Rifle review: The Rocky Mountain from Quebec’s Antler Firearms is made for hunting our elk and moose

ZEISS CONQUEST

When thinking about which scope would best meet the objectives I had in mind for this rifle, Zeiss’s Conquest V6 2-12×50 immediately came to mind. Along with providing the optical quality I was seeking, the scope’s features also ensured it would perform well under any conditions elk or moose hunters might find themselves in.

First, there’s the 6x zoom, 2-12x versatility, which provides optimum sighting visibility and extended range potential, whether you’re hunting in heavy cover or on an open mountain side. Meanwhile, the 50mm objective lens, lighted reticle and 92 per cent light transmission provide excellent low-light performance.

For outstanding image quality and clarity, the scope also features industry-leading optical performance with its SCHOTT fluoride glass and Zeiss T* coating. Along with that, the LotuTec lens coating repels dirt, debris and water. And for rugged durability, the 30mm, single-piece tube is machined from aircraft-grade aluminum. It’s also Nitrogen-purged to provide waterproofing for up to two hours in four metres of water.

My test scope included a ballistic elevation turret incorporating Zeiss’s proprietary Ballistic Stop, which ensures an absolute return to zero, while the MOA elevation adjustability allows for incredible long-range performance. Other features included a very generous and forgiving eye box providing quick target acquisition, and an illuminated reticle 60 with a fine illuminated dot offering very precise shots with minimal target coverage. As well, the illuminated dot’s brightness can be adjusted for varying light conditions.

To top it all off, the scope is backed by a fully transferable limited lifetime warranty on the optical system (with five years on the electronics) and a five-year no-fault policy.

THE SCOPE SPECS

• Magnification: 2-12x
• Objective lens: 50mm
• Tube diameter: 30mm
• Length: 13.2″
• Weight: 21.9 oz
• Eye relief: 3.54″
• Field of view at 100 yards: 62′ at 2x; 10′ at 12x
• Parallax setting: 109 yards