If your hobby is long-range shooting or competitive shooting, you know well enough that quality rifle scopes are an essential shooting gear accessory to invest in.
One scope you may have heard of is the SWFA SS 10×42.
I’ve written my own review of this extremely precise SWFA model to help you decide if it fits your personal preference.
Contents
Overview of the SWFA Super Sniper Scope (10x42mm)
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Specifications:
- Magnification Range: 1x-10x
- Minimum Parallax: 10yd-∞
- Objective Lens Diameter: 42mm
- Reticle Plane: Second
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Turret Click Value: 1/4 MOA (0.25)
- Reticle: Mil-Dot
- Exit Pupil: 4.2mm
- Field of View @ 100m: 3.9m
- Rear Parallax Adjustment (meters): 10m-Infinity
- Eye Relief (inches): 3.9 / 4
- Overall Length (E): 357 mm / 14.05″
- Diopter Compensation: -2 ~ +1 DPR
- Click Adjustment Value: 0.1 MRAD or 1/4 MOA
- Adjustment Per Revolution: 5 Mils or 15 MOA
- Total Elevation Adjustment: 120 MOA or Mils
- Total Windage Adjustment: 120 MOA or Mils
- Type of Reticle: Mil-Quad reticle/MOA Quad
- Coating: Fully Multi-Coated
All SWFA SS 10×42 Tactical rifle scopes are made in Japan and feature top-quality optics & multi-coating systems.
The SWFA SS 10×42 is a fixed power scope, so you don’t have the focus adjustment range and magnification range feature.
I know some shooters are very skeptical about this model since they can’t adjust the range.
But in my experience, the accuracy of scopes doesn’t solely depend on magnification but rather the scope model and skill of the wielder!
Unlike other scopes, there are fewer moving parts in the SWFA ss 10 42, meaning not many adjustments are needed.
There is also less weight on the components of the scope, meaning there is an increase in reliability coming from the SWFA ss.
With the features presented, you’ll still be able to hit your targets the same way as most scopes.
I say, why waste money on more expensive scopes when you can get this scope for an affordable price?
Now, onto what I didn’t like.
First, the weight of the scope. It is quite heavy as it weighs over 18 ounces. It can make the setup of your rifles feel imbalanced.
Even though the clarity of the image is on point, it still can’t compete with higher-quality scopes that will typically come at a higher price.
Lastly, the fixed magnification of the optic limits the versatility of the SWFA ss 10×42 scope to some degree.
- Easy to use
- Affordable price
- High reliability
- On the heavy side
- Clarity is not as clear as in other scopes
- Fixed magnification limits the use of the optic
What to Consider When Buying Rifle Scopes
If you want an extremely precise aim and a great scope for your needs, here are some features I think you should consider:
#1 Magnification
Magnification is how much closer you can see the target from a distance compared to the naked eye.
If a scope offers HIGHER magnification settings, you can hunt or shoot at LONGER ranges.
There are two types of magnification: Fixed and Variable.
I’ve found that fixed power scopes usually cost LESS, while a variable scope costs MORE money.
But the main difference between these two scopes is how they operate.
In fixed magnification settings, you CAN’T adjust or zoom in. A variable scope, on the other hand, can freely zoom in and out.
#2 Scope Reticle
Accuracy is also largely determined by the reticle, so if you want a better and more accurate scope, do not skip this section!
The reticle is the aiming point (or crosshair) you see when you look through the rifle scope.
Here are the three most common kinds of reticles:
- Duplex: A duplex reticle is the simplest crosshair pattern. It’s ideal for target shooting or hunting.
- Mil-Dot Reticle: Although very similar to the duplex, the dots in the reticle help estimate your target’s distance based on size. Great for law enforcement and the military.
- BDC: In a BDC reticle, the reticle estimates bullet drop. Best for long-range shooters.
#3 Adjustments
If you want to adjust your range or aim at a different target, you need an adjustment that is spot on!
Adjustments are KEY, and I prefer quality scopes that can adjust their range with ease.
Any adjustable scopes you look at should be easy to adjust.
That includes the parallax adjustment of your rifle scope, which is especially important for scopes meant for long-distance shooting.
Being able to adjust rapidly allows you to focus on a target in a heartbeat so you can confidently take the shot without any parallax disturbance.
About SWFA
SWFA stands for Southwest Firearms, and they are a company known for their optics, features, and price.
This Japan-manufactured company is very recognizable for making high-quality scopes and other rifles.
They focus on a wide variety of guns and gun accessories.
They will NEVER provide you with a faulty product, so expect to purchase a gun or scope for great value!
To add to this, the company really gives light to their customer support. This is one of the trademarks of SWFA.
Precision is their passion, and they are ready to provide you with everything you need!
SWFA SS 10×42 Tactical Riflescope Review
The SWFA SS 10 42 scope costs less than a lot of other competitors, yet it’s one of the HIGHEST-quality scopes on the market for its price point.
Glass – 4/5
This scope manufacturer can get away with slightly lower-grade components as you only use this scope within well-specified parameters at a budget.
But of course, you still want the clearest glass for your lenses as much as possible.
Unfortunately, I noticed that it has slightly less clear glass compared to other top-tier options, BUT you still get a great scope image nevertheless.
It still has good glass parts, so I gave it a 4 rating!
Reticle – 5/5
The SWFA SS 10×42 provides you with a SUPER sharp image, ultraprecise adjustments, and that satisfyingly practical Mil Quad Reticle.
All of these combined for its price range seems more than fair! Full points from me!
Adjustments – 4/5
It offers several other benefits in addition to the effective reticle, such as a set of functional and satisfying windage and elevation adjustment turrets.
While they allow you to be an extremely precise shot, I found that it was sometimes difficult to hear the clicks of the adjustments.
At least I knew the clicks were there, and it translated into my shots. Listen close while adjusting this scope!
Lens – 5/5
Fully multi-coated lenses! That’s it.
The eyesight will tell you how far from the rear lens your eyes need to be.
I suggest pairing this with a wide objective lens for the best light transmission. This makes it extremely easy to see through the scope!
If you actually need to shoot something in low-light conditions, this will perform excellently.
Durability – 5/5
The SWFA SS 10×42 is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof.
Basically, I’m saying this scope can be used regardless of the weather conditions.
Its body is super strong as well; I didn’t notice a single dent or damage, no matter how many times I bumped it on stuff.
User Reviews
This fixed power scope has received a good number of reviews from the company’s trusted customers.
Buyers have given the SWFA ss 10 42 an overall rating of 4.4/5, and here’s what they have to say about the SWFA ss 10 42 scope.
Testimonials
This buyer mentioned that they didn’t experience any issues whatsoever with the product. The focus, zoom, and eyepiece work as expected.
“So far I have had great success with this scope. Mounted on a 308 and no issues after several days of shooting. The clarity is good everything seems to function as expected. Just make sure you get rings with adequate clearance. I bought the low-profile rings by SWFA and they were not tall enough for the AR-style rifle I was setting up.” – Anonymous
A customer called out a few things about the scope, but it didn’t cause any alarming problems.
“The turrets are affixed via 3 set screws, allowing you to center them back at zero once you’re sighted in. The turrets turn with tactile and audible clicks. The clicks aren’t as crisp as I would like, but they’re adequate. I am able to turn the turrets back and forth a fair amount without clicking them to the next hash mark.” – Anonymous
Another buyer got their money’s worth with this product!
“This scope is absolutely the best value for the money for anyone looking for a scope for precision long-range shooting. It tracks, the glass is decent, and it’s simple. No frills, all go and no show.” – Anonymous
Overall Rating: 4.6 out of 5 Stars
SWFA SS 10×42 mm Alternatives
If for some reason, you don’t find that the SWFA SS 10×42 suits your needs, here are some alternative scopes I recommend checking out:
1. Vortex Optics Viper Parallax FFP Scope
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- Brand: Vortex
- Color: Black
- Style: Mil-Dot (MOA)
- Sport Type: Hunting
- Item Weight: 2 Pounds
- Material: Aluminum
- Magnification Maximum: 20
- Magnification Minimum: 6.5
- Compatible Devices: Rifle
2. ATN ThOR LT 4-8x50mm Thermal Rifle Scope
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- Brand: ATN
- Item Dimensions LxWxH:11.5 x 2.2 x 2.2 inches
- Sport Type: Hunting
- Item Weight: 1.4 Pounds
- Magnification Maximum: 8.00
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 Millimeters
- Magnification Minimum: 4.00
- Compatible Devices: Rifle
3. Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
Check out our Full Vortex Viper HS-T review for more details
- Origin: Imported
- Brand: Vortex
- Color: Black
- Style: VMR-1 (MOA)
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 9 x 7 x 14 inches
- Sport: Hunting
- Item Weight: 1 Pound
- Material: Aluminum
- Magnification Maximum: 16
- Objective Lens Diameter: 30 Millimeters
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Maximum Effective Range of a SWFA 10×42 Scope?
It depends, but I’d say it works best for 800 yards.
The maximum effective range can depend on a lot of factors, such as the type of rifle, but generally, you can’t go wrong with shooting at 800 yards or more.
Is the SWFA 10×42 Scope Suitable for Hunting?
Yes, the 10×42 is a good scope for hunting small game, thanks to its 10x magnification.
However, if you are hunting larger game, a variable magnification scope would be better.
Is SWFA 10×42 Scope Compatible with Different Types of Rifles?
Yes, this scope is compatible with any rifle with Picatinny or Weaver mounts.
Final Verdict: Is the SWFA SS 10×42 mm Worth It?
Definitely.
There’s so much to love about this excellent scope. It’s easy to use, adjust, and the price is just right. I DON’T think you’ll be disappointed in this scope!
You can surely rely on the SWFA ss 10×42 scope whenever and wherever!
FINAL TIP: If you’re looking for more scope options, you can take a look at our $300 Scope Buying Guide for not-so-expensive scopes.
