HATSAN OPTIMA 4x32CE AO COMPACT SCOPE W/ RINGS & CAPS Review

The HATSAN OPTIMA 4x32CE AO COMPACT SCOPE W/ RINGS & CAPS Made a Bold First Impression

The HATSAN OPTIMA 4x32CE AO COMPACT SCOPE W/ RINGS & CAPS promises to deliver essential features in a budget-friendly package. HATSAN is known for offering affordable airgun products, and this scope attempts to extend that reputation into the realm of optics. I needed a compact, reliable scope for my break-barrel air rifle, something that could handle the unique recoil characteristics of those guns without breaking the bank.

My search led me through countless online forums and reviews. I needed a scope that wouldn’t shift zero after a few shots and offered at least some degree of parallax adjustment for the varied distances I’d be shooting at. I was primarily comparing it to the Leapers UTG 4×32 AO and the CenterPoint 4×32.

The HATSAN OPTIMA 4x32CE AO COMPACT SCOPE W/ RINGS & CAPS ultimately won out due to its advertised illuminated reticle and included scope caps. Unboxing it, my initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The scope felt surprisingly solid for the price, although the included rings appeared somewhat basic.

Real-World Testing: Putting HATSAN OPTIMA 4x32CE AO COMPACT SCOPE W/ RINGS & CAPS to the Test

First Use Experience

I mounted the HATSAN OPTIMA 4x32CE AO COMPACT SCOPE W/ RINGS & CAPS on my HATSAN Model 95 air rifle. The first test was at my local outdoor range, under a bright sunny sky. Initial zeroing was straightforward, though the turret adjustments felt a little mushy.

The illuminated reticle proved surprisingly useful, even in bright daylight, adding a distinct aiming point. I did notice that the image clarity was not as crisp as some higher-end scopes I’ve used. I found the adjustable objective (AO) to be essential for achieving a clear image at different distances.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, I began to see some of the HATSAN OPTIMA 4x32CE AO COMPACT SCOPE W/ RINGS & CAPS‘ limitations. The scope held zero reasonably well, although I did need to make minor adjustments every couple of sessions. The exterior showed no significant signs of wear and tear, but the scope caps felt flimsy and prone to popping off.

The scope performed admirably for casual target practice at relatively close ranges (10-30 yards). However, at longer distances, the lack of significant magnification and the slightly hazy image became more apparent. Compared to scopes that cost more, the HATSAN OPTIMA 4x32CE AO COMPACT SCOPE W/ RINGS & CAPS is good for a beginner. It does not compare to the higher-end scopes.

Breaking Down the Features of HATSAN OPTIMA 4x32CE AO COMPACT SCOPE W/ RINGS & CAPS

Specifications

The HATSAN OPTIMA 4x32CE AO COMPACT SCOPE W/ RINGS & CAPS boasts the following specifications:

• 4x Magnification: Provides a fixed 4x zoom, suitable for close to mid-range targets.
• 32mm Objective Lens: Allows for a decent amount of light gathering for a relatively bright image.
• Adjustable Objective (AO): Crucial for parallax correction, allowing for a clear image at varying distances.
• Illuminated Mil-Dot Reticle: Offers an enhanced aiming point, especially in low-light conditions.
• 1/4 MOA Click Adjustments: Enables precise adjustments for windage and elevation.
• 1-inch Diameter Tube: A standard size, offering a wide range of mounting options.
• 11mm Dovetail Mounts Included: Designed for easy attachment to air rifles with dovetail rails.
• Dry Nitrogen Filled: Prevents internal fogging.
• Water, Fog, and Shock Resistant: Provides basic protection against environmental elements.

These specifications position the HATSAN OPTIMA 4x32CE AO COMPACT SCOPE W/ RINGS & CAPS as an entry-level optic suitable for casual shooting. The AO and illuminated reticle are noteworthy features for this price point, offering functionality often found in more expensive scopes.

Performance & Functionality

The HATSAN OPTIMA 4x32CE AO COMPACT SCOPE W/ RINGS & CAPS performs adequately for its intended purpose: providing magnified viewing and a clear aiming point for air rifles. Accuracy is decent, with the 1/4 MOA adjustments allowing for reasonably precise zeroing. The illuminated reticle is helpful in various lighting conditions, although the brightness levels could be more refined.

The scope’s primary weakness lies in its image clarity. Compared to more expensive optics, the image through the HATSAN OPTIMA 4x32CE AO COMPACT SCOPE W/ RINGS & CAPS can appear somewhat hazy, especially at longer distances. Overall, the scope meets expectations for its price but doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The HATSAN OPTIMA 4x32CE AO COMPACT SCOPE W/ RINGS & CAPS features a simple and functional design. The build quality is acceptable for a budget scope, with a solid feel and a matte black finish. The scope is lightweight and doesn’t add excessive bulk to the rifle.

The turrets, while functional, lack the crisp, tactile clicks found in higher-end scopes. There is a slight learning curve involved in adjusting the AO for different distances. It can be annoying in a fast paced setting.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the HATSAN OPTIMA 4x32CE AO COMPACT SCOPE W/ RINGS & CAPS appears reasonably durable for casual use. The water, fog, and shock-resistant features provide basic protection against environmental factors. Cleaning the lenses is straightforward, and no special tools are required for maintenance.

However, it’s unlikely to withstand the heavy abuse that more expensive scopes are designed to endure. The scope caps are the weakest point in terms of durability. They’re easy to lose.

Accessories and Customization Options

The HATSAN OPTIMA 4x32CE AO COMPACT SCOPE W/ RINGS & CAPS comes with basic 11mm dovetail rings and scope caps. No other accessories are included. The scope is compatible with any standard 1-inch scope rings, allowing for some customization in mounting options.

However, there are no readily available accessories specifically designed for this particular model. This scope is relatively basic.

Pros and Cons of HATSAN OPTIMA 4x32CE AO COMPACT SCOPE W/ RINGS & CAPS