Founded in 1846 by mechanic Carl Zeiss, the company became the world’s preeminent designer and manufacturer of microscopes in the late 1860s when Ernst Abbe, a private lecturer for physics at the University of Jena, joined the company to tackle the task of creating a mathematical foundation for designing microscope objectives. At the end of the 1860s, Abbe turned his attention to the calculation of optical systems. His work, and that of future generations of brilliant scientists, helped Zeiss become the manufacturer of the world’s finest optical lenses. Today the Zeiss name remains synonymous with the very best in the world of optics.
Rugged Riflescopes
The Zeiss Conquest V4 line of high-performance second focal plane riflescopes combines the tried-and-true Zeiss optics concept with a rugged and functional design built to perform for both hunters and target shooters who seek top-end performance. The line features three models: 4-16×44, 4-16×50, and 6-24×50. The 4-16×44 is the line’s most compact model. The 4-16×50 is just a bit heavier thanks to the larger 50mm objective lens, which soaks up maximum light on the cusp of daylight. The 6-24×50 model is ideal for testing ammunition, load development, target shooting, and hunting at extended ranges. All feature nitrogen-filled 30mm tubes.
In addition to Zeiss’ world-class optical quality that produces 90 percent to-the-eye light transmission, the entire line is loaded with best-in-class features. One is LotuTec, a protective exterior lens coating for ZEISS optics that enables a clearer and unhindered view in all weather conditions, including snow, dust, and fingerprints, and makes lens cleaning easier. In addition, all lenses feature ZEISS T* coating, which guarantees brilliant, high-contrast images in adverse light conditions and during twilight hours. This technology is constantly adjusted to suit new glass materials and requirements, which vary from lens to lens.
Reticle Options
Several reticle options are available, including both illuminated and non-illuminated options, depending on the model. One highly-adaptable option for any hunting setting is the ZBi reticle.
ZBi-MOA
This reticle was primarily developed for hunting in open terrain and over long distances. The tree-shaped crosshairs are intuitively designed and offer an extremely precise aiming point. The tick marks and dots have a distance of one minute of angle (1 MOA) at the respective reference magnification and always provide a suitable holdover point, even in windy conditions. The ZEISS Hunting app can be used to quickly and precisely determine both bullet drop and wind drift for practically any ammunition, and also displays the distance values in a visual depiction of the reticle. Only the center area of the reticle is illuminated, for precise aiming even in poor lighting conditions. From Zeiss
Tested and Tough
All Zeiss optics are water immersion tested by dunking them in water up to 13 feet deep for two hours. They undergo an impact shock test with 1500 G-force, which corresponds to shooting a .460 Weatherby Mag. cartridge, and then undergo a continuous vibration test for 1 ½ hour, then mounted on a test rifle and shot to make sure bullet impact does not change. They’re exposed to rapid temperature shocks from -13 to +122 degrees F. over five minutes. Then they’re hit with a saltwater spray for 24 hours to make sure they stay corrosion free.
Core Features and Specs
- 4X Zoom Range
- Reticle Illumination
- LotuTec Lens Coating
- ZEISS T* Coating
- 90% Light Transmission
- 30mm Tube Diameter
- Highly configurable with Zeiss Accessories
Other features include a separate parallax adjustment knob and an adjustable diopter. Scope dimensions are length: 14.0 inches; weight: 22.6 oz. (4-14×44); length, 14.5 inches; weight, 23.0 oz. (4-14×50); length, 14.5 inches; weight, 24.3 oz. (6-224×50).
In the Field
For testing and review, we mounted a Zeiss Conquest V4 6-24×50/ZBi reticle on a Franchi Momentum Elite rifle chambered in 6.5 PRC, using Zeiss Precision Rings. We also added the Zeiss Throw Lever for speedy magnification adjustment. The rifle, rings, and scope were leveled in concert using the Wheeler Engineering Professional Reticle Leveling System. Federal Fusion 140-grain bonded soft point ammo was used for testing.
To begin sighting, a target was set at 25 yards. After three shots, the rifle and riflescope were coupled at close distance, and the target was moved to 100 yards to finalize sighting. After firing another three rounds, the rifle and riflescope pair were sighted. Following the owner’s manual instructions, the ballistic stop of the Zeiss Conquest V4 riflescope was reset to zero. To complete testing, several three-shot groups were fired. All groups measured well within the 1 MOA standard of the rifle. Finally, the elevation and windage adjustments were turned bottom-to-top and side-to-side fully and then returned to their “zero” settings. A final shot confirmed the original zero setting was true.
Final Thoughts
The Zeiss Conquest V4 riflescope series offers an array of zoom ranges and is highly configurable, offering a custom solution for hunters and shooters to fit almost any hunting situation, as well as competition environments. Its second focal plane reticle options accommodate several personal preferences. The Conquest V4 riflescopes are lightweight, making them a perfect fit for a mountain or backcountry rifle. Moreover, its relatively budget-friendly retail price makes it a perfect fit for any budget-minded hunter.
For detailed information on the Conquest V4 riflescope series, visit www.zeiss.com.