Rifle Scopes Elcan SpecterDR vs Steiner 1-4

lennyo3034

Gunny Sergeant
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Apr 18, 2010
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For whatever reason, I am wanting an Elcan SpecterDR. I would put it on my go to rifle that is currently wearing an Aimpoint T2. I hate the term “SHTF” but really this is the rifle I would grab if I had to leave the house.

My question is: what does the Elcan get me over a Steiner P4xi (or military version) for a fraction of the price?

It looks like I may save a bit of weight since it includes mount.

How does it compare optically to a 1-4? Does it have a better eyebox at 1x than a LPV? I assume the reticle is daylight bright?

I’ve never been behind one nor seen one at store so I have no experience with it.

4x is plenty of mag for my purposes, which is why I listed the Steiner in comparison.
 
Owned both. Elcan is a little long in the tooth as optics tech continues to advance and evolve. Very expensive with no real improvements since early GWOT. However, it has incredibly clear glass, extremely high FOV, 22.5oz total with integral mount, and a proven track record.

Steiner P4xi is a fantastic mid-range option that arguably beats everything else in that price range for value. Steiner are able to sell it at its price because they do not manufacture it the same as their M-line.

Elcan vs M5xi/M6xi is a more equivalent comparison.
 
I have an Elian 1-4. It is really really small with a huge eye box. It is like looking through a sliding glass door at your target. The glass is superb. But it is not a precision optic. It’s for hitting big stuff quickly. The center dot is daylight bright. The full reticle is only nighttime bright. They can be illuminated separately.

The 1-4, 1-6, 1-8, etc. optics are precision scopes. They have better adjustments and reticles for precision shooting.
 
I have a DR, had a 1-8 ATACR and have a 1-6 gen 2 razor. The FOV and clarity is awesome. Dot size is awesome for close work and the reticle for distant or more precise work is great. It switches focal plane which is nice. The cons are the mount isn't adjustable for rail spec and the eye relief of super short. Think nose to charging handle short. All in all, for a purpose I like it. I may actually grab a second one. They are about perfect for SBRd stuff. I don't see me ever running one on a 14-16 inch gun though. It's a dated optic now I guess but I like it better than an aimpoint and it's more capable than one. For a specific role, I don't see anything better available.
 
@lennyo3034 - we are both Steiner and Elcan dealers. These are very different scopes. The Steiner is remarkable low powered optic with a great price, and everyone should have one. The Steiner P4Xi is a scope, and you have to have a good cheek weld. We are also Nightforce dealers, and I think of the Steiner as a low-power Nightforce NX8. Another great scope.

But, the Elcan is in a world of its own. Far superior, in terms of durability. It is point and shoot and fixed 4x power. Think of the Elcan 4x like a Trijicon ACOG, but better. Low profile, forgiving eyebox, run over it with a truck.

If you have to choose one, choose the Elcan. In fact, we have the Elcan 4x at an unbelievable deal. the BDC reticle is under $900, and the Chevron is just a tad more. Call us or DM, or visit our Website.