Hawke 6x36 Prism Scope

Back in the self-loading days, I shot a lot of Practical Rifle, and my firearm of choice was the improved Colt AR15 A2. On top, a Colt BDC (bullet drop compensation) scope that was made specifically for the AR15 by Hakko of Japan. For its day it was a radical concept, as most military rifles ran iron sights only.

The build was conventional, and the spec showed a compact 3x20 with a BDC elevation turret. It was cut for the standard 55-grain, M193 ball round, so you zeroed at 200, and dialled in 3, 4, 5 and 600 yards. Despite its low magnification, it worked well, and I could get second, if not first-round hits on Fig 11 targets, even at 600, if I did my bit!

Prismatic

Bang up to date and along similar lines, in some ways, is Hawke’s range of fixed-power Prism Scopes, which offer fixed magnifications in a compact and practical package.

It’s worth noting the major difference between red dots and prism scopes. The former doesn’t offer any magnification, with the dot projected onto a plain lens. The latter uses a physical reticle and is not reliant on battery power unless you want illumination.

Two minds

I’ve always been in two minds about red dot sights. They are small, light, parallax-free, and useable with both eyes open. However, essentially, they are not a long-range option, with 100m about the practical limit, using an ideal dot size of 3 MOA so as not to obscure the target, whilst remaining easy to pick up and place. They excel at closer ranges and are the choice for .22 rimfire semi-autos and pistol-calibre lever-actions, as well as driven hunting, where the game is fast, close, and furious.

Best of both worlds?

Prisms, although larger than red dots, are still very compact for what they offer. Add in magnification and you have a versatile system that can take you out further with more accuracy.

Hawke offers three models. In the spec table, two heights and weights are quoted, with both high and low Weaver mounts included. On a flat-topped AR15-type rifle, you will require a higher mount, so fit the taller, but on a more conventional rifle layout, the lower does the job.

On test is the 6x36 with what Hawke describes as a 5.56 BDC reticle. The 4x24 also uses this pattern, but essentially all models are the same, only differing in weight and dimensions. The exception is the 1x15, as 1x is non-magnifying and more akin to a red dot with a reticle.

What a lot

Hawke’s comprehensive accessory package includes interchangeable high and low (co-witness) Weaver mounts (AimPoint, Micro T, footprint mounts compatible), spare base screws, a fitting and adjuster key, lens covers, Kill Flash objective filter, lens cloth, battery, and instructions.

The build is hi-strength aluminium, with a black, anodised finish. The 1 MOA turrets are open and flush-fit, offering 30 clicks per turn and four full rotations of windage and elevation. The ON/OFF, +/- rheostat is on top with a rubber cover. It offers 10 settings (eight day and two night). Parallax is 100 yards (fixed), and illumination has an auto shut-off with a ‘shake & awake’ function. At the rear is a fast-focus eyepiece. Eye relief is 2.8”, lenses are 25-layer multi-coated, and the FOV at 100m is 30ft.

BDC ret

The 5.56 BDC reticle is a combination design, with a selectable, illuminated (red) centre dot surrounded by a horseshoe for fast acquisition of targets. Just below centre at 6 o’clock is a ladder with four aiming stadia. It’s a composite design to cover .223 Rem, .308 Win, 7.62x39, and .300 AAC Blackout. In .223/.308, you zero at 200 and the four stadia can take you out to 600 in 100 yard increments. In Blackout and 7.62x39, it goes out to 400 in 75 yard intervals. It’s a compromise that depends on bullet weight/velocity, so you’ll need to get out on the ground, shoot it and note the fall of shot to see what suits.

In use

The 6x36 showed good optical quality, and the close focus is around 25 yards. The image is crisp and clear to the periphery and shows true colours. So, more the choice for PR/Service Rifle and not closer work. Here, I’d pick the 4x24, which is better for shorter ranges. The 1x15 is for those who want a reticle and not a dot and the Speed Dot is a simple design that does not need illumination, but like the other two, it’s there if required.

When you think of practical and action shooting, where speed of engagement is paramount, scoring zones a bit more generous, and ranges longer, these light and compact telescopic sights have some potential. Certainly, with the 4x24 and 6x36, the reticle allows both speed and a deal of precision, as well as bullet drop adjustment, quickly and by eye, so no turrets to dial.

Jack of most

I used the 6x36 on a Scheimsser SP9 straight-pull AR15 in 9mm, and it worked well. Changing to the low mount, I also fitted it to my .243 Win Blaser R8, and Marlin .44 Mag 1894 lever-action. Eye relief is a bit critical, so be aware.

For driven hunting, the 5.56 reticle lets you gather the target easily, with the outer ring allowing lead on a running boar, for example. I’m not saying the Prism Scope is the answer to every need, as it’s not, but for some situations, it’s a great alternative to the more conventional, and larger, telescopic sights we tend to use. What you must get your head around is that it’s fixed magnification, which could be a deal breaker. However, give this little piece of glass a thought, you might like it!