Nikko Stirling Diamond 6-24x50mm 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, First Focal Plane Review

First Impressions of Nikko Stirling Diamond 6-24x50mm 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, First Focal Plane

The world of long-range shooting demands precision, clarity, and reliability, and the Nikko Stirling Diamond 6-24x50mm 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, First Focal Plane aims to deliver just that. This optic boasts a robust 34mm tube, a versatile 6-24x magnification range, and a first focal plane (FFP) reticle, positioning it as a contender for serious shooters seeking performance without breaking the bank. The Nikko Stirling name, while not always top-of-mind for some, has a history of producing optics that offer good value, and I was eager to see if this Diamond series scope lived up to that reputation.

I’ve spent years tinkering with rifles and pushing my effective range, always searching for that sweet spot between performance and affordability. My old scope, a decent second focal plane model, simply wasn’t cutting it anymore for longer shots where holdovers became critical. I needed an FFP scope with reliable tracking and a forgiving eyebox, and the Nikko Stirling Diamond 6-24x50mm 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, First Focal Plane seemed like a promising solution on paper.

The unboxing experience was straightforward; the scope was well-protected. My first impression was that it felt solid and well-built. The turrets had a nice tactile click, and the magnification ring turned smoothly. It didn’t have the silky feel of some higher-end scopes I’ve handled, but it certainly didn’t feel cheap.

Compared to a Vortex Viper PST Gen II and a Primary Arms GLx 4.5-27x56mm I’ve used extensively, the Nikko Stirling scope seemed to prioritize a larger tube diameter for potentially greater adjustment range, perhaps at the expense of some refinement in glass quality. I chose the Nikko Stirling hoping for a balance of ruggedness, reliable mechanics, and the flexibility offered by its FFP reticle and generous elevation adjustment. My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism – could it truly perform at the level I needed?

Real-World Testing: Putting Nikko Stirling Diamond 6-24x50mm 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, First Focal Plane to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Nikko Stirling Diamond 6-24x50mm 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, First Focal Plane was at my local shooting range, a mix of covered benches and open-air 100-300 yard lanes. I mounted it on my trusty .308 precision rifle, a platform I know intimately, to get a feel for its performance. The weather was typical for early spring: overcast with a slight drizzle.

Even in less-than-ideal lighting, the image was surprisingly clear, especially considering the price point. Getting behind the scope was easy; the eye relief was forgiving. Adjusting the parallax was straightforward, and I was quickly able to get a sharp image at 100 yards. The clicks on the turrets were positive and audible. My initial groups were promising, but I needed to push it further.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple range sessions and a weekend varmint hunt, the Nikko Stirling Diamond 6-24x50mm 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, First Focal Plane has held up admirably. The matte finish has proven reasonably scratch-resistant, and the turrets have maintained their zero consistently, even after some rough handling in the field.

So far I have seen no real signs of wear and tear beyond some minor smudges. Cleaning the lenses is simple with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaner. Compared to my previous scope, the Nikko Stirling offers significantly more elevation adjustment, which is critical for extended-range shooting. While the glass isn’t quite as bright or crisp as some top-tier optics, it’s more than adequate for most shooting conditions and represents a significant upgrade from budget options.

Breaking Down the Features of Nikko Stirling Diamond 6-24x50mm 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, First Focal Plane

Specifications

The Nikko Stirling Diamond 6-24x50mm 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, First Focal Plane packs a solid set of specifications for its price range. It features a 6-24x magnification range, a 50mm objective lens, and a 34mm tube constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum. The Half Mil Dot (HMD) reticle, situated on the first focal plane, is a notable feature, allowing for accurate holdovers at any magnification.

Here’s a breakdown:

• Manufacturer: Nikko Stirling
• Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
• Magnification: 6 – 24 x
• Reticle: Skeleton HMD
• Tube Diameter: 34 mm
• Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
• Illumination Color: Red
• Finish: Matte
• Eye Relief: 80 mm
• Weight: 750 g (approximately 26.5 ounces)
• Adjustment Click Value: 0.1 Mil Rad
• Length: 360 mm (approximately 14.2 inches)
• Adjustment Type: Mil Rad
• Parallax: 9.1 m (10 yards) to Infinity
• Illumination Type: LED
• Fabric/Material: Aircraft Aluminum
• Adjustment Range: 0.98 cm at 100 m
• Lens Material: Glass
• Optical Coating: Multi-Coated
• Weather Resistance: Yes
• Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
• Shockproof: Yes
• Fogproof: Yes
• Magnification Type: Variable
• W/E Travel at 100 Yds: 6.5 ft
• Gun Type: Rifle

These specifications translate to a scope that’s well-suited for a variety of shooting disciplines, from target shooting to hunting. The 34mm tube provides ample internal adjustment for long-range shots, and the FFP reticle ensures accurate ranging and holdovers at any magnification. The Nikko Stirling Diamond promises ruggedness and clarity for demanding shooters.

Performance & Functionality

The Nikko Stirling Diamond 6-24x50mm 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, First Focal Plane performs its core function – accurately placing shots at various distances – admirably. The FFP reticle is a major advantage, allowing for consistent MIL-based measurements regardless of the magnification setting. The adjustments are precise, and the ability to lock the turrets is a welcome feature, preventing accidental adjustments in the field.

The main strength lies in its combination of features and price point. The glass quality is decent for the money, and the overall build feels solid. However, the glass clarity isn’t on par with higher-end optics and the illumination, while functional, isn’t daylight bright. It meets expectations for a scope in this price range, offering a significant step up from basic budget options but not competing with premium brands.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is functional and utilitarian. The matte black finish is non-reflective and blends well with most rifles. The turrets are easy to grip, even with gloves, and the magnification ring turns smoothly without being overly stiff.

The scope’s weight is reasonable, though the 34mm tube adds some bulk. There isn’t a significant learning curve, as the controls are intuitive and well-placed.

Durability & Maintenance

The Nikko Stirling Diamond 6-24x50mm 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, First Focal Plane seems built to last. The aircraft-grade aluminum construction feels robust, and the scope is advertised as both shockproof and waterproof. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service.

Cleaning the lenses is straightforward with a quality lens cleaning kit. The scope body can be wiped down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.

Accessories and Customization Options

The scope comes standard with a sunshade, which is a nice addition. Aftermarket accessories are limited, but standard 34mm scope rings will work. The Nikko Stirling Diamond is compatible with various rail mounting systems, offering flexibility in terms of rifle platforms.

Pros and Cons of Nikko Stirling Diamond 6-24x50mm 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, First Focal Plane

Who Should Buy Nikko Stirling Diamond 6-24x50mm 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, First Focal Plane?

The Nikko Stirling Diamond 6-24x50mm 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, First Focal Plane is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who want to get into long-range shooting or upgrade from a basic scope. It’s also a good choice for hunters who need a versatile optic for varying distances.

This scope might not be ideal for competitive shooters who demand the absolute best glass clarity and features. Someone who has a very high end rifle and wants the optic to match the capabilities of the rifle should consider more expensive options.

A must-have accessory is a good set of 34mm scope rings.

Conclusion on Nikko Stirling Diamond 6-24x50mm 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, First Focal Plane

The Nikko Stirling Diamond 6-24x50mm 34mm Tube Rifle Scope, First Focal Plane offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and affordability. It’s not perfect, but it delivers excellent value for the price.

At around $440, the price is definitely justified. It performs and offers many features that scopes at this price point often don’t.

I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a solid FFP scope without breaking the bank. It’s a great way to get into long-range shooting without emptying your wallet.