Steiner Predator 8 3-24x 50mm Rifle Scope Review

The Steiner Predator 8 3-24x 50mm Rifle Scope Made a Bold First Impression

As a gear specialist, I’ve seen countless rifle scopes pass through my hands, each promising unparalleled accuracy and clarity. However, the Steiner Predator 8 3-24x 50mm Rifle Scope from Steiner immediately piqued my interest with its impressive 8x zoom range and features geared towards versatile hunting scenarios. This scope promises to be a game-changer for hunters pursuing diverse game across varying terrains.

My need for a versatile optic stemmed from my own hunting experiences, ranging from whitetail in dense forests to pronghorn on vast plains. I needed a scope that could handle both close-range, quick shots and long-distance precision. The Predator 8 seemed to offer the flexibility I craved.

Unboxing the Steiner Predator 8 was a premium experience. The scope felt incredibly solid and well-built, a testament to Steiner’s reputation for quality. The matte finish looked durable, and the turret adjustments felt precise and deliberate.

Compared to my older Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14×50 and a Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15×44, the Steiner Predator 8 offered a wider magnification range. The Steiner also boasted a customizable ballistic turret, a feature my other scopes lacked. Ultimately, the Steiner’s combination of magnification range, build quality, and ballistic turret swayed my decision.

My first impression was one of excitement tempered with a bit of skepticism. The scope felt like a serious piece of equipment, but I was eager to see if its performance lived up to the hype. I was particularly interested in testing its low-light capabilities and the effectiveness of the E3 Ballistic reticle.

Real-World Testing: Putting Steiner Predator 8 3-24x 50mm Rifle Scope to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test of the Steiner Predator 8 took place at my local shooting range and on a whitetail deer hunt in the Pennsylvania mountains. The range allowed me to zero the scope and experiment with the ballistic turret at known distances. The hunt provided a more realistic test of its usability in a hunting environment.

The weather during my hunting trip ranged from crisp and clear to damp and foggy, providing a decent test of the scope’s performance in varying conditions. The high-contrast glass proved its worth, delivering a clear and bright image even in low-light situations. However, heavy rain did require me to use lens covers to maintain optimal clarity.

The Predator 8 was surprisingly easy to use despite its advanced features. The customizable ballistic turret was intuitive to set up following the included instructions. Once zeroed, dialing for different distances was quick and easy, making adjustments in the field effortless.

After my first use, I noticed the scope’s exceptional clarity and wide field of view, especially at lower magnifications. The generous eye relief made for comfortable shooting even with heavier recoiling calibers. The only minor issue was a slight stiffness in the magnification adjustment ring, which I expect will smooth out with more use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Steiner Predator 8 has proven to be a reliable and capable optic. I’ve used it extensively at the range, fine-tuning my ballistic data and practicing long-range shots. I’ve also taken it on multiple hunts in various weather conditions.

The scope has held up remarkably well to the rigors of hunting and range use. There are no signs of wear and tear on the tube or lenses, and the turret adjustments remain crisp and precise. The matte finish has proven to be scratch-resistant, maintaining its appearance even after being exposed to brush and branches.

Maintaining the Predator 8 has been simple. I use a lens cloth to clean the lenses after each use. Occasionally, I will use a soft brush to remove dust and debris from the turret mechanisms.

Compared to my previous scopes, the Steiner Predator 8 significantly outperforms them in terms of magnification range, optical clarity, and ballistic compensation. The wide zoom range allows me to adapt to various hunting scenarios with ease. The ballistic turret provides confidence in making accurate shots at extended ranges.

Breaking Down the Features of Steiner Predator 8 3-24x 50mm Rifle Scope

Specifications

The Steiner Predator 8 3-24x 50mm Rifle Scope boasts impressive specifications tailored for demanding hunting applications. Its magnification ranges from 3x to 24x, offering exceptional versatility for both close-quarters and long-range engagements. The 50mm objective lens gathers ample light for superior clarity, even in low-light environments.

The scope features a 40mm tube diameter, providing a robust platform for mounting and adjustment. It has a generous field of view at 100 meters, ranging from 1.6m to 12.6m (5.2ft-41.3ft). The eye relief is a comfortable 95mm (3.7 inches), while the exit pupil ranges from 8.5mm to 2mm.

The Predator 8 has an overall length of 14.7 inches and weighs 25.2 oz. This provides a good balance on most hunting rifles. It offers a diopter adjustment range of -3dpt / +2dpt and wind/elevation click values of 1/4 MOA.

The scope provides an elevation range of 40 MOA at 100 meters and a windage range of 40 MOA at 100 meters. Parallax can be adjusted from 20 meters to infinity. Finally, the Steiner Predator 8 is nitrogen-filled and has an operating temperature range of -13.

These specifications contribute to the scope’s exceptional performance and user experience. The high magnification range and large objective lens allow for precise target acquisition at varying distances. The generous eye relief and adjustable parallax ensure comfortable and accurate shooting.

Performance & Functionality

The Steiner Predator 8 3-24x 50mm Rifle Scope excels in its primary function: providing a clear and accurate sight picture for hunters. The high-contrast glass delivers exceptional clarity, resolving fine details even in challenging lighting conditions. The E3 Ballistic reticle is intelligently designed with cascading subtensions and windage dots, making holdovers intuitive and precise.

One of the scope’s greatest strengths is its customizable ballistic turret. It allows shooters to dial in precise adjustments for bullet drop based on their specific ammunition and environmental conditions. The audible and tactile clicks provide positive feedback, ensuring accurate and repeatable adjustments.

While the scope performs exceptionally well overall, the magnification adjustment ring could be smoother. It requires a bit of effort to turn, especially when wearing gloves. However, this is a minor issue that does not significantly detract from the scope’s overall performance.

The Steiner Predator 8 exceeds my expectations in terms of optical clarity, ballistic compensation, and overall usability. It provides a level of performance and versatility that is unmatched by other scopes in its price range. I have newfound confidence in my ability to make accurate shots at extended ranges.

Design & Ergonomics

The Steiner Predator 8 3-24x 50mm Rifle Scope is built with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. The scope body is constructed from rugged aluminum, providing excellent durability while remaining relatively lightweight. The matte finish helps to reduce glare and provides a non-slip grip.

The scope feels comfortable and well-balanced in hand. The turret adjustments are easy to reach and operate, even when wearing gloves. The eye relief is generous, providing a comfortable shooting experience for users with varying facial structures and shooting styles.

While the scope is relatively straightforward to use, the customizable ballistic turret requires some initial setup. However, the included instructions are clear and concise, making the process relatively painless. Once the turret is configured, it is incredibly easy to use in the field.

Durability & Maintenance

The Steiner Predator 8 3-24x 50mm Rifle Scope is built to last, even under harsh conditions. The rugged aluminum construction and scratch-resistant finish ensure that the scope can withstand the rigors of hunting and range use. The nitrogen-filled tube prevents fogging, even in extreme temperature variations.

Maintaining the scope is simple. I recommend using a high-quality lens cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth to clean the lenses regularly. The turret mechanisms can be cleaned with a soft brush to remove any dust or debris.

With proper care, the Steiner Predator 8 should provide years of reliable service. Its durable construction and high-quality components ensure that it can withstand the elements and provide consistent performance. This makes it an investment that will pay off over time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Steiner Predator 8 3-24x 50mm Rifle Scope comes with several useful accessories, including lens covers and a user manual. The lens covers protect the lenses from scratches and dust during storage and transport. The user manual provides detailed instructions on how to set up and use the scope.

While the scope itself does not offer extensive customization options, its 40mm tube diameter makes it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket rings and mounts. This allows users to customize the scope’s height and position to suit their individual rifles and shooting styles.

The Steiner Predator 8 is also compatible with various aftermarket accessories, such as sunshades and anti-reflection devices. These accessories can help to further enhance the scope’s performance in specific lighting conditions. The ability to use widely available rings/mounts provides flexibility.

Pros and Cons of Steiner Predator 8 3-24x 50mm Rifle Scope

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Who Should Buy Steiner Predator 8 3-24x 50mm Rifle Scope?

The Steiner Predator 8 3-24x 50mm Rifle Scope is perfect for serious hunters who demand versatility, precision, and reliability from their optics. It’s ideal for those who pursue diverse game across varying terrains and often find themselves shooting at extended ranges. Long-range shooters who want to dial in accurate shots will benefit greatly.

Hunters on a tight budget or those who primarily hunt in close-range situations may not need the advanced features and high magnification range of this scope. Novice shooters might also find the customizable ballistic turret somewhat intimidating at first. In these cases, a simpler and less expensive optic might be a better choice.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality set of scope rings to ensure a secure and stable mount. Consider using a bubble level to ensure the scope is perfectly level during installation. An aftermarket throw lever for the magnification ring could alleviate some of the stiffness.

Conclusion on Steiner Predator 8 3-24x 50mm Rifle Scope

The Steiner Predator 8 3-24x 50mm Rifle Scope is an exceptional optic that delivers outstanding performance in a wide range of hunting scenarios. Its high-contrast glass, versatile zoom range, and customizable ballistic turret make it a valuable asset for serious hunters. While the price point is relatively high, the scope’s quality and features justify the investment for those who demand the best.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Steiner Predator 8 to any hunter looking for a versatile, accurate, and reliable optic. It’s a scope that will significantly improve your shooting performance and increase your chances of success in the field. Don’t settle for mediocrity; invest in the Steiner Predator 8 and experience the difference. Take your hunting to the next level.

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