Review for Nikon Monarch 2-8x32 Matte Riflescope, Reticles Nikon Monarch 2-8 x 32mm Matte Riflescope - BDC Reticle

Author: RB {!} , use this tripod for a chronograph with handload development, from Fresno, CA on Dec 25, 2010
Pros:  Exceptional flexibility, from a true 2-power to a full 8-power, great eye-relief for heavy calibres
Cons:  a sunshade is not readily available
Would recommend:  yes

RB wrote:

This is an ideal scope for hunting 'up close' using 2-power as well as out to 400 yards. The eye-relief is a safe 3.8" to 4.0" for use with heavy calibres. I've used this Nikon model on lightweight 338 WM rifles that generate some reassuring recoil as well as on 416 Rigby with 6000 ftlb loads. The scopes have all held their zero point and integrity without compromise. With the good eye relief I have never experienced a 'magnum eyebrow' with either calibre. On clarity, the scope meets the high expectations associated with the Nikon name. The only time that I have had a problem was when facing toward a setting sun. There was visual light flooding that might have been prevented if a 3 inch sunshade was attached. (Sunshades are not readily available for this model, which is an oversight by Nikon.) On tracking, (that is, the ability of the scope to move its reticle position as predicted and directed by the 1/4 MOA clics of the adjustment turrets) the Nikon makes sighting in easy and holds its zero and changes its zero fairly predictably. I have not done the kind of testing that a 'tactical unit team' might require at distances of 500-1000 yards. This scope is designed for hunting, and its tracking is superb, much better than some older scope models that I used 20-30 years ago. My models of the Nikon 2-8 have all come with the BDC reticle. To be honest, I simply don't use the system, preferring to know my trajectories and animals well enough to do all hunting with the fine crosshair. But the BDC is there for those who want to practice using it. If I compare this model to others in the market, I would rate its closest sister to be the pricier Leupold 2.5-8 vari-X-III. However, the Leupold 2.5 is really 2.6 power, which makes this Nikon better in close, dangerous game situations and in thicker cover where the 2-power setting can be used. I've used several Leupold 2.5-8 in the past and I cannot comment on any noticeable distinctions in the optical glass and clarity. (I am not an expert in such matters.) For longer distance, the Nikon's full 8-power is technically better than the Leupold's actual 7.8 power at max setting. Both of course, are all the power that a hunter needs out to 400 yards, and can even be used at longer ranges if the hunter can ethically control such shots. The weight of the Nikon 2-8 is quite a bit under a pound which also make this a great choice for a lightweight rifle that will be carried considerable distance on a hunt. Overall, this package is a hunter's dream. I am frankly surprised that I don't see it advertised and discussed more prominently. For knowledgable hunters, this is a great scope to check out and one may find that it is a perfect fit for most hunting needs. This is my third such scope.