My first impression of Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of rifle scopes. The Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0 from Sig Sauer Electro-Optics promises a blend of precision and practicality for hunters, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. Its magnification range, combined with a first focal plane (FFP) reticle, suggested a versatile optic suitable for a variety of hunting scenarios.
I was looking for a scope that could handle both short and long-range engagements with equal aplomb. Many scopes I’ve used excel in one area but fall short in the other. This scope needed to be clear, accurate, and durable enough to withstand the rigors of the hunt.
The unboxing experience was straightforward, nothing flashy. The scope felt solid and well-built, and the adjustments were smooth and tactile. The weight of 22.60 oz felt substantial without being overly heavy.
Compared to my Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 and Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14×40, the Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0 seemed to strike a middle ground in terms of size and features. I chose this one for its apparent balance of magnification, clarity, and price point. I was excited to get it mounted and test its performance in the field.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The scope seemed promising, but the real test would be how it performed under pressure in a hunting situation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0 on a deer hunt in the Texas hill country. The terrain was varied, ranging from dense brush to open fields, providing ample opportunity to test the scope’s versatility. Conditions were initially dry and clear, but a light rain rolled in later in the day.
The scope performed admirably in both conditions. The image remained clear and bright even in the lower light of the overcast sky. Adjusting the magnification was smooth, and the FFP reticle ensured that my holdovers remained accurate regardless of the magnification setting.
I did have a slight issue getting used to the MOA Milling Hunter 2.0 reticle at first. It took some time to become familiar with the MOA values and how they translated to holdovers at different ranges.
There were no major issues during my first use, but the learning curve with the reticle was something to note.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use on multiple hunts and range sessions, the Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear on the finish, and the adjustments remain crisp and precise. The scope has proven to be both reliable and durable.
Maintenance has been minimal. I simply wipe down the lenses with a microfiber cloth after each use and occasionally clean the exterior with a damp cloth. The scope has proven easy to maintain.
Compared to my previous experiences with other scopes in this price range, the Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0 has exceeded my expectations in terms of clarity, durability, and overall performance. It offers excellent value for the money.
Breaking Down the Features of Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0
Specifications
The Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0 boasts a magnification range of 5-20x, making it suitable for both close-quarters and long-range shooting. Its 50mm objective lens provides ample light transmission for clear images in various lighting conditions.
With a field of view of 18 – 4.50 ft at 100 yards, you can quickly acquire targets and maintain situational awareness. The eye relief of 3.90″ – 3.50″ provides a comfortable viewing experience, reducing eye strain. The 30mm tube diameter allows for a wide range of mounting options and provides ample internal adjustment.
The scope weighs 22.60 oz, which is a reasonable weight for a scope with these features. Its MOA Milling Hunter 2.0 reticle provides precise holdover points for accurate shot placement at varying distances. These specifications matter because they directly impact the scope’s performance in real-world hunting scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0 performs its job admirably. The image clarity is excellent, and the adjustments are precise and repeatable. It’s easy to zero and maintains its zero even after repeated use.
The scope’s strengths lie in its versatility and clarity. Its weaknesses are the initial learning curve of the MOA Milling Hunter 2.0 reticle. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations for a scope in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0 features a robust and well-built design. The materials used feel high-quality, and the weight is balanced and comfortable in hand. The scope has a tactile feel that inspires confidence.
The scope is user-friendly overall, but the MOA Milling Hunter 2.0 reticle takes some getting used to. Once you understand the reticle, it becomes a valuable tool for precise shot placement.
Durability & Maintenance
The Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0 appears to be built to last. The materials are durable and the construction is solid. Proper care should ensure that the scope lasts for many years.
The scope is easy to maintain. Cleaning the lenses regularly and keeping the exterior clean are the only necessary maintenance tasks.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0 typically comes with lens covers. Customization options are mainly limited to mounting rings and bases, as the scope itself is a complete unit.
The scope is compatible with most standard 30mm scope rings and bases. You can pair it with rings and bases from brands like Leupold, Vortex, and Warne.
Pros and Cons of Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0
Pros
- Excellent image clarity and brightness.
- Versatile 5-20x magnification range suitable for various hunting scenarios.
- First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle ensures accurate holdovers at all magnification levels.
- Durable construction and reliable performance.
- Reasonable price point offering great value.
Cons
- The MOA Milling Hunter 2.0 reticle has a learning curve for new users.
- Eye relief might be slightly short for some shooters at higher magnifications.
Who Should Buy Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0?
The Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0 is perfect for hunters who need a versatile and reliable scope for both close-range and long-range engagements. It’s also well-suited for target shooters and those who appreciate a First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle.
Hunters who prefer simpler reticles or have limited experience with MOA adjustments might want to skip this product. A must-have accessory is a high-quality set of 30mm scope rings to ensure a secure and stable mount.
Conclusion on Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0
Overall, the Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0 is an excellent rifle scope that offers a compelling blend of performance, durability, and value. Its image clarity, versatile magnification range, and First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle make it a strong contender in its price category. The $449.99 price is justified by the quality and features you receive.
I would personally recommend this scope to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile optic for hunting or target shooting. If you’re in the market for a new rifle scope, give the Sig Sow45001 Whsky4 5-20×50 Ffp Moa Hnt 2.0 a serious look. You won’t be disappointed.