Optisan CP 10x 32

As a precision sport, Hunter Field Target places demands on the shooter, and being able to make clear decisions with regards to target distances and their corresponding aim points, is a major part of the equation. On test here is one of the new breed of scopes from Optisan, designed and field-tested in conjunction with top shooters in a bid to produce a product that has features that really suit an application, with less of the usual compromise.

Fixed deal

Optisan has earned a reputation for optical hardware that not only represents good value for money, but also has features that are well thought through. Their new range of CP scopes is a classic example of what this family-run business is all about.

There are several models in the new CP range and two are being imported by UK distributor, Optics Warehouse. There’s a variable mag 3-12x32 and the CP 10x32P (on test). In theory, a fixed magnification configuration means fewer moving parts, so less to go wrong, plus less opportunity for error creeping into the setup as lenses move. Of course, modern manufacturing processes are such that these concerns are fairly irrelevant, but for the record, the fixed mag option has already proved popular and successful in chalking up tournament wins.

Minimize to maximise

This model comes very well presented in an olive green carton. Stowed inside, alongside the scope, we get ABS flip-up lens caps (front and back), an instruction leaflet, info on the reticle and a 2.5” screw-on sunshade.

The configuration of these scopes is such that the profile is of an ultra-compact sight, and a major part of the thinking is to minimize parallax error, which is the bane of the HFT competitor. However, eye relief is still significant at 3.2”, so use on PCPs and recoiling guns is fine. The small 32mm objective lens means that the scope can be mounted low, to keep the sight-line low to the bore. This is an approach that is favoured by many HFT shooters.

Getting ready

As usual, with the scope mounted and ready on the rifle, the first thing to attend to is the use of the quick focus dioptre at the rear, to get the reticle in crisp focus, if it isn’t already. All seemed fine for me from the off, so the rear lens cap could then be carefully fitted.

Turrets are a low profile screw cap type, and with the stylish metal cap removed, the broad turrets can be adjusted to achieve zero. Click values are clearly marked, and represent 0.1 MRAD. The clicks themselves are pleasingly precise in feel, with reassuring resistance and an audible metallic ring as they move. Look to the left side and the parallax correction dial shows distance markings that include 10, 15, 25, 35, 50, 75, 100, 200 and 500 yards. Again, resistance in movement is just about right.

If using the scope for HFT, we are faced with targets between 8 and 45 yards. The key is being able to view all of these with an acceptable level of clarity, given that we are not allowed to adjust the scope in any way throughout the competition. With that in mind, the approach with this Optisan is to preset the side parallax dial to between 23-25 yards and then view targets through the distances. You should find that, at some point, targets will blur sightly (probably around 45 yards). This is one technique used by competitors to gauge specific distance. View a target, and if it is almost clear it could be 40 yards, yet if it is slightly blurred, then it is 45 yards. Valuable information, which of course relies on practise and doing your homework before the event.

Reticle design

The field of view with this model is less than some rivals, but that’s not in itself a problem. As for the Mil-MH10 reticle, this comprehensive design offers just about the perfect visuals. There are Mil dots and half Mils along the scale, and with a floating fine cross in the centre, precision shooting is indeed on the cards. In use, I would say that the fine cross can get lost occasionally in dark foliage, but it’s a price you pay for the fine spec. Thicker outer posts at the sides are a major help, and overall, it works pretty well. Fans of illuminated reticles will be disappointed, given that this one isn’t, yet I’m personally never that bothered. Of course, hunters who shoot in poor light would argue the toss, but just bear that in mind here.

The 2.5” sunshade will keep many happy as these have proved incredibly popular in HFT, helping to accentuate the image and keep out glare. But the sheer compact feel of these scopes means that owners of Bullpups and dedicated compact rifles, will also appreciate the relatively lightweight design, and useful, not to mention versatile specification overall.

All the usual reassurances are here too, with the Optisan CP range being shockproof, waterproof, gas-filled and fog proof, plus there’s even a 10-year guarantee to cover materials and manufacturing faults.

V-block

I carried out a basic assessment of the visual parallax error with this scope rested in a v-block and the head moved side to side to view parallax error. Alongside my old Zeiss Diavari and an MTC Genesis UL, all three fared well to be fair, and I couldn’t really conclude a winner. That crude test apart, you can’t argue with early results from the comp circuit, and whilst undeniably these scopes were designed with a major eye on the requirements of the HFT shooter, as usual, the benefits are directly transferable to the hunter out in the field. As such, they come highly recommended for a variety of applications. Neat, compact, slickly executed and fair value for sure.