The Sightron SIII Competition 45x 45mm Target Dot 1 Reticle Rifle Scope Made a Bold First Impression
The Sightron SIII Competition 45x 45mm Target Dot 1 Reticle Rifle Scope isn’t just another optic; it’s a precision instrument designed for the demanding world of competitive shooting. From the Sightron stable, this scope promises unparalleled clarity and accuracy for serious target shooters. This scope boasts a fixed 45x magnification, a 45mm objective lens, and a fine .1 MOA dot reticle.
Years spent squinting through lesser scopes, fighting parallax and struggling with inconsistent clicks, led me to this optic. I needed a scope that could deliver pinpoint accuracy at long ranges. The Sightron SIII Competition immediately stood out for its reputation in benchrest circles.
The unboxing experience was surprisingly understated. The scope was securely packed, and its matte black finish exuded quality. The weight, at 20.5 ounces, felt substantial and indicative of robust construction.
Compared to my aging Leupold Competition and a friend’s Nightforce BR, the Sightron appeared to offer a superior combination of features for the price. The extremely fine dot reticle and the side focus down to 10 yards were key differentiators. My initial reaction was excitement tempered by a healthy dose of skepticism. Could this scope truly live up to the hype?
Real-World Testing: Putting Sightron SIII Competition 45x 45mm Target Dot 1 Reticle Rifle Scope to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Sightron SIII Competition was at my local shooting range, a 100-yard benchrest facility. The weather was clear, but with a slight crosswind. Mounting the scope on my custom-built .223 Remington benchrest rifle was straightforward.
Immediately, the clarity of the glass impressed me. The target at 100 yards was crisp and well-defined, even at 45x magnification. Adjusting the side focus parallax knob was smooth and precise, eliminating any trace of blur. The fine dot reticle was easy to see against the target, without obscuring it.
One minor annoyance was the rather stiff turrets, requiring a deliberate effort to make adjustments. However, the clicks were positive and repeatable. After dialing in my zero, I began shooting groups. The results were immediately promising.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Sightron SIII Competition continues to impress. The scope has held its zero flawlessly. I have not had to make any significant adjustments since my initial sight-in.
The matte black finish has proven to be quite durable, with no signs of scratches or wear, despite being transported in a range bag. Cleaning the lenses is simple, and the scope’s waterproof construction gives me peace of mind when shooting in inclement weather.
Compared to my previous scope, the Sightron offers a noticeable improvement in clarity and resolution. The fine dot reticle allows for more precise aiming, and the side focus parallax adjustment is a game-changer. My scores have consistently improved since switching to this optic.
Breaking Down the Features of Sightron SIII Competition 45x 45mm Target Dot 1 Reticle Rifle Scope
Specifications
- Magnification: 45x. A fixed high magnification is perfect for benchrest shooting where a wide field of view isn’t necessary.
- Objective Diameter: 45mm. A larger objective lens gathers more light for a brighter image.
- Field of View: 2.4 ft @ 100 yards. This narrow field of view is typical for high-magnification target scopes.
- Eye Relief: 3.6 inches. Adequate eye relief is important for comfortable shooting.
- Reticle Type: DOT (.1). A fine .1 MOA dot allows for precise aiming without obscuring the target.
- Click Value: 1/10 MOA. Extremely precise adjustments for fine-tuning your zero.
- Minutes Per Revolution: 5 MOA. This determines how many MOA each full turret rotation adjusts.
- W/E Travel: 40 MOA. Sufficient travel for most long-range shooting scenarios.
- Knob Style: Target (Resettable). Target knobs allow for easy and precise adjustments. They can also be reset to zero after sighting in.
- Focus Type: Side Focus. Side focus allows for parallax adjustment without moving from the shooting position.
- Parallax Range: 10 yards to Infinity. This allows the scope to be used for both close-range and long-range targets.
- Finish: Matte Black. Matte black finish reduces glare and provides a tactical look.
- Waterproof: Yes. Waterproof construction protects the scope from the elements.
- Fully Multi Coated: Yes (Zact-7 TM 7-Layer). Multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission and image clarity.
- Weight: 20.5 oz. A relatively lightweight scope for its magnification and features.
- Length: 15.00 inches. A moderate length for a target scope.
- Tube Diameter: 30mm. The 30mm tube provides ample space for internal components and adjustment range.
Performance & Functionality
The Sightron SIII Competition excels in its primary role: delivering pinpoint accuracy for competitive shooting. The extremely fine dot reticle, combined with the precise 1/10 MOA adjustments, allows for unparalleled shot placement. The glass clarity is exceptional, even at maximum magnification.
One minor weakness is the stiffness of the turrets. They require a bit more force to turn than some other high-end scopes. But this is preferable to having loose or mushy turrets. Overall, the scope meets and exceeds my expectations for a competition-grade optic.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Sightron SIII Competition is excellent. The materials feel robust and well-made. The matte black finish is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. The scope feels balanced and comfortable on my rifle.
The side focus knob is easily accessible. The target-style turrets are clearly marked and easy to read. The scope requires no significant learning curve for experienced shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Sightron SIII Competition appears to be built to last. The waterproof construction and durable finish inspire confidence. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional lens cleaning.
Given Sightron’s reputation for quality and reliability, I expect this scope to provide many years of service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sightron SIII Competition doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories. The essential items are included. This includes lens caps and a detailed instruction manual.
Being a 30mm tube, the scope is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket rings and mounts. There are no other readily apparent customization options for this particular model, as it is a fixed magnification scope designed for a specific purpose.
Pros and Cons of Sightron SIII Competition 45x 45mm Target Dot 1 Reticle Rifle Scope
Pros
- Exceptional Clarity: The fully multi-coated lenses provide a bright and clear image, even at 45x magnification. This makes it easier to see fine details on the target.
- Precise Adjustments: The 1/10 MOA click adjustments allow for extremely fine-tuning of your zero. This is critical for achieving maximum accuracy.
- Fine Dot Reticle: The .1 MOA dot is small enough to allow for precise aiming without obscuring the target. This is especially important for benchrest shooting.
- Side Focus Parallax Adjustment: The side focus knob allows for easy and precise parallax adjustment. This is crucial for eliminating parallax error and achieving a clear image at any distance.
- Durable Construction: The waterproof construction and robust materials ensure that the scope can withstand the rigors of competitive shooting. This means that it will last through all weather conditions.
Cons
- Stiff Turrets: The turrets can be a bit stiff, requiring more effort to turn than some other high-end scopes. This may not be an issue for all users.
- Fixed Magnification: The fixed 45x magnification may not be suitable for all shooting disciplines. Those who prefer variable magnification should consider other options.
Who Should Buy Sightron SIII Competition 45x 45mm Target Dot 1 Reticle Rifle Scope?
The Sightron SIII Competition 45x 45mm Target Dot 1 Reticle Rifle Scope is perfect for competitive benchrest shooters. It is also ideal for anyone who demands the highest level of accuracy and precision from their optics. Long-range target shooters will also appreciate this scope.
This scope may not be suitable for hunters or tactical shooters who require a wider field of view or variable magnification. Those on a tight budget may also find the price prohibitive. A must-have accessory for this scope is a high-quality set of 30mm scope rings.
Conclusion on Sightron SIII Competition 45x 45mm Target Dot 1 Reticle Rifle Scope
The Sightron SIII Competition 45x 45mm Target Dot 1 Reticle Rifle Scope is a specialized optic that excels in its intended role. It is the top-tier choice for serious competitive shooters. The exceptional clarity, precise adjustments, and fine dot reticle make it a formidable tool for achieving maximum accuracy.
While the $1,129.99 price tag may seem steep, the performance and features justify the cost for those who demand the best. I personally recommend this scope without hesitation.
If you’re serious about competitive shooting and are looking for an optic that can give you a competitive edge, the Sightron SIII Competition is an excellent choice. Invest in your success; you won’t be disappointed.