• Vortex Viper PST Line – For Every Shooting Style

    Nov 19 • News • 6393

    These days having a scope that can keep up with hunting trips, some target practice at the range, killing varmints, or even in case of zombie attacks, is ideal. That’s why versatility is most important when I want to shop for optics. When searching for the perfect riflescope, you want a quality scope that will get the job done and hold up to the rigors out in the field. Some of the features I was looking for when purchasing a new scope were:

    • Fill the role of both CQB (Close Quarters Battle) and mid-distance shooting
    • Adjustable turrets
    • Night Vision capabilities
    • Possible illuminated Reticle
    • Long eye relief
    • A reasonable cost

    After a long search and a lot of research I came across the Vortex Viper PST (Precision Shooting Tactical) Line, which retails around $600. Considering the amount of features and the overall quality of the scope, I was surprised by the relatively small price tag (I was expecting something in the $1000 range). Something interesting about the PST line is that it’s made to appeal to the target shooter or sniper by adding a few extra target or tactical type features. Not that I’m a sniper or anything, but it is fun to target shoot once in a while. I ended up going with the Vortext Viper PST 6-24×50 FFP Scope. Some of my favorite things about this scope are the large exposed target knobs, Illuminated First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle, and a 30mm tube machined from a single solid block of aircraft-grade aluminum.

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    After pulling it out of the box, the feel of the scope is very well made with solid knobs that give an audible click when making adjustments. I also like that the illuminated reticle is designed for daytime, low light and night vision devices with clear settings that are specific to the light conditions. The illumination control can be turned on or off with a single click between each intensity level, which is perfect for keeping good battery life. Some of the extras about the scope that were huge selling points for me are the flip caps for additional lens protection, in addition to it being waterproof, fogproof and shockproof, which all adds to the scope’s sustainability of being out in the field.

    The glass in the Viper scope is very clear and stays true to the Vortex brand having high image contrast and sharpness in comparison to its price. It’s extra low Dispersion glass and is fully coated to help with light transmission, which, in my opinion, would set the standard of scopes in its class.

    Overall, this scope meets my expectations in terms of quality and durability, and I would recommend this for anyone who is an active shooter or hunter. The Viper PST has all the right features for a tactical scope and exceeds other scopes in terms of what you’re getting for the price.

    Finally, Vortex Optics come with a VIP Warranty which stands for a Very Important Promise to Vortex customers. They will repair or replace any Vortex product in the event that it becomes damaged or defective at no additional charge, and no matter what happened. Check out this video that explains more.

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  • Safety at Your Fingertips – Barska Biometric Safes

    Nov 15 • News • 5729

    Barska is a company that knows a lot about value and quality sports optics. I personally enjoy the fact that Barska uses a minimal supply chain, which keeps their costs low to the end consumer. Also, they have been very innovative in terms of development by listening to the needs of customers in order to create a valuable and quality product. With all that being said, their safes are no exception in terms of price and quality.

    Now, I’m pretty new to the gun scene, but I am very concerned with safety and would like my gun and belongings to be locked up. So I’ve been checking out some gun storage options so I know that my guns and accessories are safe and secure. What actually caught my eye the most about the Barska safe line was the fingerprint recognition technology. Now, let’s be honest… we all love the idea of being able to use our finger, hand, eye or whatever to access our valuables – thank you James Bond! This is especially important to me because I can quickly access the contents if there is an emergency situation. Also, I am the worst at remembering things like numbers (the only phone number I know is my own) or either losing the keys or having someone else being able to have access to the keys.

    So this finger print recognition is pretty cool; it uses a laser optics sensor that scans your finger print and opens the safe. I was a little wary at first for the sole reason of the possibility of not being able to get into the safe because of it failing to recognize my print. Yes, I have real life experience with this issue, as a kid, when I was permanently locked out of my diary because it would no longer recognize my voice or fingerprint. However, the Barska safe takes multiple registrations of the same finger so it reduces false readings. After testing it a bunch of times it did not have one false reading.

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    I ended up going with the Barska Quick Access Biometric Rifle Safe. Even though I don’t own a rifle of my own yet, I plan on investing in one soon. I am currently using the safe to store my Ruger SP-11 I use primarily for defense, camera and photography equipment, and a few valuables and papers. It also comes with mounting hardware so can attach it to the wall or floor – I didn’t feel this was super important because I don’t imagine someone walking out of my house with a 65 pound safe – so I just ended up hiding it in my closet.

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    Having a safe should be a house-hold must have no matter its contents. It’s smart to keep your valuables safe, and weapons out of the wrong hands. Does anyone have a safe experience they would like to share? Do you have any suggestions for mounting?

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  • opmod-zeiss-conquest-scope

    Brand New Zeiss OPMOD Rifle Scopes Arrive

    Nov 14 • News • 12165

    If you’re like me, you want to be the first to get your hands on brand new gear. And if you’re like me, you’re probably waiting for the next big thing from OPMODOpticsPlanet’s signature line of tactical and hunting gear.

    Well, fortunately, you’re in luck! OpticsPlanet has teamed up with Zeiss to bring you the brand new Zeiss OPMOD Conquest Limited Edition 3-9×40 Riflescopes. A collaboration with Zeiss is a huge deal – they’re one of the industry leaders in optical clarity and riflescopes designed to go the distance. This shows in the new OPMOD Conquest line. With brilliant zoom focus that lets you get a bead on your target, unparalleled optics, and a waterproof construction designed to get you through all kinds of weather, you really can’t go wrong.

    opplanet-opmod-zeiss-opmod-conquest-limited-edition-3-9x40-rifle-scope-1-inch-with-reticle-4-hu-main

    The brand new Zeiss OPMOD riflescopes have arrived!

    The brand new Zeiss OPMOD Conquests are available with either a 1inch Reticle 4 or a 1inch Rapid-Z 600 reticle. Both models share comfortable and easily-adjusted hunting turrets that won’t catch on branches and leaves. Just mount one of these bad boys, zero it in, and you’ll have a worry free hunt. Plus, 3-9x40mm is a perfect magnification and objective size for just about any hunt!

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    Each Riflescope features the OPMOD logo

    If that’s not enough, check out what Steve, one of the resident hunting & product experts at OpticsPlanet, has to say about this awesome collaboration:

    “The last of the German made, American assembled Conquests! The first time Zeiss Sport Optics has cobranded with anyone! An OpticsPlanet exclusive!”

    Zeiss and OPMOD go together in perfect harmony. It’s not surprising – the OPMOD brand has a history of joining forces with high-quality brands like EOTech, Browning, and more. They’re always on the lookout for more awesome gear to improve your experience in the field. I’ve already got a few OPMOD pieces in my collection – looks like I’m adding another with the Zeiss OPMOD Conquest Riflescopes!

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  • Crimson Trace Sweeps Featured Image

    Win a Trip For Two With Crimson Trace’s The Laser’s Edge Experience Sweepstakes

    Nov 8 • News • 6814

    I’ve already gone on about all of the awesome stuff that Crimson Trace has brought us over the years. Here’s a brand new one for you: The Laser’s Edge Experience Sweepstakes, brought to you by Crimson Trace!

    One lucky winner and an extremely lucky friend will win a trip for two to the world-renowned Gunsite Academy in Paulden, Arizona. You’ll have five days to practice your shooting skills, learn valuable lessons, and have a great time doing it on the 250 Pistol Course, also known as “The Gunsite Experience.” Not only is the trip all-inclusive, but you’ll also walk away with a sweet Crimson Trace prize package. I’m already jealous.

    Gunsite Academy Shooting Range

    Win a trip to train for 5 days at the Gunsite Academy 250 Pistol Course

    Shooters around the world know the Gunsite Academy as one of the top training facilities for law enforcement, military, and civilians alike. Everyone can benefit from good teaching and shooting practices, and at Gunsite Academy, you will excel on the range while learning invaluable skills to help you defend yourself. Founded in 1976, Gunsite Academy has spent the last 37 years drawing in some of the top instructors in the nation to pass on their knowledge to those lucky enough to pass through their doors. That could include you!

    Training With Lasers at Gunsite

    Crimson Trace and Gunsite have already worked together to bring you the Laser’s Edge DVD

    Crimson Trace is proud to offer this sweepstakes in conjunction with OpticsPlanet. They know the benefit of proper training, as well as where to get it. In fact, the Crimson Trace Laser’s Edge DVD was filmed at the Gunsite Academy. If you’re one of the 200,000 OpticsPlanet customers that received this DVD with your order over the past few months, you’ll recognize many of the locations. If you win – you’ll get to experience the real thing! And let’s not forget the Crimson Trace prize package you’ll take home, which includes:

    Not only will the winner get a chance to perfect their shooting skills, but they’ll also go home with the tools to help them succeed even more! Practice makes perfect, after all – and is there anything more fun and relaxing than spending a day at the range?

    Head on over to the Laser’s Edge Experience Sweepstakes page for your chance to enter. The contest ends December 1st, so act now!

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  • opmod gun cleaning mat featured

    OPMOD Brings You A New Gun Cleaning Mat!

    Nov 7 • News • 6820

    If there’s one thing I hate, it’s a dirty work bench. That’s why I’m thrilled that OPMOD has released the new GCM 1.0 Gun Cleaning Mat!

    opplanet-opmod-gcm-1-0-limited-edition-gun-cleaning-mat-green-12x36-v3

    The OPMOD Gun CCM 1.0 Gun Cleaning Mat is perfect for your work bench.

    These things are perfect if you do any kind of work on your firearms. These mats have a soft felt top to prevent scratches – and if you’ve ever nicked the finish on your hardware, you’ll know what I’m talking about when I say a soft work surface is paramount. Unroll one of these guys on your bench and you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’re not going to be damaging your gun.

    As a side note, and perhaps I’m in the minority here, but I really like the green color. My biggest fear when I’m working on my firearm is losing a small piece – but the green surface of the OPMOD GCM provides contrast for the metallic pieces to stand out. The guys at OPMOD really thought of everything here.

    But there’s more to these gun cleaning mats just below the surface – literally. Flip the mat over and you’ve got an absorbent bottom that will soak up any grease and oil that might happen to leak. The patented Zorb-Tech anti-flow technology will absorb it all, leaving your work bench clean and minimizing clean up. What happens with all that dirt and grime, you might ask? Thankfully, OPMOD thought of that, too. Toss the thing in the washing machine and forget about it. The less time I spend washing things, the better!

    When the day’s done, and your piece is tricked out and ready for the hunt, roll up your OPMOD GCM Gun Mat for storage. If time goes on and you find that the mat is a little big – and it is available in two sizes, after all – you can easily cut it down to size to fit your work bench. That way, you can even make it a permanent fixture if you so desire!

    There’s a lot to love about the OPMOD GCM 1.0 Gun Cleaning Mat. What gun will you work on first?

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