Nikon monarch 3 2-8x32 bdc scope - Nikon Monarch 3 Rifle Scope NP - 2-8x32

I mounted this scope on a Limited Edition Marlin 336C with Leupold 1 pc. base and medium Leupold quick release rings. It is a great set up, but you'll want to use the hammer spur extension for proper thumb clearance. Especially if your wear gloves. I'm not sure if low rings will clear the ocular end of the lens or not. It's quite a large diameter. The scope is light weight and a perfect size for the smaller Marlin profile. NOTE: Optics Planet asked me to review the NP scope, but I actually bought the BDC reticle.

The Nikon scope has absolute edge to edge clarity through the entire zoom range. The eye relief is generous from about 4-5 inches. I thought that the 2-8 and the BDC reticle were both a bit much for a 30-30's capabilities, but now that I have it mounted and have it sighted in, I like the set-up. It is perfect for my aging eyes. I zeroed the scope at 100 yards at my club and was able to put 5 rounds in about a 2" diameter (sitting with bench bags, light winds). Then took it out to 150 and 200 yards. I was slightly between "dots" at 200 yards using Hornady Leverevolution 160 grain loads. I'll need to spend some more range time to figure my distance points for the reticle marks with that ammo. I believe once I establish my distances it will be a great tool for quick and humane shots. All adjustments were easy and precise. The lens caps are a nice touch, but are a bit flimsy. With proper care I'm hopeful they hold up in the long run. The sky was over cast and gray on range day. The scope was very bright. I will absolutely give you a few more minutes at dawn and dusk to shoot. I shot most of a box of 20 rounds and the scope was still holding zero at the end of the day.

I have had many Nikon products for the past 33 years. 9 film and digital camera bodies, multiple lenses, video equipment, binoculars, spotting scope, range finder, etc. I believe Nikon is among the best for performance to price in all of their products. This Monarch is no exception. I did a lot of research on similar scopes before buying. On paper and so far at the range, it is on par or better than any of the scopes I have ever used. Especially at this price point. It is a tremendous value.

Optics Planet does a great job of getting quality reviews for their products. They have an extensive product selection and inventory and in this case were current on a manufacture's rebate. They shipped the scope out quickly and securely. They are a quality supplier.