Delta Javelin vs. Delta STRYKER ED

In precision rifle shooting, where sub-MOA accuracy and rapid target acquisition are the name of the game, optics play a pivotal role in a shooter’s success. For those navigating the world of long-range glass - especially in the competitive circuits of PRS (Precision Rifle Shooting) and ELR (Extreme Long Range) - the balance between price and performance often leads to two standout options: the Delta Javelin 4.5-30x56 FFP and the Delta Stryker ED HD 4.5-30x56 FFP.

At face value, these two scopes seem to sit close together - both feature a 4.5-30x magnification range, a 56mm objective lens, and a 34mm main tube, all packaged in robust bodies designed to survive the rigors of field and match use. But as you spend more time behind each optic, the differences - in both refinement and performance - begin to surface. The Javelin represents a scope that dramatically outperforms its sub-£1000 price tag, while the Stryker positions itself as a serious contender in the elite tier, trading blows with scopes nearly double its cost.

 

 

The most immediate difference between the Javelin and Stryker lies in optical quality. The Stryker employs ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass, which significantly improves chromatic aberration control and overall image fidelity. Even under extreme magnification, the image remains sharp from edge to edge, with colour tones appearing true to life. For ELR competitors engaging steel or silhouette targets at over a kilometre, the clarity of glass becomes more than a luxury - it’s a requirement for precise target identification and holdover accuracy.

The Javelin, in comparison, holds its own remarkably well. While it doesn’t offer ED glass, the image through the scope is bright and decently sharp, particularly up to the mid-20x range. At full 30x magnification, some softness and minor chromatic fringes appear, especially around high-contrast edges. However, considering the scope’s modest price point, the optical performance is genuinely impressive. For shooters entering PRS or dabbling in mid-range ELR, the Javelin’s clarity is more than sufficient to be competitive and consistent.

 

In both PRS and ELR disciplines, mechanical precision matters just as much as optical clarity. Both the Javelin and Stryker feature exposed tactical turrets with a full 10 MRAD of travel per revolution. The Javelin’s turrets are tactile and offer positive clicks, with reliable tracking that has been independently tested to return to zero accurately. However, the turrets do not feature a locking mechanism. This isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it does require more deliberate turret handling, particularly during stages where movement and barricade work are frequent.

The Stryker, on the other hand, elevates the mechanical experience significantly. Its turrets feature a locking function that allows shooters to engage or disengage elevation and windage adjustments with complete confidence. This adds a layer of security during dynamic stage transitions - a common PRS scenario - and minimizes the risk of accidental dial movement. The clicks are sharper and more tactile than those on the Javelin, and the Stryker also incorporates a zero-stop system that’s easy to configure and provides rapid return-to-zero functionality, even in high-pressure match conditions.

 

 

Both the Delta Javelin and Stryker feature First Focal Plane (FFP) reticles - a crucial asset in the world of PRS and ELR, where shooters rely on accurate subtensions for holdovers, wind calls, and ranging across varying magnifications. Regardless of zoom level, the consistency of the reticle’s scale allows competitors to make fast, precise adjustments without second-guessing their math - an essential advantage when engaging multiple targets across distances of 300 to 1200 yards in quick succession.

Crucially, each scope is offered with a selection of reticle designs, all tailored to long-range disciplines and inspired by the geometry and layout of popular grid-based reticles found in top-tier optics. Whether a shooter prefers a cleaner, minimalist centre dot design for unobstructed target visibility, or a more detailed Christmas-tree style grid for advanced elevation and wind holds, both the Javelin and Stryker provide viable options. These reticles are not only illuminated for low-light use, but also designed to assist in ranging, bracketing, and quick corrections under match pressure.

This versatility means shooters can choose a reticle configuration that aligns with their personal shooting style or stage strategy - whether that’s simplicity for speed, or complexity for pinpoint precision. The Stryker’s reticle illumination tends to offer slightly more refinement in brightness control, but in terms of design variety and functional relevance to PRS and ELR, both scopes deliver highly capable reticle systems suited for demanding competition environments.

Despite sharing the same magnification range, the scopes exhibit subtle differences in field of view and eye box forgiveness. The Javelin offers a slightly wider field of view at lower magnifications, which can aid in target acquisition and transitions in a PRS setting. However, the Stryker offers a more forgiving and stable eye box, especially under recoil. Its eye relief feels more consistent across the magnification range, which contributes to faster follow-up shots and greater comfort during prolonged observation.

 

(Image of the Delta Javelin) 

 

Both scopes are constructed from aircraft-grade aluminium and feature hard-anodized finishes, nitrogen-purged internals, and full waterproofing. The Javelin is lighter by a modest margin, which might benefit certain rifle setups where weight is a concern. Its build quality is excellent for the price, though turret caps and overall machining have a slightly more utilitarian feel.

In contrast, the Stryker’s construction is premium through and through. Every moving part feels tighter and more precisely machined, from the turret engagement to the parallax wheel. In harsh environments or under match pressure, the Stryker’s robustness is immediately noticeable. It’s a scope built to withstand thousands of rounds and regular transport across competitive circuits.

 

In practice, both scopes are highly capable for PRS and ELR use. The Javelin is ideal for shooters entering the competitive scene or operating within budget constraints. It offers a surprising amount of precision, reliability, and usability for its price - so much so that some seasoned competitors keep it as a backup optic or use it on secondary rifles. It allows shooters to focus on fundamentals without being bottlenecked by sub-par glass or unreliable turrets.

The Stryker, on the other hand, is built for shooters who demand absolute precision. Its optical and mechanical performance sits comfortably in the same realm as optics from far more expensive brands. For competitors who shoot frequently, under varying light and terrain conditions, and who need to trust their equipment without hesitation, the Stryker is worth every pound.

 

(Image of the Delta Stryker)

 

Ultimately, choosing between the Delta Javelin and the Delta Stryker is not about finding a “better” scope -  it’s about selecting the right optic for your level, your goals, and your budget. The Javelin remains, arguably, one of the best values in long-range optics today, offering real-world performance that’s leagues beyond what its price suggests. It opens the door to PRS and ELR for new shooters or anyone seeking quality without financial overreach.

The Stryker, meanwhile, is a scope for those ready to compete at the highest level. With outstanding optics, precision turrets, and advanced features that make shooting at 1,000+ yards repeatable and reliable, it’s not just a step up - it’s an entirely different class of scope.

Whether you’re climbing the PRS leader board or just beginning your long-range journey, Delta has crafted two scopes that meet you where you are - and give you the tools to go further.