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MTC Viper Connect SL 3-12x24

MTC Viper Connect SL 3-12x24

Once any sport or activity becomes popular, specialized, dedicated equipment soon follows. So it is with the steady rise of Hunter Field Target shooting. Here the shooter is required to walk a course of knock-down targets, placed in an outdoor setting, to simulate a variety of hunting scenarios.

Being able to tackle targets that may appear at ranges anywhere between 8 and 45 yards, without adjusting the scope in any way (a key ruling in HFT) relies upon the glassware having a more general specification. Mega mag FT style scopes are redundant here, and typical magnification is x8-10, which normally allows for an acceptable level of blurredness even at the extreme near and far targets.

CLOSE INVOLVEMENT

MTC Optics, run by an enthusiastic team of shooters, were involved with HFT, from the sport’s infancy, and their understanding and appreciation of exactly what’s required, has led to some fascinating developments. Part of the attraction of their scopes has often been the inclusion of something a bit different. They were one of the first to introduce ‘half Mil- dots’ for example, which opened the door to more refined rangefinding. But perhaps the model which has caused the biggest stir is the Connect, which takes a fairly radical approach over more conventional designs. On test here is the very latest specification, the Viper Connect SL 3-12X24, which features a 30mm body tube, and that slimmed down 24mm objective. Because of the unusual body tube, MTC can supply a specialized mount that incorporates a thin strap to hold the rear section. Yes it works, but I reckon the base is too high. Mount with two low rings and there shouldn’t be a problem.

SHORT EYE RELIEF

Where a conventional scope comes with around three inches of eye relief, the Connect comes specified with just 30mm. In practise, this means that where the rear ocular lens of a normal scope would be held a few inches from the eye, in order to achieve a full sight picture, when using the Connect, the rear lens effectively sits on the nose. Using this set-up has a unique feel to it, and whether it feels right will be down to the individual.

Several factors and features result from such a configuration too, so there’s plenty to bear in mind with this product! Firstly, why design a scope in this way in the first place? Well with the conventional arrangement, the longer the required eye relief, then the more chance for incorrect head position (eye/ scope alignment), and therefore parallax error. The Connect in theory minimizes parallax error by dramatically shortening the eye relief, but viewing a target does feel strange at first.

GOGGLE BOX

A big advantage of the design is the greater depth of field to be gained, which means that, once careful adjustment has been achieved, clarity will be acceptable at most distances. In addition, a bi-product of the design is an increased field of view, and the end result is a real ‘in your face’ sensation. I felt a little goggle-eyed at first, as the eyes adjusted to their new surroundings, but once, I had set zero and familiarized myself with the basics, confidence grew and some targets began to drop out on my club HFT range.

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Reticule-wise, MTC will fit this model with either of their designs:- the AMD (Advanced Mil Dot) or SCB2 (Small Calibre Ballistic). Whilst their website shows the AMD with see-through dots appearing down the central stadia, my test model just featured small lines. I reckon I prefer the ultra precise lines in any case, and the fl oating central cross is superb in the sight picture. For those who favour illumination, this Connect allows the central cross to be lit in red in 12 levels.

SIDE FOCUS

Parallax is adjustable by a drum on the left of the saddle with a minimum distance of 10 yds. If HFT is the idea, then where you choose to set it is down to you, but remember once set it cannot be changed over the course of fire! A mid point is preferable of around 25-30 yds, but individual eyesight often dictates this. I found x10 magnification and a 30 yd focus gave an optimum sight picture, usable through the ranges, but personal adjustment is but a tweak away.

One point to note, which whilst irritating at first, has to be a good feature, is the way that head position becomes critical in order to achieve a full sight picture. An extendable rear eyepiece is a neat feature, meaning the set-up here can also be tweaked to suit, and a rubber push-on eye cup is also supplied. Being forced to be consistent in approach, and the way the scope is mounted, has to be a good thing, all helping the quest for ultimate accuracy.

SPEC SHEET

Low profile turrets make sense, and crisp adjustments are reassuring. As for the new SL slim-line 24mm objective configuration, it effectively means that the entire front section of tube becomes one long stretch of 30mm, allowing for greater mounting /lamp add-on possibilities than before.

However, be warned this Viper Connect is totally unsuitable for use on recoiling guns. With the back rim of the ocular lens sitting on the eyebrow, any kick or recoil transferred to the user, could have nasty consequences! Water, fog and, shockproof, and gas-filled, always look reassuring on the spec list.

Throw in a snap-down lens cap up front and this light and compact little marvel begins to stack up nicely. As for my thoughts, I’m mightily impressed and intrigued, to the point where I plan on investigating the concept further. For full validation of its performance though, look no further than top HFT shot and National Series winner, Dave Ramshead, who now uses one to great effect!.

Of course, what applies to HFT normally applies to real world hunting scenarios, and yes that means the Viper Connect SL 3-12X24 is a cracking hunting tool in the right hands. Massive field of view…..long depth of field, great reticule, and a sharp image. What more do we want?

PRICE: £249 including flip-up lens

  • MTC Viper Connect SL 3-12x24 - image {image:count}

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  • MTC Viper Connect SL 3-12x24 - image {image:count}

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  • MTC Viper Connect SL 3-12x24 - image {image:count}

    click on image to enlarge

  • MTC Viper Connect SL 3-12x24 - image {image:count}

    click on image to enlarge

  • MTC Viper Connect SL 3-12x24 - image {image:count}

    click on image to enlarge

  • MTC Viper Connect SL 3-12x24 - image {image:count}

    click on image to enlarge

  • MTC Viper Connect SL 3-12x24 - image {image:count}

    click on image to enlarge

gun
features

  • Name: MTC Viper Connect SL 3-12X24
  • Reticule: AMD (Advanced Mil Dot)
  • Illumination: Red
  • Linear Field of View: 60.9-17.1 ft @100yds
  • Exit Pupil: 8-2.5
  • Weight: 600g
  • 30mm: Eye relief
  • Click Values: ¼” @100yds
  • Clicks per turn: 49
  • Max adjustment: 120 MOA in both planes
  • Body Tube: 30mm
  • Minimum Focus: 10yds
  • Length: 11.25”
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