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If you were considering a Sightron scope and wanted to move up to the next level above the entry-level Sightron SIH Hunting series of scopes, the next level up would be the Sightron SIH Field Target series. Just to be clear, even though the Field Target series is a step up in quality, this series is still really considered an entry-level rifle scope series.
The SIH Field Target series is really a small series that only consists of 4 scope models and all four (4) are configured in the same 4-12X40 power range. The only difference between each model is the reticle option. The current reticle options on this series include:
- Duplex
- MOA-20
- Mil-dot
- Hunter Hold Over reticle
While the glass used on the Field Target series is the same glass used on the Hunter series, the main difference between the two series is the following:
Power range – While the SIH Hunter models top out at a 3.5-10 power model, the Field Target models are in the higher 4-12X40 magnification range.
Adjustable parallax – While all the SIH Hunter scope models have a fixed 50- or 100-yard parallax, the Field Target scopes have a parallax adjustment mounted on the ocular bell. That parallax adjustment ranges all the down to 8 yards and all the way up to infinity.
Now, for some shooters, the parallax adjustment isn’t a big deal as they may not use a scope at ranges below 50 yards. However, if you do use a scope with a fixed parallax range of 100 yards at a target 30 yards away, the image in the scope would be blurry. Although parallax is really something different, most people tend to think of parallax as a scope focus adjustment of sorts.
Like the SIH Hunter scopes, the SIH Field Target models are made in the same manufacturing facility in the Philippines. Also, the Field Target models come with all the same standard features of the SIH Hunter scope series including:
- A 1-inch tube
- Fully coated optics using a 3-layer coating
- Adequate eye relief
- Are waterproof and fog proof
- Come with the Sightron Lifetime warranty.
The Field Target series is really designed and marketed as a more versatile hunting scope over the Sightron Hunter scope series. The higher power range and adjustable parallax make this scope series work for most hunting applications, but it also works for rimfire rifles (.22, .17 HMR, etc.) and on an air gun.
Here are some commonly asked questions that I’ve heard at the scope counter regarding the S1H Field Target series of scopes:
What’s the advantage of adjustable parallax?
If you think of parallax kind of like a focus adjustment for the scope (which is not exactly what it does), then having the ability to “focus” the scope down to ranges of less than 10 yards. If you are a hunter, then this is a useful feature. If a game animal presents a shot at 25 yards, rather than take a shot at a potential blurry, unfocused image, you have the ability to dial the parallax down until the game animal comes into focus. Again, for some, this could be a valuable option. It sure is for me.
Does this scope series have a BDC type reticle so I can use it out to longer ranges?
While the Field Target series does not officially have a BDC reticle option, they do have what’s called a Hunter Holder reticle that has a bullet drop compensation type functionality. Now you as the shooter would need to test the drop points on the Hunter Holdover reticle with your specific caliber on the range to validate those drop points before hitting the woods.
How’s the glass quality on this line of scopes?
My opinion: There’s some real crappy optics out on the marketed designed and marketed as “entry level” scope options. Compared to some of those scope options, the glass on the Field Target models is better than most in this price range, but it’s not going to blow your socks off either.
Is there anything that you don’t like about this scope series or something about it that bothers you?
Not really as this series isn’t anything that it isn’t marketed to be. It’s a budget-minded scope in a 4-12 configuration that is priced accordingly. And, as I’ve mentioned before, an entry level Sightron scope is still better quality compared to several comparable entry level scope options on the market.
If you are interested in one of the Sightron S1H Field Target models, here are a few of my favorite models:
I’ve been working in the firearms and sporting optics industry for over 20 years, with a personal and professional interest in all things related to rifle scopes, Through a combination of work experience, formal training, and personal experiences, I have extensive experience mounting, testing, and evaluating different rifle scope models across most major optical brands.