Hawke Airmax 2-7x32 A0

Hawke Optics are well established as a popular brand, but with 2016 seeing their extensive range of scopes getting a general upgrade, there’s perhaps never been a better time to see what they have to offer. Of course their products cover most shooting disciplines across the board, but under the spotlight here is one of the Airmax range, aimed specifically at the airgun fraternity.

SUPER COMPACT

My test model here is the Airmax 2-7x32 AO AMX, and after opening the smart packaging, what first hits you with this scope, is the ultra compact dimensions, as it really is a neat little optic in a highly versatile format. ‘AO’ denotes an adjustable front objective lens, and ‘AMX’ signifies the reticule used.

Variable magnification between 2 and 7x is a useful specification and with a 32mm objective lens diameter, everything is kept nicely in proportion too. These scopes come with a one inch monotube body, and it all adds up to a highly manageable 16.6oz in weight- so this Airmax won’t de-stabilize a rifle too easily, often a problem to consider, with many heavier rivals. With that one inch body tube and 32mm objective, it does mean that the sightline can be kept to a minimum distance above the bore too, which is a big plus point for some; especially HFT competition shooters, that need to keep their trajectory super flat over as many target distances as possible..

Low profile turrets are part of the deal too, so no overly chunky protrusions here, just a straightforward, traditional configuration, that makes sense. Unscrew the waterproofed turret caps, and the mechanism is accessible. The drum turrets themselves are finger twistable, and are clearly marked for accurate adjustment for smooth and easy finger dialling. Click values are ¼ MOA at 100 yards and the movement is positive and easy to feel as well as to hear too, which is always reassuring! On test, the grid check moving the zero around the box came in perfectly, and for the record, the turrets have an unusually large range of adjustment; both for windage (9 complete revolutions) and slightly more in elevation at elevation 9.5 revolutions. With point zero set, screw down the caps and we’re ready for action.

BUILD QUALITY

Handling this Airmax, it certainly feels well made, despite being priced comfortably in the budget end of the market, and there’s clearly been effort made at the production stage. The design, as mentioned includes parallax adjustment via a front collar on the objective lens, and with the mag set on the highest 7x, I was able to verify the minimum focus distance of 7.5yards, which came in crystal clear. The front collar moves with just the right amount of built-in resistance; likewise, the rubbercoated magnification collar at the rear.

The usual fast-focus bell comes with rubber eye protection too, and again, just feels smooth in operation. A 16 layer fully multi-coated lens system is incorporated with these scopes, and for that read super sharp image, edge to edge clarity, and no visible aberrations.

AMX….

The AMX reticule design is a super fine affair, and is actually glass-etched, which gives added robustness. For an uncluttered image, it actually appears floating in the view and features an ultra fine cross, with Mil-Dot spacing on the upper section and windage arms, whilst the lower stadia features ½-Mil segments, for added refinement. With equidistant outer hollow bars to play with, there really is a multitude of aim and reference points, making this scope very useful for the sport of Hunter Field Target (HFT). Also for the serious hunter who just wants to maximize performance in the field in a lightweight and practical package that will not over burden the rifle. These days it seems to me that too many shooters feel they need a huge scope in the field, which is certainly not the case!

Proportion is the name of the game, and HFT sized kill areas such as 15mm or 25mm can be navigated with ease, after familiarity with the AMX reticule. In use, I really like the fine stadia for a precise aim point! However, the down side is that the ultra fine nature of the build means it can become a little vague on a dim background.

Ideally, I would add thick outer posts to the design, which would help to guide the eye to the centre. As it stands it’s a nice design, with plenty of really useful elements to aid aiming and target range finding, and clever windage stadia expanding proportionately at the appropriate range points.

CONCLUSION

Everything looks sleek, elasticated (rather up-market looking) lens covers are included, and with that neat new Hawke logo sitting on the side, there’s a classy air to this model.

Nitrogen-purged, water, shock and fog proof and with Hawke’s lifetime warranty what more do you want for £119 all in? In fact, it really is difficult to find fault; and as one of the nicest super compact scopes I have used in a while, it has to be something of a bargain! Highly recommended.

PRICE: £119
CONTACT: Deben Group Industries,
01394 387762
www.deben.com
www.hawkeoptics.com