My first impression of Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope
The Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope immediately struck me as a serious piece of tactical glass. Designed in collaboration with Jon Mochabear Dufresne from Kinetic Consulting, this scope boasts a versatile 1-6x magnification range, a specialized KC-1 reticle, and the option of exposed or capped elevation turrets – features that promise quick target acquisition and precision shooting at varying distances.
I’ve spent years advising clients on optics, navigating the sea of red dots, LPVOs, and magnified scopes. Many sought an optic that bridged the gap between close-quarters speed and mid-range precision, but were often forced to compromise. This is what led me to the Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope, hoping it would fill that niche for many shooters.
Unboxing the Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope, I was immediately impressed by its robust construction. The scope felt solid and well-balanced, suggesting a build quality capable of withstanding the rigors of field use, and at 20 oz, it wasn’t excessively heavy.
Compared to other LPVOs I’ve handled, like the Trijicon Credo 1-6x or the Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6x, the Steiner’s reticle design and turret options seemed specifically tailored for tactical applications. I chose the Steiner hoping for a more intuitive reticle and greater versatility in adjusting for varying engagement distances, something the other scopes lacked.
My initial impression was one of excitement mixed with cautious optimism. I was eager to mount the Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope and put it through its paces, hoping it would live up to its promise of ruggedness and versatility.
Real-World Testing: Putting Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope was at a local shooting range, where I focused on zeroing the optic and familiarizing myself with the KC-1 reticle at various distances. The range offered targets from 25 to 300 yards, providing a good initial test of the scope’s capabilities.
Even in bright sunlight, the illuminated reticle was clearly visible, offering a distinct aiming point. The 1x magnification allowed for quick target acquisition at close range, while the 6x magnification provided sufficient clarity for precise shots at longer distances. The Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope performed flawlessly during my first outing, with no initial issues or surprises.
The throw lever made magnification adjustments quick and effortless, even with gloved hands. The KC-1 reticle proved intuitive, facilitating rapid target engagement at close range and precise aiming at longer distances, showing that the collaboration with Kinetic Consulting was worth it.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in varying conditions, including a hunting trip in moderately wet weather and numerous range sessions in dusty environments, the Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope has proven to be remarkably durable. There were no signs of fogging or water intrusion, confirming its waterproof and fogproof capabilities.
Despite some minor scratches on the finish from handling, the scope’s overall performance remained consistent. The turrets maintained their zero without issue, and the glass continued to provide a clear and bright image. Cleaning was a simple process, requiring only a lens cloth to remove dust and debris.
In comparison to my previous optic, a Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4×20, the Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope offers a significant improvement in terms of magnification range, reticle design, and overall durability. It outperforms the Leupold in almost every aspect, justifying its higher price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope
Specifications
The Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope is packed with features designed for optimal performance in tactical and competitive shooting scenarios.
- Magnification: 1-6x, offering a versatile range for close-quarters engagements and mid-range precision.
- Reticle: KC-1 MIL, developed in collaboration with Kinetic Consulting for rapid target acquisition and accurate ranging.
- Objective Lens: 24 mm, providing a balance between light gathering and a compact profile.
- Focal Plane: 1st (FFP), ensuring that the reticle subtensions remain accurate at all magnification levels.
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm, a common size that provides ample internal adjustment range.
- Field of View at 100 meters: 114-19 ft at 100 yds., offering a wide field of view at 1x for enhanced situational awareness.
- Eye Relief: 3.9-3.4 in., providing comfortable eye relief for various shooting positions.
- Exit Pupil: 10.3-4.5 mm, delivering a bright and clear image across the magnification range.
- Length: 10.4 in., compact enough to maintain weapon maneuverability.
- Weight: 20 oz., relatively lightweight for its feature set.
- Diopter Adjustment Range: +2 to -3, accommodating users with varying eyesight.
- Elevation Adjustment Knob: Resettable Zero, allowing for quick and easy zeroing.
- Illumination Control: Rotary Dial, providing adjustable brightness settings for different lighting conditions.
- Wind/Elevation Click Value: 1 cm (0.1 mrad), offering precise adjustments for windage and elevation.
- Elevation Range at 100 m.: 30 Mil, ample range for engaging targets at extended distances.
- Wind Range at 100 m.: 30 Mil, providing sufficient adjustment for wind compensation.
- Parallax/Focus: Fixed, set at 100 yards for optimal performance at typical engagement ranges.
- Nitrogen Filled: Yes, preventing internal fogging in varying temperatures.
- Operating Temperature Range: -13, ensuring reliable performance in extreme conditions.
These specifications collectively contribute to the Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope’s outstanding performance. The first focal plane reticle is particularly important for accurate ranging and holdovers, as the MIL values remain constant regardless of the magnification setting.
Performance & Functionality
The Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope excels in its primary role: providing a versatile optic for both close-quarters and mid-range engagements. Its accuracy is exceptional, with consistent and repeatable adjustments.
The KC-1 reticle is a standout feature, providing intuitive holdovers and ranging capabilities. However, the illumination could be brighter for daytime use in extremely bright conditions.
The Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope meets and often exceeds expectations, offering a robust and reliable optic for serious shooters. Its features and performance justify its price tag.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope is exceptional, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. The scope feels solid and well-balanced.
The Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope is exceptionally user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a comfortable eye relief. There’s minimal learning curve, making it accessible to both experienced and novice shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope is built to last, with a rugged construction that can withstand the rigors of field use. With proper care, this optic should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning of the lenses and external surfaces. The Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope is designed for ease of maintenance and repair, with readily available parts and qualified service technicians.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope includes a throw lever for rapid magnification adjustments, which is a valuable addition. While it doesn’t come with a mount, the 30mm tube diameter ensures compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket mounting solutions.
The Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope is compatible with various accessories, including anti-reflection devices (ARDs) and flip-up lens covers, further enhancing its versatility and performance. The compatibility with standard 30mm mounts makes finding the perfect setup a breeze.
Pros and Cons of Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope
Pros
- Exceptional glass clarity and brightness.
- Intuitive and effective KC-1 reticle.
- Durable and rugged construction.
- Versatile 1-6x magnification range.
- Precise and repeatable adjustments.
Cons
- Illumination could be brighter for daytime use.
- Price point may be prohibitive for some users.
Who Should Buy Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope?
The Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope is perfect for law enforcement professionals, competitive shooters, and serious recreational shooters who demand a high-quality, versatile optic for both close-quarters and mid-range engagements. Its rugged construction and intuitive reticle make it well-suited for tactical applications.
Those on a tight budget or those who primarily shoot at fixed distances may want to consider other options. Its price point reflects its high-end features and performance, making it a significant investment.
A high-quality scope mount is a must-have accessory to ensure proper alignment and stability. Additionally, flip-up lens covers can help protect the lenses from scratches and debris.
Conclusion on Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope
The Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope is an outstanding optic that delivers exceptional performance and versatility. Its intuitive KC-1 reticle, rugged construction, and precise adjustments make it a top contender in the LPVO market.
While the price is certainly an investment, the performance and durability justify the cost. For serious shooters who demand the best, the Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope is worth every penny.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Steiner T6Xi 1-6x24mm KC-1 Riflescope to anyone seeking a high-quality, versatile optic for tactical, competitive, or recreational shooting. If you’re ready to take your shooting to the next level, this is the optic for you.