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

My first impression of 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 arrives as a promising optic for air rifle enthusiasts seeking enhanced accuracy and versatility without breaking the bank. Manufactured by Hatsan, a company known for its affordable airguns, this scope boasts features like an illuminated mil-dot reticle, side-focus parallax adjustment, and a variable magnification range. It’s designed to improve target acquisition and precision, especially at longer distances.

For years, I’ve struggled to find a scope that offered a clear sight picture and reliable adjustments on my high-powered air rifle. Many scopes in the lower price range simply couldn’t withstand the unique recoil characteristics of an air rifle, leading to wandering zero and frustrating inconsistencies. I was hunting for something that could hold its zero, provide a bright image, and offer the flexibility needed for both close-range pest control and longer-range target practice.

Upon unboxing the Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope, I was immediately struck by its solid feel and substantial weight, suggesting a robust construction. The matte black finish is clean and tactical, and the turrets felt reassuringly tactile with audible clicks. Compared to a cheaper Leapers scope I previously owned, the Hatsan Optima felt significantly more refined. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism, hoping that its performance would match its seemingly quality build.

Compared to higher-end scopes like those from Hawke or Vortex, the Hatsan Optima is clearly built to a different price point, with a more basic fit and finish. However, these scopes often come with a significantly higher price tag. The Hatsan Optima seemed to offer a compelling balance between affordability and features, making it a gamble worth taking. I was eager to mount it and put it through its paces.

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 at my local shooting range, mounted on my .22 caliber break-barrel air rifle. The range offered both 25-yard and 50-yard lanes, providing a good opportunity to test the scope at various distances. I spent the first hour zeroing the scope and getting accustomed to the illuminated mil-dot reticle.

The weather was overcast, but the Hatsan Optima’s fully multi-coated lenses provided a surprisingly clear and bright image. The side-focus parallax adjustment was smooth and precise, allowing me to quickly eliminate parallax at different distances. After about 20 shots, the scope was zeroed, and I was consistently hitting tight groups at 25 yards. There were no initial issues or malfunctions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Hatsan Optima has proven to be a surprisingly reliable and durable scope. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, from hot and humid summer days to cold and damp autumn afternoons. While I haven’t subjected it to extreme conditions, it’s held up well to normal air rifle use. The scope has maintained its zero, even after hundreds of shots.

There are some minor signs of wear and tear, primarily on the turret caps, but nothing that affects its performance. Cleaning the lenses is straightforward, and the scope seems relatively resistant to scratches and smudges. Compared to my previous, cheaper scope, the Hatsan Optima is a clear upgrade in terms of durability and overall reliability. It handles the double recoil of the air rifle without issue.

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 features a 4-16x magnification range, offering flexibility for various shooting distances and target sizes. The 44mm objective lens provides a good balance of light gathering and overall scope size. Its 30mm tube allows for greater light transmission compared to a 1-inch tube, resulting in a brighter image, particularly in low-light conditions.

The scope has an eye relief of 3.35 – 3.54 inches and an exit pupil of 2.75 – 11 mm, ensuring comfortable viewing. It features 1/8 MOA click adjustments, allowing for precise corrections. The field of view is 5.8 – 20.4 ft at 1000 yds. The illuminated mil-dot reticle has 11 brightness settings and the scope is both water and shock resistant and has an integrated sunshade to reduce glare.

Performance & Functionality

The Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope performs admirably, especially considering its price point. The image quality is clear and sharp, even at higher magnifications. The illuminated mil-dot reticle is a valuable asset, aiding in target acquisition in low-light conditions. Its ranging ability also greatly enhances accuracy.

The scope has strengths in ease of use and image quality. However, the turrets, while tactile, could be more precise. Overall, the Hatsan Optima meets and even slightly exceeds expectations for a scope in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope has a clean and functional design. The matte black finish is practical and aesthetically pleasing. The turrets are large and easy to grip, even while wearing gloves.

The side-focus parallax adjustment is conveniently located and smooth to operate. There’s a slight learning curve associated with understanding the mil-dot reticle, but it’s relatively easy to master with some practice. The scope is comfortable to use for extended periods.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hatsan Optima appears to be built to last. The one-piece tube construction provides added strength and rigidity. While not indestructible, it can withstand the rigors of regular air rifle use.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional lens cleaning. The scope’s water resistance adds to its overall durability and longevity. The shock resistance is a key factor with air rifles due to their unique double recoil.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope comes with an integrated sunshade, which helps reduce glare in bright sunlight. While there are no other included accessories, the scope is compatible with standard 30mm scope rings and mounts. This allows for easy customization and mounting on a wide range of air rifles.

Aftermarket accessories, such as lens covers and bubble levels, can further enhance the scope’s performance and usability. Because the Hatsan Optima is a relatively standard scope in terms of dimensions and mounting, it is compatible with most generic 30mm scope rings.

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

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

The Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope is perfect for air rifle enthusiasts who are looking for an affordable and reliable optic to improve their accuracy and target acquisition. It’s particularly well-suited for: backyard plinkers, pest controllers, and target shooters. It is especially useful for those shooting beyond 25 yards.

This scope is not ideal for those seeking high-end features and unparalleled optical clarity. Those requiring extreme precision and long-range capabilities, such as competitive shooters, may prefer a higher-end optic with more refined adjustments. A must-have accessory for this scope would be high-quality 30mm scope rings.

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 exceptional value for its price. The features such as its illuminated reticle and side focus parallax make it a great all-around choice for air rifle enthusiasts looking to extend their range and improve their accuracy. For just $107.49, you’re getting a scope that punches well above its weight class.

I would absolutely recommend the Hatsan Optima to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable air rifle scope. It’s a great entry-level optic that provides excellent performance without breaking the bank. So, if you’re ready to take your air rifle shooting to the next level, give the Hatsan Optima Air Rifle Scope a try – you won’t be disappointed!