic brightness sensors on some models, and a wide field of view. While they may not have all the premium features of high-end tactical red dots, they provide excellent value for target shooting, hunting, and competition use. The FastFire's low profile and multiple mounting options make it versatile for use on pistols, shotguns, rifles, and as secondary optics on magnified scopes.