A Benchmark in Benchrest Optics
Technical Overview
The Sightron SII 36x42 SFP BRD MOA rifle scope is a purpose-built optic crafted specifically for the hyper-precise demands of benchrest shooting. As a fixed-power scope, it offers a non-variable 36x magnification, meaning the shooter gets exactly the same view every time - no zoom, no fluctuation, just unwavering consistency.
At this magnification, Sightron manages to deliver exceptional optical clarity, aided by a high-quality 42mm objective lens. While some might assume larger objectives are better, in a controlled benchrest environment - where light conditions are relatively constant and distances are known - the 42mm lens strikes the perfect balance between light transmission and keeping overall weight down (more on that later).
Being a Second Focal Plane (SFP) scope, the reticle remains the same size throughout the field of view. For a fixed-magnification scope, this design is ideal. It ensures that the reticle remains thin and precise, and unlike First Focal Plane scopes, there's no danger of a "too thick" reticle obscuring your target at higher magnifications - a critical factor when you're shooting at a center bull.
Reticle Design & Subtensions
The BRD MOA reticle is specifically engineered for benchrest applications. It features:
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Fine crosshairs with 0.125 MOA subtensions, offering a razor-sharp aiming point that doesn’t obscure small target details.
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A small center dot, typically around 1/16 MOA, giving the shooter an ultra-precise reference point - ideal for aligning on the X-ring or measuring bullet holes for point-of-impact verification.
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Clean, uncluttered lines with no distraction - no ranging bars or BDC clutter here. Every element is designed to facilitate pure precision, nothing more, nothing less.
Performance in Benchrest
The SII 36x42 is, unapologetically, a “one-trick pony” - and that trick is benchrest excellence. While this scope isn’t designed for tactical flexibility, dynamic shooting, or low-light hunting, it shines with a laser-like focus on 25–200 yard precision group shooting.
What sets it apart is how uncompromisingly good it is in that singular role. The tracking is dead-on - essential when making micro adjustments in 1/8 MOA clicks - and the optical resolution rivals scopes two to three times its price. The internals are built to tight tolerances, so point-of-aim and point-of-impact stay married shot after shot, even under frequent turret adjustments.
Parallax Adjustment
Some shooters initially raise an eyebrow at the front objective parallax adjustment, especially in a world of increasingly common side-focus knobs. But in practice, this front-adjust system contributes to the scope’s overall mechanical simplicity and durability. There are fewer moving parts to drift or wear, and once it's dialed for a known benchrest distance (typically 50 or 200 yards), it rarely needs touching again. In that sense, the front parallax isn't a limitation - it's a feature that promotes set-and-forget dependability.
Historical Legacy & Popularity
With over two decades of proven performance, the SII 36x42 has earned its status as a benchrest staple. It's not a newcomer trying to prove itself — it's a time-tested tool that has been a consistent performer across thousands of matches and shooting benches.
In fact, within our own business, this scope outsells every other benchrest optic, and it’s easy to see why. Shooters trust it. It has become the go-to recommendation for new and seasoned competitors alike who demand performance but don’t want to mortgage their rifle to pay for optics.
Weight Advantage
At approximately 20.5 oz, the SII 36x42 is significantly lighter than most of its high-magnification peers — and in the world of weight-restricted benchrest classes, that’s a game-changing advantage.
By shedding precious ounces on the optic, shooters can redistribute that weight allowance to more functionally advantageous parts of the rifle system - such as:
- Heavier, more stable barrels for harmonic consistency
- Tuning devices and barrel tuners for micro-adjustments
- Denser stock materials or balance weights to optimize recoil behaviour
This weight savings doesn’t come at the cost of durability or performance - Sightron's build quality ensures the scope remains rock solid, even in match conditions.
Conclusion & Value Proposition
The Sightron SII 36x42 SFP BRD MOA represents one of the best values in precision optics - period. It’s a tool built for a singular purpose, and it delivers match-grade performance with elite-level optical clarity, precise mechanical tracking, and unshakable reliability - all at a price point that undercuts most of its competition by hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars.
This scope is for the serious benchrest shooter - whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a precision-minded newcomer building a competition rig. If your shooting revolves around tight groups on paper targets, and your priority is repeatable, consistent performance, the SII 36x42 should be on your shortlist.
If you're looking for a do-it-all optic with tactical versatility or illumination, this isn't your scope. But if you want a no-compromise tool for putting five shots through one hole, the Sightron SII 36x42 is arguably the best value in the game.