Yukon Advanced Optics CRAFT

The Yukon Craft series of day scopes currently offer two zoom magnification models a 1.5-6 X 42IR here on test and a 3-12 X 56IR specification. There are also three fixed magnification models in the range, a 4 X 32, 7 X 50 and 8 X 56.

I was fortunate to test the lowest zoom model which is primarily designed for firearms; the low magnification and therefore increased width and depth of field being ideal for fast moving or dangerous game. However, these same factors also allow use for hunting with an air rifle too.

Overview of Features

Although we are looking specifically at the 1.5-6 X 42IR scope, the features here are common to both variable magnification models.

Standard build qualities include a fast focus ocular adjustment, a deeply ridged zoom ring with raised hub, and 30mm body tube. The low profile windage and elevation turrets have chunky screw on cover caps. Once removed the finger friendly turret adjusters are ¼” MOA. According to the specification sheet, ‘Nitrogen filled optical channels protect against internal fogging and the fully multi-coated lenses ensure maximum light transmission, clarity and precise colour rendering. A high grade matte black anodised Duraluminium body ensures high wear resistance and anti-glare properties.’

The third turret – on the left of the central saddle – is an 11-setting rheostat dial for illuminating the central dot of the reticle in red. Unscrew the end cover on this dial and it accepts a single 3V CR2032 Lithium button type battery. The glass etched reticle is situated in the 2nd focal plane and is a modified German 4A type, having thick horizontal side and lower stadia with a thin central cross-hair that has the illuminated red dot at its intersection.

In Operation

The lenses are rated as giving 92% light transmission, a high specification claim not often seen except on expensive optics. However, they gave a very good sight picture in the lowest light conditions. Coupled with the ‘lit’ reticle, this is a very versatile scope even for the airgun hunter. At lowest magnification it also gives a very wide field of view and even wound up to the ighest 6X magnification, I could clearly focus on targets as close as 20-yds and of course beyond.

Personally I could easily find a place for this scope on a hunting combo where fast target acquisition, point and shoot tactics would be needed.

All CRAFT scopes come fitted with rubber armoured flip-up protective lens caps, designed to open and close silently so not to alert your quarry.