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Chinese scopes

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chasw View Drop Down
Optics GrassHopper
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Joined: December/03/2007
Location: Seattle USA
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote chasw Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Topic: Chinese scopes
    Posted: April/05/2009 at 10:05
It used to be all Chinese scopes were considered barely above the level of junk.  Some people still feel that way.  According to conventional wisdom, they have poor optical quality, cheapo mechanicals, "you get what you pay for", etc.  My experience has led me to believe this situation has changed.  I recently bought a recycled demo model RWS 3-9X40 scope to replace an older RWS scope that finally gave up the ghost after about 1000 shots on my RWS M48.22 springer air rifle.  The replacement model cost $50 from Umarex.  At about the same time, I needed a scope for a .22 rimfire rifle, so I bought a Leapers 5th gen 3-9X50 model for the air rifle and moved the RWS scope to the .22 rimfire.  The Leapers cost about $85 from competitor, including shipping.

After a trip to the range with the .22 rimfire and a number of squirrels bagged with the air rifle, I can report the quality of these two scopes is outstanding in every respect.  The optics are as good as my Weaver Grand Slams.  The mechanicals are OK so far, no problems.  Both scopes focus down to well under 10 meters.  My ambush set up for squirrels has a range of about 8 yards, so this is important.  The RWS is relatively small and conventional in appearance.  The Leapers looks like an expensive "sniper" scope with big target knobs and a illumination gizmo sticking out the left side of the saddle.  A big air rifle deserves a big scope, sure enough.

In summary, the best Chinese scopes feature excellent quality and at under $100 each represent outstanding value compared to more expensive scopes made in Japan, Phillipines or Thailand.  Also, I've learned the hard way, never buy a scope that doesn't have an adjustable objective focus.  For rimfire and air rifle use, this is essential.  Look for scopes that focus down to at least 10 meters or less.  A fixed focus "rimfire" scope with parallax set at 50 yards will deliver inferior focus at all ranges.  A 50mm objective is much better than a 40mm one. 

Not all Chinese scopes are of this highest quality, Tasco and BSA brands come to mind, but I can vouch for and recommend the best models from Leapers. - CW

http://www.straightshooters.com/navagationpages/scopeselections.html

http://www.kermitairgunclub.com/scopes/
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"Once upon a time, there was no snake, no scorpion, no hyena....Man had no rival."
Formerly with S4 2nd BG, 28th Infantry and 2nd Bn, 21st Infantry, APO 29 NY NY
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tahqua View Drop Down
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Joined: March/27/2006
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote tahqua Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: April/05/2009 at 11:25
I have a Leapers 6x Bug Buster on a RWS 350 Magnum. The scope is serviceable and works fine during day light. When the illumination is turned on it is useless in low light. When off it can barley get by with artificial light in darkness. I haven't used the adjustments other than to get it zeroed. They worked fine for that.
On my Webley Patriot I have a Leupold 6x42 AO that is excellent in all light conditions and the optics are very crisp and clear compared to the Bug Buster. With artificial light, shots on raccoon and oppossum are easily made in complete darkness. I have used the adjustments on this scope quite a bit and they are spot on.
I will continue to use the Leapers for the time being. Like you have said, these scopes are pretty decent for the money.

Nice thread, BTW
Doug

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Oldtrader3 View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Oldtrader3 Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: May/16/2009 at 19:33
The Chinese can make good products if their Plant Managers didn't cut every corner in assembly, testing and cheapen every component to make the last 1/10 cent per scope.  They almost always compromise quality and reliability for cheap.
 
Until that mindset changes, I will not but a Chinese optical anything.  This is especially after buying chinese nails that bend and don't hammer, etc., plus a Chinese made rotary power saw that broke the blade retainer bushing and unscrewed the saw blade shaft and off went the blade after maybe one half hour of use!!!!!  Yes, I still have both hands and both feet, thank Goodness, the blade went into the ground
CDR3
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