Bushnell Banner vs Banner2: Key Differences
By Amis Thains Updated 5 min read
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On this page (7 sections)
You are staring at two nearly identical riflescopes in the store, trying to figure out which one to put in your cart. This page breaks down exactly how the glass, eye relief, and reticles differ between the Banner and Banner2 so you buy the right tool for your shooting range.
In short: The Banner2 is the newer, higher-tier model with improved light transmission and a more modern reticle, while the original Banner is the budget baseline with simpler coatings. Banner2 wins on image quality and eye comfort; the original Banner wins on price if you just need a basic, entry-level hunting scope.
Quick picks
Our shortlist for this job · tap one to see today's price
Offers the tried-and-true 3-9x40 configuration with multi-coated lenses for bright, high-contrast images at a mid-price point.
A low-profile, entry-level magnified scope that fits the same 'basic scope' role for air rifles where top-tier optics are overkill.
The differences at a glance
Both scopes share the same basic form factor, but they differ significantly in glass treatment and reticle engineering. The table below highlights the key specs you need to check before buying. We go through trophy versus banner scope step by step in its own article.
| Feature | Bushnell Banner | Bushnell Banner2 |
|---|---|---|
| Coating | Often multi-coated, but varies by specific sub-model | Consistently fully multi-coated for better light transmission |
| Eye Relief | Typically shorter (approx. 3.5″) | Extended eye relief (approx. 4″+) |
| Reticle | Basic duplex or crosshair | Often includes illuminated or multi-mil options |
| Price Tier | Budget / Entry | Mid-range |
Pro tip: Always check the specific model number on the box. 'Banner' is a family, not a single spec sheet, so the Dusk & Dawn or Dusk & Dawn Elite may have slightly different features than the base Banner.
Glass quality and light transmission
Light transmission is the main reason to step up to the Banner2. The newer models use fully multi-coated lenses on all air-to-glass surfaces. This reduces internal glare and lets more usable light hit your eye. In low-light dawn or dusk conditions, the Banner2 often feels brighter and clearer than the original Banner.
If you are shooting in bright daylight, the difference is subtle. But for early morning stand hunting, the Banner2’s coating stack delivers a superior image. The extra layers of anti-reflective coating mean less ghosting when the sun hits the lens.
When you look through a scope, every uncoated surface reflects a tiny amount of light back to your eye. This reduces contrast. The Banner2 minimizes this loss, resulting in a crisp, high-contrast view even when the light is fading.
Pro tip: Check the maker's current spec sheet for light transmission percentages. If it is not listed, assume the basic Banner is the lower-tier glass option.
The Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn model specifically touts fully multi-coated lenses to capitalize on low-light stand shooting.
- Bright. Accurate. Dependable. We'll assume your stand is in the right spot and suggest
- This Banner 3-9x40 scope is in the tried & proven 3-9x40 configuration that's a classic
Eye relief and comfort
Eye relief is the distance your eye sits behind the eyepiece to see the full field of view. The original Banner typically has shorter eye relief, often around 3.5 inches. The Banner2 lines generally offer extended eye relief, frequently 4 inches or more.
This is critical if you are shooting from a prone position or using a heavy recoil cartridge. If that sounds like your bench, read up on evaluating scope performance next.
Longer eye relief reduces ‘scope bite’—that painful impact when the eyepiece slaps your face. For most shooters, the Banner2 is the more comfortable choice for repeated sessions. It allows a more natural head position behind the stock.
If you shoot at close ranges where you must flip the scope up quickly, the shorter eye relief of the base Banner can be a hindrance. The Banner2 gives you a buffer zone, making it safer and faster for dynamic shooting.
Safety first: Never mount a scope without checking eye relief on your specific rifle stock. A scope that fits on the bench may sit too short for your eye position, leading to recoil injury.
The Banner2 series is the specific upgrade that prioritizes this extended eye relief feature over the base Banner.
- Extended Eye Relief: This 3-9x40 DOA-QBR Riflescope provides extended eye relief for
- HD Optical System: Delivers maximum light transmission, contrast, and resolution for
Reticle options and aiming
The reticle determines how you place your shot. The base Banner usually ships with a simple duplex or crosshair. It is effective but offers little help for estimating holdover. The Banner2 frequently includes more advanced reticles, such as multi-mil or illuminated options. These help you make windage and elevation adjustments or hold over targets at different ranges.
If you stick to 100-yard targets, the simple Banner reticle is fine. If you need to shoot at variable distances without re-zeroing, the Banner2’s reticle features save time. You can dial in a known distance and use the hash marks for holdover at others.
Illuminated reticles are a big plus for the Banner2. In total darkness or dense shade, a lit reticle is easier to acquire than a dark crosshair on a gray target. If that sounds like your bench, read up on scope magnification comparison next.
Which should you buy?
- Budget-conscious plinker: The original Banner is sufficient for paper targets at the range. It has no extra features you won’t use.
- Whitetail or deer hunter: The Banner2 is the better value. The extra light and eye relief improve your odds in the field for a small price bump.
- Long-range shooter: Neither is the top choice, but the Banner2 with an FFP reticle is the starting point. You will outgrow both quickly.
For airgun or casual plinking where you just need *a* magnified scope, the Sig Sauer AIR T4 serves as a comparable entry-level alternative to the Banner family.
- Introducing the AIR T4, a cutting-edge, low-profile rifle scope specifically designed
- With a 24mm, multi-coated objective lens, and 1-4X adjustable magnification, this air
The bottom line
The Banner2 wins for most shooters because it offers better glass and more comfort at a similar price. Buy the original Banner only if you need the absolute lowest cost for simple, close-range use. Check the specific model sub-number to ensure you get the extended eye relief you want.
- Bright. Accurate. Dependable. We'll assume your stand is in the right spot and suggest
- This Banner 3-9x40 scope is in the tried & proven 3-9x40 configuration that's a classic
Frequently asked questions
Is the Banner2 just a rebranded Banner?
No, it is an upgraded version. The Banner2 includes newer coating technologies and usually has a longer eye relief and better reticle options than the base Banner model.
Which Banner scope is better for elk hunting?
The Banner2 with a larger objective lens (like a 50mm) is better. It gathers more light for early morning elk hunting and provides a brighter image than the smaller base Banner.
Do Banner and Banner2 have the same warranty?
Both typically come with Bushnell’s lifetime warranty, but the terms may differ slightly. Check the specific card that ships with your scope to see the exact coverage for repair or replacement.
Can I swap a Banner lens into a Banner2 body?
Generally, no. While they look similar, the lens housings and mounting points are often not interchangeable between generations. Stick with the specific model you purchased.