MTC Viper Connect SL 3-12x24

Being able to tackle targets that may appear at ranges anywhere between 8 yards 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 8-10x, which normally allows for an acceptable level of blurredness, even at the extreme near and far targets.

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 range-finding. 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 specialised 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 lower ring mounts, 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 minimises parallax error by dramatically shortening the eye relief, but viewing a target does feel strange at first.

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 familiarised myself with the basics, confidence grew and some targets began to drop out on my club HFT range.

Reticle-wise, MTC will fit this model with either of their designs: the AMD (Advanced Mil Dot) or SCB2 (Small Calibre Ballistic). Whilst MTC’s website shows the AMD with see-through dots appearing down the central stadia, the version of the reticle on my test model just featured small lines. I reckon I prefer the ultra-precise lines in any case, and the floating central cross is superb in the sight picture. For those who favour illuminated reticles, this Connect allows the central cross to be illuminated in red, to 12 levels no less.

Side Focus

Parallax can be manually set on this Viper Connect via the side adjuster knob, and the minimum parallax setting is 10 yards. If Hunter Field Target is the idea, then where you choose to set the parallax is obviously down to personal choice. A mid-point is preferable- around 25-30 yards, but individual eyesight often dictates this. I found 10x magnification and a 30 yard parallax setting, gave an optimum sight picture, usable through the ranges, but personal adjustment is but a tweak away.

One point to note whilst using this Connect, 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 circular 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.

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 addon possibilities than before.

One word of very basic warning – for the very reasons outlined above, 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!

‘Waterproof’, ‘fogproof’, ‘shockproof’, and ‘gas-filled’, always look reassuring on the spec list. Throw in a snap-down lens cap on the front lens, 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 of this Connect 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 up and down the country.

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 reticle and a sharp image. What more do we want?

PRICE: £249 including flip-up lens cap and rubber eyepiece
CONTACT: MTC Optics 01380 859572 www.mtcoptics.com