Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black Review

The Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black Made a Bold First Impression

The Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black promises to bring clarity and precision to air rifle shooting without breaking the bank. Hatsan is known for offering value, and this scope seemed to strike a compelling balance between features and affordability. This scope’s promise of clear optics, an illuminated reticle, and a side-focus parallax adjustment immediately caught my attention.

I had been struggling with a cheaper, non-adjustable scope on my air rifle, making accurate long-range shots nearly impossible. The frustration of guessing holdovers and struggling with blurry images at varying distances pushed me to search for an upgrade. I needed a scope that could handle the unique challenges of air rifle ballistics and offer better precision.

My initial impression upon unboxing the Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black was surprisingly positive. The scope felt solid in my hands, and the turrets had a reassuring click to them, not a mushy feel that plagues some budget optics. The matte black finish looked clean and durable, and the included integrated sunshade was a welcome bonus, suggesting attention to detail.

Compared to the Leapers UTG 3-9×32 I had been using, the Hatsan Optima felt like a significant step up in terms of build quality. The Hatsan Optima offered a higher magnification range and, crucially, the side-focus parallax adjustment that the Leapers lacked. I also considered a Hawke Vantage 3-9×40 AO, but the Hatsan‘s larger 30mm tube and illuminated reticle swayed my decision, promising improved light transmission and low-light visibility.

I was cautiously optimistic after the initial inspection. Could this sub-$110 scope truly deliver the performance I was hoping for, or would it fall short in real-world conditions? The proof, as they say, would be in the shooting.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black at my local outdoor shooting range. It was a partly cloudy day with a slight breeze, ideal conditions for zeroing in a new scope. I mounted the scope on my .22 caliber break-barrel air rifle, and the 30mm tube provided ample surface area for a secure fit with my existing scope rings.

The side-focus parallax adjustment proved invaluable for quickly obtaining a clear image at different distances. I experimented with various ranges, from 10 yards to 50 yards, and the scope consistently delivered a sharp picture. Even in the fluctuating light conditions, the image remained bright and easy to see, thanks to the fully multi-coated lenses.

My only initial issue was getting used to the 1/8 MOA click adjustments. These are finer than the more common 1/4 MOA adjustments. While they allow for more precise tuning, they also require more clicks to make larger adjustments, which was initially a bit time-consuming during the zeroing process.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it in various conditions, including a few rainy days, and the scope has remained clear and fog-free. I’ve also taken it on a couple of informal hunting trips where it was exposed to some bumps and jostles in the field.

There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the scope’s exterior finish. The turrets still click positively with each adjustment, and the illumination settings continue to function flawlessly. Cleaning the lenses is simple, requiring only a soft cloth and a lens cleaning solution.

In comparison to the cheaper scopes I’ve used in the past, the Hatsan Optima stands out for its consistent performance and reliability. It provides a clear and stable image, holds its zero well, and has proven to be durable enough for regular use in various outdoor conditions. It significantly outperforms the unadjustable and blurry experience I had with the Leapers UTG 3-9×32.

Breaking Down the Features of Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black

Specifications

The Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black boasts a versatile set of specifications designed for air rifle enthusiasts.

• Magnification: 4-16x, offering a broad range for close-range target practice to longer-distance hunting.
• Objective Lens Diameter: 44mm, providing ample light gathering for bright and clear images.
• Tube Diameter: 30mm, contributing to enhanced light transmission and a wider field of view compared to 1-inch tubes.
• Eye Relief: 3.35 – 3.54″, providing a comfortable and safe distance between the eye and the scope.
• Exit pupil: 2.75 – 11 mm, adapting to the magnification for optimal light delivery to the eye.
• Adjustment Type: MOA (Minute of Angle), the standard for precision scope adjustments.
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.125 MOA, allowing for extremely fine-tuned adjustments.
• Field of View, Linear: 5.8 – 20.4 ft at 1000 yds, providing a decent viewing area for target acquisition.
• Water Resistant: Protected against light moisture and rain.
• Length: 14.6″, a manageable size for most air rifles.

These specifications collectively translate to a scope that is well-suited for a variety of air rifle shooting applications. The 4-16x magnification range is perfect for both target shooting and small game hunting. The larger 30mm tube and 44mm objective lens significantly improve light transmission, making it usable in lower light conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black performs admirably for its price point. Accuracy is excellent, provided the shooter takes the time to properly zero and understand the ballistics of their air rifle. The 1/8 MOA adjustments allow for precise tuning, although they require more clicks than coarser adjustments.

One of the scope’s strengths is the side-focus parallax adjustment. This feature is essential for air rifle shooting, as it allows the shooter to eliminate parallax error at various distances, ensuring accurate shot placement. The illuminated Mil-Dot reticle is another valuable asset, particularly in low-light conditions, as it provides a clear aiming point against dark targets.

One weakness I noticed is that the illumination, even on its lowest setting, can be a bit bright in very dark conditions, potentially causing some bloom. The scope exceeded my expectations. It’s a great value for the price.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black features a robust one-piece tube construction. The materials used feel durable and the weight is well-balanced. The turrets are large and easy to grip, even when wearing gloves, which is a significant advantage in colder weather.

The scope is relatively user-friendly, although some may find the fine 1/8 MOA adjustments a bit tedious at first. The side-focus parallax adjustment is intuitive to use, and the illuminated reticle is easily controlled with a separate dial. The integrated sunshade is a nice touch that helps to reduce glare in bright sunlight.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black feels like it is built to last. The one-piece tube construction enhances its strength and resistance to shock. The water-resistant design provides protection against light moisture, and the lenses are coated to resist scratches and fogging.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth and lens cleaning solution. The turrets and adjustment dials should be kept free of dirt and debris to ensure smooth operation. I anticipate this scope will last for several years with proper care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black comes with an integrated sunshade, which is a handy accessory for reducing glare. The scope is designed to be compatible with standard 30mm scope rings, providing ample mounting options.

While there are no specific customization options for the scope itself, you can customize your air rifle with different stocks, triggers, and other accessories to enhance your overall shooting experience. Using higher-quality scope rings is always a good idea to ensure a secure and stable mount.

Pros and Cons of Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black?

The Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black is perfect for air rifle enthusiasts looking for an affordable and versatile scope. It is well-suited for target shooters, small game hunters, and those who enjoy plinking in their backyard. This scope is a great choice for those who want to improve their accuracy and extend their shooting range without breaking the bank.

Those who demand the absolute highest level of optical performance and are willing to spend significantly more should skip this product. Additionally, if you prefer coarser MOA adjustments for faster zeroing, this may not be the scope for you.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality set of 30mm scope rings. Additionally, a bubble level can help ensure the rifle is held level for more accurate long-range shots.

Conclusion on Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black

The Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black offers an impressive combination of features and performance at an incredibly affordable price. Its clear optics, side-focus parallax adjustment, and illuminated Mil-Dot reticle make it a valuable upgrade for any air rifle enthusiast. The scope may have minor drawbacks, but its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

The price of $107.49 is absolutely justified for the value you receive. You’d be hard-pressed to find another scope in this price range that offers the same level of clarity, precision, and durability.

I would absolutely recommend the Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope – 4-16x44E-SFT 30mm Illum Mil-Dot Black to anyone looking to enhance their air rifle shooting experience. It’s a fantastic value, and I am confident that it will provide years of reliable service. Don’t settle for blurry images and inaccurate shots; upgrade your air rifle with the Hatsan Optima and experience the difference!

Check Best Price HERE