ZeroTech Trace Advanced 4.5-27×50 Review: Older Model

Last updated on August 17th, 2026

This ZeroTech Trace Advanced 4.5-27×50 review covers the older 30mm first focal plane model I used on my .308 Ruger Precision Rifle. It is not a review of the current ZeroTech Trace 4.5-27×50 R3. The name and magnification are similar, but the product family, reticle and controls have changed, so do not use this page as the specification sheet for a new current-production scope.

On the rifle, the older Trace Advanced delivered good glass for its price, a useful RMG reticle, locking controls and a zero stop. I also dialled the elevation and windage through several revolutions and returned to the preset zero without an observed alignment problem. That was a practical return check, not a calibrated tall-target test.

Verdict on the reviewed model: the older Trace Advanced 4.5-27×50 remains a capable value option on the used market when the glass is clean, the turrets return correctly and the price reflects its age. For a new purchase, compare the current Trace and Trace Advanced ranges rather than assuming the old review still describes them.

Important Model Identification

The quickest checks are the model label, SKU, reticle diagram and turret layout. If a retailer calls every 4.5-27×50 a “Trace Advanced”, ask for a photograph of the box and current specification sheet before paying. The ZeroTech model guide separates the old review from current models.

Older Trace Advanced 4.5-27×50 Specifications

These figures describe the reviewed older model and are retained for owners or used buyers. Specifications can vary between MRAD and MOA versions, and the current 4.5-27×50 should be checked against its own listing. The 2021 ZeroTech manual identifies the older Trace Advanced and its RMG/RMG MOA reticles, which is why the model distinction is explicit here.

My .308 Ruger Precision Rifle Setup

I chose the scope to give the .308 Ruger Precision Rifle enough magnification for small targets while keeping a usable low end. The 4.5x setting made target location easier than a scope beginning at 6x or 8x, and the 27x ceiling gave me more detail for zeroing and careful shots from support.

I added the ZeroTech throw lever because magnification rings become harder to operate with cold fingers and from an awkward position. The lever made changes faster without applying side pressure to the rifle. It is a small accessory, but it matters during a stage or when the target appears at a very different distance from the previous one.

The 30mm tube was easy to accommodate with common mounts. I set the 91-100mm eye relief at the high-magnification end, confirmed bolt clearance, levelled the reticle and checked that the objective and covers cleared the rail. The scope-ring guide covers the same setup process in more detail.

Construction and Included Covers

The one-piece body felt solid and the exterior finish was appropriate for a working rifle. The alloy flip-up covers were a real inclusion rather than packaging decoration. They protected the lenses, stayed attached and saved the additional cost of fitting a generic set after mounting.

At 824g, the scope sits in the middle ground between a light hunting optic and today’s 1kg-plus competition scopes. It balanced well on the heavy Ruger Precision Rifle. The same mass would be much more noticeable on a light sporter carried all day.

The box included the alloy covers, locking-ring tool, turret hex key, spare turret screws, manual, reticle range chart and cleaning cloth. A sunshade was not included, which was the clearest omission from an otherwise useful package.

Glass Quality

Glass was one of the reviewed scope’s strengths for the price. The image had good resolution and enough contrast to separate targets from uneven backgrounds. Colour looked natural, and the 50mm objective produced a useful view into the later part of the day without making the scope excessively large.

The published 92% transmission number is a manufacturer specification, not a measurement I independently verified. What I can support is the view through my sample: it stayed clear through the useful middle of the zoom range and remained workable at the top when conditions and mirage allowed.

Twenty-seven power is not automatically the best setting. Mirage, heat and a 1.9mm exit pupil can make a lower setting look sharper and steadier. On many days, the most useful image sat below maximum magnification even though 27x remained available for fine inspection.

Locking Turrets and Zero Stop

The elevation and windage turrets unlock by lifting and lock by pressing down. I like that arrangement on a rifle that may be carried, because the setting is protected without hiding both controls under caps. Clicks were firm and smooth enough to count without watching every movement.

After zeroing, I set the elevation stop and ran both turrets through several revolutions before returning to the reference. The reticle and preset zero aligned as expected. This confirms that the reviewed sample returned during that basic check; it does not quantify click accuracy, adjustment error or performance over hundreds of cycles.

A proper evaluation for a newly purchased used scope should include a measured tall-target test, a box test and a return-to-zero check after recoil. Those tests matter more than a crisp click sound. Turret feel is pleasant, but only impact position shows whether the mechanical movement matches the marking.

RMG First Focal Plane Reticle

The RMG reticle provides a floating centre point, measured elevation references and windage holds. In the first focal plane the subtensions remain valid as magnification changes, so the shooter can use the reticle at a comfortable power rather than being forced to maximum magnification.

I liked the central aiming point for groups and small targets. The surrounding references were detailed enough for rapid holds without filling the entire upper field. It is still more information than a simple hunter needs, and the reticle becomes visually finer at low power because it is FFP.

The reviewed version was non-illuminated. That is not a problem for daylight target use, but it can make the fine centre harder to pick up against a dark animal or complex background near the edge of legal light. A used buyer should decide whether that is acceptable before being attracted by price alone.

Parallax, Eye Relief and Field of View

Side parallax adjustment runs from 25m to infinity. That low minimum makes the scope useful on shorter ranges and training rifles as well as a centrefire, provided the weight suits the platform. Parallax should be set by removing apparent reticle movement against the target, not by trusting the distance marking as a rangefinder.

The 91-100mm eye-relief range gave enough room on the .308 and worked with glasses. As magnification increased, eye position naturally became less forgiving. The 7.4m field of view at 4.5x helped locate targets; at 27x the 1.3m view requires a stable rifle and deliberate target acquisition.

What It Does Well

• Good optical performance for the price of the reviewed older model.
• Useful 4.5-27x range for target shooting and mixed distances.
• RMG first focal plane reticle with a precise floating centre.
• Locking elevation and windage turrets plus a zero stop.
• Low 25m parallax minimum.
• Alloy flip-up covers included.
• Balanced well on the heavy .308 Ruger Precision Rifle.

Limitations

• This is an older discontinued product identity, not the current Trace 4.5-27×50.
• The 824g weight is substantial on a carry rifle.
• The non-illuminated fine reticle is less visible against dark backgrounds.
• No sunshade was included with the reviewed package.
• Maximum magnification is sensitive to mirage, light and head position.
• The recorded dial check was not a calibrated tracking test.

Is the Older Model Still Worth Buying Used?

A good used sample can still make sense for a heavy target rifle. A current Trace Advanced 4-24×50 offers a different Japanese-made premium package, while the current Trace 3-18×50 guide covers the lighter crossover role. Compare function, not only maximum magnification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the current ZeroTech Trace 4.5-27×50?

No. This review covers the older Trace Advanced 4.5-27×50 with a 30mm tube, FFP RMG reticle and locking turrets. The current Trace 4.5-27×50 R3 is a different catalogue model.

Did the older Trace Advanced track correctly?

The reviewed sample returned to the preset zero after I moved elevation and windage through several revolutions. I did not run a calibrated tall-target test, so I describe this only as a practical return check.

Is 27x useful on a .308?

It can be useful for zeroing and inspecting small targets from a stable position. Mirage and the small high-power exit pupil often make a lower setting more comfortable for actual shooting.

Can it be used for hunting?

It can, but 824g, a detailed non-illuminated reticle and target-style controls suit a supported or crossover rifle better than a lightweight mountain rifle. Compare the hunting scope guide before accepting the weight.

Where can I check remaining stock?

The existing retailer path is retained here: check the latest OpticsPlanet listing. Confirm that the photograph, SKU and reticle match the older scope described on this page.

Video Review

The original video below shows the reviewed model and control layout. Use it to identify the older scope, not as a substitute for the current catalogue.

Final Verdict

The older ZeroTech Trace Advanced 4.5-27×50 worked well on my .308 Ruger Precision Rifle. Its glass, useful RMG reticle, locking controls and included covers made it strong value, while the 4.5x low end gave it more flexibility than many dedicated target scopes.

Its SEO title and opening now say exactly what buyers need to know: this is an owner review of an older model. Judge a used sample on condition, verified turret behaviour and price. Judge the current ZeroTech 4.5-27×50 on its own specifications and product family.