Today was the opening day of SHOT Show. Very excited to see what's new, who's new, and what exciting products are being shown for the first time. As we have in the past we are looking to expand our offerings this year, if there's something great to add. Looking forward to what this week will bring.
2018 was a very interesting year for us. We added Athlon,to the stable of brands that we carry. We expanded greatly with Hawke, Meopta, Steiner & Schmidt & Bender bringing you special deals and hard to find product.
Day 1:
My first meeting this year was with Athlon Optics. We first started carrying Athlon at the end of 2017 and they have been one of the fastest growing brands out there. Big in the Tactical Scope arena. As I reported last year, they offer a line of both Hunting and Tactical Riflescopes, Binoculars, Red-Dots and Spotting Scopes. The interesting thing about Athlon is that they have many parallel products to other very popular brands and manage to offer their items for 20-40% lower priced than the competition without cutting corners. Great quality, great customer service, great variety of offerings and lower prices. All in all impressive.
They had some great new products to unveil.
A Cronus 10x50 Laser Rangefinder Binocular. Yes, 10x50, 2000 yard unit for $1,299.99. These actually showed up at the store the day before I headed off to SHOT. I didn't have a chance to give a good look as I was pressed for time, however, after checking them out here I feel confident in recommending them. Very bright and the buttons are perfectly placed for ease of operation.
Cronus 15x56 Binocular priced at only $699.99. No these are not Swarovski SLC's, however, there's NOTHING in a 15x56 available near this price that's as nice as these binoculars. They come with both a hard travel case as well as a soft case, and include the tripod adapter. Nice touch
Midas 10x25 Compact Binocular which is quite a nice little pocket/glove compartment bino for only $169.99. These arrived into us a couple of weeks ago and we passed them around the store and all the guys were pretty impressed with them.
They added to the Cronus BTR 4.5-29×56 APRS1 FFP IR MIL their floating dot reticle which has been available and become quite popular in the Ares ETR. These too have started to arrive and we have been shipping them as quickly as we can get them in.
Midas BTR Gen 2 Riflescopes in 1-6x24 and 4.5-27x50. These have nicer Turrets than the original Midas BTR's.
We discussed accessories and Athlon will be releasing rings and Cantilever mounts later this year.
Stop #2 of the morning was with Steiner. Last year at SHOT I had a great meeting with Steve, my Steiner point person and we worked on a program to expand our business working together. This worked out wonderfully. Well, as the saying goes, no good deed goes unpunished (speaking selfishly). Steve was promoted to VP of Operations for Steiner/Burris and we no longer work together. Today I met Derick, for the 1st time. We started working together back in November and I was glad to finally be meeting him and putting a face to the voice and many e-mails.
Steiner announced a host of new products for 2019:
Steiner Military series scopes: the M7Xi and M8Xi, and the amazing M7Xi IFS. "The IFS is the Intelligent Firing Solution that pairs the scope with a built-in ballistic calculator and customizable display, all connected via smartphone app. Transfer data like temperature, air pressure, inclination, wind drift and more directly to the scope eyepiece.
The M7Xi is also available without the IFS option. The 7x zoom gives the operator more flexibility and higher resolution at all distances. The scope builds and improves on the incredibly solid tradition of the M5Xi military scopes that are now in service by military units and tactical competitors worldwide. Available soon with three reticle choices, including the MSR2." These scopes have solid turrets, great glass, smooth focus and zoom. Priced very fairly. I think they have a winner.
IFS looks like early Summer delivery
7xi looks like possibly May delivery
8xi might or might not be this year
DRS1X
"The ultimate CQB sight - lightweight, compact and simple to use. The reticle has three distinct modes, making it extremely effective at extremely close ranges out to significant distances. Perfect for tactical operations or home defense".
Predator AF
"The new Predator AF binoculars come in two sizes (10x42 and 8x30), and there are two main things to point out: the porro prism design allows the binos to remain constantly in focus at any distance over 20 yards. No fumbling with a focus wheel while tracking fast moving game. And they come with Steiner's proprietary CAT™ lenses - it's a special coating that makes game pop from the background. Nothing unseen, nothing escapes".
BluHorizons
"These binoculars, 8x22 and 10x26, have a neat trick that makes them perfect for travel: they automatically adjust to light conditions, giving maximum clarity in bright conditions. No shimmer or glare from water, sand, snow or sky. No squinting, no guessing or eye strain. Just a perfect image. The two compact sizes makes them easy to pack, and they have our Heritage lifetime warranty". We got these into the store a few weeks ago and they are very impressive compacts.
Next stop Meopta and my good buddy Randy. Randy took over Meopta Sport Optics right before SHOT last year and to say I thought this was awesome is an understatement. You see Randy had been with Nikon for a couple of decades. We always wanted to work together, however, Nikon has a corporate policy that they will not sell "blood sport gear" to Nikon photo dealers so we could not buy riflescopes from Nikon. Now that Randy moved to Meopta we got down to business. Randy revamped the pricing structure and we had our best year ever with Meopta. As I am sure you've seen we have been offering some exceptional opportunities on their Riflescopes and Binoculars.
They announced the Optika HD binocular line. Available in 8x42 HD and 10x42 HD, "these lightweight, rugged, magnesium-alloy binoculars are encased in a newly designed shock-proof, rubber-armored exterior for a modern look and feel. The advanced HD lenses, combined with phase-correction and dielectric coatings, deliver incredible brightness, superior color fidelity, edge-to-edge sharpness and increased contrast, allowing hunters to see better in low light. The twist-up eyecups on the Optika HD binoculars are metal with a soft rubber exterior, making them extremely durable and comfortable while eliminating the risk of breakage in the field. Like all Meopta binoculars, the Optika HD series is nitrogen purged and fully sealed for fogproof and waterproof performance in the most demanding conditions. The Meopta Optika HD binoculars offer hunters, shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts a high-performance, rugged, European binocular at an exceptional price point,” For only $299.99 for the 10x42 and $289.99 for the 8x42's these will be a go to glass for many folks. I was very impressed. Looking like a May delivery
Optika6 line of premium riflescopes. "This newest Meopta riflescope series features a 30mm tube, 6x zoom, zero-reset turrets and advanced MeoBright lens coating that delivers edge-to-edge clarity and exceptionally bright, sharp images.
The Optika6 Shooting series is available with numerous first focal plane reticle options, including new DichroTech reticles, which feature battery-free illumination in any light conditions.
The Shooting series is available in the following models: 1-6x24, 3-18x50, 3-18x56, 4.5-27x50. There is also a 34mm 5-30x56 model with ED glass to eliminate chromatic aberration at high magnification. All Optika6 Shooting series riflescopes feature rubber-armored target turrets for a non-slip grip.
The Optika6 Hunting series is available with numerous reticle options in the second focal plane, including new DichroTech reticles, in the following models: 1-6x24, 2.5-15x44, 3-18x50, 3-18x56 and 4.5-27x50. The Optika6 Hunting scopes with capped turrets feature rubber-armored metal caps for the perfect combination of durability and functionality".
The Optika6 Shooting and Hunting scopes also come with illuminated reticle options and windage and elevation adjustments in either Mil or MOA.
All Meopta Optika6 riflescopes are made of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy and feature:
- One-piece tube design
- Zero-Reset setting for quick return to zero
- Zoom ring with a multi-position throw lever
- Rear-facing zoom display for easy viewing of power setting from behind the scope
- Locking turrets
These scopes are well made, come with flip caps and a throw lever and priced between $499.99 - $899.99. These will be taking sales away from MANY other companies I am sure. Also looking at a May delivery date
Meopta also announced a straight Meopro HD 80 Spotting scope, coming in April
From Meopta I headed on over to Hawke. Hawke in an English company very big in the AirGun world as all their riflescopes are AirGun certified. They have made great strides the past few years and have some GREAT offerings priced below what you'd expect. We picked up a couple of fantastic deals:
Panorama 5-15x50 AO 10x 1/2 MIL DOT #15140 for only $229.99
&
Panorama 6-18x50 AO 10x ½ MIL DOT #15150 also for only $229.99
We have sold so many Hawke FFP scopes in the last few months, due to the quality and reasonable price, that I think if you start asking around you'll know someone using and loving Hawke.
Next up, which for the 1st time in all my years of going to SHOT, I was excited to go to Bushnell. Reason being is we have had the same, dead from the toes up, sales rep. for a couple of decades and in 2018 I started working with the head of sales and now maybe we will be able to get in on some of the deals and opportunities that my old rep could never seem to offer. Unfortunately, Marty did not make it to SHOT so some of the wind came out of my sails. I met with Tom and I think we had a good meeting. He needs to meet with some folks at Bushnell and get back with me to work out a program. More as it develops..
Down stairs to see Tim over at Carson. We get binocular tripod adapters and Universal digiscope adapters from them.
I found a very cool new item that I think is a great addition to what we carry, their MonoPix MP-842IS
This is an 8x42 Monocular and Smartphone Adapter bundle. The monocular is 8x42mm with fully coated lenses. The included smartphone adapter fits most smartphones, including dual-camera phones. Simply attach the monocular to the smart phone adapter and your smartphone. There are no additional parts needed. Take pictures and videos and use as a great Monocular.
I've talked with Thomas at Vanguard a couple of times but never really gotten Vanguard fever. I have read some very positive reviews on some of the birding sites about their binoculars and spotting scopes so I made sure to meet with them. Their Riflescopes look good. Nothing really original, however, our discussion revealed them claiming superior quality through and through to the other mfg's similar products and a slightly lower price. I checked out a 15-45x60 spotting scope that is only $249.99 that looked surprisingly sharp and bright.
Their Tripods are quite nice offering some high quality heads and priced extremely competitively.
Last stop today was Swarovski. Great friends over here so I was excited to see them. I gave a heads up on their new products in my Off To Shot post last week....
CL Companion NOMAD 8x30 (leather armoring and bag in wooden box)
CL Companion NOMAD 10x30 (leather armoring and bag in wooden box)
ATX Interior Spotting Scope (includes special tripod head and tripod)
CCT Compact Carbon Tripod - legs only
PCT Professional Carbon Tripod - legs only
CTH Compact Tripod Head
PTH Professional Tripod Head
CCT Compact Carbon Tripod and CTH Compact Tripod Head
PCT Professional Carbon Tripod with PTH Professional Tripod Head
Tripod Plate for PTH
DS 5-25x52 - 4A-I Digital Riflescope
Z5 2.4-12x50 - PLEX
Z5 2.4-12x50 - BRH
Z5 2.4-12x50 - BT-PLEX
Z5 2.4-12x50 - BT-4W
The new Z5's are quite nice and priced well, starting at $1,099.00. IMO a 2.4-12x50 is a perfect hunting scope for the majority of folks. They've actually already started shipping these and we've sold a few. Great scope.
Their tripods have always been quite popular and these I am sure will be as well. Extremely well made and perfect for field work.
The DS 5-25x52-4A-I Digital Riflescope is a marvel of engineering for a very niche market. With a 40mm tube and a price of $4,499.00 it obviously is not for everyone. It is as state of the art as any other riflescope in this room, and that's saying something as EVERYTHING is in this room. If you're a high tech/gadget/latest and greatest kinda shooter then this is for you for sure.
"This product will highlight the optical features of a conventional rifle scope and combine the technology of digital targeting to form an impressive, complete device.
The new dS shows not only the correct aiming point, but also the key ballistic data in the head-up display without any distraction and in real time. The key benefit for hunters is that the correct aiming point will be displayed automatically in the rifle scope. With the press of a button, the dS measures the exact distance to the target, having factored in the magnification setting, air pressure, temperature, and angle. This takes into account the personal ballistic data for your firearm/ammunition combination.
The windage mark intervals are calculated based on the distance measured, the wind speeds set, and the ballistic data.
The display shows the distance information, bullet energy, and other features in a high-resolution head-up display that clearly provides you with all the hunting data that can contribute to a successful hunt.
The scope requires networking with a smartphone. Exchanging data is simple and straightforward via the Bluetooth® interface. The personal data supplied when sighting in the target are input directly into the app and transmitted immediately".
Remembering from years past how great it felt on my dried out throat I stopped on the way back to my room for some ice cream. I switched things up this year and went to the Ben & Jerry's Scoop Shop. Got a milk shake, 2 parts Cookies and Cream and 1 part Chocolate. Great choice.
OK, Day 1 done. Tomorrow is another day
Day Two:
I'm excited about today. We recently became a Sig Sauer dealer and I had my 1st opportunity to meet with them and see all the products. More later on down the page on this
1st meeting today was with my friend Paul over at Kowa. In 2018 we sold more of their little TSN-553 & TSN-554 spotting scopes than all other compact spotters combined. I was excited to see Paul and find out what was happening. It is Kowa's 125th year in business an they will be offering new product the 2nd half of the year. I'll have detail's in the Spring. I arranged for some great demo products so give a call next week and we can hook you up.
Remembering the floor plan from last year I made my next appointment with Stefano over at Konus as their booth is fairly close to Kowa and as I get older I try to think ahead when making appointments so I am not running all over the show. Let's face it, I'm not as young as I once was
Anyway.... A few years ago we signed up with Konus when we realized that they offer an exceptional value in quality optics. No, these are not top of the line optics, however, in the sub $400.00 arena of Spotting Scopes and Riflescopes they are the go to. They've got great riflescope offerings below $150/$200. that have good glass, etched reticles and a vast selection to choose from. Before you turn your nose up to lower priced optics you should check some of their glass out. It took us years to pick an entry level brand because I'm a glass snob and Konus is priced way below what you'd expect once you check out their products.
They have a very cool new scope that has 10 built in reticles that you change/choose electronically.
"A worldwide exclusivity of Konus and the result of a decade long project of electronic engineering, this one-of-a-kind model is taking advantage of a patented LCD technology that will let you browse through 10 interchangeable reticles for long range shooting, intermediate use, tactical and hunting. This is therefore the most technologically advanced and the most versatile scope in the market, a true quantum leap that is finally bringing the optical industry into the 21st Century."
- 10 INTERCHANGEABLE RETICLES
- 4X-16X ZOOM POWER
- ONE PIECE 30MM ALUMINUM TUBE
- LOCKING TACTICAL TURRETS
- 1/10 MIL ADJUSTMENTS
- WATERPROOF, FOGPROOF, SHOCKPROOF
- FULLY MULTI-COATED OPTICS
TECHNICAL DETAILS:
Magnification x Ø objective: 4-16x44
Reticle: 10 Interchangeable reticles
Field of view at 100MT/YDS: 6.8m/22.6ft at 1x • 2.89m/9.5ft at 16x
Weigh: 663gr - 23.39oz
Length: 333mm - 13.1"
Eye Relief mm: 85mm/3.3" at 4x - 78mm/3" at 16x
Exit pupil mm: 11mm at 4x - 2.7mm at 16x
Click value mm@100 mt/in@100yds : 1/10 MIL (10mm)
Adjusting range 100mt/yds: 1.6m / 63.7"
Mounting Length mm/inches: 160mm / 6.29"
We also picked up a couple of great deals for you. Their KonusPro 1.5-5x32mm Rifle Scope Aim-Pro Reticle 1" Tube 1/4 MOA Matte Finish #7230 for only $49.99. This will be on our site in the next day or 2.
& KonusPro-M30 1.5x-6x44mm - Engraved 30 30 with Dual Illuminated Center Dot #7285 reduced from $234.99 to only $129.99
Right down the aisle is my next appointment with ScopeCoat. Nothing fancy. Neoprene covers for your riflescope while it's mounted. A great idea to keep your investment protected for under $30.00. They make these covers for a ton of products, however, we concentrate on riflescope covers.
OK, upstairs to my meeting with my buddies at Leica. Lot's of great discussions today.
Let's start with what could be the hit of SHOT Show, their new Leica CRF-2800.com Laser Rangefinder. This is the first dedicated compact laser rangefinder capable of precise distance measurements up to 2,800 yards/2,600 meters and benefits from easy smartphone programming via Bluetooth and the new Leica Hunting App. This means Leica ABC® Ballistics can be customized directly through a smartphone as well as a Kestrel Elite weather meter.
The Leica Rangemaster CRF 2800.COM offers hunters and long-range shooters three ballistic outputs in addition to the measured distance. Depending on the ballistic data required, when using Leica’s ballistic program, the CRF2800.COM provides either hold over value in inches, centimeters or comeups in MOA or MILs to 1,000 yards, or equivalent horizontal range (EHR) to 1,200 yards/1,100 meters. When connected with the Kestrel 5700 Elite with Applied Ballistics, the CRF2800.COM will display both elevation and windage corrections as far as the range finder can read. Data is shown on the integrated LED display, which automatically adjusts to ambient lighting conditions. The scan mode measures environmental conditions and target distance every 0.3 seconds. Between 10 and 200 yards, the CRF2800.COM displays distance to the tenth of a yard, an especially useful feature for archers. Thanks to its compact size and weight, it can easily be carried in a shirt pocket.
The menu of the CRF has been extended to include a Bluetooth menu (BT) with new settings:
• APP (Connection to a smartphone)
• LAT (Latitude, Connection to a Kestrel Elite Wind meter)
• OFF (Bluetooth off)
Combining the best ranging capability, Applied Ballistics through a Kestrel wind meter, ease of use, Bluetooth technology and compact design, no other compact range finding solution comes close.
Also, so happy with our continued discussions about customer service. Leica has really stepped up in this area, as I am sure you'll agree. They made a commitment last year and damn if they didn't come through. Great job.
Last minute call got me a meeting with my friend Javier at PRG Defense. He used to be with Flir and reached out to me and said we needed to get together so I can check out PRG's offerings so upstairs I go. Glad I did. They have some amazing Thermal Optics. A few that stuck out:
PVS-14 Monocular Night Vision Device
Automatic brightness control protects the operator from bright lights in the field of view.
• Optional autogating adjusts the brightness of the image tube to achieve the highest quality image resolution under varying light conditions.
• Compact, rugged, and waterproof.
• Hand-held or helmet-mounted for hands free usage.
• Manual gain control.
• Ergonomic, simple, easy to operate controls
Python TS25-384S
High-performance thermal imaging monocular
Advanced Shutterless technology
Durable and lightweight design
Easy and intuitive operation
Manually adjustable eyepiece and objective lens
Wide variety of color palettes
Multiple reticle patterns
Digital zoom: 1x, 2x, 4x
Wireless remote control
Waterproof
Integrated MIL-STD-1913 rails for accessories
External Wi-Fi module
Optional video recording
Powered by two standard CR123A batteries
External power supply via micro USB
Off to Schmidt & Bender This was an interesting meeting. I had lot's to discuss as 2018 saw our best year ever with them, which in turn was my most frustrating year ever. Delayed deliveries, communication brakedowns but on the flip side of the coin some fantastic opportunities that we made available to you. We had a good discussion on product, customer service and such. I am sure this year will be a great year with them. I saw their new EXOS 3-21x50 "The 3-21x50 Exos is equipped with a second focal plane reticle suitable for daylight and convinces at short distances for the ephemeral shot as well as for the precise long-range hunting shot. The patented "Minimum Deviation System" ensures that any possible deviation from the point of impact is minimal. This makes the new Exos an ideal companion and a real all-rounder for all hunting situations", and their new Grid Reticle. There's a reason S&B is S&B. Nice additions to their always growing line.
Next up was Leupold. 2018 was not a strong year for us and Leupold. No reason in particular as personally I feel that the Leupold VX-Freedom line of riflescopes is a great replacement of the VX-1 and VX-2 lines at a VERY affordable price. As I wrote in my Off to SHOT report Leupold announced LOTS of great new product for 2019......
172955 VX-6HD 2-12x42 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 FireDot Tri-MOA Sitka
173209 VX-6HD 3-18x44 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 FireDot Tri-MOA Sitka
171701 VX-5HD 4-20x52 (34mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Duplex
171700 VX-5HD 4-20x52 (34mm) T-ZL3 Side Focus TMOA
172754 VX-5HD 7-35x56 (34mm) T-ZL3 Side Focus TMOA
173221 VX-5HD 7-35x56 (34mm) T-ZL3 Side Focus Impact-14 MOA
174954 Freedom - RDS 1x34 (34mm) Red Dot 1.0 MOA Dot w/Mount
176533 Freedom - RDS 1x34 (34mm) Red Dot BDC 1.0 MOA Dot w/Mount
177156 DeltaPoint Pro Reflex Sight 2.5 MOA Dot with AR Mount
176284 Service Rifle FX-4.5HD 4.5x24 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 Leupold Fine Duplex Competition Scope
176445 Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44 (35mm) M1C3 FFP PR-1MOA
176446 Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44 (35mm) M1C3 FFP Illum. PR-1MOA
176447 Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44 (35mm) M1C3 FFP Impact 60
176811 Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44 (35mm) M5C3 FFP Illum. Tremor 3
176448 Mark 5HD 5-25x56 (35mm) M1C3 FFP PR-1MOA
176449 Mark 5HD 5-25x56 (35mm) M1C3 FFP Illum. PR-1MOA
176450 Mark 5HD 5-25x56 (35mm) M1C3 FFP Impact 60
174545 Mark 5HD 7-35x56 (35mm) M5C3 FFP H59
174546 Mark 5HD 7-35x56 (35mm) M5C3 FFP CCH
174548 Mark 5HD 7-35x56 (35mm) M1C3 FFP Impact 60 MOA
176124 Mark 5HD 7-35x56 (35mm) M5C3 FFP Illum. TMR
176594 Mark 5HD 7-35x56 (35mm) M5C3 FFP TMR
177332 Mark 5HD 7-35x56 (35mm) M5C3 FFP Tremor 3
177333 Mark 5HD 7-35x56 (35mm) M5C3 FFP Illum. Tremor 3
177187 LTO Tracker 2 Thermal Viewer
177188 LTO Tracker 2 HD Thermal Viewer
176969 BX-2 Alpine 8x42mm Roof Shadow Gray Binocular
176971 BX-2 Alpine 10x42mm Roof Shadow Gray Binocular
176973 BX-2 Alpine 10x52mm Roof Shadow Gray Binocular
176975 BX-2 Alpine 12x52mm Roof Shadow Gray Binocular
176288 BX-T 10x42mm Tactical Black Tactical Binocular
176289 BX-T 10x42mm Tactical Black Mil-L Tactical Binocular
176769 RX-950 Laser Rangefinder Black
172384 RBX-3000 TBR/W Laser Rangefinding Binocular 10x42 Gray OLED Selectable
I think that the Freedom - RDS 1x34 (34mm) Red Dot 1.0 MOA Dot w/Mount will be a great seller. It comes with the mount, Firedot display with 8 brightness levels, auto shut off and motion sensor turn on. Built extremely well too. Nice addition.
Now comes the meeting I've been looking forward to, Sig Sauer. I certainly was not disappointed. They explained the BDX System (Ballistic Data Xchange) and it's intergration. Great technology. In a nutshell, their rangefinders will communicate with their riflescopes. They even package Rangefinders and their Riflescopes to offer a lower price. Nice. The riflescopes are quality and priced below what you'd expect.
We also brought in more 4-24x50 Tango6 scopes for only $1,399.99, reduced from $2,299.99 and Whiskey3 3-9X40MM 1" SFP Triplex Illuminated - 0.25 MOA Adj scopes for only $199.99, reduced from $299.99
I ended my day with a visit to my friend Mike Jensen at GPO. In their 4th year, this company can no longer be considered a start up. Mike's brought some great binoculars and riflescopes at an affordable price with high quality. He did not make the foolish mistakes some other "new" companies do, trying to be everything to everyone and have way too many offerings. In all GPO has about a dozen different Binocular offerings, less than 10 Hunting scopes and less than 10 Tactical scopes. All these are very well designed and offer top quality at a reasonable price.
I arranged with them to allow us to offer 20% off, through February, on:
All Passion ED 8x32 and 10x32 Binoculars in your choice of Deep Green, Desert Sand or Dark Earth Brown
Passion 3X 4-12x42 - Plex Riflescope
&
R380 6-18x50 MOA Riflescope
Way too many meetings today. I enjoyed the milkshake so much yesterday that I went that route again today. 2 parts Coffee Bean 1 part Vanilla. So refreshing.
More tomorrow
Day 3:
I like to try not to make any meetings for the last day (well my last day as I can only be here for 3 days) however, I was so busy the last two days that I still had a few important appointments.
My day began over at Minox. I got to my meeting to find out my friend Thornston from Germany is no longer with the company. The Nat'l sales mgr who I had a meeting with also is no longer with the company. Thankfully Christian, who I've known for many years, was there. We met and discussed us getting a regular supply of ZP5 MR4's as well as access to demos and samples (list to follow).
My next stop was over at Burris. We have never been a big Burris dealer. I think mostly because we don't have anyone to work with other than this great girl in customer service. I was meeting with Phil, who I have spoken with a few times but never met before. What a great guy. We discussed many things, including what scopes are worthy to carry.
Eliminator Laserscope
Xtreme Tactical XTR III
RT6 1-6x24's
Veracity Scopes
We'll be working closely together and will be posting developments soon.
After this I went and met with Nikon to try and see if we, as a Nikon photo dealer, could also become an official Nikon Sports Optics dealer. Once again, I was informed that Nikon has not changed their policy and as a photo dealer we are not permitted to be a hunting dealer. Long story. We carry their Binoculars and LaserForce Rangefinder binoculars.
We can special order any Nikon riflescopes, etc for you so if you are interested please call to discuss it.
I have been speaking with Pulsar lately so I set up an appointment to meet with them. Their products seem impressive so we are now set up with them. We will have to do some researcg on what units to carry, however, in the mean time if you're interested in their products please give us a call.
A few folks have been asking about Revic so my next stop was with them. I checked out their PMR 428 4-28x56mm riflescope. All I can say is, WOW. Great quality. Totally state of the art.
"Distance adds variables. When you’re shooting at a target that’s more than a mile away, obtaining a targeting solution becomes extremely complex. The best way to ensure a satisfying hit is to simplify the process, and that’s exactly what the PMR 428 does. The PMR is a whole new way of looking at long-range shooting. When you dial the turret, it calculates the bullet trajectory utilizing a full suite of sensors and an advanced ballistic algorithm–and it calculates the solution in real time. Just dial the elevation turret until the display shows the target range. It’s as simple as that!"
It's an afternoon of new possibilities for me. Off to Nightforce I went. We have been attempting to open with Nightforce for a few years. I met with the wonderful lady who I have been speaking with for these past few years. She arranged a meeting with the man with the power to pull the trigger (pun intended) and we had a great chat. I should know shortly the outcome of this. Keep your fingers crossed. I'll let you know.
While waiting for my NF meeting I walked into the Tangent booth and we got to talking. Next thing I know I am in the meeting room, signing up with Tangent and placing an order for their 5-25x56mm Model TT525P Gen 3 scope. They will be a few months before arriving, however, we are accepting pre-orders for these 5-25x56mm Model TT525P Gen 3 scope so give a call if you'd like one.
"Tangent Theta 5-25x56mm model TT525P Rifle Telescope is an extreme-range precision sighting instrument for professional marksmen. Designed for heavy field use, Tangent Theta’s industry-leading development team has used their extensive experience to optimize and refine it for unfailing ruggedness, mechanical precision and unsurpassed image quality. Elevation and windage mechanisms exhibit precise tactile response and feature a truly TOOL-LESS RE-ZERO® procedure.
Tangent Theta rifle telescopes are built in Canada and are specifically designed and function-tested for long lifecycles in the harshest of environmental conditions"
56mm objective lens
34mm main tube
eleven reticle illumination settings
side parallax adjustment
TOOL-LESS RE-ZERO® feature (patent pending)
non-translating knobs with elevation zero-stop
double-turn elevation with rev indicator
5-25x magnification range
lockable rapid adjusting diopter
I could not wait any longer, my throat was raw from talking all day so off I went to the gelato place and got a Vanilla Bean and Coffee shake. AHHHHHH
My last appointment was with Zeiss
Always great seeing my friends Barton & Tom and catching up. We discussed all types of things, including the new releases:
CONQUEST V4 3-12x44 Z-Plex Reticle (#20) - Capped Elevation Turret - .25 MOA - Fixed Parallax
CONQUEST V4 3-12x44 ZBR-1 Reticle (#91) - Capped Elevation Turret - .25 MOA - Fixed Parallax
CONQUEST V4 4-16x50 ZMOAi-1 Illum. Reticle (#93) - Ext. Elevation Turret - Ballistic Stop - .25 MOA - Parallax Adj. (10 yds - ∞)
I have been very pleased with Zeiss this past year. Their customer service dept is top notch and they have introduced great Riflescopes and Rangefinder Binoculars. Zeiss does not get discussed much in the forums but they should not be overlooked.
Thursday night is friend night at SHOT. I got together with many friends, table for 11, and had a great dinner. We really only see each other once a year here at SHOT so this dinner has become a tradition.
If I can answer anything for you, as always, it will be my pleasure. For those of you who took the time to read all of my reports please mention this to me when you place your next order and I'll add a bonus into your shipment. Nice to know that you're taking the time to read the whole thing when I take the time to write it, lol.
As always, thank you for all the support we receive. We are nothing without you, and we know that.
Have a great day
Thank you for your continued support.
If there is anything else that I can assist you with please let me know.
Doug
516-217-1000
Please visit our web site @ www.cameralandny.com
