What scope do you recommend for someone who is starting out with precision shooting and is on a budget ? Interesting question, I thought. One of the alternatives that is around among the initiated shooters is the Vector Optics Marksman 3.5-10×44.
However, I hadn’t had a chance to analyze it in depth until today. What I want to understand is if it is an optic that is worth the price. This can be a very good training scope or a piece of garbage, so you have to study it a bit before deciding .
Today we are going to do a review of the Vector Optics Marksman 3.5-10×44 . We will review its main features, pros and cons and decide if it is worth buying . Let’s go!
Features Vector Optics Marksman 3.5-10×44
Let’s start with the main attributes of the product to better understand what it offers us.
Magnification and lens diameter
We have a minimum magnification of 3.5X and a maximum magnification of 10X . And a lens diameter of 44mm . Both features slightly superior to the typical standard 3-9×40 scope.
I would say that because of the quality of the glass and the amount of magnification, the level of visual range of this scope is about 200 meters . It can reach more, but I think that at that distance the optics will be effective. It is a scope for short and medium distances.
SFP (Second focal plane)
The reticle does not change in size when you zoom in or out , but remains constant at all times. We must bear in mind that the references of the reticle will only serve us when the scope is configured at its maximum magnification level (10X).
Reticle MPN-1
We have a precision reticle . It is noticeable because it includes references to make corrections . All the references are on the cross , which leaves the rest of the image clean.
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
This is a scope prepared for beginner and intermediate level precision shooting disciplines. This can be verified by the design of the reticle , the parallax setting, and the magnification levels. It is a look to train and learn discipline.
The platforms on which it can be used are diverse, being recommended the air rifles and in firearms, low and intermediate calibers.
Can it be used to compete? Yes, but maybe as you get better you need something higher.
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:
- Eye relief: 100 mm.
- Length: 325 mm.
- Weight: 650 gr.
- Tube diameter: 30 mm.
- Clicks value: 1/10 MILs.
- Elevation: 18 MILs.
- Windage: 18 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 4.5-18×50 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 | 3.5-10×44 |
| Focal plane | SFP | SFP |
| Clicks value | 1/10 MIL | 1/10 MIL |
| Elevation | 15 MIL | 18 MIL |
| Windage | 15 MIL | 18 MIL |
| Parallax | 20 yd – ∞ | 20 yd – ∞ |
| Weight | 660 gr | 650 gr |
| Length | 350 mm | 325 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 | 3.5-10×44 |
| Focal plane | SFP |
| Clicks value | 1/10 MIL |
| Elevation | 18 MIL |
| Windage | 18 MIL |
| Parallax adjustment | 20 yd – ∞ |
| Weight | 650 gr |
| Length | 325 mm |
| Price | |
| Review |
Summarizing, the 3.5-10×44 is more compact, lighter, has a greater adjustability in the turrets and is a bit more economical. In contrast, the 4.5-18×50 SFP has a higher magnification capacity and objective lens diameter.
Is it worth buying? Pros and cons
Understanding what are the characteristics of the scope, let’s analyze advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages
✅ Good price.
✅ Compact and lightweight.
✅ Includes additional accessories.
Disadvantages
⛔ Reticle without illumination.
⛔ Parallax starts at 20 yards.
⛔ Warranty of only 5 years.
Advantages in detail
It is a cheap scope, accessible to almost any pocket. This product on Aliexpress is around 175 dollars. The quality-price ratio of the scope is good, that is, the optical piece is of good quality considering the price that is being paid for it.
It is one of the lightest and most compact models in the Marksman series . The fact that a scope does not add too much weight to the rifle is something that is always appreciated, especially in freehand (unsupported) shooting.
With the purchase you get rings, a honeycomb sunshade, lens cups, interchangeable turrets and a quick adjustment pin . All of this further improves the overall perception of the price of the product.
Disadvantages in detail
There are reticles that have the possibility of being illuminated in its totality or at the point of impact. This helps to see better in low light situations or when the contrast between the image and the reticle is not good. Unfortunately this scope does not have that feature.
The first parallax mark is at 20 yards, with the minimum being about 15 yards. Sometimes in precision disciplines with air rifles, it is practiced at 10 yards and this can be a problem for this scope.
The standard warranty time for most brand name riflescopes is 10 years. This is why I consider that a 5-year warranty is a point against this telescopic sight.
Unboxing the Vector Optics Marksman 3.5-10×44
This is basically what the box of the VO Marksman 3.5-10 × 44 includes:
It includes:
- Telescopic sight
- Lens caps
- Adjustment tool
- Vector Optics rings
- Sunshade
- Quick zoom adjustment
- Cleaning cloth
- User manual
- Merchandising
General opinions Vector Optics Marksman 3.5-10×44
Vector Optics is a brand that has a good reputation in the market for cheap, but quality optics . The materials are durable, have good customer service and the value for money is very good.
Among shooters, when it comes to looking for inexpensive riflescopes it is one of the great candidates to consider. The models in the Marksman series seem to be favorites among newbies.
They are riflescopes that work well, do not break, or hurt our wallet. The level of user acceptance for this telescopic sight is very good.
Personal opinion Vector Optics Marksman 3.5-10×44
Personally, I think it is a very good alternative for the right shooter. If you are just starting out in precision shooting and are not looking to spend too much, it is a great option.
The optical quality is good for the price and it has some quite interesting features for sport shooting. The additional accessories are a nice detail that adds to the purchase.
In short, beginner and intermediate level in precision shooting, approved.
Good shots!
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