It was David P. Bushnell’s 1948 honeymoon in Japan that started it all. Two crates stuffed with binoculars accompanied him during his return trip to California, where he launched the company that still bears his name. Initially selling them by mail order, it wasn’t long before his brand found its way onto store shelves and manufacturers began producing models to his specifications.
In 1971 he sold his company to Bausch & Lomb. Today Bushnell is among the legendary firms under the Vista Outdoor corporate umbrella, where it squarely remains focused on designing and bringing to market innovative products “Built for the Pursuit”—whether it’s hunting, shooting, birdwatching or any other outdoor passion.
“The 75th anniversary is a significant milestone for Bushnell, and we are incredibly proud of our journey so far,” said Jim Bruno, president of Vista Outdoor Hunting and Shooting Accessories in 2023. “Our success can be attributed to our loyal customers, dedicated employees and unwavering commitment to delivering superior optics that are built for your pursuit. We are grateful for the trust they have placed in us and look forward to many more years of innovation and excellence.”
A big part of the company’s success can also be attributed to its patented technologies. The brand’s innovations, such as RainGuard HD water-repellant lens coating, EXO Barrier lens protection and ARC (Angle Range Compensation) technology, have set new standards in optics.