Nikko Stirling 4 – 16 X 44 and 6 – 24 X 56 Target Master Scopes

There are only four models in Nikko Stirling’s re-vamped Target Master range and they come in the main with either Mil-Dot or their own LRX reticule. The higher magnification models are also available with the new FT reticule, so you’ve got more options than it might first appear!

For the test Highland Outdoors (the UK distributors) supplied a 4 – 16 X 50 with LRX reticule and a 6 – 24 X 56 with Mil Dot. At a later date I hope to test the more Field Target oriented 10 – 50X model with the FT grid reticule, but for now I feel these two scopes more than capably illustrate what the Targetmasters are all about.

All models feature 30mm, one-piece, alloy body tubes and first impressions are of good build quality and useful features. The fast-focus eyepiece is quite long and the magnification ring with a raised hub is easy to operate and smooth across the range. Eye relief is a relatively lengthy yet practical 3.5 - 4” which will suit most users, so no worries for those shooting recoiling air rifles or firearms.

Saddle Up

Moving forward brings us to the saddle, which is a familiar design as it shows the large, open, target-style turrets that feature a pull up/push down locking. On the left as ever is the side focus drum (parallax) which combines the rheostat for the illuminated reticule. Power is supplied by the usual CR2032 button-type Lithium battery.

The 1/8” MOA turrets offer 50-clicks per turn and 16 full revolutions. This may seem a lot but considering the precise MOA this ensures you don’t run out of adjustment for setting zero so no need to find adjustable mounts. Movement is positive and easily heard and the locking system is strong, secure and easy to operate. Once you have set zero and locked the turrets in place, you can return the settings on the numbered dial to zero to provide a reference point.

This is achieved by using a coin or screwdriver to loosen the slot head screw on the ends of the turret one full turn. So allowing the outer vernier dial to revolve freely without affecting your setting, once set, nip up the screw and all is solid.

Focus, Focus

The side-parallax is marked for 10, 25, 50, 100, 200 and 500 yards and 8. From 10-25-yds there’s room to mark a few other ranges to suit your eye, but for those wanting a more precise and faster adjuster there’s an optional 100mm or 150mm side-wheel available. This slips over the raised lugs of the focus drum and sits securely in place by two grub screws (Allan key supplied). Both the larger ‘wheels’ are left blank so you can mark them to suit your particular eyesight. On the biggest the FT boys will certainly like this, as a much more tailored set of ranging indicator lines can be marked on the outer rim - whatever best suits the individual shooter.

Nikko Stirling tells us the lenses use ETE Mirolux coatings, which allow maximum light transmission to give a very high level of clarity and contrast. Claims for lens coating often mention light transmission and clarity, but interestingly this time contrast. This intrigued me so much I purposely looked through the scope with ‘photographer eyes’ and colour contrast did seem to be better than other comparable price optics.

During testing I purposely sighted in on a rabbit against a dark backdrop of earth and under a hedge. I found there did seem to be a more defined image outline of the quarry in these situations so in effect this can be classed as contrast.

So what’s the verdict? Well, without doubt the zoom rings and adjusters are easy to use due to their design, but the one colour (red) option of illumination of the reticle to some may be a drawback and on the higher brightness settings (from 8 power upwards) there is some blurring of the reticule and a definite internal glare as you reach the highest setting of the 11-position rheostat control.

However, having said that, Nikko Stirling have undoubtedly come up trumps in delivering what many modern hunters want from a scope and are now coming to expect. As for reticule design, looking back at my past reviews will surely have regular readers know which will suit them best and as we all have our own personal preferences. I’ll say no more on that except whichever model you choose you are getting a very high quality, well featured optic that looks solid, is robust and gives a superb sight picture… and given the pedigree should prove very reliable.

For: Typical NS quality and innovation

Against: Not a lot

Verdict: A good design made better

PRICE: £249.95p / £285.95p

OPTIONAL LARGE SIDE WHEEL: 100mm £20.02p / 150mm £28.07p