Kahles Helia 1.6-8x42i Requesting Reviews

[rking453]

I am looking for opinions and experience from anyone that has used this optic. I am trying to find something in this magnification range for my deer hunting rifle. I am in the United States, it is very hard to find quality rifle scopes that have a low end magnification range of 1.4-1.8x, or even 2x. Seems everything is geared towards long range, or is a heavy 24mm objective LPVO like a 1-6x or 1-8x made for AR-15s.

I would need to have this imported, they are not stocked by any retailer here, and as such I can't find a word about it on American hunting forums, no one has really seen or heard of them.

If you have one, or have used one I would really appreciate hearing your experience with it, thank you!

 

[Klenchblaize]

I don't own one but I honestly can't see you being disappointed as they optics are up there with best, as are the mechanicals.

Given its an illuminated scope I like the fact the reticle is in the 2nd focal plane and therefore won't get larger when you crank the power.

I'm assuming you intend to mount on a classicly styled blued steel & walnut rifle so do please give equal thought to scope mounting in terms of keeping it low and in pleasing rings/mounts.

K

 

[308rws]

I had the same quandary, but ultimately went for one of these as the GPO illuminated reticle, specification and price was IMHO much better value: SPECTRA 6X 1.5-9x44i - GPO USA

 

[rking453]

I don't own one but I honestly can't see you being disappointed as they optics are up there with best, as are the mechanicals.

Given its an illuminated scope I like the fact the reticle is in the 2nd focal plane and therefore won't get larger when you crank the power.

I'm assuming you intend to mount on a classicly styled blued steel & walnut rifle so do please give equal thought to scope mounting in terms of keeping it low and in pleasing rings/mounts.

K

Yes it will be going on a Sako 85 Hunter in 6.5x55. Planning to use Sako Optilock mounts, either low or extra low. Not sure which I need.

 

[Border]

Great scopes. I had a helia 1-5x24i and still own a helia 3.5-18x50i.
The scope you mentioned is pretty good. The illuminated reticle is bright enough for daytime use/driven shooting but can be dimmed enough for dawn/dusk.

 

[angusb1]

I had the same quandary, but ultimately went for one of these as the GPO illuminated reticle, specification and price was IMHO much better value: SPECTRA 6X 1.5-9x44i - GPO USA

I also have just got one of these on my deer rifle for woodland stalking. The G4i Fiber reticle is really nice and the scope seems very well made. I like the illumination and the very wide FOV at 1.5x.

 

[Pine Marten]

I have one of these on my Simson drilling, it is brilliant, and I'm going to upgrade the scope on my Steyr-Mannlicher to the 50mm version as soon as I have the gold. Also, they have the name of the founder of the Klingon Empire on them. Perfect for hunting targ.

 

[webley701]

Also, they have the name of the founder of the Klingon Empire on them. Perfect for hunting targ.

You mean you’d mount a scope on your Targ spear?

 

[Pine Marten]

You mean you’d mount a scope on your Targ spear?

Are you calling me a P'tak?

 

[Landy99]

I had one of these. It was super clean optically, and an IR that could be used in full daylight if needed. Sold due to rifle change. Would definitely recommend

 

[Lars Munk]

Have had the 2-10x50i and the 3,5-18x50i in the latest Helia series.
Both are brilliant and have very clear and crisp glass.
Never been dissapointed with any Kahles, even the older ones are great.
Good luck!

 

[WildBoarHunter]

I don't own this particular model but I do have the previous generation Helia C 1,5-6×42 and it is superb. You can't go wrong with a Kahles. They have been around forever and are owned by Swarovski and Swarovski is the best optics in the world IMHO. The only real question is do you need the 50 mm objective lens for use in low light or is the 42 mm good enough for you. 50 mm lens will give you a couple of minutes more shooting time in the dark but will be considerably heavier and bulkier. I consider the 2-10×50i the best allrounder usable for everything from low light hunting to driven hunts, while 1,6-8×42 is more stalking - driven hunting oriented, with some light gathering ability. They also have those classic looks that go well with older steel & wood guns.​

 

[Scarpa]

I have the older higher mag Helia, 2.2 - 9 x 42. Stunning scope, oldest scope manufacturer going and my example is from the early 2000s I believe, 30mm tube. Bomb proof and very good lenses.