BLASER B2 1.7-10X42 IC - Pretty Much Perfect!

Firearm manufacturers tend to stick to what they know, leaving the optical experts to do the same. This means the end user can buy the rifle they want and the scope to suit. The only cross-over here is when a large company, like Remington, produces a budget model that they want to sell as a package, complete with glass. So, they go and speak to someone like Bushnell, who then supplies a quantity of their basic 3-9x40, for example.

We are Blaser, we are family!

However, some gun makers feel they want to keep it all under one roof, such is the case with Blaser, as they took the unprecedented step a few years ago of deciding to offer optics. The idea is clever, as their firearms are supported by a complete, in-house array of products. Think, clothing, moderators, ammunition, accessories etc. All are designed to tie in the customer and increase brand loyalty!
A few years ago, I was lucky enough to be invited to the launch of their then-new scope brand, Artemis, later renamed B1. We got told everything about them and got the chance to go hands-on, with a very enjoyable and revealing morning on the range, to see what they offered. I was generally impressed.
There are three in this range, all offering a 6x zoom range: 1-7x28, 2.8-20x50, and 4.2-20x58, all first focal plane (FFP), with illumination, ballistic turret, and European rail mount with their QD, saddle mount rifle interface. They also feature illumination control (ic) that will switch the dot on when the de-cocker is set to fire. So, only for Blaser rifles. They come in an attractive, bronze/green finish that when mated to my R8 Professional Success, gave this combo a pleasingly organic look.

B2

Later, they launched their B2 series, consisting of three models, again all with ic: 1-6x24, 2-12x50, and 2.5-15x56, with the optional extra of a ballistic turret, the QDC (Quick Distance Controller). All are second focal plane (SFP), with illumination, and standard 30mm body tubes. However, I now note that they are offering these with European rail mounts too.
The B1 and B2 series offer a small and select range of scopes, primarily aimed at Blaser owners, that will suit most needs. I’ve hunted will these and have no complaints in terms of quality or ability, as they’re right up there with the big, European optics houses. Curious, is the fact that they’ve juxtaposed the illumination and windage turrets, with the latter now on the left. Which, perspective buyers may find a bit unusual.

My favourite spec, almost

New to the B2 line-up and filling a gap, is the 1.7-10x42 ic, which as a hunting specification, I found near ideal. With its 6x zoom range, it offers a wide ability, from down and dirty at x1.7 for driven hunts, up to longer ranges at x10, all in a mid-sized/weight package. My favourite, the Swarovski Z8i 1.7-13.3x42, offers a wider x8 range, which has its advantages, but I really rate this Blaser too. Pleasingly, I received not only the scope but also my favourite single-shot rifle, the K95 (Kipplauf) with an Ultimate synthetic thumbhole stock. This will be the subject of a future gun test.

No rings attached

First, an explanation of the European rail system. Instead of a round body tube, that uses conventional rings, the base of the scope body is squared off and slotted. Attachment to the bases is by sliding wedges that when drawn down, lock the two components together and also offer eye relief adjustment. It’s very strong, but, maybe, a bit too dedicated for your average British shooter.

Over-scoping

Over the years, I’ve noticed a tendency for hunters to over-scope. OK, lots of top-end mag, but will you ever use it? Plus, a larger and heavier build. Here, the 1.7-10x42 strikes a practical balance, as it’s not too big, nor heavy at 315mm long and 680 to 700-grams (round body or rail mount). Plus, that all-important optical quality that we demand, for optimum dawn-to-dusk performance.
The SFP reticle is a simple 4a design with central red dot illumination and one of the most practical patterns around. Turrets are under removable caps and will also accept the QDC drum, allowing you to wind in corrections. On this spec, I would not bother, preferring eyeball holdover. The magnification ring is firm but smooth in operation. It shows a chequered rubber gripping ring with a raised fin, to aid operation, and at the rear of the scope is a fast-focus eyepiece. Blaser also includes a neoprene ‘scope coat’ cover and an Allen key for the turrets.

56” @ 100m

Click values are 1cm @ 100m, with 72 clicks per turn and two full rotations available in both windage and elevation. In English, that gives you 56” of movement in both planes at 100m. The turrets can be slipped to 0 once the scope has been zeroed. They are clearly marked as to direction and clicks, but I did find them a little stiff in operation.
The rheostat drum is on the right of the saddle and pulls out to turn on. There are directional arrows on the rim that allow the intensity to be adjusted, as required. Typically, the system remembers the last setting after it’s turned off and returns to it when turned on again. It also automatically switches off if the rifle passes 60º horizontally and 80º vertically.

Quality glass

The optical quality is excellent and gives a sharp and true colour image right up to the periphery of the view, be it in the woods, or out in the open. The field of view (FOV) at 100m is 24 - 4m from 1.7-10x. Also, the light transmission is 94-92% day/night, the exit pupil diameter is 9.8 – 4.2mm, and the eye relief is 90mm.
As I said, this is one sweet, mid-sized scope that has enough performance and magnification for just about all requirements, without going over the top. So, a nicely balanced package when attached to your rifle. I would love one for my R8’s 8x57 IS barrel set.
However, all this comes at a price, which many will baulk at, as it isn’t cheap! Equally so, if you opt for the European rail model, you will need to fork out another £359 for Blaser’s dedicated QD saddle mount, too. Cost considerations aside, this is one sweet scope.