• Sport Optics
    • Binoculars
    • Digital Binoculars
    • Night Vision
    • Range Finders
    • Spotting Scopes
    • Monoculars
    • All Sport Optics
  • Hunting
    • Rifle Scopes
    • Mounts, Rings, Bases
    • Riflescope Accessories
    • Night Sights
    • Trail Cameras
    • All Hunting
  • Gun Accessories
    • Holsters
    • Bore Sights
    • Cleaning Kits
    • Gun Cases
    • Hearing Protection
    • All Gun Accessories
  • Outdoor Gear
    • Clothing & Apparel
    • Compasses
    • Flashlights
    • Flashlight Accessories
    • Waterproof Cases
    • Carrying Bags
    • Tactical Boots
    • GPS
    • Radar Guns
    • Watches
    • Weather Stations
    • All Outdoor Gear
  • Eyewear
    • Sunglasses
    • Prescription Sunglasses
    • Goggles
    • Prescription Glasses
    • Eyeglass Frames
    • All Eyewear
  • Military Gear
    • Laser Sights
    • Red Dot Sights
    • Shooting Accessories
    • Tactical Vests
    • All Military Gear
  • Law Enforcement
    • Thermal Imaging
    • Tactical Belts
    • Pouches
    • Tactical Gloves
    • All Law Enforcement
  • Hobbies
    • Batteries
    • Golf Equipment
    • Magnifiers
    • Metal Detectors
    • All Hobbies
  • Lab & Science
    • Microscopes
    • Beakers, Test Tubes, etc.
    • All Lab & Science
  • Astronomy
    • Telescopes
    • Telescope Accessories
    • All Astronomy
  • Photo
    • Digital Cameras
    • Tripods
    • All Photo
  • On Sale
  • Clearance
  • Best Rated
  • New Products
  • Demo Products
  • Coupons
  • Promotions
  • Rebates
  • Seasonal Promotions
  • Free Second Day Shipping
  • Gifts Guides

Dvor is a new marketplace by OpticsPlanet with the latest and greatest gear at unbelievable prices. We're talking high quality brand name merchandise at low, low prices on shooting, outdoors, sports gear and so much more. Exclusive membership, exclusive deals, but limited time, limited quantities: this is what Dvor is all about. Learn more at Dvor.com!

GearExpert by OpticsPlanet

GearExpert features news and reviews of top gear in the shooting, hunting, outdoors, hobby and lifestyle industries!

Get $5 Off - Subscribe to Our Email List
Thanks for subscribing to our newsletter!
Welcome back!
Please check your email for confirmation message
Thanks for subscribing to our newsletter!

You will receive a subscription confirmation soon

  • News
  • Photos
  • Videos
  • How-To
  • ShotShow

Browsing Tags rifle scopes

Steiner 3-15x50mm MSR 34mm Riflescope

New Steiner Tactical and Hunting Scopes

Posted on April 15, 2013 by Adam C

How much do I love Steiner? And how much do they love the GearExpert and OpticsPlanet team? A whole bunch, apparently, and for good reason – there’s a lot to love from the new scopes we’ve got from Steiner. This includes their Military Tactical Rifle Scopes and a line of NightHunter Xtreme scopes, which OpticsPlanet has gotten an exclusive first look at. I want to give you the rundown on these new scopes because, as we’ve established, I love Steiner.

The Steiner Military 3-15×50 Tactical Scopes are packed with new features while still maintaining the quality that you’ve come to expect from Steiner – you know, rugged, durable, waterproof, just generally cool-looking. In general, everything the military demands in a package fit for the civilian market. What sets these Tactical Riflescopes apart are the superior optics. Everything from the lenses to the reticles have been honed to a T through sophisticated and complex engineering. And speaking of the reticles – they feature 11 different illumination settings, allowing you to fine-tune your shooting experience. Plus, these Steiner riflescopes are built for use in tactical situations, so the turrets are tactile and easy to adjust without fear of jogging your scope out of zero. Get your hands on one of these Steiner Tactical Riflescopes and you’re going to see exactly what I mean.

Steiner 3-15x50 Tactical Scope

The Steiner 3-15x50mm Tactical Riflescope is packed with features

And so we move from tactical applications to hunting, and I’ve got some great news – OpticsPlanet has gotten an exclusive look at Steiner’s newest offering. Their NightHunter Xtreme Rifle Scope line will blow you away. Available in four zoom and objective choices, the NightHunter Xtreme series has plenty to love. From quality optics, Steiner NoNoise and ComfortUse operation, to Diamond-Night-Coating, you truly get amazing image quality with illuminated reticles that allow for low-light hunting (hence the NightHunter).

What sets the Steiner NightHunter Xtreme Riflescope line apart from the pack is an auto intelligent illumination system that can automatically adjust your reticle’s brightness. This means you’ll spend less time fiddling with your scope and more time eyeing that prize buck that just crossed the field. All four scopes have this feature and are packed with many more, so if you’re thinking of hunting in the evening or even at night, you’ll want to check out them out when they hit the shelves.

I’m excited for both of these scope lines. Whether you’re looking for tactical or hunting applications, Steiner’s got a scope for you. “But what’s your favorite?” I hear you asking. How am I supposed to choose between such awesome scopes? I will say that I like to be able to take longer shots, but it’s all personal preference. But why don’t you let me know which scopes are the most appealing in the comments? I myself am having a hard time choosing between all these Steiner scopes, and I have been trying to plan a hunt for a while now…

Swarovski Modular Spotting Scopes SHOT Show

Swarovski Modular Spotting Scopes and Z6 Rifle Scopes from SHOT Show!

Posted on February 1, 2013 by Brian

Swarovski Modular Spotting Scopes

We saw a lot of new scopes from Swarovski at SHOT Show this year, including some new additions to one of the most exciting lines of spotting scopes I’ve seen in years: the ATX/STX Modular Spotting Scopes.  I’ve written about them before here on the OpticsPlanet Facebook wall, and I’m really glad to see some new models will be coming out this year.  The basic premise of these spotters is that you have two separate parts, an objective lens and an eyepiece, and they attach to one another.  This gives you the opportunity, in the future, to buy other eyepieces or objective lenses for more versatility.  More models means more chances to customize the performance you want and need.  I’m a big fan of that.

Swarovski Z6 Rifle Scopes

But it wasn’t all spotting scopes from Swarovski at SHOT.  We also got to take a look at some new models in the Z6 line of rifle scopes.  I like Swarovski’s tagline for these scopes: “The Original.  Perfected.”  That’s not a bad way of talking about these great scopes.  First, they have great glass, which isn’t a surprise considering Swarovski’s expertise at working glass, but it’s still good to see they spend so much time on the glass quality.  The Z6 has a fairly slim design, and the ballistic turrets have been redesigned for improved functionality.  There are also illuminated reticles with automatic on/off switches to help preserve battery life.

Swarovski really knocked my socks off last year with their modular spotting scopes, and I can’t wait to get my hands on their new optics for 2013!

Swarovski Modular Spotting Scopes SHOT Show
Swarovski Spotting Scopes are great for Digiscoping too
Swarovski Spotting Scopes are great for Digiscoping too
Swarovski Spotting Scopes Shot show 2
Swarovski Spotting Scopes Shot show 2

Swarovski Spotting Scopes SHOT Show 3
Swarovski Spotting Scopes SHOT Show 3
Swarovski Spotting Scopes SHOT Show
Swarovski Spotting Scopes SHOT Show
Swarovski Z6 Rifle Scopes from SHOT Show
Swarovski Z6 Rifle Scopes from SHOT Show

Swarovski Z6 Rifle Scopes with Ballistic Turrets at SHOT Show
Swarovski Z6 Rifle Scopes with Ballistic Turrets at SHOT Show

Barska Contour Rifle Scope

The Barska Contour Rifle Scope from SHOT Show 2013!

Posted on January 29, 2013 by Brian

The Barska Contour Rifle Scope was a pretty nice looking new scope from SHOT Show.  It was specifically designed to work with .22 rifles.  I’m personally a huge fan of 22s.  Other than a few BB guns when I was little, the first gun I ever shot was a 22, and I’ve always had a place in my heart for them (especially with the price of ammo these days!).  The Contour is perfect for a day at the range.  The 3-9×42 Contour Riflescope (which is in stock as I write, by the way!), has three different bullet grain settings, locking turrets and a really nice overall build quality, which is really incredible considering the low price!  I think it’s best if you just take a look at this great new scope and considering slapping it on your favorite .22 rifle!  The Barska Contour Rifle Scope from SHOT Show amazed!

Weaver Grand Slam New Scopes

Weaver Redesigned their Grand Slam Rifle Scopes for SHOT Show!

Posted on January 23, 2013 by Brian

We spoke with Tom from Weaver at SHOT Show, and he gave us a rundown of their newly redesigned Grand Slam Rifle Scopes.  To be sure, Weaver is one of those brands you hear about all the time for their constant improvements.  It’s actually surprising that they can find so much to improve upon considering how good their scopes are to begin with.

So what’s changed?  Well, quite a lot, actually.  The new Grand Slam Scopes have a lot of internal improvements but they’ve also improved the outside design to make them more sleek and sexy.  You can see this with the new Weaver Grand Slam Rings, which look great with these scopes, but also on a lot of other scopes.  They look great and they have a smooth feel so they won’t snag on anything.

But the internal changes are what’s going to give you the performance boost from these new Weaver Grand Slam Scopes.  The Micro-Trac System has been improved to maintain the quality level people expect from Weaver, while at the same time making them more repeatable and nearly indestructible.  As Tom says in the video, these scopes are nearly bombproof.  The tracking system was already pretty tough and had few areas where problems could occur, but those tiny little areas where problems could have occurred before have been strengthened.

You’ll still get great glass and a well-built scope, but the newly improved Micro-Trak System will give you incredibly precise elevation and windage adjustments while being insanely tough as well!  Take a look at the Weaver SHOT Show video above to learn more!

Weaver Rifle Scopes from SHOT Show

BLACKHAWK! Sportster Titan Rests, NEW Watches and Weaver Grand Slam Scopes!

Posted on January 21, 2013 by Brian

BlackHawk, Weaver, RCBS, Champion Traps & Targets, Federal Premium and many other brands all occupied the same area of the show on the second floor, and we head over to get the low-down on new gear from BlackHawk and Weaver.

BLACKHAWK! at SHOT Show

BlackHawk Advanced Field Operator Watch
BlackHawk Advanced Field Operator Watch
BlackHawk Field Operator Watch
BlackHawk Field Operator Watch
BlackHawk Race Operator and Deep Sea Operator Watches
BlackHawk Race Operator and Deep Sea Operator Watches


BlackHawk is finally debuting their new line of watches in 2013. We spent most of the second half of 2012 eagerly anticipating these watches, but BlackHawk had to delay them to ensure the highest quality possible. It looks like it’ll be worth the wait, as the watches looked very refined and polished. There are many tactical watches on the market that, well, you wouldn’t want to wear them to a nice restaurant. But BlackHawk has balanced function with style, and these watches will likely be a big hit with the military and law enforcement communities. Some are available now, others will be shipped in the coming weeks.

BlackHawk Sportster Titan FSX

BlackHawk Sportster Titan FSX

We also got a chance to see the new rifle rests coming out from BlackHawk. We had heard BlackHawk was planning on entering the rifle rest/shooting rest market this year, and learned they intended to do so under the BlackHawk Sportster Label. Five different models will be offered, from the premium level BlackHawk Sportster Titan FXS to the simple BlackHawk Sportster Titan VR Shooting Rest, intended for ARs and varmint hunting. The construction, weight, and solidness was impressive, and it looks like the shooting rest market just became a bit more competitive in 2013.

BlackHawk Epic Holster

The BlackHawk Epic Holster has all the great quality of a SERPA, but with room for a weapon light!

It wouldn’t be a stop at the BlackHawk booth if we didn’t check out apparel, bags, or holsters, and while we did spend some time with the watches we also made time for BlackHawk’s new holsters and rigs. First up was the new Epic Series. Put extremely simply, it’s a SERPA that has additional room for a weapon light. You’ll get that same snug fit you get from a SERPA, but now you have a holster to use with your mounted light. This looks like it’ll especially useful for police officers, as the Epic Series will support the Streamlight TLR-1 and TLR-2 and also the Surefire X300 and X400. Looks like we should expect the first versions for full-size Glocks by the end of March, with 1911s, XD’s and more to come soon after.

We also took a look at the Grip Rig, a smooth, fast draw holster that will be available in both leather and nylon versions in late March.

BlackHawk Versa Harness

BlackHawk Versa Harness

Before leaving, we got a hands-on demonstration of the new Versa Harness. BlackHawk made this simple harness for a variety of purposes, from harnessing in your binoculars or rangefinder to attaching your Blackhawk holster and keeping your firearm close to your person. The possibilities are nearly endless, and no doubt this item will be popular with both professionals and hunters who need to carry a lot of gear as securely as possible.

Weaver’s SHOT Show Gear

Weaver Grand Slam Rifle Scope

Weaver Grand Slam Rifle Scope

Weaver was our next stop, and we learned that the popular Grand Slam series was being completely updated in and out this year. Available in June, the refreshed Grand Slam line will feature new improved glass, new lens coatings, finer adjustments, and a much sleeker and polished look than the previous model. The Grand Slam Riflescope line definitely needed the attention, and I expect a lot of deer hunters will be utilizing these scopes this fall. With an MSRP of around $550, they won’t be cheap, but there are a major contender in the mid-level market.

Weaver Kaspa Rifle Scopes

Weaver Kaspa Rifle Scopes

We also learned that the Kaspa series of entry-level hunting rifle scopes (which we covered last year right from the SHOT Show floor) will be getting a new Turkey Scope this year. This Mossy Oak scope will have an MSRP of around $259.99 and be available in June. The most interesting part of the scope is the new reticle Weaver is developing. What we saw was a prototype, but the reticle is specifically designed to highlight the vertical kill-zone on your gobbling target. It makes a lot of sense that this new reticle will help improve accuracy. I would certainly love to try it out!

Barska GLX Laser Sights

Barska Contour, GLX Green Laser & More from SHOT Show Day 3!

Posted on January 18, 2013 by Brian

Barska has always done a fantastic job of making new technologies and innovations available at an entry level price point. This year at SHOT Show was no different, with new rifle scopes, laser sights, gun cases and backpacks displayed prominently around their first floor booth.

Barska Contour Rifle Scope

The Barska Contour Rifle Scope

The first thing we saw was an update to the popular Barksa Contour 3-9×42 Rifle Scope. This scope has been redesigned with a variety of improvements and is now specifically intended for .22′s. 3 BDC settings allow you to compensate over distance, and Barska has also added locking turrets.

barska electro scopes at SHOT Show

Barska Electro Scopes at SHOT Show

The Barska Electro Sight Riflescope is also seeing some updates, with a new brightness adjustment that is much smoother than ever before.

Barska GLX Laser Sights

Check out the two new Barska GLX Laser Sights!

In 2012 the Barska GLX was a big hit, particularly the green laser GLX. Barska is releasing a new, smaller version of the GLX that still has the same great functionality but is now significantly smaller and comes complete with a pressure switch.

Barska SWAT AR Scope

The Barska SWAT AR Scope

We also got a chance to see the new Barska SWAT AR 1-4×28 scope with cantilever mount. This newest addition to the Barska SWAT series is compact and designed for your AR. Just like the other SWAT scopes, it has an illuminated reticle with both red and green options. You’ll also find locking turrets and adjustments and a sunshade.

Barska FLX 250 LUM Light

The Barska FLX 250 LUM Light

On the same AR we got a chance to try out the Barska FLX 260 lumen AR weapon light. With both a simple on setting and a strobe, it’ll definitely be an affordable choice to “tactify” your AR even further.

Barska Loaded Gear
Barska Loaded Gear
Barska Loaded Gear Bag
Barska Loaded Gear Bag
Barska Loaded Gear Vest
Barska Loaded Gear Vest


Finally, we spent a little time checking out the new line of vests, plate carriers, bags, backpages, gun cases, and hard cases from Barska called LOADED GEAR. Loaded Gear is Barska’s first major foray into the market, and it looks to continue Barska‘s mission of providing the features you expect in mid-level and premium gear at a fraction of the price for the best value possible.

Zeiss HD5 Rifle Scope

New Zeiss Conquest HD5 & Terra from SHOT Show 2013!

Posted on January 16, 2013 by Alessandro

We stopped by the Zeiss booth late yesterday to see what the legendary German manufacturer had in store for 2013 and we have to say – we are extremely excited by what we saw!

Zeiss HD5 Rifle Scopes

Zeiss is known for having the world’s best glass. I bet you’d like to test their new HD5 Conquest Scopes to see for yourself!

First off we got a chance to check out the new Zeiss Conquest HD5 Rifle Scope series. Three models are available now:

2-10×42
3-15×42
5-25×50

These rifle scopes boast new lens coatings for even better light transmission and an additional coating functioning as a strong water repellent. Carl Zeiss lenses have always been in the best the best category, and with the new Conquest HD5 boasting HD glass it will likely be a huge hit with hunters and the target shooting community.

Afterwards we spent some time with the brand new Zeiss Terra line, which they are targeting at the high end of the entry-level market. I never expected Zeiss would create a line targeting those on a more limited budget, but now that they are it looks like the entry-level category just got a lot more competitive.

Zeiss Terra Rifle Scopes

For those looking to spend a little less while still enjoying the benefits of a Zeiss Scope, check out the Terra Rifle Scope Line!

First up was the Terra Rifle Scope line. Three models will be offered:

2-7×32
3-9×42
4-12×42

Starting at around $350, these rifle scopes don’t boast many of the features that the Conquest line does (and certainly not the Victory line) but you’ll still get Zeiss glass and the attention to details and durability you’d expect from Zeiss.

Zeiss Terra Binoculars

When you’re glassing the field with these Zeiss Binoculars, you’re sure to get a great view!

We also checked out the Terra Binoculars. These binoculars will debut in two varieties (the classic hunting configurations – 8×42 and 10×42) and boast ED glass and locking eyecups. In addition, these binoculars have a close focus of only 5 feet, making them usable for almost any application.

Zeiss enjoys an awesome position in the optics industry.  Everyone knows that their glass is absolutely fantastic, and they’re able to leverage their prestigious position by making some of the best optics in the world.  I’m amazed they’re starting to offer more budget-friendly options.  I know Zeiss will never let their quality slip, so this is a huge deal.  I can’t wait to check out the new binoculars!

Nikon Prostaff SHOT Show 2013

Nikon ProStaff, Aculon & More from SHOT Show 2013!

Posted on January 16, 2013 by Brian

Last year, we got to take a look at the Nikon P223 and more, and our post on that great scope proved to be one of the most popular of the year!  With this in mind, you can imagine how excited we were to visit Nikon for SHOT Show 2013! They didn’t disappoint.  Nikon is making some major extensions to the popular ProStaff line.

The ProStaff line of rifle scopes have been an extremely popular choice with hunters for year now and 2013 will see the brand new ProStaff 5 line of rifle scopes. The line is expected to be available starting in March of 2013 with the following models:

3.5-14×50
4.5-18×40
3.5-14×40

I can’t wait to get more time with a ProStaff 5 rifle scope.  There are a ton of great features.  One thing that I’m really happy to see is that it’ll have the full support of Nikon’s Spot On Technology.  We actually took a trip out to Utah back in July for the Nikon Spot On Championship, and shortly thereafter I was able to do fuller write-up on the Spot On Tech.  It’s really cool stuff.  You can enter your ballistic info, scope and more into their website (or mobile app), print out a ballistic chart, and it’ll give you holdovers!  I explained it in more depth in that post, so check it out!

The other features in the ProStaff 5 line are pretty impressive as well, especially when you consider the quality Nikon brings to all of their optics.  You’ll have:

  • Spring-Loaded Zero-Reset Turrets – Very helpful for any shooter.
  • A Quick Focus Eyepiece
  • Fully Multi-Coated Optics – And Nikon knows their lens coatings
  • A choice of reticle – Nikoplex and an Illuminated BDC.  We’re not sure if every model will have every reticle style available from the start, but they should all be available soon!
  • Choice of Silver or Black Matte Finish

There’s no way the ProStaff 5 disappoints when it’s released this March.

The Nikon Aculon gives budget-minded hunters a great Binocular!

The Nikon Aculon gives budget-minded hunters a great Binocular!

We also got a chance to check out the Aculon 10×42 Binoculars, a new budget binocular from Nikon. With an MSRP of $99, it’s obvious Nikon looking to finally expand into the low priced binocular line that it has not really given much attention to in the past. A variety of magnification and lens sizes will be available (including the other most popular setup – an 8×42 variety.)

The Nikon Aculon 10×42 Binoculars feature a Bak4 Porro Prism, and are lightweight and ergonomical designed. The picture quality is impressive for the price, and while we unfortunately couldn’t test the brightness outdoors, it was quite good indoors. We’ll have to see how it holds up in future tests once we receive them in the office.

Nikon Prostaff 3 Spotting Scope

You can tell people were interested in the Nikon Prostaff 3 Spotting Scope. It already has a lot of fingerprints on it!

Nikon also introduced the ProStaff 3 16-48x60mm Spotting Scope (or FieldScope, as Nikon refers to them.) We’ll have a short video with more info early next week, but Nikon is aiming these primarily at hunters (not target shooters or outdoorsmen) and offering the product complete with a case and tripod with an MSRP of $329.

New Nikon Rangefinders at SHOT Show

With their fantastic SPOT On Technology, it’s no surprise Nikon wants to help you find your range.

In the rangefinder category, Nikon is introducing the ProStaff 7 6×21 Rangefinder and the new Archer’s Choice 6×21 Rangefinder. The Archer’s Choice line has been one of the top picks for bow-hunters due to the low 5 yard minimum distance and measurements in tenths of a yard. Both are aimed at the hunting community and will be great additions to the already popular lines.

Nikon P223 Rifle Scope

Nikon is expanding their mega-popular P223 Line of Rifle Scopes!

Finally, we did talk to Nikon about their popular P-223 line of rifle scopes. They are planning to make some updates to the line this year, and they are working extremely hard to try and keep up with the incredible demand they saw in 2012. We’ve heard from plenty of people how frustrating the wait has been, and Nikon fully understands. We all hope we can start seeing more of those scopes get out into customer’s hands as soon as possible.

nightforce SHOT Show Featured image

The NightForce ATACR AMAZES at SHOT Show, Plus a Giveaway!

Posted on January 16, 2013 by Brian

Nightforce‘s booth featured quite a few new rifle scopes. The ATACR (Advancted Tactical Rifle Scope) 5-25×56 really impressed. Nightforce has packed the scope with ED Glass for super visibility and clarity, and the lowest power of 5x is going to give you about an 18ft FOV at 100 yards, meaning this scope is as close to all-purpose as it gets. Nightforce’s goal with this scope was to provide something that meets a hunter’s need while still being a military sniper scope. You’ll be able to use this scope at the range, out varmint hunting, big game – pretty much anywhere you want to be. It should be available by the end of January 2013 and retail around $2000-$2500.

The NightForce ATACR is sure to excite serious shooters

The NightForce ATACR is sure to excite serious shooters

We’ve heard discussion about this product since details came out a few years ago, and it looks like this is the year it finally arrives! The Nightforce B.E.A.S.T. (an anagram for Best Example of Advanced Scope Technology – clever!) is a 5-25×56 FFP (first focal plane) rifle scope with a 34mm tube. The turrets offer impressive elevation controls, and the new XtremeSpeed adjustments are designed to allow you to quickly and precisely calibrate your scope in the field. This scope is projected to be available between May and June 2013 and retail around $3400.

The NightForce Beast

The NightForce Beast is, well, a BEAST!

Finally, we got a chance to check out the Nightforce Competition 15-55×52 Rifle Scope. As you might expect, it’s a competition/benchrest rifle scope. Packing ED glass and extreme high power magnification, this rifle scope looks to be a serious contender in the high-end target shooter market. These scopes will launch with two new reticle options – the CTR-1 which is non-illuminated and has fine .016 MOA crosshairs and .125 MOA center dot. The second option is the DDR, a non-illuminated double dot reticle with a .125 MOA center dot.

Nightforce is also launching new reticles for other scopes in 2013, including the Mil-R (Mil-Radian Reticle) which you’ll find on both the Nightforce ATACR and the B.E.A.S.T rifle scopes. You’ll find whole, half, .2 and .1 Mil-Radian increments on this reticle for extremely accurate hold-offs.

A NightForce Rifle Scope is a thing of Beauty

A NightForce Rifle Scope is a thing of Beauty

But you know what?  We’re too excited about these new scopes from NightForce to just tell you about them and show you some pictures and video.  We thought, “Why not give one away?”

And that’s EXACTLY what we’re doing.  The contest is already live, so if you head over to the OpticsPlanet Facebook page click the tab at the top of the page (or click here to go directly to the entry tab) and you can enter for your chance to win the new NightForce ATACR Rifle Scope!  That’s a $2400 Scope! AND you can get it before ANYONE else has a chance to even buy it!  How sweet is that deal?  And that’s just the first of our giveaways.  We also have gear from Streamlight, Nikon, EOTech and Crimson Trace, with new giveaways starting each day of SHOT Show through Saturday, so keep coming back to our Facebook Page for more chances to win!!!

Leupold Hunting Gear Suggestions for Beginning Hunters

Hunter’s Corner with Leupold Optics – a Beginner’s Guide

Posted on December 21, 2012 by Alex S.

Many beginners and novice hunters are sometimes stumped by what equipment to choose and how much to spend. Those that are just discovering the thrill of the hunt may be more budget oriented. This is why I’ve decided to offer some Leupold gear advice for those that are attempting to conquer the great outdoors and fill some deer tags. The main gear that I will discuss is the rifle scopes and the accessories for them, range finders, binoculars, and other essential tools. For the beginning hunter, this gear should be enough to get you started.

Leupold Rifle Scopes

If you have your rifle or shotgun picked out, you can now begin looking at optics and other gear that you will need to fill your tags. First and foremost will be a rifle scope. It is indispensible in modern hunting, as a quality scope that is sighted in properly assures a quick and humane way to take game. Leupold 3-9x40mm rifle scopes are the most popular magnification and objective lens set up used by hunters. One thing to remember with shooting optics and optics in general is that quality equals more money. Leupold rifle scopes will serve you for a life time. Dishing out a little extra cash for high quality optics will make a difference.

The Leupold VX-1 Rifle Scope line presents some high quality options starting under $400. This is a great price range to explore when putting together your first hunting rifle system. When browsing through rifle scopes, it is easy to get overwhelmed with information. Leupold 3-9×40 rifle scopes offer a great value and great optics that are fully multi-coated, fog and water resistant and will withstand recoil from all types of typical hunting calibers. Hunters stand by Leupold quality and I urge you to save up a bit and invest in a quality scope, rather than rush into purchasing a low quality optic that will quickly lose its zero.

Leupold VX-1 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope

Rifle Scopes Accessories

Depending on the type of a firearm you will be using to take your deer, you will need to find the correct attachment for your rifle scope. Bolt action rifles will typically need to have a rifle scope base, a mount, and rifle scope rings. A base allows the mount to be attached and the rifle scope rings to be mounted. Higher quality rings, mounts and bases allows the scope to remain securely attached to the rifle without losing the zero, corroding, or damaging your firearm. Depending on the rifle scope’s objective lens size and your preferences, you will need to choose the height of your rifle scope rings. As a general practice, it is better to have the scope mounted as low possible. Leupold selection of rifle scope rings, mounts and bases offer a wide choice for accessories that will last you a life time.

Leupold Quick Release Weaver Style QRW Rings

Leupold Range Finders, Binoculars and More

Taking game is what the hunt is all about, but first – you have to find it. Whether you will be stalking deer or hunting from a tree stand – quality optics will help you locate and hone in on your first game. A good range finder will help you estimate the shot. Every hunter has a distance beyond which they lose confidence in their shot, understanding they will be unable to humanly and quickly take the deer. Leupold rangefinders give you accurate readings and are water resistant and fog proof.

A good binocular is as essential to a hunter as a rifle scope. Leupold binoculars offer great value for optics that will serve you for generations. Waterproof, fog proof, weatherproof – Leupold BX-2 and BX-3 product lines offer great roof prism set ups for hunters at great magnifications and objective sizes that will allows you to spot game for long periods of time with less stress to your eyes. High quality optics means that water and moisture will not build up inside and that the glass itself is coated and treated to provide maximum light transition.

Leupold offers many more items for hunters of all abilities. Spotting scopes, rails and trail cameras are some of the more prominent hunting accessories that can improve your chances of taking your deer and filling the tags.

Leupold is a brand that has been trusted by hunters from generation to generation. The reliability of Leupold is even trusted by the United States Armed Forces – so you know that this is the brand that will be there when you need it most.

Leupold BX-2 Cascade 10x42mm Roof Prism Binoculars

Trevor Shooting a 308

And the winner is… – Nikon Shooting Event Day 2 Pictures!!!

Posted on June 27, 2012 by Brian

Well, it looks like the Nikon Spot On Competition has come to a close and a lot of very cool guns and scopes were used by Trevor and Kate.  They made quite a few great shots, and though they weren’t the big winners of the whole competition, they did have a ton of fun with some outstanding gear.  They’ll be back from Utah in a few days and I’ll get all the details to you as soon as I get them, but for now check out all the pictures below.

I’m really happy to see Trevor got some shots in using our new Edge OPMOD ZRG+ Shooting Glasses.  We’re really proud to have our own Shooting Glasses.  They’re a great way to keep your eyes safe while also looking pretty cool.  It seems our OPMOD gear was really helpful for Trevor and Kate.  They used the OPMOD PAC Bag as well to get their equipment from one area to another.  The bag has a ton of great pockets and is super tough, but the real star of our OPMOD line for the trip has to be the OPMOD Professional Range Bag, which Kate shot twice to see how it held up!  (It kinda worries me that she decided to double tap the bag.  I have to remember not to make her mad:)

We’ll have a video of the bag getting shot, but for now check out the photos.  The big winner of the Nikon Shooting Competition was Bret Dolph, who beat out Bruce Odel in the final round.  The guns shot in the finale were:

  • AR platforms in .22LR
  • AR15 in 5.56
  • AR10 in .308.

Sweet.

The shots of the 50 caliber bullet and the ATVs they used to get from one station of the shooting range to another are my favorite.  I’m really jealous they got to have so much fun on this trip!  I’d love to try out some of these guns.  The Nikon Spot On Shooting Competition sounds like it was a blast.  Check back soon for more info on how it went and exclusive videos!

Kate Nikon Quad
Kate Takes a Short Break from Shooting on this Quad
Nikon Rifle Scopes for Day 2!
Nikon Rifle Scopes for Day 2!
OPMOD PAC Bag at Nikon Shooting Event
OPMOD PAC Bag at Nikon Shooting Event
Trevor Shooting a 308
Trevor Shooting a 308

Trevor wearing the Edge OPMOD Shooting Glasses
Trevor wearing the Edge OPMOD Shooting Glasses
50 Cal Bullet by Coke Can
50 Cal Bullet by Coke Can
Nikon Competition Final round
Nikon Competition Final round
Nikon Competition Transportation
Nikon Competition Transportation

Nikon Competition Trophies with an AR 15
Nikon Competition Trophies with an AR 15
Nikon Competition Trophies
Nikon Competition Trophies
Trevor shooting while wearing the Edge OPMOD Shooting Glasses
Trevor shooting while wearing the Edge OPMOD Shooting Glasses
OPMOD Professional Range Bag
OPMOD Professional Range Bag and Floating Hybrid Rifle Case


Kate Shooting 308 AR with Nikon M-308

Day One of the Nikon Spot On Shooting Competition

Posted on June 26, 2012 by Brian

Trevor and Kate had a lot of fun today at the Nikon Spot On Shooting Competition in Utah!  I just got in a bunch of photos, and they shot a lot of sweet rifles with even sweeter rifle scopes on them.  I’m going to have a more complete roundup of the Nikon Competition when it’s all said and done, but for now take a look at the photo gallery below.  You can see Kate and Trevor with AR15s, Barrett 50BMGs and more!

They were able to use the Nikon M223, Nikon M-308, and the new Edge OPMOD ZRG+ Shooting Glasses that just came out!  We’re super excited to be able to test out our latest OPMOD products in the field so quickly, and no doubt they’ll have tons to say when they get back.  Not sure who’s winning yet, but I know both Trevor and Kate hit quite a few targets today, and Trevor was the only person to hit both targets with the AR15, so my fingers are crossed one of them comes home the big winner.

More pics to come!

Kate Shooting 308 AR with Nikon M-308
Kate Shooting 308 AR with Nikon M-308
At the Start of the Nikon Shooting Event!
At the Start of the Nikon Shooting Event!
Kate Trevor and John LaCorte from Nikon
Kate Trevor and John LaCorte from Nikon
Kate with AR 15 and M223 2
Kate with AR 15 and M223 2

Kate with AR 15 and M223
Kate with AR 15 and M223
Nikon Shooting Competition Tent
Nikon Shooting Competition Tent
Range Sign
Shooting Range!
Trevor and Kate at Breakfast - Need Fuel for Shooting
Trevor and Kate at Breakfast – Need Fuel for Shooting!!

Trevor with Barrett 50BMG
Trevor with Barrett 50BMG

  • Recent Posts

    • If You Thought the Battle Mug was Awesome, Wait till you See the Bottle Opener!
    • ATN Night and Thermal Vision Wins A Reader’s Choice Award
    • Nikon Spot on Championships 2013 – Bullet Drop Compensating Glory!
    • Bushnell Speedster III Radar Gun and Speed Screen
    • Putting the MOD in Modular!
  • Recent Comments

    • Fred Calabrese on How do you Pick a Gun? Springfield Vs. Glock Debate!
    • Phil on How do you Pick a Gun? Springfield Vs. Glock Debate!
    • Tom Homer on How do you Pick a Gun? Springfield Vs. Glock Debate!
    • Tom Homer on How do you Pick a Gun? Springfield Vs. Glock Debate!
    • chris on How do you Pick a Gun? Springfield Vs. Glock Debate!
  • Archives

    • June 2013 (2)
    • May 2013 (3)
    • April 2013 (4)
    • March 2013 (7)
    • February 2013 (4)
    • January 2013 (38)
    • December 2012 (8)
    • November 2012 (7)
    • October 2012 (5)
    • September 2012 (15)
    • August 2012 (7)
    • July 2012 (10)
    • June 2012 (13)
    • May 2012 (6)
    • April 2012 (6)
    • March 2012 (9)
    • February 2012 (30)
    • January 2012 (48)
  • Connect with us:
  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • YouTube
  • RSS
  • © 2013 OpticsPlanet, Inc. Policies & Disclaimer