Thread: Compact Lightweight scopes

Hello - I have asked similar questions before, and so have other folks but here goes again . . . what are the options for something in the 2/2.5/3 to 10 (or so) with an objective of less than 40mm and 340gms/12 oz or under - in better/top quality glass.

I can think of two current models with good glass, the S&B Summit 2.5-10x40 and the Vortex Ranger 2-10x40. SWFA make a 2.5-10x33 that is very compact but the eye relief is a bit of an issue for a scope that will be used on a powerful rifle where steep uphill shots are frequent (weatherby eyebrow anybody?).

There are some older scopes that would also suit, I have a couple of S2 Kahles 2.3-7x32 that are wonderful scopes but getting pretty long in the tooth for a everyday hunting rifle. For some reason the more modern Kahles and the Z3/Z5 Swaro's just don't do it for me.

What else is out there ??

Leupold vx2 ultalight but not 'top glass' as such, Minox Za5 1.5 to 8 if you can find one, if you go up to 14 ounces you have more options.

VX3i 2.5>8 with an S1 dial is hard to beat.

I know its not high end euro but they just work

As far as I know, there are no high-end 'svelte' scopes on the market. Closest I can think of are the Nickel scopes out of Germany, but they're about 4k a pop for their 1-6x model.

The old kahles are nice, size/glass-wise. It's a shame everything is so goddamn big and bulky nowadays.

The euro manufacturers are now putting out 36mm tubed scopes.

Despite all of the technology flooding the market, I can't help but think - nothing beats a set of good iron sights. Cheap. Light. Sleek/elegant. Reliable. And 100% light transmission. Not to say they don't have their drawbacks... But a good compromise all the same.

Can someone please define "high end"?

Originally Posted by hotbarrels

Can someone please define "high end"?

Expensive

I love iron sights until I can’t see them in the evening!!

VX5hd 2-10x42. Or as @akaroa1 said, VX3 2.5-8x is light, compact and the optics are well good enough for most hunting.

Thanks for the suggestions guys.

I've got a couple of Leupold VX3's and they are great scopes alright, dammed hard to beat for most NZ hunting. If nothing else comes up a new VX3 is probly the way I'll go. I want a 25.4 tube, I don't like the bulky look of a 30mm tube, but most of all I like to carry my rifle with thumb through under the scope - and usually with 30mm there's not enough room (yes I know I'm fussy and cantankerous)

A Kahles CT model in 3-9x42 has been suggested, I think I used to have one and sold it, does anyone have experience with the CT or other Kahles of that era ??

Got Kahles 3-9x42 on the 308 Maral that I bought from Philipo - very nice glass. Also have had the smaller version 2-7x36 on a 7mm08.

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Swarovski z3 3-9 or 3.5-10 would fit as well but the Vortex Razor LH 2-10. is the better option imho. Genuine 2x on low with a very good FOV. (56ft compared to the leupold 2.5-8 at 37ft) heaps of internal adjustment, very good glass and the defender caps are great. Both reticle options work well but I prefer the floating dot in the G4

Originally Posted by Tentman

Thanks for the suggestions guys.










I've got a couple of Leupold VX3's and they are great scopes alright, dammed hard to beat for most NZ hunting. If nothing else comes up a new VX3 is probly the way I'll go. I want a 25.4 tube, I don't like the bulky look of a 30mm tube, but most of all I like to carry my rifle with thumb through under the scope - and usually with 30mm there's not enough room (yes I know I'm fussy and cantankerous)

A Kahles CT model in 3-9x42 has been suggested, I think I used to have one and sold it, does anyone have experience with the CT or other Kahles of that era ??

agree about the thumb under scope- thought i was the only weirdo that does that

You are not alone I do the same

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I carry mine 4 fingers under scope like a suitcase handle sometimes,when I have a scope fitted that is.

Have a look at the Nikons