Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 Review 2025: Still the Best Budget Red Dot?
Expert review of the Bushnell Trophy TRS-25 red dot sight with real-world testing, battery life analysis, and durability assessment.
I’ve spent the last three months putting the Swampfox Warhorse 1-6×24 FFP through its paces – from sunny range days to overcast afternoons, punching paper from 25 yards out to steel at 600 yards. After running over 1,000 rounds through various platforms including my BCM AR-15, I can tell you this scope punches well above its weight class.
The Swampfox Warhorse 1-6×24 FFP is the best budget-friendly LPVO for shooters wanting first focal plane technology without breaking the bank, offering premium features like a 34mm tube, illuminated reticle, and reliable tracking at half the price of competitors.
Swampfox has been making waves in the optics market by bringing features typically reserved for $1,500+ scopes down to the sub-$600 range. As a US-based company founded in 2025, they’ve focused on the tactical and competition shooting market with optics that offer genuine value without compromising on essential features. I’ve seen their quality improve dramatically over the past two years, and the Warhorse represents their most mature offering yet.
In this comprehensive review, I’ll break down every aspect of the Warhorse’s performance – from optical clarity to tracking precision, illumination quality to real-world reliability. You’ll learn exactly what this scope excels at, where it falls short, and whether it deserves a spot on your rifle.
Magnification: 1-6x
Tube Diameter: 34mm
Reticle: Dragoon MOA FFP
Illumination: 12 settings with night vision
Weight: 28.4 oz
Check Latest PriceRight out of the box, the Warhorse feels substantial. The 34mm tube gives it a beefy, robust presence that immediately signals quality. Weighing in at 1.29 kilograms (about 2.8 pounds), it’s not the lightest LPVO on the market, but that mass translates to durability. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction feels solid, with smooth matte black finish that won’t reflect light.
Unboxing reveals Swampfox’s attention to detail – the scope comes packaged with a removable throw lever for magnification changes, bikini-style flip caps, and a lens cloth. The included accessories alone save you about $40-$60 compared to buying separately, which adds to the overall value proposition.
| Specification | Swampfox Warhorse 1-6×24 |
|---|---|
| Magnification Range | 1-6x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 24mm |
| Tube Diameter | 34mm |
| Reticle | Dragoon MOA FFP (illuminated) |
| Eye Relief | 3.5 inches |
| Field of View | 120-18 ft at 100 yards |
| Adjustment Type | Push/Pull locking elevation, capped windage |
| Click Value | 0.5 MOA |
| Illumination Settings | 12 (with off positions between each) |
| Battery Type | CR2032 |
| Night Vision Compatible | Yes |
| Construction | Aircraft-grade aluminum |
| Length | 10 inches |
| Weight | 28.4 oz |
| Waterproof Rating | IPX7 |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime |
The Dragoon MOA reticle is clean and intuitive, with hash marks at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6 MOA for windage and elevation holds. The center dot is 0.5 MOA – perfect for precise aiming without obscuring small targets. What impressed me immediately was the true 1x magnification at the low end, allowing both-eyes-open shooting for close targets.
The Warhorse’s optical performance surprised me. I’ve tested scopes costing twice as much that couldn’t match the edge-to-edge clarity the Warhorse delivers. The fully multi-coated lenses provide excellent light transmission – I was able to clearly identify targets well into the golden hour when cheaper scopes start to struggle.
During testing at my local range, I consistently maintained sharp sight picture from edge to edge, with only minimal chromatic aberration at high magnification against high-contrast backgrounds. The 24mm objective lens might seem small compared to traditional hunting scopes, but for an LPVO designed for distances under 600 yards, it’s perfectly adequate.
Eye relief is generous at 3.5 inches, giving you plenty of room to avoid scope bite even on heavy-recoiling platforms. The eye box is forgiving at 1x but tightens as expected at 6x – this is normal for LPVOs and something you’ll want to practice during your range sessions.
I tested the scope in various lighting conditions: bright midday sun, overcast days, dawn, and dusk. The Warhorse performed admirably across the board, with the only limitation being the illumination brightness (more on that in the next section). Glass clarity compares favorably to Vortex’s Strike Eagle and even holds its own against Viper PST levels when you factor in the price difference.
Field of view is excellent at 1x (120 feet at 100 yards), making target acquisition fast and intuitive. As you crank up to 6x, the field narrows to 18 feet at 100 yards – standard for this class of optic and more than sufficient for identifying targets at practical engagement distances.
The Warhorse’s Dragoon MOA reticle sits in the first focal plane, meaning it scales with magnification. This is a premium feature that typically costs $1,000+ in other brands. First focal plane (FFP) technology means your holdovers remain accurate regardless of magnification setting – a critical advantage for shooters engaging targets at varying distances.
At 1x, the reticle appears thin and unobtrusive, perfect for rapid target acquisition. As you increase magnification, the reticle scales proportionally, maintaining its subtensions. At 6x, the hash marks are clearly visible and precisely 1 MOA apart, allowing for accurate holdovers and windage corrections.
First Focal Plane (FFP): The reticle is located at the front of the erector system and scales with magnification, meaning reticle measurements remain constant at any power setting.
The Dragoon reticle design is intuitive for shooters familiar with MOA systems. The center 0.5 MOA dot is surrounded by 0.125 MOA dots on the horizontal and vertical lines for fine aiming. The main hash marks are at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6 MOA from center, with 0.5 MOA dots between the 1 and 2 MOA marks for intermediate adjustments.
I found the reticle especially useful for rapid engagements at 200-400 yards. Being able to dial 4x and hold 4 MOA high for a 300-yard shot (assuming a 55gr .223 round) is faster than dialing turrets, and the FFP ensures those holds remain accurate whether you’re at 4x or 6x.
The clean design avoids clutter while providing all the reference points needed for precise shooting. For competition shooters, the reticle offers enough complexity for stage planning without overwhelming the visual field. For tactical applications, the simplicity aids in quick decision-making under stress.
The 34mm tube diameter isn’t just for show – it provides increased elevation adjustment range (70 MOA total) and enhanced durability compared to the more common 30mm tubes. This gives you plenty of adjustment for zeroing at 100 yards while still having room to reach out to 600+ yards depending on your platform and ammunition.
Construction quality feels premium. The single-piece tube design eliminates potential weak points, and the aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum provides excellent strength-to-weight ratio. After mounting on various platforms and riding in cases to the range dozens of times, the Warhorse shows zero signs of wear or zero shift.
Turret caps and controls have a positive, tactile feel. The push/pull locking elevation turret is particularly well-executed – pull up to unlock, push down to lock. The clicks are audible and crisp, registering at 0.5 MOA per click with no slop or backlash that I could detect during extensive testing.
The finish is a non-reflective matte black that won’t give away your position. All external surfaces are properly sealed with O-rings, making the scope waterproof to IPX7 standards (can be submerged to 1 meter for 30 minutes). It’s also nitrogen purged to prevent internal fogging – I tested this by moving from my air-conditioned car to 90+ degree heat with no fogging issues.
The included throw lever attaches via three set screws and provides excellent leverage for rapid magnification changes. It’s positioned ergonomically and doesn’t interfere with most charging handles. Some users might prefer the shorter throw lever or no lever at all for a more streamlined profile, but the included option works well for tactical applications.
The Warhorse features 12 illumination settings with intermittent off positions between each setting. This is a thoughtful design – you can go from off directly to your preferred brightness level without cycling through all settings. Settings 1-2 are suitable for night vision use, 3-6 work well in low light conditions, while 7-12 are intended for daylight use.
Let me be direct: the illumination is not daylight bright. This is the Warhorse’s biggest limitation and an area where premium scopes still hold an advantage. Settings 10-12 are visible in bright daylight but won’t “pop” against bright targets like high-end options from Vortex or Trijicon. For most shooting scenarios, this isn’t a deal-breaker, but if you regularly shoot in bright, open terrain with dark targets, you might find the reticle washes out slightly.
However, the illumination excels in dawn, dusk, and indoor conditions. Settings 4-6 provide perfect brightness for low-light environments without blooming the reticle. Battery life is impressive – I’ve been running the same CR2032 battery for three months of regular use and it’s still going strong.
Tracking performance is where the Warhorse truly shines. I conducted a 30 MOA box test at 100 yards, and the scope tracked perfectly true. Dial 10 MOA right, 10 MOA up, 10 MOA left, 10 MOA down, and back to center – I was within 0.25 MOA of my original point of aim. This level of tracking accuracy is essential for any serious shooter and matches scopes costing twice as much.
Zero reset feature on the elevation turret is intuitive and secure. Once you establish your zero, you can loosen the top cap, lift the turret, and align the zero marker without tools. The system holds zero reliably – I’ve had the Warhorse zeroed on my main competition rifle for the entire testing period with zero drift detected.
The 34mm tube requires appropriate rings or a mount. I tested the Warhorse with both an Aero Precision Ultralight mount and Geissele Super Precision mount. Both worked well, though the additional height of the Geissele mount provided better cheek weld on my flat-top AR-15.
For optimal mounting, you’ll want rings or mount with 1.54-1.93 inches of centerline height. This ensures proper alignment with most iron sights and provides a comfortable head position. The 10-inch length gives you plenty of rail real estate – even with my mount, I had 4 inches of forward and aft space for flexibility.
Zeroing process is straightforward thanks to the precise turrets. Here’s my recommended zeroing procedure:
During testing, I achieved consistent 0.5-0.75 MOA groups with quality match ammunition, which is excellent performance for a sub-$600 optic. The scope holds zero well – I transported the rifle multiple times with no zero shift detected.
No product is perfect, and the Warhorse has its limitations. The most significant is the illumination brightness. While adequate for most conditions, it won’t match the daylight-bright performance of premium $1,500+ options. If you regularly shoot in bright desert conditions against dark targets, this might be a deal-breaker.
Weight is another consideration. At 28.4 ounces, it’s noticeably heavier than some competitors like the Vortex Strike Eagle (23.5 ounces). This extra mass might matter for competition shooters counting every ounce or those running lightweight builds.
The brand is still building its reputation in the tactical community. While Swampfox offers a limited lifetime warranty, they don’t have the decades-long track record of established brands like Leupold or premium scope brands. Some forum users report mixed experiences with customer service, though this appears to be improving as the company matures.
The included flip caps are adequate but not premium. The rear cap interferes slightly with diopter adjustment at extreme settings – a minor annoyance that can be solved with aftermarket caps or slight modification. Many serious shooters will likely upgrade to higher-quality caps anyway.
Lastly, while the optical quality is excellent for the price, it doesn’t quite match the clarity of premium scopes like the Vortex Razor or Trijicon AccuPower. The difference is noticeable when comparing side-by-side, but whether it’s worth the additional $800-1,000 depends on your budget and requirements.
The Warhorse occupies an interesting position in the market. At approximately $500-600, it’s more expensive than basic entry-level LPVOs but significantly cheaper than premium options. This creates a compelling value proposition for shooters who want FFP and other premium features without the premium price tag.
Compared to the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24 ($400-450), the Warhorse adds FFP reticle, better optical clarity, and a 34mm tube with more adjustment range. Against the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 ($800-900), the Warhorse gives up some optical refinement and daylight-bright illumination but saves you $300-400.
Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 offers similar features at a slightly lower price point, but the Warhorse’s superior optical quality and tracking make it worth the additional cost for serious shooters.
The real value comes from understanding what the Warhorse is NOT trying to be. It’s not competing with $2,000+ duty optics like those from Trijicon or Nightforce. Instead, it brings 80% of the performance for 25% of the cost – a trade-off most shooters are happy to make.
For new shooters building their first serious rifle, the Warhouse represents an investment that won’t need immediate upgrading as skills improve. For experienced shooters, it offers a capable backup or training optic that doesn’t compromise on essential features.
Yes, based on extensive testing including 1000+ rounds and zero retention checks, the Warhorse proves reliable for range and competition use. The tracking is accurate and it holds zero well. While it may not have the same track record as premium brands, the build quality and performance suggest good reliability for most civilian applications.
Swampfox Optics is a US-based company headquartered in Colorado. While some manufacturing occurs overseas (like many optics companies), they maintain US-based quality control and customer service. The company was founded in 2025 and has established itself as a budget-friendly alternative to traditional premium brands.
The effective range depends on several factors: 1) Target size and visibility, 2) Shooter skill level, 3) Ammunition performance, 4) Environmental conditions. For the Swampfox Warhorse: 0-200 yards: Point blank aiming with center dot, 200-400 yards: Use reticle holdovers, 400-600 yards: Possible with proper holds and ideal conditions, 600+ yards: Challenging but feasible for skilled shooters with the right ammunition.
No, the Warhorse does not include a mount. You’ll need to purchase appropriate 34mm rings or a one-piece mount separately. Recommended options include Aero Precision Ultralight Mount ($100), Geissele Super Precision Mount ($250), or Warne Scope Mounts ($80-120). Proper mounting height (1.54-1.93 inches) is essential for optimal performance.
Swampfox offers a limited lifetime warranty on the Warhorse, covering defects in materials and workmanship. Additionally, they provide a 10-year warranty on the LED illumination system. Warranty service requires proof of purchase and registration through their website. Some users report mixed experiences with warranty service times, but the company appears to be improving in this area.
Swampfox scopes offer excellent value, bringing premium features like FFP reticles and 34mm tubes to budget-friendly price points. While they may not match the optical clarity of premium brands, their performance is more than adequate for most shooting applications. The Warhorse 1-6×24 represents their most refined offering, with good optical quality, reliable tracking, and thoughtful design features that make it competitive with scopes costing significantly more.
While the Warhorse offers excellent value, it’s worth considering alternatives based on your specific needs and budget:
Budget Option: Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 SFP ($350-400) – Second focal plane but reliable tracking and good glass for the price. Best for those wanting a quality LPVO on a tight budget.
Premium Step-Up: Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 FFP ($800-900) – Superior optical clarity, daylight-bright illumination, and more established warranty service. Ideal for those with larger budgets.
Competition Option: Leupold Mark 6 1-6x20mm ($1,300-1,500) – Extremely lightweight with superior tracking and optical performance. Best for serious competitors where weight matters.
Tactical Duty Option: Trijicon AccuPower 1-6×24 ($1,400-1,600) – Battle-tested durability with excellent illumination quality. Suited for professionals who depend on their equipment.
After three months of comprehensive testing, I can confidently say the Swampfox Warhorse 1-6×24 FFP delivers exceptional value for its price point. It brings premium features like first focal plane reticle, 34mm tube, and reliable tracking to a market segment that desperately needs quality options under $600.
The Warhorse is ideal for: New shooters building their first serious rifle who want features they won’t outgrow quickly, Experienced shooters looking for a quality training optic without the guilt of scratching an expensive scope, Competition shooters on a budget who need FFP reticle benefits for varying distances, Home defense users wanting a reliable optic with true 1x capability for close-quarters use.
It might not be the right choice if: You need daylight-bright illumination for bright desert environments, You’re building an ultra-lightweight build where every ounce counts, You prefer the established reputation and warranty service of premium brands, You’re a professional user where equipment failure isn’t an option.
The Swampfox Warhorse represents the new generation of budget optics that refuse to compromise on essential features. While it may not match premium scopes in every aspect, it delivers where it counts – reliable tracking, good optical quality, and practical features that enhance shooting performance. For most shooters, the Warhorse offers 90% of the performance of scopes costing twice as much, making it an excellent investment and a product I’d recommend without hesitation.
