Let’s Talk About Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane
The Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane is designed to offer precision and versatility for a variety of shooting applications. From the hunting fields to the competition range, this scope aims to provide a clear sight picture and reliable performance. With its adjustable magnification, side focus parallax adjustment, and illuminated reticle, it seems to be geared toward shooters looking for a flexible optic at a reasonable price point.
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I was looking for a scope that could handle both mid-range target shooting and longer-range hunting scenarios. I needed something with good light transmission for dawn and dusk hunting, as well as a reticle that would allow for holdover adjustments.
My initial thoughts upon unboxing the Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane were that it felt solid and well-constructed. The matte black finish looked durable, and the turrets had a positive click. Compared to a Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 and a Bushnell Engage 6-24×50, the Hawke seemed to have a slightly clearer sight picture at higher magnifications, though I’d have to confirm that in the field.
I was cautiously optimistic. The Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane has a reputation for being a good value, but I wanted to see how it performed under pressure.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane at my local shooting range, mounting it on a .308 bolt-action rifle. The weather was clear and sunny, providing optimal conditions for sighting in the scope at 100 yards. After a brief period of adjustments to the turrets, the scope was zeroed in, and I was hitting consistent groupings.
The ease of use was impressive, although the side parallax adjustment took a little getting used to in order to obtain the clearest possible sight picture. There were no major surprises, but the short eye relief became immediately apparent, making it tricky to maintain a consistent cheek weld and sight picture at higher magnifications.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane held up reasonably well. There were no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the scope body, and the turrets continued to provide positive clicks. Cleaning the lenses was easy with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution.
Compared to my previous experiences with other scopes in this price range, the Hawke performed adequately but didn’t necessarily outperform them. The short eye relief continued to be a persistent issue, especially during longer shooting sessions.
Breaking Down the Features of Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane
Specifications
The Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane boasts several key specifications. These include a 6-24x magnification range, a 56mm objective lens diameter, a 30mm tube diameter, and a second focal plane reticle. The scope features an adjustable parallax from 10 yards to infinity and a Mil Dot reticle with red illumination.
These specifications impact performance in several ways. The 56mm objective lens allows for excellent light gathering, crucial for low-light conditions. The 30mm tube diameter provides ample space for internal adjustments, while the second focal plane reticle means that the reticle subtensions remain constant regardless of magnification.
Performance & Functionality
The Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane generally performs its job adequately. Accuracy is decent once the scope is properly zeroed, and the side parallax adjustment allows for fine-tuning at different distances. However, the short eye relief and limited field of view at higher magnifications can be problematic.
The main strengths are its clear glass, adjustable parallax, and illuminated reticle. The weaknesses include the short eye relief and somewhat narrow field of view. It meets expectations for a scope in this price range, but it doesn’t necessarily exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane features a durable aluminum construction and a matte black finish. Its weight of 27.3 oz is reasonable for a scope of this size and magnification. The turrets provide positive clicks, and the zoom ring operates smoothly.
The scope is relatively user-friendly, although the short eye relief and side parallax adjustment require some practice. The included zoom lever is a nice addition for making quick magnification changes in the field.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane seems reasonably durable. The aluminum construction provides adequate protection against bumps and scratches, and the argon/krypton purging ensures that it is waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof.
Maintenance is straightforward. The lenses can be easily cleaned with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution, and the turrets and zoom ring require minimal upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane comes with several accessories, including lens covers, a sunshade, a zoom lever, and a lens cloth. The scope is compatible with standard 30mm scope rings and bases, allowing for a wide range of mounting options.
While there are no specific “customization” options in terms of changing the scope’s internal components, you can easily customize its external features with aftermarket accessories. These include different scope rings, levels, and even turret caps.
Pros and Cons of Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane
Pros
- Clear glass: Provides a bright and sharp sight picture.
- Adjustable parallax: Allows for fine-tuning at different distances.
- Illuminated reticle: Enhances visibility in low-light conditions.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand the rigors of field use.
- Reasonable price: Offers good value for the features provided.
Cons
- Short eye relief: Can be challenging to maintain a consistent sight picture, especially at high magnification.
- Limited field of view: Can make it difficult to quickly acquire targets.
Who Should Buy Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane?
The Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane is perfect for hunters and target shooters looking for a versatile and affordable optic. It’s a good option for those who need adjustable magnification and illuminated reticle for various lighting conditions. This scope would also serve beginner long-range shooters well who don’t want to invest in a more expensive optic initially.
Those who should skip this product include shooters who prioritize long eye relief and a wide field of view. Also, if you have a higher budget and can afford a premium optic, then this wouldn’t be for you.
Must-have accessories include high-quality scope rings, a bubble level, and potentially an aftermarket cheek riser to improve eye relief.
Conclusion on Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane
The Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane offers a good balance of features and affordability. While it has some limitations, such as short eye relief and a narrow field of view, it provides decent performance for its price range.
The value proposition is justified for those seeking a versatile scope with adjustable magnification, parallax adjustment, and an illuminated reticle, but understand it may not stand up to higher-end alternatives.
I would recommend this scope to those on a budget who are willing to work around its limitations. If you’re looking for a dependable optic that won’t break the bank, the Hawke Sport Optics Sidewinder 30 6-24x56mm Rifle Scope 30mm Tube Second Focal Plane is worth considering. Take a closer look, weigh the pros and cons, and see if it fits your specific needs and shooting style.