Optisan EVX 3-12x44i

MTC Optics have built-up quite a reputation over the last few years, for their dynamic approach to all things optical, and with the company now part of the Diana Group, that numbers both Daystate and Brocock among their portfolio, that go-ahead ethos looks set to flourish. MTC really could boast the old adage ‘designed by shooters, for shooters’, since Gary and Sammie Cooper, the couple originally behind the brand, have been enthusiasts for many years.

Both were involved in Hunter Field Target shooting when the sport was still in its infancy, and the loyal following that the company can now boast on the competition circuit, is testament to their hard work and willingness to listen in the early years.

Looks Familiar

On test here is one of the new breed of Optisan EVX models from MTC, and they are bound to look familiar to many, since they share a very similar chassis and turrets system to some other models in the line-up. My test model is the 3-12X44i denoting variable magnification between 3x and 12x, and an illuminated reticule. As a brand new model, this example bore a sticker underneath stating prototype, reticule SFPMH10X, and here the coding denotes the 2nd focal plane (SFP) and the MH10 reticule. True values The SFPMH10X reticule used in this model is particularly impressive on the aim points come in on 10x magnification.

The turrets are outsized, lockable target-style, (similar in size to those used on other MTC models such as the Viper) and that means they are pulled up to open and are easy to adjust by hand. Once zeroed, the turret is pushed down, which locks it in position. This style of ‘tactical’ turret is undeniably popular, but the sheer width it adds to the scope does mean that a sufficiently cushioned carry case needs to be sought, for proper protection and peace of mind. To be honest, I’d prefer low profile screw-off turret covered and unless you’re competing in Field Target or some other discipline, where regular quick dialling of the turrets is required, it can be overkill. That said, super clear markings and a sturdy spindle system are reassuring in use.

Quality Glass

These scopes from MTC Optics feature an improved multicoated lens system, and I have to say the quality of the image and the glass used is most noticeable. I zeroed at 25-yards, and then followed up with a check of the re-tracking of adjustments through the grid, to test integrity. The EVX passed this aspect with flying colours.

The build shows a side parallax drum, typically on the left of the saddle, truth is many find this position far more practical and easy to operate than the older style with it on the objective! In use, this was maybe a little stiff on my example. As this control also actuates and dials the illumination system; care needs to be taken not to activate the outer dial unintentionally. The parallax dial is only marked for the minimum 10-yards, and the next distance is 100-yards, then infinity. On test, minimum focus to a super clear point set at the recommended 10x magnification was around 13-yards for me. But as mentioned, clarity overall, and edge to edge sharpness with no aberrations, was impressive.

Raison d’etre

The major selling point for the Optisan EVX range of scopes has to be the newly developed MH10 reticule. It’s actually a combination of the best points of both the original MTC designed SCB reticule, and the later AMD design, which was apparently more popular with full-bore shooters. The manufacturers state that the new reticule ‘combines the aim points of SCB with the greater range of the AMD’; and the result is a fantastic array of aim points, with perhaps the highlight being those incredibly useful floating windage dots.

On the range, I ascertained that the lowest, widest windage dot subtends around sixinches when viewed on 10x magnification at 45-yards. The others are equidistant, so give roughly 1.5-, 3-, and 4.5-inches accordingly at the same distance, with an increasing and corresponding amount of drop designed in. All this information is invaluable, and with a few hours spent on the practise range, to test specific pellet flight and trajectory against the reticule, any serious shooter will be fore-armed and ready for action. Knowledge is power as they say, and this EVX can certainly be said to empower the shooter, especially those who are prepared to do their homework in any case!

Lit or Not!

Illuminated reticules are a matter of taste, but if you favour them, then this one lights up red (all but the outer thick posts), and a neat part of the design sees alternate off stages between each of the six power levels- meaning it’s not quite so easy to leave the illumination switched on. More importantly you can have it to a pre-set level then just click back one to turn it off, then click on again, rather than having to dial up from 0! A CR2032 lithium 3v coin-style battery is supplied, and this is stored in the top of the parallax turret.

Adjusting the magnification collar, brings just enough resistance, whilst the fast focus ring at the ocular lens, is suitably firmer to twist, which means it won’t easily shift its setting accidentally. At 26oz, this scope adds a fair bit of weight to any combination, but the solidity and feel in operation, is worth a few points alone.

Conclusion

With MTC’s Viper and Connect models winning their fair share of HFT silverware, shooters have had their appetites well and truly whetted. This EVX range should add to the company’s appeal. The usual limited guarantees are here too, along with a (nitrogen purged) water, fog and shockproof body tube. All in all, another impressive scope from an increasingly popular brand.

PRICE: £279 including flip-up lens caps, sunshade and three-inch side wheel

OTHER EVX MODELS:
Optisan EVX 4-16X44F1 (mil) FFPMH16 £354
Optisan EVX 5-20X50i (mil) MH10 X £299
Optisan EVX 6-24X56i (mil) MH10X £314

CONTACT: MTC Optics., www.mtcoptics.co.uk