Optics 2023
Long-distance glass is still hot, but this year there is a new wrinkle.
By Robert Sadowski
The big trend this year is LPVO (Low-Powered Variable Optics). These are riflescopes that combine features of red dot reticles for close, fast shooting with features of MIL or MOA reticles for long-distance precision. Long-range riflescopes are also hot this year. Here’s a look at the new glass being offered.
Apex Optics
Apex Optics’ flagship Rival 4-32x56mm riflescope (SRP: $2,000) is purpose-built for dynamic long-range PRS-style competitions. Features include CLR (pronounced CLEAR) or Competition Long Range reticle, tactile precise turrets, and 4X to 32X magnification range. The Edge 1-10x24mm riflescope (SRP: $1,300-$1,500) is designed for tactical situations or as a lightweight hunting scope. Features include ED glass, a 24mm objective lens, a 34mm one-piece tube, a first focal plane mil reticle, and locking mil turrets in 0.1 mil-per-click configuration. The custom-designed KLR (Kombat Long Range) reticle merges the needs of the LE and military user to rapidly engage targets at short and medium range.
The Hunter 3-15x44mm hunting scope (SRP: $1,000-$1,200) is a perfect marriage of features in a lightweight package. It weighs just over 23 ounces with a 30mm tube. The first focal plane Hunter Long Range (HLR) reticle is made specifically for hunters looking to make short-range or long-range shots.
The Summit ED 10x42mm (SRP: $500) and 12x50mm (SRP: $600) binocular series features Japanese ED glass with a seven-layer coating system for superior light transmission in a lightweight package. The 10x42mm weighs just 24 ounces; the 12x50mm weighs 32 ounces. Either is a good choice for western hunters who don’t want to carry both a spotting scope and binoculars. (apexopticsco.co)
ArmaSight
The ArmaSight Contractor 640 series of feature-rich thermal weapon sights include two models: a 1.5-6x25mm (SRP: $5,299) and a 3-124x50mm (SRP: $5,699). Both units can be used in all environmental conditions to improve object detection in low-contrast daylight, total darkness, or through smoke, haze, and even light fog. Features include a 60 Hz 1024 x 768 display resolution, USB and WiFi video streaming, four hours of onboard video recording, and low-battery consumption from standard CR123A batteries. (armasight.com)
Barska
Are your customers looking to whack varmints at a distance? Barska has expanded their mid-level Varmint Series of riflescopes with three new models: a 3-12x44mm (SRP: $298) built on a 30mm tube and a 4-16x40mm in two configurations. One has covered turrets and rings (SRP: $263), the other has tactical turrets (SRP: $275). All models are built with a mil-dot reticle. (barska.com)
Bering Optics
The all-new 2023 Super Yoter 3.5-24x50mm LRF use a rigid, hard-anodized aluminum-magnesium alloy body with quick-detach mounts. Features include LRF Constant Scan Mode up to 1,200 yards, and a ballistic app works with the reticle for precise aiming even in rainy weather. In addition, it’s powered by common AA batteries. The new Hogster Charge 3.0-12.0x25mm Digital Night Vision Riflescope is a true NV scope with a high-sensitivity HD 4um sensor capable of performing on par with Gen2+ NV devices at a fraction of the cost. Features include eight reticle patterns. (beringoptics.com)
Crimson Trace
The Hardline family of riflescopes includes a wide variety of LPVOs for competition, hunting, and defense situations, all built on a fat 34mm tube for fast target acquisition. There is also an illuminated SFP TR1-MOA or TR-1 MIL reticle. The 1-10x28mm (SRP: $650) features up to 10X magnification power. The 1-8x28mm (SRP: $550) offers up to 8X power. And there is a 1-6x24mm (SRP: $450) equipped with 6X magnification power. All come with flip-up scope caps and a throw lever. (crimsontrace.com)
EOTECH
The heavy-duty EXPS-HD features an all-aluminum housing and provides users with an enhanced field-of-view for better situational awareness. The waterproof, fogproof, and battle-tested sight works even if the sight window breaks or becomes partially obstructed. The unit is powered by a single CR123 lithium battery. Integrated into the housing is a locking, adjustable quick-detach base. The 68MOA ring and 1MOA aiming dot provides uncompromising speed to target and accuracy. Both night-vision and non-night-vision compatible models are available. (eotechinc.com)
GPO
The new Passion 4-12x50i hunting riflescope (SRP: $699) features a one-inch tube and large 50mm objective lens for optimal light transmission. It is equipped with the G4i reticle that was designed for fast and accurate shot placement even in the lowest or brightest light conditions. Power is via the proprietary iCONTROL illumination system. The ultra-premium SPECTRA 6X 1.5-9x44i (SRP: $950) is now available with the popular all-purpose G4i reticle.
A new version of the first focal plane GPOTAC 4.5-27x50i riflescope line will feature a reticle that has been custom-designed for PRS competition. The new scope uses a 50mm double HD objective lens system coupled with high-transmission lens coatings for enhanced resolution. The robust 34mm main tube, built from a solid, one-piece aluminum block, is dustproof, waterproof, and nitrogen-filled for strength and durability. Custom-designed turrets are mil-based and include a zero-stop and lock system. The scope comes with a throw lever, cleaning cloth, see-through bikini ocular and objective lens scope covers, and an extra CR2032 battery. SRP: $1,499.99.
The new 4.5-27x50i is designed to work in tandem with GPO’s new 15-45x60 FFP Tactical Spotting scope that employs the same reticle. The grid markings on the spotting scope reticle and the riflescope reticle are identical in appearance and size to ensure familiarity and sight picture synergy of the user. Both reticles offer the same level of fidelity and utility, whether it is marking a target, assessing distance, or holding a ballistic offset without the need to adjust elevation and windage turrets. The two products work in tandem and make the process of spotting, assessing, and successfully acquiring the target flawless. The spotting scope is sold separately. SRP: $1,299.99. (gpousa.com)
Hawke Optics
Hawke’s latest entry into the LPVO space is the Vantage 30 WA FD IR series (SRP: $550) that features an L4A fiber dot reticle that gives an intense, bright red illuminated center dot with 11 brightness settings. Four configurations are available: 1-4x24mm, 1-8x24m, 2.5-10x50mm, and 3-12x56mm. Designed for AR platform rifles, the new Prism Sights (SRP: $300) include three new models. The 1x15mm features a speed dot reticle with center dot and horseshoe. The 4x24mm and 6x36mm models are equipped with a BDC reticle designed for 5.56 NATO ammunition. All are supplied with a low-profile mount and a lower one-third co-witness mount.
The new Frontier LRF binocular line uses high light transmission optics and a red-colored OLED display to make viewing and distancing the target clear and fast. LFR modes include Distance, Rain, Hunt, Near, Horizontal Distance, and Angle. Available in an 8x42 model (SRP: $1,329) with a range of 1,968 yards and a 10x42 model (SRP: $1,439) with a range of 2,515 yards. (us.hawkeoptics.com)
Hi-Lux Optics
Low Power Variable Optics or LPVOs are popular for the AR platform, and the CMR 1-10x26mm first focal plane scope (SRP: $899) is the latest glass in the Hi-Lux Close to Medium Range riflescope series. At 1X, the CMR 1-10x scope functions like a red dot and is designed to be shot with both eyes open; at 10X, the first focal plane grid reticle offers precise holdovers and wind calls. A ranging scale in the reticle can be used to range targets on standard-size 36-inch silhouette targets. The scope also features side parallax adjustment and push-button reticle illumination. (hi-luxoptics.com)
Konus
A new version of the Absolute 5-40x56mm (SRP: $1,187) is equipped with a parallax wheel and an illumination switch positioned on the same side knob. The thin 550-ballistic reticle is designed to avoid impairing target acquisition while also being dual illuminated. The new Armada riflescope series includes a 4-16x50mm (SRP: $567) with a German-4 reticle and a 6-24x56mm (SRP: $643) with a fine crosshair reticle. Both feature a 30mm tube and a new parallax system that offers spot-on measurement. (konuspro.com)
Leapers/UTG
INTEGRIX is a new line of premium rifle optics built with Japanese OHARA and German SCHOTT glass. Four models include a 1-8x28mm (SRP: $1,399) with an A1 MOA reticle suited for the AR platform, a 3-12x50mm (SRP: $1,499), a 3-18x44mm (SRP: $1,599), and a 4.5-27x56mm (SRP: $2,199)—all with a A2 MOA reticle. All scopes feature an FFP red and green illuminated reticle, 34mm tube, push-pull lockable turrets, and adjustable parallax. Zoom is smooth, consistent, and accurate. (leapers.com)
March Scopes
March is launching two new models. The 1.5-15x42mm FFP scope (SRP: $3,050) produces a bright high-resolution image. It is also lightweight and compact and is designed for hunting and for precision semi-auto platforms. Features include Shuriken-shaped lockable turrets and a 34mm tube. The 8-80x56mm SFP High Master Scope (SRP: $4,500) is an entirely new scope. It has a 25-degree wide-angle eyepiece, which is 25 percent wider than the standard 20 degrees, giving the shooter a wider field of view. This riflescope is equipped with Super ED lenses that can handle mirage better than ED lenses. (marchoptics.com)
Meopta
The new MeoSight IV red dot reflex sight (SRP: $299) weighs just 1.2 ounces and has an ultra-low profile, making it ideal for handguns. The sights feature a 3 MOA dot with five adjustable illumination levels and is powered by a commonly found CR1632 battery for up 30,000 hours of use. (meoptasportsoptics.com)
Schmidt and Bender
The 3-18x42mm is a compact, powerful, and versatile hunting riflescope. (SRP: $3,329-$4,002, depending on reticle and turrets.) The design combines superb image quality with a great field-of-view along with extremely high light transmission. Features include an SFP illuminated LP7 reticle. New to the PM II High Performance series is the 6-36x56mm (SRP: $4,540-$$5,530, depending on reticle and turrets). It is a great option for mid- to extreme-long-range shooting. This compact, lightweight scope is equipped with the new LPI illumination and a stacked knob for parallax and illumination brightness. The illumination control is the smaller, outermost knob. It uses a simple and clean P5FL reticle based on the military sniper P4FL reticle. The 1-8x24mm PM II ShortDot Dual CC (SRP: $5,460-$5,780, depending on reticle and turrets) combines an illuminated red dot in second focal plane with a first focal plane tactical reticle. The sweet spot for this scope is both close combat and mid-range use. Use the red dot sight for quick engagement for close targets while the mil-dot-based reticle can be used for accurate ranging and compensation for hold-offs and hold-under/over at distance targets. (schmidtundbender.de/en)
PARD
The DS35 is the first digital scope to use a new 800x800 circular LTPS display that provides a natural viewing experience such as that found with a conventional scope. The CMOS sensor and a lux rating of .0001 help deliver incredible resolution, and the integrated ballistic calculator assists in accurate shot placement. The patented lens cap provides a free focus design that allows the user to shoot with the lens cap on; this is done by viewing through a small hole that controls light transmission through the scope.
The 100mm eye relief provides comfort as well as safety from rifle recoil. An integrated 1,200-meter laser rangefinder accurately calculates range distances, and the IR light is effective up to 350 meters. The self-activated video recording provides the user with the ability to save 20-second video clips to the on-board TF card. Multiple image modes provide adaptability to a variety of environments, and the multi-function control knob allows the user to quickly change between functions.
The entire device is rated IP67 waterproof, and WiFi connectivity to an Android or IOS device is provided. The DS35 offers six digital reticles and two colors to personalize to your individual needs. SRP: $999. (pard.com)
Shield Sights
The AMS is an enclosed emitter mini red dot sight that shares the same shield footprint as Shield Sights’ other pistol sights. The footprint makes it the smallest enclosed emitter red dot sight on the market, and it fits a large number of factory optic-cut pistols. The AMS features four user-selectable reticle options and has manual and automatic brightness options. (shieldpsd.com)
SiOnyx
The OPSIN DNVM1 (SRP: $2,595) is a helmet-mounted, color, digital night vision monocular. Features include an extra-large 1920x1080 HD micro-OLED display and minimally designed menus and metadata overlays to keep the operator’s field of view broad and clear. The user-selectable frame rate, adjustable from 30/60/90 fps, offers imperceptible latency to adapt be-tween moving or stand-and-stare operations. OPSIN is durable and lightweight at only 10.6 ounces. (sionyx.com)
Steiner
The new Predator 8 premium hunting scope line offers repeatable and precise reticle adjustment for that once-in-a-lifetime shot with 8X zoom magnification range. Three models include a 2-16x42mm (SRP: $2,700), 3-24x50mm (SRP: $2,185), and 4-32x56mm (SRP: $2,300). All feature an integrated ballistic turret that ensures precise trajectory for up to four different distances. Available with an illuminated SCR-MOA or E3 reticle. (steiner-optics.com)
Swarovski
The EL Range Tracking Assistant binocular is now available in an orange armoring finish. These redesigned binoculars allow you to transfer your own ballistics data to make elevation corrections in MRAD, MOA, or clicks. Two models include an 8x42mm (SRP: $3,999) and a 10x42mm (SRP: $4,110). The new 17-40x56mm ATC (SRP: $2,610) and STC (SRP: $2,610) line of com-pact, lightweight spotting scopes are designed to pack light and be used with or without a tripod. They weigh about 35 ounces apiece. The STC straight eyepiece unit is 11.2 inches in length, the ATC angled eyepiece is only 10.2 inches in length. Both are available in green or orange armor finish. (swarovskioptik.com)
Trijicon
Trijicon Compact ACOG models (SRP: $1,357) are now available with new quick-release mounts featuring Trijicon Q-LOC Technology and Trijicon Advanced Combat Reticles (TAC-R). Q-LOC features multiple proprietary recoil lugs to ensure total rail engagement. Shooters can easily remove and re-attach an optic without the need to confirm zero. The 1.5x16s and 2x20 ACOGs now feature Trijicon Advanced Combat Reticles (TAC-R) in both the RTR .223 and RTR 9mm PCC reticles. Both are battery free and use daylight-bright center dot illumination and have BDC holds. These reticles enable quick target acquisition with both eyes open. (trijicon.com)
XS Sights
Engineered for the DIYer who owns or maintains multiple Glock pistols, the DIY-Series Inline Rear Sight pusher reduces the force needed to install XS Sights up to 50 percent. Users can easily complete a wide range of sight installs on all Glock slides and install optic/suppressor height sights. The DIY-Series also allows sight installation or windage adjustment on slides with an optic mounted on the pistol.
The open-top design allows for fast setup and easy visual centering. The tool and bit feature a built-in measuring scale for precision windage adjustments. The locking wedge secures slides in seconds. Simply slide the non-marring brass bit into the dovetail and insert the wedge. The kit includes a rear sight pusher, steel Glock Front Sight Tool, oil, and thread locker. Fits all Glock OEM and aftermarket slides. SRP: $150. (xssights.com)
Zeiss
The all-new first focal plane LRP S3 riflescope is designed for long-range precision shooting and hunting. Features include an impressive total elevation travel and proven ZF-MOSi and ZF-MRi reticles with daylight visible illumination. Two models are available: the LRP S5 318-50 (SRP: $2,199) with 3.6-18x magnification and 50mm objective and the LRP S5 535-56 (SRP: $2,499) with a 5-25X magnification range and a 56mm objective. (zeiss.com)
