Rifle Scopes Steiner M-Series & T-Series Comparison

gr8fuldoug

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Minuteman
Jan 24, 2006
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Old Bethpage NY
www.cameralandny.com
As I posted in the Steiner t5xi 5.5-25 vs Steiner m5xi 5-26??? thread the other day I am starting a new thread showing the similarities and differences in these 2 series of scopes:

Here are specifics:
  • OPTICAL DESIGN: The M-Series and T-Series the utilize the same optical design and construction
  • GLASS: The physical glass is identical between the two lines
  • COATINGS: The M-Series and T-Series glass-to-air coatings are consistent - the difference being the process by which the coatings are applied is more involved on the M5Xi (the process and coatings technology is proprietary to Steiner Optics). The process difference gives the M5Xi an optical advantage, even though the glass is the same. The T5Xi lens coatings are applied in a manner that provides best optical quality at a more accessible price point.
  • TURRETS: The M5Xi has DuoScale turrets which have been approved for military use, and place this product line at the top of the Steiner riflescope hierarchy. The T5Xi low-profile Never-Lost turrets provide up to a 3.5oz weight reduction as compared to the M5Xi
  • T5Xi DURABILITY: The T-Series is built and tested to the same performance and durability standards as the M-Series.
Obviously, specific technical details cannot be discussed as no mfg would reveal their process. I hope this helps clear up some questions

Thank you for your continued support.
If there is anything else we can assist you with please let me know.
Doug
Camera Land
720 Old Bethpage Rd
Old Bethpage NY 11804
516-217-1000
Please visit our website @ www.cameralandny.com
 
Thanks Doug! I am about to send my T5xi back to factory for an issue with the never lost drop curtain. SO FAR....customer service has been excellent. The tech that took my call was very courteous and was glad to give me an RMA and UPS return label. At the current price point I am thinking seriously about a second T5xi. For another $1000 I can get a S&B PMII. I am trying to decide if the $1000 is justified???? I really like the reticle in the T5xi the M5 is just too much for me.
 
Maybe my eyes are broken but every T5Xi I've owned or looked through isn't even in the same ball park as the M5Xi. From a pure resolution perspective and the way it handles CA (or doesn't handle in the case of the T5Xi). Interesting to hear they have the same exact glass and coatings...just applied in a different manner. Honestly this is hard to believe.
 
The resolution on my T5xi is not too far off of my M. CA on the other hand is a totally different story. The contrast seems better with the M5xi as well.
 
Another thing to note. The diopter on my M5xi was very easy to set. The same can not be said of the T5xi as I still haven't gotten it right and my eye fatigues far sooner than any other scope I own.
 
Steiner (Burris) MAY say the T line is designed, manufactured, and tested to the same standards as the M line.....however we all know that's a pile or horseshit.

M line products while lacking in options are fantastic riflescopes.......T line are overpriced Burris paperweights.

A 6 year old 4-16x50 M still stomps current production Ts in every category but mag range and the fact you can get one new.

Buy accordingly.