

Just like its predecessors in the NXS line when adjusting the magnification the entire magnification ring and ocular bell will rotate in unison. The left side of the scope features the side focus parallax knob and integrated Digillum button to control the scope’s illuminated reticle settings. The tan center portion is the Digilum illumination button. The 4-16X42 has a side focus parallax knob that is adjustable from 45 meters to infinity. The ZeroHold feature, when combined with the covered windage turret, means that accidentally turning the turrets and making an unwanted correction is next to impossible. Conceivably, this feature will provide more flexibility by not having to reset a zero stop when using different types or lots of ammunition or if I’m using the optic on a different rifle. When setting up per the instructions the elevation knob will also allow for 2 mils, or 5 MOA, of downward travel before you hit a final hard stop.

To make an elevation correction from there you have to press the button and turn at the same time. The little button extending out just above “0” is part of the ZeroHold system, also unique to the 4-16X42, that will lock the elevation turret in at zero. Putting 12 mils of travel on an elevation knob, even one as big as the 4-16’s is cramming it on there but the combination of the large font with audible and tactile clicks makes it easy to dial in accurate adjustments. The large font size is found on both the elevation knob and magnification ring so that it draws your eyes in and makes it a little easier to read under stress or in low light. My eyes were immediately drawn to the large font on the knob.

The turret itself is short and wide so it’s easy to get your hand on, even if your fingers are freezing. One of the unique features of the 4-16X42 ATACR F1 that makes it so versatile is the elevation turret that is specific to this model. The large font size used on the elevation knob and magnification ring makes it easier to see them in low light or under stressful situations. To me, the 4-16X range puts it in a sort of “Goldie Locks” zone of useable magnification that allows you to do anything with the optic on just about any rifle. I can run the scope up to 16X to zero or to spot impacts if need be but then run it at 10-12X for most other purposes without giving it a second thought. The first focal plane configuration also means the magnification can be scaled to the needs of the shooter and the reticle will always be accurate for holds or ranging. The 16X top end is plenty to be able to shoot long range targets while reducing the effects of mirage that can plague optics with a higher magnification. It’s the same weight as the 3.5-15 but with some added features and an additional 1X of magnification. At only 12.6″ long and weighing 30 oz sporting a 34mm main tube, I feel the ATACR F1 4-16 fits comfortably in between the specs of the 2.5-10X24 and 3.5-15X50 Nightforce scopes that it is replacing. 223 AR-15 that you may have seen in some of my other articles and videos.
#Schmidt bender 4 16x42 series#
Magnification RangeĪs mentioned before this optic was always destined for the rifle that I use for DMR and PRS Gas Gun Series matches, a. The Power Throw Lever is an optional accessory included with the scope that aids with making rapid magnification changes.
