Scopemate S18

› It has become very common to want to photograph or video in-scope views, and there are several different ways to do this if the optic itself doesn’t include a recording capability. Scopemate manufactures several products, and I asked for the S18 as it seemed to be the simplest device to capture what I was doing.

All the bits
The S18 comes boxed with a USB-C charging cable, an 18650 battery, and three scope collars to allow it to clamp onto any ocular body between 36 and 48mm in diameter. An Allen key is supplied, and once you have a snug fit, the S18 will slide forward for contact and twin underside screws clamp it in position.
The Scopemate uses a prism system that’s a little like a head-up display, allowing light to pass through directly into your eye from the scope as normal, with an identical reflection sent towards the internal camera. An app is available to allow the Wi-Fi to connect to your phone, and with the image displayed in real-time on screen, you can set the correct rotational alignment and operate the S18’s focussing dial to accommodate for the relevant eye relief of your optic. As well as optical quality glass with coatings, Scopemate promises the unit is 100% waterproof, although no specific rating is given.

Straightforward usability
All the setup and controls are available through the app, with three field-of-view settings to suit the exit pupil size of your scope, as well as image quality. Video recording offers 2.7K at 60fps or 1080P at 30, 60 or 120fps. There are three rubber control buttons on top which use short and long presses to control functions. So, once set up as desired, you don’t need the app unless you want to immediately review footage. Videos and stills are stored on a Micro SD card, which you will have to purchase separately.

Results
I found the unit simple to set up and use. The App seemed straightforward, and the Wi-Fi connection has yet to fail me, a factor I’m very critical of normally. It’s best to set up the side focus dial with the scope magnification you are likely to use when shooting, as the eye relief usually varies slightly as you vary the magnification on your optic, and the S18 must be manually focussed to compensate for this. Alternatively, you can set it up on mid-power and live with a slightly less crisp image at the magnification extremes, just like I do. The unit also offers 8x digital magnification if desired.
I like the simplicity and straightforward honesty of the unit, which delivers everything promised. My only critique would be to show caution with the threads on the battery compartment, which are slightly gritty. Therefore, if possible, try to charge the battery on-board using the supplied cable.

Conclusion
Overall, a worthwhile accessory, but experiment with the image and reticle focussing parameters, as they are critical to the image quality.