Butler Creek Size Guide: A Comprehensive Overview (12/14/2025)
Today’s date is December 14, 2025. This guide details Butler Creek scope cover sizing, offering crucial information for a secure fit and optimal protection.
Measurements can be tricky; sometimes, a size up or down is necessary for a proper fit, as noted by experienced shooters and retailers.
Butler Creek has long been a trusted name among shooting enthusiasts, renowned for producing high-quality, durable scope covers. These flip-open covers provide essential protection for your valuable optics against dust, moisture, and accidental impacts, extending their lifespan and maintaining clarity.
Choosing the correct size is paramount for a secure fit and effortless operation. Incorrect sizing can lead to covers that are too tight, potentially damaging the scope, or too loose, rendering them ineffective. This guide aims to demystify the sizing process, ensuring you select the perfect Butler Creek covers for your specific scope model.
Understanding the sizing codes and measurement techniques is key. Various online forums and retailers, like MidwayUSA and Amazon, offer resources and sizing charts to assist you. Remember, anecdotal evidence suggests that occasionally, deviating by one size up or down may be necessary due to manufacturing tolerances.
Why Use Butler Creek Scope Covers?
Protecting your investment is the primary reason to utilize Butler Creek scope covers; High-quality scopes represent a significant financial commitment, and safeguarding their lenses from scratches, dust, and the elements is crucial. These covers act as a first line of defense against potential damage, preserving optical clarity and performance.
Beyond protection, Butler Creek covers offer convenience. The flip-open design allows for quick and easy access to your scope when needed, without the hassle of removing and replacing traditional caps. This is particularly valuable during fast-paced shooting scenarios.
Furthermore, they contribute to longevity. By shielding the scope from environmental factors, these covers help prevent corrosion and degradation, extending the overall lifespan of your optic. Choosing the correct size, as detailed in this guide, ensures a snug fit and maximum effectiveness.
Understanding Scope Cover Sizing
Butler Creek scope cover sizing isn’t a one-size-fits-all scenario. Covers are designated by a numerical code representing the objective lens and eyepiece diameters. Accurate measurement is paramount to ensure a secure and functional fit. The sizing system considers both the scope’s objective lens – the larger lens at the front – and the eyepiece, where you look through.
These sizes aren’t always directly equivalent to the millimeter measurements listed on your scope. Experienced users often report needing to go “one up or one down” in size, highlighting the importance of consulting sizing charts and potentially testing different options.
Understanding this nuance is key to avoiding ill-fitting covers that may not stay securely in place or could damage the scope itself.
The Importance of Accurate Measurement
Accurate measurement is absolutely critical when selecting Butler Creek scope covers. Incorrect sizing leads to covers that either don’t fit at all, are too loose and fall off, or apply undue pressure to the scope’s lenses. This can potentially damage the delicate optical components. Relying on estimations or assuming a standard size is strongly discouraged.
Use a ruler or calipers to precisely measure both the objective lens diameter and the eyepiece outer diameter. Refer to the Butler Creek sizing chart, but remember the reported experiences of users suggesting potential size adjustments.
Taking the time to measure correctly saves frustration and ensures optimal scope protection. A properly fitted cover safeguards your investment and maintains clear visibility.
Butler Creek Sizing Chart Details
Butler Creek utilizes a numerical code to denote cover sizes, corresponding to specific objective and eyepiece diameters. Understanding this code is key to selecting the correct fit.
Decoding the Butler Creek Size Codes
Butler Creek scope cover sizes are represented by a series of numbers, often appearing as “RD00004” or similar. These codes aren’t arbitrary; they directly correlate to the scope’s objective and eyepiece diameters. The initial “RD” signifies a standard flip-open cover. The subsequent numbers are crucial.
The first number(s) generally indicate the objective lens size, while the latter numbers represent the eyepiece size. For example, a cover labeled “01” for the objective corresponds to a 34.1mm diameter. Referencing a detailed chart (available on MidwayUSA and other retailers) is essential.
It’s important to note that these are approximate sizes. As experienced shooters have found, a “one size up or down” adjustment may be necessary to achieve a snug, secure fit. Don’t rely solely on the initial measurement; be prepared to experiment.
Scope Diameter Measurement Guide
Accurately measuring your scope’s objective diameter is paramount for selecting the correct Butler Creek cover. Use a caliper, if available, for the most precise reading. Otherwise, a precise ruler will suffice. Measure across the widest point of the objective lens – the larger lens at the front of the scope.
Butler Creek utilizes millimeter (mm) measurements in their sizing. Common objective diameters range from 31.1mm (size 02) to 45.1mm (size 20), and beyond. Consult the sizing chart provided by Butler Creek or retailers like MidwayUSA to convert your measurement to the corresponding size code.
Remember, slight variations can occur, so prioritize erring on the side of a slightly larger size if your measurement falls between codes.
Objective Lens Size Determination
Determining the objective lens size is critical for a snug Butler Creek cover fit. This is the larger lens at the front of your scope, gathering light for a clear image. Measurements are typically found in the scope’s specifications or printed directly on the objective lens housing.
Refer to the provided chart – sizes range from 31.1mm (02) to 45.1mm (20) and larger. For example, a 50mm objective lens generally corresponds to a Butler Creek size 21 (43.2 x 36.1mm).
If your scope has a non-standard objective size, carefully measure the diameter in millimeters. Remember the “one size up or down” rule; if your measurement doesn’t perfectly match, try the next size larger or smaller.
Eyepiece Size Determination
Accurately determining the eyepiece size is just as important as the objective lens for a secure Butler Creek cover fit. The eyepiece is the lens you look through, and its diameter varies significantly between scope models.
Consult the Butler Creek sizing chart; eyepiece sizes are represented by numbers like 01, 03A, 09A, and 13. For instance, the Sig Sauer Sierra 3BDX 4.5-14×50 requires a size 13 for the eyepiece.
If your scope isn’t listed, measure the outer diameter of the eyepiece in millimeters. Again, be prepared to potentially adjust one size up or down if the initial fit isn’t perfect. Precise measurement ensures optimal protection and functionality.
Specific Scope Model Sizing
Finding the correct size can be streamlined by referencing model-specific recommendations, such as the size 34/13 pairing for the Sig Sauer Sierra 3BDX scope.
Sightron 10-50×60 Scope Cover Size
Determining the appropriate Butler Creek scope cover size for the Sightron 10-50×60 requires careful consideration, as direct measurements aren’t always conclusive. Experienced users on shooting forums have noted that achieving a perfect fit with Butler Creek covers can be somewhat unpredictable.
While precise measurements are recommended as a starting point, many shooters report that the actual required size often deviates by one size – either larger or smaller – than initially calculated. This “one up or one down” phenomenon is a common experience.
Therefore, it’s advisable to consult sizing charts and potentially order two sizes to ensure compatibility. Given the 60mm objective lens, a size around 34 is a likely starting point, but testing is crucial for a secure fit.
Sig Sauer Sierra 3BDX 4.5-14×50 Scope Cover Size
For the Sig Sauer Sierra 3BDX 4.5-14×50 scope, a specific Butler Creek cover combination is recommended to ensure optimal protection and functionality. According to expert sources, the ideal fit involves utilizing size 34 for the objective lens and size 13 for the eyepiece.
This sizing recommendation stems from the scope’s dimensions – a 50mm objective lens and a standard eyepiece diameter. However, it’s important to acknowledge the potential for slight variations in manufacturing tolerances.
As with all Butler Creek covers, it’s prudent to verify the fit upon arrival. If encountering issues, remember the common advice from shooting communities: consider trying one size up or down to achieve a secure and snug fit.
RD00004 & RD00904 Scope Cover Sizes
Butler Creek model numbers RD00004 and RD00904 are designed to fit scopes with very specific dimensions. According to the sizing charts, both models are compatible with a 1/1 (one inch) eyepiece and a 01 objective lens size. This indicates a relatively small scope configuration.
The “01 OBJ” designation signifies an objective lens diameter of approximately 34.1mm (1.341 inches). These covers are intended for scopes where both the eyepiece and objective lens fall within these narrow parameters.
It’s crucial to double-check your scope’s actual measurements against these specifications before purchasing. While the chart provides a reliable guide, slight variations can occur. Always prioritize a snug, secure fit to protect your valuable optics.
RD00005 Scope Cover Sizes
The Butler Creek RD00005 scope cover is designed for scopes featuring a specific eyepiece and objective lens combination. According to available sizing data, this model accommodates an eyepiece size of 1.18 inches and an objective lens size of 02A. This translates to approximately 30mm for the objective lens.
The “02A OBJ” designation indicates a particular objective lens diameter within the Butler Creek sizing system. It’s important to note that these sizes are not always directly equivalent to standard metric or imperial measurements.
When selecting the RD00005, ensure your scope’s eyepiece and objective lens closely match these dimensions for a secure and protective fit. Remember, a slightly off measurement might necessitate considering a different size.
Troubleshooting Sizing Issues
Sizing discrepancies can occur. If measured dimensions don’t match, try a size up or down; it’s a common experience with Butler Creek covers.
When Measured Size Doesn’t Match
Discrepancies between your scope’s measured dimensions and the recommended Butler Creek cover size are surprisingly common. Experienced shooters frequently report that relying solely on precise measurements isn’t always foolproof. The inherent variability in manufacturing tolerances for both scopes and covers contributes to this issue.
If you’ve carefully measured your objective and eyepiece diameters and the suggested Butler Creek size doesn’t quite fit, don’t immediately assume an error. It’s often recommended to try the next size up or down. Many users on shooting forums, like Airgun Nation and Shooters Forum, have echoed this sentiment, noting that a slight adjustment often resolves the problem.
Remember, a snug but not overly tight fit is ideal. A cover that’s too loose will easily fall off, while one that’s too tight could potentially damage the scope or the cover itself.
The “One Size Up or Down” Phenomenon
The recurring advice to try “one size up or one size down” when Butler Creek scope cover sizing isn’t straightforward is a well-documented experience within the shooting community. This isn’t a flaw in the system, but rather a recognition of the subtle variations in scope manufacturing. Different brands, and even different batches from the same brand, can exhibit slight dimensional differences.
Shooters on forums consistently report success with this approach. If your initial measurement suggests a specific size, but the cover doesn’t fit correctly, attempting the next larger or smaller size is often the solution. This is particularly true for scopes like the Sightron 10-50×60, where precise fitting can be challenging.
It’s a practical workaround acknowledging that the sizing charts are guidelines, not absolute rules.
Dealing with Non-Standard Scope Sizes
Occasionally, shooters encounter scopes that fall outside the typical sizing parameters covered by Butler Creek’s standard charts. This can occur with older, less common models, or with scopes featuring unusual objective or eyepiece diameters. When faced with a non-standard scope, meticulous measurement is even more critical.
Don’t rely solely on published specifications; physically measure the objective and eyepiece lenses. If the measurements don’t align with a listed Butler Creek size, consider contacting Butler Creek directly or consulting experienced gunsmiths for advice.
Sometimes, a slightly oversized cover, combined with careful positioning and secure tightening, can provide adequate protection. However, avoid forcing a fit, as this could damage the scope or the cover.
Where to Purchase Butler Creek Scope Covers
Butler Creek scope covers are widely available! You can find them at retailers like MidwayUSA and Amazon, or conveniently purchase them from your local gun shop.
MidwayUSA as a Retailer
MidwayUSA is a prominent retailer offering a comprehensive selection of Butler Creek scope covers. They frequently feature these covers on sale, providing excellent value for shooters seeking reliable scope protection.
A significant advantage of purchasing from MidwayUSA is their readily available sizing chart. This chart allows you to accurately measure your scope and determine the correct Butler Creek cover size, minimizing the risk of ordering an incorrect fit.
Experienced shooters often recommend consulting MidwayUSA’s chart, acknowledging that despite careful measurement, a “one size up or one size down” adjustment may sometimes be necessary due to slight manufacturing variations in scopes. Their website provides detailed product information and customer reviews, aiding in informed purchasing decisions.
Amazon as a Retailer
Amazon provides convenient access to a wide variety of Butler Creek scope covers, often with competitive pricing and fast shipping options. The platform’s extensive marketplace features numerous sellers offering different sizes and configurations, catering to diverse scope models.
While Amazon offers convenience, it’s crucial to carefully review product descriptions and sizing information before purchasing. Relying on seller-provided charts is essential, as discrepancies can occur. Remember the advice from shooting forums: a size up or down might be needed.
Customer reviews on Amazon can be invaluable, offering insights from other shooters regarding fit and functionality. Utilize these reviews to supplement your sizing research and ensure a compatible cover for your specific scope.
Local Gun Shops & Retailers
Visiting your local gun shop offers a personalized approach to Butler Creek scope cover sizing. Knowledgeable staff can provide expert advice and assist with accurate measurements, ensuring a proper fit for your scope. They often carry a selection of popular sizes in stock, allowing for immediate purchase and installation.
The benefit of a local retailer lies in their hands-on experience and ability to address specific concerns. They can offer guidance based on your scope model and potentially even test-fit covers before you buy. Some shops, like those mentioned in shooter forums, have encountered sizing inconsistencies.
Supporting local businesses also fosters a community connection and provides access to valuable expertise. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and leverage their knowledge to find the perfect Butler Creek covers for your needs.
Tips for Installing Butler Creek Scope Covers
Ensure proper alignment during installation for a secure fit. Covers should snap on firmly, maintaining functionality and protecting your scope from the elements effectively.
Proper Alignment Techniques
Achieving a secure fit with Butler Creek scope covers begins with precise alignment. Begin by ensuring the scope rings are properly installed and tightened, as this impacts cover seating. When applying the objective cover, align the opening with the lens, gently pressing until it snaps into place.
For the eyepiece cover, rotate it until the hinge mechanism aligns with the scope’s adjustment knob. A slight click indicates a secure connection. Avoid forcing the covers; if resistance is met, re-check the sizing chart and consider if a different size is needed.
Consistent alignment prevents premature wear and tear on the hinge and ensures reliable opening and closing functionality. Regularly inspect the alignment after shooting or transport to maintain optimal protection.
Ensuring a Secure Fit
A secure fit is paramount for Butler Creek scope covers to effectively protect your optics. After aligning the covers, gently test their stability by lightly attempting to rotate or lift them. They should remain firmly in place without excessive play. Remember, some users report sizing discrepancies, potentially requiring a size up or down from initial measurements.
If the cover feels loose, double-check the sizing chart against your scope’s objective and eyepiece diameters. Avoid overtightening, as this can damage the hinge mechanism. A snug fit is ideal – secure enough to stay put during handling, yet easy to open when needed.
Regularly inspect the covers for any signs of loosening or wear, and re-adjust if necessary to maintain a reliable seal against the elements.
Maintaining Cover Functionality
To ensure long-lasting performance of your Butler Creek scope covers, regular maintenance is key. Periodically clean the covers with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust, dirt, and debris that could impede the smooth opening and closing action. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents, as these can damage the plastic.
Inspect the hinge mechanism for any signs of corrosion or stiffness. A small amount of silicone-based lubricant can be applied to the hinge to maintain smooth operation, but avoid over-lubrication. Ensure the spring tension remains consistent for reliable flip-open functionality.
Proper storage when not in use will also help preserve the covers’ integrity. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or prolonged sunlight.
Advanced Sizing Considerations
Scope ring height and aftermarket lenses can impact cover fit. Different scope types—rifle, shotgun, or muzzleloader—may also require unique sizing approaches for optimal protection.
Considering Scope Ring Height
The height of your scope rings significantly influences Butler Creek scope cover compatibility. Higher rings create increased space between the objective lens and the barrel, potentially requiring a larger cover size to ensure a complete seal and prevent accidental damage. Conversely, lower rings might necessitate a smaller size to avoid interference or a loose fit.
It’s crucial to assess the overall profile of your mounted scope, not just the objective lens diameter. A scope sitting higher due to tall rings effectively changes the dimensions a cover needs to accommodate. Always double-check measurements after the scope is mounted in the rings, as ring height alters the final external dimensions. Consider the potential for the cover to contact the barrel or other accessories when determining the appropriate size.
Experienced shooters often recommend re-measuring after mounting to account for these subtle changes.
Impact of Aftermarket Lenses
Aftermarket lenses, such as slip-on sunshades or lens extenders, dramatically affect Butler Creek scope cover sizing. These additions increase the overall outer diameter of the objective lens, requiring a larger cover size than indicated by the scope’s original specifications. Failing to account for these accessories can lead to covers that are too small, resulting in a poor fit or inability to close properly.
Always measure the objective lens including any attached aftermarket accessories. The cover must fully encompass the largest diameter to provide adequate protection. Consider the length of the accessory as well; some extenders may require a deeper cover to prevent exposure.
It’s best practice to install any aftermarket lenses before determining the correct Butler Creek cover size for optimal compatibility and protection.
Sizing for Different Scope Types (Rifle, Shotgun, Muzzleloader)
While Butler Creek scope covers utilize a standardized sizing system, scope types—rifle, shotgun, and muzzleloader—can influence the best fit. Rifle scopes generally adhere to the standard sizing chart, but variations exist. Shotgun scopes, often featuring larger objective lenses for close-range work, may require a larger cover size than anticipated.
Muzzleloader scopes, frequently mounted higher to accommodate loading, can benefit from covers with a slightly larger eyepiece diameter for easier access. Always prioritize accurate measurement of both the objective and eyepiece lenses, regardless of the firearm type.
Remember that scope ring height doesn’t directly impact cover size, but it’s crucial for overall scope alignment and functionality. Butler Creek offers a wide range of sizes to accommodate diverse scope configurations.
Resources for Further Information
Explore the official Butler Creek website for detailed charts and FAQs. Online forums and customer reviews offer valuable insights and real-world sizing experiences.
Butler Creek Official Website
The Butler Creek official website serves as the primary resource for the most up-to-date and comprehensive sizing information. Here, you’ll find detailed sizing charts, often more granular than those available elsewhere, allowing for precise matching to your specific scope model.
Beyond the charts, the website frequently features FAQs addressing common sizing challenges and troubleshooting tips; These resources can be invaluable when dealing with non-standard scope dimensions or encountering fitment issues.
Directly accessing the manufacturer’s data ensures accuracy and minimizes the risk of relying on potentially outdated or inaccurate information found on third-party sites. The website also provides contact information for direct support if you require personalized assistance with determining the correct cover size for your scope.
Online Forums & Communities
Online forums, such as Airgun Nation and Shooters Forum, are invaluable resources for real-world Butler Creek scope cover sizing experiences. These communities host discussions where users share their successes and challenges, offering practical insights beyond official charts.
Experienced shooters often detail specific scope models and the corresponding Butler Creek sizes that worked for them, providing a crowdsourced database of fitment information. Be aware that sizing can vary, and the “one size up or down” phenomenon is frequently discussed.
Searching these forums for your specific scope model can reveal valuable recommendations. However, always cross-reference this information with the official Butler Creek sizing chart to ensure accuracy and avoid potential fitment issues. User feedback provides a practical complement to manufacturer specifications.
Customer Reviews & Feedback
Analyzing customer reviews across retailers like MidwayUSA and Amazon provides a wealth of practical Butler Creek scope cover sizing information. Users frequently comment on whether the cover fit their specific scope model accurately, highlighting potential discrepancies between measured sizes and actual fit.
Pay close attention to reviews mentioning scopes similar to yours, noting any reported issues with sizing. Many reviewers confirm the common experience of needing to go “one size up or down” to achieve a secure fit, emphasizing the importance of considering this possibility.
These reviews often offer valuable insights into the cover’s quality, durability, and ease of installation, complementing the technical sizing information. Reading diverse perspectives helps build a comprehensive understanding before purchasing.