Today we bring the analysis of a very interesting scope for beginners in precision shooting. It is, of course, the Vector Optics Marksman 4.5-18×50 SFP.
Without doing much research, the little that can be known about this scope is that it is quite inexpensive and aesthetically , at least in my opinion, pleasing to the eye .
But today we are going to analyze the Marksman 4.5-18×50 in depth . We are going to analyze main features, pros and cons, and weigh in on whether it is really worth it for the price. Let’s go!
Features Vector Optics Marksman 4.5-18×50
Let’s start by looking at the main attributes of this product to understand what it offers us.
Magnification and lens diameter
We have a scope with a good capacity for magnification ranging from 4.5X , minimum zoom, up to 18X , maximum zoom. This gives us a good level of versatility, the maximum magnification is 4 times the minimum magnification.
Regarding the range of the scope, it has a good image quality up to 350 meters. Beyond that, the image quality deteriorates quite a bit, but it must be said that that distance (350 meters) is more than enough for a basic level of precision shooting , which is the main purpose of the scope.
Lastly, we have a fairly wide objective lens diameter, 50mm . A wide lens favors more light entry, which gives us greater clarity and, ultimately, higher image quality.
SFP (Second focal plane)
For those who do not know, a second focal plane scope is one where the size of the reticle remains fixed no matter how much we increase or decrease the zoom level of the scope.
This has its advantages . One of them is that SFP is cheaper than FFP . Another advantage is that it is easier to see the reticle at low zoom levels , since its size does not decrease, it always looks the same.
The most notable disadvantage of the SFP is that the crosshair references are only valid when the magnification level of the scope is at its maximum (18X in this case). But since this is a beginner scope, it’s not a big deal.
Reticle MPN-1
This is a referenced reticle designed by Vector Optics . It is a typical second focal plane reticle , where it allows us a certain degree of corrections, but at the same time it is quite visual and easy to see, which also allows for more instinctive shots.
It should be noted that the scope only comes in MILs (NOT in MOAs) and that the reticle is NOT illuminable .
Purpose of the scope
Mainly precision shooting for training, beginners and starters. It is a scope that comes equipped with a number of features that make it suitable for precision disciplines at a basic and perhaps intermediate level.
In an effort to maintain a reasonable price, the scope does not have too fancy or complicated attributes. It is a low / mid-range product and must be judged as such.
Can it be used for hunting? Yes, but if your intention is to buy a hunting scope, I would consider other models.
Other features
As additional data for retailers, this optics also has the following attributes:
- Objective lens diameter: 50 mm.
- Eye relief: 100 mm.
- Length: 350 mm.
- Weight: 700 gr.
- Tube diameter: 30 mm.
- Clicks value: 1/10 MILs.
- Elevation: 15 MILs.
- Windage: 15 MILs.
- Shock, fog and water proof (submersible up to 1 meter).
- Parallax: 20 yards to infinity.
Comparison with other Marksman series scopes
We are going to compare it with the model closest to this which is the 6-25×50 SFP. Any characteristic that does not appear in this table is because it is the same in the 2 models.
| Image |  |  |
| Model | 4.5-18×50 | 6-25×50 |
| Focal plane | SFP | SFP |
| Clicks value | 1/10 MIL | 1/10 MIL |
| Elevation | 15 MIL | 15 MIL |
| Windage | 15 MIL | 15 MIL |
| Parallax | 20 yd – ∞ | 20 yd – ∞ |
| Weight | 660 gr | 660 gr |
| Length | 350 mm | 357 mm |
| Price | ||
| Review |
| Image | |
| Model | 4.5-18×50 |
| Focal plane | SFP |
| Clicks value | 1/10 MIL |
| Elevation | 15 MIL |
| Windage | 15 MIL |
| Parallax adjustment | 20 yd – ∞ |
| Weight | 660 gr |
| Length | 350 mm |
| Price | |
| Review |
| Image | |
| Model | 6-25×50 |
| Focal plane | SFP |
| Clicks value | 1/10 MIL |
| Elevation | 15 MIL |
| Windage | 15 MIL |
| Parallax adjustment | 20 yd – ∞ |
| Weight | 660 gr |
| Length | 357 mm |
| Price | |
| Review |
As you may have seen, they are very similar alternatives. The 4.5-18×50 is a bit cheaper and the 6-25×50 has a bit more maximum magnification.
Is it worth buying? Pros and cons
Having already analyzed features, let’s move on to mention the good and bad of this scope .
Advantages
✅ Very good price.
✅ Precision disciplines.
✅ Includes additional accessories.
Disadvantages
⛔ Reticle without illumination.
⛔ Parallax starts at 20 yards.
⛔ Warranty of only 5 years.
Advantages in detail
Available for sale on Aliexpress at approximately 185 dollars. In itself, it is an inexpensive scope, but the important thing is the value for money. For the value, I really believe that we are getting a good quality and durability part. Good value for money .
It is a scope that comes prepared for precision target shooting. It has everything ideal for the beginner to learn the essentials in the correct use of a telescopic sight:
- Elevation and windage turrets.
- Parallax adjustment.
- Referenced reticle.
Finally, mention that the package includes additional accessories such as:
- 30 mm rings for mounting.
- Honeycomb sunshade.
- Interchangeable turrets.
That add positives points to the purchase , since they end up saving us money .
Disadvantages in detail
As a first negative point, mention that it would have been interesting to add an illuminable reticle to the scope . Although, this is not essential for precision shooting practice, but it is very useful in shots where there is little contrast between the image and the reticle.
Then the parallax starts at 20 yards (17 yds to be exact). This can be uncomfortable, especially for air rifle users, where they practice a lot at 10 yards.
Many people may think that a 5-year warranty is more than enough. However, here I am going to get a little picky and say that, in my opinion, the riflescopes should have a minimum warranty of 10 years. I’d say it’s the industry standard.
Unboxing the Vector Optics Marksman 4.5-18×50
So you can see what is included in the box, we bring you a video courtesy of Vector Optics:
Do not forget to activate the automatic translation of the subtitles in the video.
General opinions Vector Optics Marksman 4.5-18×50
From what I could see in forums and video reviews of this scope , in general the level of acceptance is very good . Many users are satisfied with the purchase and the scope features.
Always understanding that it is a mid-range scope and, as such, it has its limitations. But there is a lot of evidence that supports the good image of this product.
Personal opinion Vector Optics Marksman 4.5-18×50
Personally, I think it is a very good alternative for precision shooters who are starting in this discipline , and who need an inexpensive scope to help them learn and grow within this sport.
I also think that, despite having its limitations, it is quite complete for the price and does not lack anything considered “essential”.
In short, for the right shooter, I would recommend it because of its good value for money.
Good shots!
The Shooter Community
Join our online community of forum members , where you too can participate in discussions about hunting and shooting in general. Any bona fide shooter is invited to join and have a say in our forum. Ask questions, ask for opinions, share photos and videos on The Shooter’s Forum :
If you do not want to participate in the Forum, encourage yourself to be part of our community on social networks , so that you do not miss any of our news: