Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope Review

First Impressions of Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope

The Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope presents a novel approach to rifle optics, promising an immersive experience with a market-leading field of view. This compact prismatic scope, manufactured by Element Optics, boasts ED glass and a unique optical design intended to draw the shooter into their surroundings. My interest was piqued by the promise of an enhanced field of view and improved peripheral awareness, something I’ve often found lacking in traditional scopes during dense woodland hunts.

I’ve spent years peering through conventional rifle scopes, often feeling disconnected from the environment. Squirrel hunting in the dense Appalachian forests requires quick target acquisition and a wide field of view, making the Immersive Series’ promise particularly appealing. Unboxing the Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope revealed a surprisingly compact and lightweight optic. The build quality felt solid, with a smooth matte finish and positive clicks on the turrets.

Compared to my trusted Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm, the Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope feels significantly shorter and lighter, although the objective lens is substantially larger. I also considered a Trijicon ACOG, but its fixed 4x magnification didn’t align with my need for longer-range precision on smaller targets. Ultimately, the Element Optics scope’s fixed 14x magnification and innovative design won me over, promising a unique shooting experience.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. While the design seemed intriguing, I was skeptical about whether the short eye relief and fixed magnification would truly translate into a better hunting experience. The compact size and promise of enhanced immersion definitely sparked my excitement, but only real-world testing would determine its true value.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope was a squirrel hunt in the rugged terrain of the Monongahela National Forest. The weather was typical for late autumn – damp, with temperatures hovering around 40°F. Mounting the scope on my .22 caliber air rifle was straightforward thanks to the included tilt-adjustable unimount.

The first shot revealed both the strength and a potential weakness of this optic. The clarity was impressive, with the ED glass providing a crisp, bright image even in the low light conditions of the forest understory. However, finding the proper eye relief was surprisingly challenging, requiring constant adjustment to achieve a full field of view.

One immediate surprise was the extreme sensitivity of the parallax adjustment. While the close parallax setting (6 yards) is excellent for air rifles, the adjustment knob proved incredibly touchy. It made quick parallax adjustments in the field difficult, something I hadn’t anticipated.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope has proven to be a mixed bag. The glass quality and wide field of view continue to impress, providing a clear and immersive view of the target and surrounding environment. However, the challenges I experienced during the first use have persisted.

The scope’s durability has held up well, showing no signs of wear and tear despite being subjected to bumps and scrapes during my hunts. Cleaning is relatively simple, requiring just a quick wipe down with a lens cloth after each outing. The capped windage turret and exposed elevation turret offer a good balance between protection and ease of adjustment.

Compared to my previous experience with a traditional variable power scope, the Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope offers a significantly wider field of view at its fixed 14x magnification. However, the sensitive parallax adjustment and critical eye relief make it less forgiving and slower to use in dynamic hunting situations. It’s a tradeoff: immersion and clarity versus speed and flexibility.

Breaking Down the Features of Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope

Specifications

• Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm. This large objective lens gathers ample light, providing a bright image even in low-light conditions.
• Magnification: 14 x (Fixed). The fixed magnification offers a consistent view and simplifies aiming, but lacks the versatility of variable power scopes.
• Field of View, Linear: 28 ft at 100 yds. This wide field of view is a key selling point, offering enhanced peripheral awareness compared to traditional scopes.
• Eye Relief: 18 mm, 0.7 in. The short eye relief requires precise head positioning for optimal viewing.
• Weight: 554 g, 19.5 oz. The lightweight design minimizes added weight to the rifle.
• Adjustment Click Value: 1/4 MOA. This fine adjustment allows for precise zeroing and accurate shot placement.
• Length: 6.06 in, 154 mm. The compact length makes it ideal for shorter rifles or air rifles.
• Adjustment Type: MOA. This common adjustment type is familiar to most shooters.
• Parallax: 6 yds. The close parallax setting is optimized for air rifles and close-range shooting.
• Adjustment Range: 83 MOA. Offers ample adjustment for various distances and shooting conditions.
• Water Resistance Level: Waterproof. Designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
• Shockproof: Yes. Built to withstand recoil and impacts.
• Fogproof: Yes. Prevents internal fogging for clear visibility in humid conditions.
• Magnification Type: Fixed. This simplifies use but limits versatility.
• Gun Type: Rifle. Intended for use on rifles.

Performance & Functionality

The Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope excels in providing a wide, clear, and bright image. The ED glass minimizes chromatic aberration, resulting in sharp and well-defined targets. However, its functionality is hampered by the finicky parallax adjustment and critical eye relief.

The scope’s strengths lie in its optical clarity, wide field of view, and compact size. The weaknesses include the sensitive parallax adjustment and demanding eye relief, making it less forgiving for rapid target acquisition. While the image quality exceeded my expectations, the usability fell slightly short due to the adjustment issues.

Design & Ergonomics

The Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope sports a compact and lightweight design. The build quality feels robust, with a durable matte finish and well-machined turrets. While the short length is beneficial, the demanding eye relief can make it challenging to achieve a comfortable and consistent cheek weld.

The scope is relatively user-friendly, with clearly marked turrets and a straightforward reticle design. However, the sensitive parallax knob requires a delicate touch and careful adjustment, presenting a slight learning curve. The included tilt-adjustable unimount provides flexibility in mounting options, accommodating various rifle configurations.

Durability & Maintenance

The Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope appears to be built to last. The waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction ensures reliable performance in various environmental conditions. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses and exterior surfaces.

Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, I anticipate this scope will provide years of reliable service. The simple design and lack of complex mechanisms should minimize potential points of failure.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope comes with a tilt-adjustable unimount. The unimount includes three base lengths to accommodate different mounting needs. While there aren’t many specific customization options directly offered, the scope is compatible with standard Picatinny rail mounting systems, allowing for the use of aftermarket rings if desired.

The illuminated reticle is a useful feature, with adjustable brightness settings to suit different lighting conditions. However, the lack of readily available aftermarket accessories specific to this scope may limit customization potential.

Pros and Cons of Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope

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Who Should Buy Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope?

This scope is perfect for air rifle enthusiasts and hunters who prioritize a wide field of view and exceptional glass clarity. It also suits target shooters who appreciate a fixed magnification optic with precise adjustments. This scope would be an excellent choice for bench rest shooters and those engaging in precision shooting at known distances.

Hunters who require rapid target acquisition in dynamic environments or those who frequently shoot at varying distances should skip this product. The critical eye relief and sensitive parallax adjustment are not conducive to fast-paced shooting scenarios. Furthermore, those who prefer the versatility of variable magnification scopes will likely find the fixed 14x magnification limiting.

A must-have accessory for this scope is a cheek riser to help achieve proper eye alignment. Also, a high-quality lens cleaning kit is essential to maintain the clarity of the ED glass.

Conclusion on Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope

The Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope presents a compelling option for shooters seeking an immersive viewing experience with exceptional glass quality and a wide field of view. The innovative design and compact size make it particularly well-suited for air rifles and smaller rifles. However, the sensitive parallax adjustment and critical eye relief require careful consideration.

The price of $461.49 is justified by the high-quality components and innovative design. But potential buyers must weigh the benefits against the limitations.

I would recommend this scope to shooters who prioritize optical clarity and a wide field of view and are willing to invest the time to master its quirks. Despite its drawbacks, the Element Optics Immersive Series 14x50mm Rifle Scope offers a unique and rewarding shooting experience. Give it a try and see if it immerses you in your shooting like it has immersed me.