The Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black Made a Bold First Impression
The Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black immediately presents itself as a serious piece of glass designed for precision shooting. Swampfox has carved out a name for itself, offering quality optics without the exorbitant price tag, and the Kentucky Long aims to be their flagship long-range scope. This scope boasts features typically found on higher-end models, including a first focal plane (FFP) reticle, locking turrets, and a generous 6x zoom ratio, making it appealing to both seasoned marksmen and aspiring long-range enthusiasts.
For years, I’ve struggled to find a scope that offered both the clarity needed for identifying targets at distance and the reliable tracking necessary for making consistent adjustments. Many scopes either sacrificed optical quality for affordability or demanded a premium price for top-tier performance. The Kentucky Long promised to bridge that gap, offering a compelling blend of features and performance at a more accessible price point.
Unboxing the Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black, my initial impression was positive. The scope feels solid and well-built, with a reassuring weight that speaks to its quality construction. The included flip caps and sunshade were a welcome addition, as were the low- and high-profile throw fins, indicating Swampfox’s attention to detail.
I was deciding between this scope and a Vortex Viper PST Gen II and a Primary Arms GLx 4.5-27×56. I ultimately chose the Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black because of the reported excellent edge-to-edge clarity and the included accessories, offering more value for the money. I had high hopes and a healthy dose of skepticism, eager to see if it could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black was at a local shooting range known for its 100-600 yard rifle bays. The weather was overcast and drizzly, providing a less-than-ideal testing environment. Despite the poor lighting conditions, the scope’s clarity was immediately apparent, offering a crisp image even at higher magnifications.
The Sharpshooter MIL reticle proved intuitive to use, allowing for quick and accurate ranging. Adjusting the turrets was a breeze thanks to their tactile clicks and positive locking mechanism. Even in the damp conditions, the turrets remained easy to grip and manipulate.
Zeroing the rifle at 100 yards was straightforward, and I quickly moved on to engaging targets at greater distances. The FFP reticle maintained its subtensions throughout the magnification range, allowing for accurate holdovers and windage adjustments at any power. The initial impression was overwhelmingly positive; the Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black seemed to perform admirably, even under challenging conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black has proven to be a reliable and durable optic. I’ve taken it on multiple hunting trips, exposed it to various weather conditions, and subjected it to the rigors of regular range sessions. The scope has held zero consistently, even after being jostled around in a rifle case and enduring temperature fluctuations.
There are very few signs of wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic blemishes. The scope body shows no scratches or dents, and the turrets still operate smoothly and precisely. Cleaning the lenses is simple; a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner are all that’s needed to maintain a clear and bright image.
I’ve previously used scopes from Leupold and Nightforce, and while those optics offer a higher level of refinement, the Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black provides a comparable level of performance for a fraction of the cost. For the price, it has greatly exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black
Specifications
The Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and usability:
- Magnification: 5-30x provides a versatile range for engaging targets at both short and long distances.
- Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm gathers ample light, ensuring a bright image even in low-light conditions.
- Reticle: Sharpshooter MIL reticle in the First Focal Plane (FFP) allows for accurate ranging and holdovers at any magnification. This is crucial for long-range shooting.
- Turret Adjustments: 0.1 MIL per click provides precise and repeatable adjustments for elevation and windage.
- Tube Diameter: Standard 30mm tube allows for easy mounting with a wide variety of scope rings.
- Eye Relief: Generous eye relief helps to prevent scope bite during recoil.
- Included Accessories: Flip caps, 3″ sun shade, and both low- and high-profile throw fins provide added value and customization options.
- Locking and Zero resettable turrets – Allow for confidence in the field when making quick adjustments.
These specifications collectively contribute to the scope’s ability to deliver accurate and reliable performance in a variety of shooting scenarios. The FFP reticle, combined with the precise turret adjustments, makes it easy to dial in shots and compensate for bullet drop and wind drift. The included accessories further enhance the scope’s functionality and versatility.
Performance & Functionality
The Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black performs admirably in its primary role: enabling accurate long-range shooting. The Sharpshooter MIL reticle is well-designed and easy to use, allowing for precise ranging and holdovers. The 5-30x magnification range provides ample versatility for engaging targets at various distances, while the 56mm objective lens ensures a bright and clear image.
The turrets offer tactile and audible clicks, making it easy to track adjustments even when wearing gloves. The locking mechanism prevents accidental adjustments, ensuring that the scope maintains its zero. The FFP reticle is a significant advantage, as it allows for accurate holdovers and windage corrections at any magnification.
One minor weakness is that the turrets could have slightly more defined clicks. While they are tactile, a more pronounced click would provide greater confidence in the adjustment being made. Overall, the Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black meets and even exceeds expectations for a scope in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black features a robust and well-thought-out design. The scope is constructed from high-quality materials and feels solid and durable in hand. The weight is substantial but not excessive, providing a sense of stability without making the rifle feel unwieldy.
The included throw fins are a nice touch, allowing for quick and easy magnification adjustments. The eye relief is generous, providing a comfortable shooting experience even with heavy-recoiling rifles. The scope is relatively user-friendly, although some shooters may need to spend some time familiarizing themselves with the Sharpshooter MIL reticle.
Durability & Maintenance
The Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black appears to be built to last. The scope body is made from a durable aluminum alloy, and the lenses are fully multi-coated to protect against scratches and abrasions. After months of use in various conditions, the scope shows no signs of significant wear and tear.
Maintaining the scope is simple; cleaning the lenses with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner is all that’s required. The turrets and magnification ring operate smoothly and reliably, suggesting that the internal components are well-protected. With proper care, the Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black comes with a generous selection of accessories, including flip caps, a 3″ sun shade, and both low- and high-profile throw fins. These accessories enhance the scope’s functionality and versatility, making it a great value for the money.
The 30mm tube diameter allows for easy mounting with a wide variety of scope rings and bases. The Sharpshooter MIL reticle is a popular choice for long-range shooting, and its compatibility with standard MIL-based calculations makes it easy to use with ballistic calculators and other accessories. While there are no direct customization options for the scope itself, the wide range of compatible accessories allows shooters to tailor the scope to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black
Pros
- Excellent Edge-to-Edge Clarity: Provides a clear and crisp image, even at high magnifications.
- FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle: Allows for accurate ranging and holdovers at any magnification. This is a major advantage for long-range shooting.
- Locking and Zero Resettable Turrets: Ensures precise and repeatable adjustments, preventing accidental changes to zero. Offers confidence and reliability.
- Included Accessories: Comes with flip caps, sun shade, and throw fins, providing added value and convenience.
- Solid and Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of regular use in various conditions.
Cons
- Turret Clicks Could Be More Defined: While tactile, a more pronounced click would provide greater confidence.
- Relatively Heavy: The weight may be a concern for some users, especially on lightweight rifles.
Who Should Buy Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black?
The Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black is perfect for long-range shooters, precision rifle competitors, and serious hunters. Anyone looking for a high-quality optic with advanced features at a reasonable price will find this scope to be an excellent choice. The FFP reticle and precise turret adjustments make it well-suited for engaging targets at extended distances, while the durable construction ensures that it can withstand the demands of field use.
Those who prioritize lightweight gear above all else might want to consider other options. Individuals requiring extremely refined turret adjustments might also find other options more suitable.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality set of scope rings to ensure a secure and reliable mount. A ballistic calculator or app is also highly recommended for maximizing the scope’s long-range capabilities.
Conclusion on Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black
The Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black is an impressive optic that delivers exceptional performance for its price. The combination of excellent clarity, a well-designed reticle, and durable construction makes it a compelling choice for serious shooters. The included accessories further enhance its value and versatility.
The price is definitely justified given the features and performance offered. You get a lot of bang for your buck with this scope.
I would absolutely recommend the Swampfox Kentucky Long Precision 5-30×56 Rifle Scope FFP Sharpshooter MIL Reticle, Black to anyone looking for a reliable and accurate long-range optic without breaking the bank. It’s a fantastic scope that will help you take your shooting to the next level. Ready to make that shot count? Consider the Kentucky Long.