Understanding the Whitetail Classic DNA
Hunting optics can be a significant investment, and finding a scope that delivers reliable performance without breaking the bank is a quest many hunters undertake. The Simmons Whitetail Classic series has long been recognized for its value proposition, and the 6-20×50 model, in particular, presents a compelling option for those seeking extended magnification and versatility. This review dives deep into the features, performance, and overall value of the Simmons Whitetail Classic 6-20×50, helping you determine if it’s the right choice for your next hunt.
Simmons has carved a niche in the optics market by providing accessible scopes that focus on delivering functionality and decent optical quality at a competitive price point. The Whitetail Classic line specifically caters to the needs of hunters, incorporating features and performance characteristics designed to enhance the hunting experience. These scopes aim to be reliable tools for target acquisition, offering clear views and sturdy construction designed to withstand the rigors of the field. The 6-20×50 model sits in the middle of the magnification range and has a large objective lens, making it attractive for a variety of hunting situations.
Examining the Core Specifications
The heart of any riflescope lies in its specifications. These numbers provide a foundational understanding of what the scope is capable of. Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Simmons Whitetail Classic 6-20×50 tick.
Optical Characteristics
The defining feature of this scope is its magnification range, starting at six times and extending all the way to twenty times. This substantial range provides flexibility in various hunting environments. At the lower end, six-power allows for a wider field of view and easier target acquisition in closer quarters, like dense brush or wooded areas. Cranking the magnification up to twenty times offers the hunter the ability to reach out and make longer shots, identifying targets at further distances and evaluating them with greater detail.
The fifty-millimeter objective lens is another key feature. A larger objective lens gathers more light than a smaller one, potentially resulting in a brighter image, particularly during low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk, when game is most active. This increased light gathering capacity can be a real advantage when hunting in challenging conditions.
The reticle in many of these scopes is typically a Truplex design. A Truplex reticle features thicker posts on the outer edges that quickly draw the eye to the center, facilitating quick target acquisition. The thin crosshairs in the center offer precision aiming points, making it a generally versatile reticle for hunting purposes.
Lens coatings are also crucial for image quality. Simmons typically employs coatings to enhance light transmission and reduce glare. While the specific type of coating can vary, the goal is to improve brightness, contrast, and overall image clarity.
The field of view is what the hunter can see. The view at one hundred yards is approximately fifteen feet at maximum magnification and closer to fifty feet when set on the minimum power. The eye relief is the distance your eye must be from the ocular lens to see the full image, and is typically several inches, which helps prevent scope bite. The exit pupil is the size of the image that reaches your eye, and this varies as magnification changes.
The Physical Build
The physical construction of the Simmons Whitetail Classic 6-20×50 contributes to its durability and overall user experience. The scope often uses a one-inch tube diameter, which is a common standard and allows for compatibility with a wide range of mounting rings. The length and weight of the scope will depend on the particular model but are generally manageable for most hunting rifles. The external components, like the main tube, are frequently made from aluminum, providing a balance of strength and weight.
Waterproofing and fog proofing are crucial for a scope that will be used in the outdoors. The Whitetail Classic series typically includes seals and nitrogen purging to prevent internal fogging and water intrusion.
Adjustment Features
The ability to make precise adjustments is critical for accurate shooting. The Simmons Whitetail Classic 6-20×50 typically features elevation and windage turrets for zeroing the scope to your rifle and making corrections for bullet drop and wind drift. The turrets are often fingertip adjustable, with tactile clicks to indicate each adjustment. The clicks per adjustment are measured in minutes of angle.
Some models incorporate a parallax adjustment, either a side focus knob or an adjustable objective (AO). Parallax adjustment eliminates the apparent movement of the reticle in relation to the target at different ranges, which is essential for achieving consistent accuracy, particularly at longer distances.
The focus of the scope is adjusted via the eyepiece, similar to adjusting binoculars. This allows the user to bring the reticle and the target into sharp focus.
Putting Performance to the Test
The specifications paint a picture, but the real test of any scope lies in its performance in the field. How does the Simmons Whitetail Classic 6-20×50 fare when it comes to image quality, reticle usability, and adjustment reliability?
Clarity and Brightness
The optical performance is perhaps the most important aspect of a scope. At lower magnifications, the image clarity is generally good, providing a clear and bright view of the target. As you increase the magnification, you might notice a slight decrease in image brightness and sharpness, a common characteristic of many scopes in this price range. The fifty-millimeter objective lens does help gather more light compared to scopes with smaller objectives, particularly during the crucial low-light hours. This can be a significant advantage when hunting at dawn or dusk.
The Reticle in Action
The Truplex reticle design is straightforward and effective for hunting. The thick posts are easy to pick up quickly, allowing for fast target acquisition in dynamic hunting situations. The thin crosshairs provide enough precision for aiming at various distances. This reticle makes this scope a good choice for a range of hunting environments and game sizes.
Reliable Adjustments
The accuracy and reliability of the elevation and windage adjustments are paramount for consistent long-range accuracy. The Simmons Whitetail Classic 6-20×50’s turrets usually provide tactile clicks, allowing you to easily adjust your point of impact. During the zeroing process, the turrets should track accurately, meaning that the point of impact moves in accordance with the click adjustments. The scope’s ability to hold zero, even after repeated shots and exposure to the elements, is a key indicator of its durability.
Ease of Operation
The scope’s overall ease of use contributes to the hunting experience. The magnification adjustment ring, focus adjustment, and, if applicable, the parallax adjustment should be smooth and easy to operate, even with gloves on. The ergonomic design of the scope, including the eye relief, makes it comfortable to use over extended periods in the field. Furthermore, easy mounting and compatibility with a wide range of rings contribute to the overall convenience of the scope.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Like any optic, the Simmons Whitetail Classic 6-20×50 has both strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these trade-offs is essential when deciding if it’s the right scope for you.
Advantages
The primary advantage of the Simmons Whitetail Classic 6-20×50 is its value. It offers a significant magnification range and decent optical performance at a price point that is accessible to many hunters. Its ability to handle long-range shots is another strong point, making it suitable for open-country hunting or varmint hunting. The clear image quality makes identifying targets at a distance more reliable, and its strong design makes it able to withstand field conditions.
Drawbacks
One potential drawback is that image brightness may be somewhat reduced at higher magnifications, particularly in low-light conditions. While the scope is generally adequate for most hunting situations, it may not perform as well as higher-end scopes in extremely challenging lighting. Some hunters may also prefer more advanced reticle options, which are typically found in higher-priced models.
Comparing to Similar Options
In the competitive world of hunting optics, the Simmons Whitetail Classic 6-20×50 faces competition from other manufacturers, particularly those offering scopes in a similar price range. Several other brands provide options with comparable features. When making a decision, it is essential to compare features, optical quality, build quality, and warranty.
Who is This Scope For?
The Simmons Whitetail Classic 6-20×50 is an excellent choice for budget-conscious hunters. It’s well-suited for hunters who primarily take shots at extended ranges, or those who hunt in open environments such as fields or plains. It could also be suitable for hunters who want to reach out for smaller targets, and use a wider range of magnification to get a precise aim on their game.
Making the Final Call
The Simmons Whitetail Classic 6-20×50 is a solid performer. This scope strikes a balance between price and performance, making it a great choice for hunters who are looking for a feature-rich, long-range capable, and value-driven optic.
A Final Rating
Based on its overall performance, value, and features, the Simmons Whitetail Classic 6-20×50 receives a rating of 4 out of 5 stars. It may have some limitations compared to premium scopes, but it delivers a lot of performance for the price. It is a strong contender for anyone looking for an affordable, versatile scope for hunting.
