Bausch and Lomb 12-32 by 40 Target-Varmint Scope

[South Pender]

A question about a vintage scope: A hunting buddy has a Bausch & Lomb 12-32x40 target/varmint scope. It's an older scope--I think before Bushnell bought B&L scopes--although I don't know precisely when it was made. He's not using it anymore and wondered whether I might be interested in taking it off his hands. It looks to be in good condition and has a fine cross-hairs reticle. Does anyone on this forum have any experience with this scope? I guess I'm wondering about the optical quality of these older B&L scopes along with their tracking ability and adjustment range. Did they compare favorably with the Leupold scopes of the day? If I take it, I'll mount it on an older varmint rifle.

 

[dan belisle]

They were better than the Bushnells of the day, certainly on par with Leuopold, but I think they had better glass, at that time. - dan

 

[South Pender]

For what it's worth, the scope has "Balvar" inscribed on it just ahead of the eyepiece. So I think it pre-dates the Bushnell era.

 

[grauhanen]

Balvar - B and L Variable (for anyone wondering).

 

[b72471]

The B&L scopes are very fine scopes . I've owned a few in past and still have one.
Mounting on a varmint rifle it will serve you well.
Enjoy.

 

[Rod B]

Balvar - B and L Variable (for anyone wondering).

Thanks for posting that. I have often wondered about the "Balvar"name.

 

[Buckmastr]

Good scopes but very long.