Re: New Hensoldt 3.5-26x56mm at S.H.O.T.
Yeah, I'm back from SHOT too. Zeiss is nice but I thought Schmidt rules, but now, we're gonna have some doubts....
I handled and examined the new Hensholdt at SHOT at every opportunity (at both the Zeiss and AI booths). The one year projection for consumer market is accurate according to their reps. Also, their representatives were more than aware (through subtle clues) they must meet and beat the Schmidt 5/25 market share to fully succeed with this offering.
The scope is superlative although one cannot tell too much from looking through scopes in the Venetian/Pallizo convention halls at stuff 100 yards away. However, from the standpoint of eyebox "forgiveness", it is at or above the what one experiences with the 4-15 Hensholdt. It is very nice to climb, behind the gun, quick, and be instant on with edge to edge clarity to target, and this scope will do that, easy.
Interesting enough, the Zeiss representatives did not not rule out the scope to be offered in other reticle options than that displayed. We discussed the variations and differences between schmidt p4f, gdmr g2, gen2 xr, and horus various, and it was clear from the designated representative they are aware of the shortcomings of prior 4-15 mildot genre and some emphasis would be applied towards variety in reticles.
With the 36mm tube, few if any vendors exist to accommodate that scope and Zeiss Hensholdt will undoubtedly rely on the secondary market to satisfy the users needs. It was somewhat disappointing the hear from the representative little indication of neurons fired at the issue of those of us who prefer our scopes mounted to AI's based on the dovetail mount. Small thing really though.
This scope will kick ass as long as they provide or create a modern reticle given today's state of the art. If you're worried about the $4000 projected price tag, this scope is not for you. If you are among those who realize that most of the money spent on this pursuit is in fact not on equipment, that price differential is the least of your worries.
Cheers.