• Winner! Quick Shot Challenge: What’s the dumbest shooting myth you’ve heard?

    View thread

Rifle Scopes New USO SN3 Glass Quality

D

dan46n2

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Jun 9, 2006
535
2
#1
Well after waiting a hell of a long time my custom USO came in. SN3, 3.2-17X, EREK, T-pal, illuminated reticle. I was a bit worried after reading some reviews here about the glass quality of USO. This was actually my second USO but I sold the first one soon after getting it because I needed the money for something else so I didn't get a chance to review it well. Anyways if you are looking for a USO rest assured the glass is on par with my S&B PMII. The light gathering is not as good though but it is a 30mm tube vs 34mm for S&B. The S&B is awesome at low light, however that may not be a concern for most. Also it has a bit if a gritty feeling when you first adjust the eyepiece from the lowest setting, not sure if this is normal or not. For the price vs quality I would say it is equal to the S&B. The glass is definetly not as bad as reviews on here claimed, they must have changed something.

EDIT: For those that don't want to read the complete thread some clarifications about the review are as follows. The low light comment was actually tested under moonlight, only at that point was the difference, although not great, noticeable to me. Also the objective size is 44mm for the USO and 56mm for the S&B I was comparing it to, which can account for any light gathering differences. USO does make a 58mm objective in the SN3 series if that is what you need.
 
#2
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

as far as light gathering goes, are you comparing a 44mm objective to a 56mm? A better comparison would the the 58mm uso. And I agree, people that say USO glass sucks are smoking something....
 
#3
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

Larger tube does not increase light gathering.

USO glass is great glass, not once have I ever been at a disadvantage while shooting, due to the quality of my USO glass. Reviews on the net about scope glass should be taken with a grain of salt, as most people are more interested in placing products in some sort of hierarchy than anything else... Usually to make them feel good about their purchases.
 
#4
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: USMCj</div><div class="ubbcode-body">as far as light gathering goes, are you comparing a 44mm objective to a 56mm? A better comparison would the the 58mm uso. And I agree, people that say USO glass sucks are smoking something.... </div></div>

Yes the USO has a 44mm objective and the S&B has a 56mm (that's what I meant instead of 30mm vs 34mm for the body), so it's not a fair comparison in low light conditions. Not saying that it doesn't do well in low light though. The illuminated reticle is much nicer than S&B's. The whole thing lights up, not just the center, and the color/visibility is great (I got red but have seen green and it's just as good). It's also a real custom job, there are so many different options you can tailor it to exactly what you need. The customer service is great too, they answer email the same day.

 
#5
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

This is great to hear. I have this same scope on order. I found it odd that some would complain about the glass since it is Schott. Schott is generally regarded as the better glass on the market.
 
#6
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

If there were any quality issues, there'd only be one scope on this table..

DSC_0679.jpg
 
#8
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: huntinaz</div><div class="ubbcode-body">^Whore
laugh.gif
</div></div>

Yeah but, he's our kind of whore. Nice collection JRose.
 
#9
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JRose</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If there were any quality issues, there'd only be one scope on this table..

DSC_0679.jpg
</div></div>

wow, I am jealous
frown.gif
 
#10
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

Nothing beats this table

outgoinghuge.jpg


From the old shop, that big ass SN-9 could see that it was 'a little chilly' when the Knott's Berry Farm 'Parachute Ride' was at it's highest position, and yeah, she was cute too, even at what looked to be 1k+. The resolution and detail this scope brought in at range was freakin spectacular. Yeah, it's on the list for a super long range rifle one day
grin.gif

USO glass not superior? Pffffft! gimme a break, puh leeeez!
 
#11
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: head2h2o</div><div class="ubbcode-body">This is great to hear. I have this same scope on order. I found it odd that some would complain about the glass since it is Schott. Schott is generally regarded as the better glass on the market. </div></div>

Well I have no reason to disbelieve that USO glass is good, never having looked through one, but with regard to Schott... they can make glass as good, or not as good, as you can pay for. Though I have no doubt USO is paying for the "good stuff." If it's anything like the Schott glass in my IOR or my Premier, it would be excellent stuff.
 
#14
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: dpreston</div><div class="ubbcode-body">about 6 months </div></div>

Sometimes you get lucky. Waited 2 1/2 months for my first one, but my 2nd one did take 6 months.
 
#15
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

The most recent took close to 7 months, the one before was around 6. A long time to wait IMO but I'd rather wait and have it done right so can't really complain about that.
 
#17
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

Mine was 6-7 months also. But I think they got behind on orders when their clean room was being repaired, and also because of SHOT show.

Once you get behind on orders, it is really tough to catch up if new orders are still coming in at the same rate.


EDIT: Well worth the wait!
 
#18
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

The only time I've had issues with the picture quality on my USO's was when environmental conditions cause them. The 37mm on the bottom is as clear as the 58mm on top.

The result of a few years worth of horse trading here on the 'hide:
07ad3896.jpg


The ST10 on the bottom was 14wks at the end of last year, and they're the quick and easy builds!

(and both Ereks are 110 click single turns
grin.gif
)
 
#19
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

My new one will have the 110 click turn + MTC, can't wait!

Having looked through my friend's SN3 for a while now, plus my old SN3 3.8-22x, I have no problem with the clarity and quality of the USO glass. Took mine to show some friends who work at a local gun shop and they put it side by side with their NFs they sell at the store, and kept saying the NF was better. I let some store patrons look through them and it was pretty obvious they didn't feel the same way... Not to say NFs are bad, but there is a difference.

A bit of a thread jack if you all don't mind, but do any of your right hand shooters have windage knob on left to allow the use of your left hand to adjust windage? I have always used right windage on scopes but somehow felt that it would be more convenient to use my left, whilst not moving from my established cheek weld and trigger finger position... Is my assumption "correct"? Just wondering what you guys thought. Thanks.
 
#20
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SoCalPete</div><div class="ubbcode-body">My new one will have the 110 click turn + MTC, can't wait!

Having looked through my friend's SN3 for a while now, plus my old SN3 3.8-22x, I have no problem with the clarity and quality of the USO glass. Took mine to show some friends who work at a local gun shop and they put it side by side with their NFs they sell at the store, and kept saying the NF was better. I let some store patrons look through them and it was pretty obvious they didn't feel the same way... Not to say NFs are bad, but there is a difference.

A bit of a thread jack if you all don't mind, but do any of your right hand shooters have windage knob on left to allow the use of your left hand to adjust windage? I have always used right windage on scopes but somehow felt that it would be more convenient to use my left, whilst not moving from my established cheek weld and trigger finger position... Is my assumption "correct"? Just wondering what you guys thought. Thanks. </div></div>

I have mine on the right, I haven't seen one on the left yet but don't see why that wouldn't be a good idea. I had a NF NXS and ended up selling it, the glass was not as good as this USO or the S&B I have.
 
#21
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

I have the SN-3 in 3.8x22x58. I have the windage on the left and also got the 110 click knob. I like the way it is labled 1R-12R and 1L-12L. So far I have not needed more than 12 minutrs of wind in either direction. I shoot F-TR class with this scope. I really like having the windage on the left. I can see my windage adj and my level with my left eye without moving my head. On another note, this scope has absolutely ZERO backlash that I can perceive in any adjustment. One click at 1K gets me 2.5 inches of adjustment every time.
Rob
 
#24
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

JRose, I think your three "models" are getting tired from holding that pose for so long, maybe they need a break and then some new shots of them decorated with accessories (ie. rifles).
laugh.gif
 
#25
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SoCalPete</div><div class="ubbcode-body">JRose, I think your three "models" are getting tired from holding that pose for so long, maybe they need a break and then some new shots of them decorated with accessories (ie. rifles).
laugh.gif
</div></div>

After buying the scopes, I can't afford the rifles... LOL
 
#26
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JRose</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SoCalPete</div><div class="ubbcode-body">JRose, I think your three "models" are getting tired from holding that pose for so long, maybe they need a break and then some new shots of them decorated with accessories (ie. rifles).
laugh.gif
</div></div>

After buying the scopes, I can't afford the rifles... LOL </div></div>


Exactly the situation I am in after I got mine...
laugh.gif


Don't most people say you should spend at least equal, or more than the cost of the rifle on the scope? So I figure I would spend on the high ticket item first, and then the cost of the rifle won't hurt as much...
laugh.gif
It also gives me an excuse to get a $2K+ rifle because I am just following the sage advice of the Hide.
smile.gif



USO52809014.jpg


 
#28
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Enkry</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I heard that USO doesnt make one piece tubes, is that true? </div></div>

I highly doubt tube strength is a concern...

uso-1.jpg


uso1.jpg
 
#29
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

I like 'em.

Built well, built to last, and built here (in the US).

Well, in Kalifornica anyway.
 
#33
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

I just received my SN3 1.8-10x44 ERGO. The clarity and brightness are phenomenal. Hands down better than anything in that power range that I have peered through. As an aside, I think USO's reputation for durability precedes this thread...
 
#35
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: hemiram347</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I just received my SN3 1.8-10x44 ERGO. The clarity and brightness are phenomenal. Hands down better than anything in that power range that I have peered through. As an aside, I think USO's reputation for durability precedes this thread... </div></div>

I just received a similar scope and feel the same about it.
 
#36
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JBW#3</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The objective is threaded on the TPAL to the main body, then red Loctite is used as the adhesive.
John III </div></div>


Thank you John!
 
#37
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SoCalPete</div><div class="ubbcode-body">

A bit of a thread jack if you all don't mind, but do any of your right hand shooters have windage knob on left to allow the use of your left hand to adjust windage? </div></div>

Look at the ST10 that's on my SPRish AR15.......

I think OldRob's post is a better use of left wind turret, but I had mine built like that for my AR so I can run a small red dot at 1:00 on the forend or maybe on a 45* mount off the top rail and there'd be no turret in my way when I roll the rifle counterclockwise to use the backup/close in sight. Now I just need to get another little dot for it!
 
#39
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: dan46n2</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> Anyways if you are looking for a USO rest assured the glass is on par with my S&B PMII. The light gathering is not as good though but it is a 30mm tube vs 34mm for S&B. The S&B is awesome at low light, however that may not be a concern for most.</div></div>

Respectfully,
Being "awesome at low light" is often a most important factor for many when choosing a LR Optic. Granted it is only one factor. Even a Simmons is Clear and Bright in good light. I reserve any comment on USO as a professional courtesy. Everyone has their favorite brand of hair jelly. While I'm a Dapper Dan Man some folks swear by FOP...

I would suggest that you define your objectives before placing your order. I am often amazed when customers call to order $10K worth of rifle and scope without having a defined objective for their purchase...fwiw

Regards, Matt Garrett
757-581-6270
 
#40
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Matt in Virginia</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: dan46n2</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> Anyways if you are looking for a USO rest assured the glass is on par with my S&B PMII. The light gathering is not as good though but it is a 30mm tube vs 34mm for S&B. The S&B is awesome at low light, however that may not be a concern for most.</div></div>

Respectfully,
Being "awesome at low light" is often a most important factor for many when choosing a LR Optic. Granted it is only one factor. Even a Simmons is Clear and Bright in good light. I reserve any comment on USO as a professional courtesy. Everyone has their favorite brand of hair jelly. While I'm a Dapper Dan Man some folks swear by FOP...

I would suggest that you define your objectives before placing your order. I am often amazed when customers call to order $10K worth of rifle and scope without having a defined objective for their purchase...fwiw

Regards, Matt Garrett
757-581-6270 </div></div>

I did not expect the smaller objective to be equal to the S&B's larger objective clarity in low light, however it was the only other scope I had to compare to. As others have pointed out it is not a fair comparison. I did not want a larger objective for the rifle I was putting this scope on. As I said for my use and for others if low light is not extremely important the scope I reviewed is awesome. The difference in low light ability is not that great to start with but the S&B did excel in that area, however I would expect a USO with a larger objective to equal the S&B's performance.

The main reason I posted was to let everyone know that has an order or may be thinking about ordering a USO that the glass is excellent. A previous review on here stated that USO glass was subpar and that just is not the case with the scope I received. I've looked through a lot of scopes and so far the S&B I have has been the best quality glass until I received this USO which is equal.

I mentioned the difference in scope size in my first post so I don't see how my objectives for the scope were not considered in your opinion as I knew what I was getting. Also your comment about a Simmons being clear in good light is not telling all the information IMO. I have had other cheaper scopes, but still good quality that were in no way as clear as this USO in good light including a Nightforce NXS which is very popular on this forum. A lot of scopes may be clear in good light but not many will equal the clairty that comes with such high end scopes like USO. To be clear I should not have used the term low light, I should have said no light. The differences between the two scopes was only noticeable at night under moonlight. So if you're shooting at night and want the best light gathering possible get the 58mm objective.
 
#41
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: USMCj</div><div class="ubbcode-body">as far as light gathering goes, are you comparing a 44mm objective to a 56mm? A better comparison would the the 58mm uso. And I agree, people that say USO glass sucks are smoking something.... </div></div>

I have owned 2 USO scopes, and I do feel customer service is second to none, but the glass quality has alot to be desired, I had this conversation with John from USO, like I said Great company, but I was not impressed with the glass. I assure you I am not high.
 
#43
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: spiralseal</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> the glass quality has alot to be desired </div></div>

As compared to what? I'll admit that the glass in scopes like the Schmidts and Hensoldts are amazing, to me they always seem very bright and crisp. Now I don't know how this translates to one being higher quality than the other. While there's definitely a difference, I'm sure the quality of the glass and the coatings are all close to equal.

I will say that USO glass is higher quality (to me) than most b/c I know the care that John uses in his process and selection of products. That doesn't mean I'm saying USO glass is the best, but it is damn sure good, good enough to where I've never felt at a disadvantage by it. For me though, when picking a scope, I personally don't pick my scope based on glass alone, or the "best" glass, as long as it's good glass, it actually falls down the list a bit.

I'm really not qualified to determine the best of anything though, I've yet to find the product that can make up for poor shooting... You can have the most expensive, nicest gear out there, but if your skills are weak, none of that shit will win you that race.
 
#44
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

I've played around with an ST10 and thought the glass was comparable to Valdada. Seemed like good stuff to me.

I was going to buy an IOR 10X but I think I'll keep saving and get the USO. I'm a sucker for straight 10X scopes and it seems to be the best I've used aside from a PM2 which is out of my league.
 
#45
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JRose</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: spiralseal</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> the glass quality has alot to be desired </div></div>

As compared to what? I'll admit that the glass in scopes like the Schmidts and Hensoldts are amazing, to me they always seem very bright and crisp. Now I don't know how this translates to one being higher quality than the other. While there's definitely a difference, I'm sure the quality of the glass and the coatings are all close to equal.

I will say that USO glass is higher quality (to me) than most b/c I know the care that John uses in his process and selection of products. That doesn't mean I'm saying USO glass is the best, but it is damn sure good, good enough to where I've never felt at a disadvantage by it. For me though, when picking a scope, I personally don't pick my scope based on glass alone, or the "best" glass, as long as it's good glass, it actually falls down the list a bit.

I'm really not qualified to determine the best of anything though, I've yet to find the product that can make up for poor shooting... You can have the most expensive, nicest gear out there, but if your skills are weak, none of that shit will win you that race. </div></div>

By all means, it is top quality, not my cup of tea, and this is not a bash in any means to USO
 
#46
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: spiralseal</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JRose</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: spiralseal</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> the glass quality has alot to be desired </div></div>

As compared to what? I'll admit that the glass in scopes like the Schmidts and Hensoldts are amazing, to me they always seem very bright and crisp. Now I don't know how this translates to one being higher quality than the other. While there's definitely a difference, I'm sure the quality of the glass and the coatings are all close to equal.

I will say that USO glass is higher quality (to me) than most b/c I know the care that John uses in his process and selection of products. That doesn't mean I'm saying USO glass is the best, but it is damn sure good, good enough to where I've never felt at a disadvantage by it. For me though, when picking a scope, I personally don't pick my scope based on glass alone, or the "best" glass, as long as it's good glass, it actually falls down the list a bit.

I'm really not qualified to determine the best of anything though, I've yet to find the product that can make up for poor shooting... You can have the most expensive, nicest gear out there, but if your skills are weak, none of that shit will win you that race. </div></div>

By all means, it is top quality, not my cup of tea, and this is not a bash in any means to USO </div></div>

I didn't percieve it as a bash at all. I'm one of the rare birds that can like two products without having to hate one. I was just trying to make a statement on my opinion of quality and how it relates to optics.
 
#47
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

There have been a hell of a lot of tactical shooters that have made some serious long range shots with scopes nowhere close in overall quality as a USO. This glass debate is tiresome, I would like someone to demonstrate a situation that arises where a shot could not be made with a USO but could be with a Schmidt, Nightforce or whatever other tube that happens to be the topic of conversation.
 
#48
Re: New USO SN3 Glass Quality

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">This glass debate is tiresome</div></div>

I agree.

I've said this before, but...I've looked through a lot of scopes. I've rarely seen one where the optical quality made a difference to the shooter's ability to see the target well enough to shoot it, except in low-light conditions.

The primary items of interest to me in a scope are, with the highest preference first:

1. Reticle - is it one suitable for all lighting conditions, and can I use it easily for holdovers, holdunders, moving target leads, and wind holds? (That pretty much means a FFP reticle.)

2. Reliability. That means the scope must be rugged <span style="font-style: italic">and</span> the adjustment system must be repeatable and reliable.

3. Power Range. I'd like at least a 4-1 zoom ratio. For tactical shooting, I like a power range of 4-16. If I can get a 5-1 zoom ratio, I'd prefer 4-20.

4. Eye relief. Generous eye relief, and one which changes little with power changes.

5. Optical quality.

6. Price.

For a tactical shooter rather than a birdwatcher, getting wrapped around the axle about optical quality is, IMO, not useful.

Yeah, a pretty picture is nice, and high magnifications are good at long distance - until the mirage kicks up, which pretty well moots optical quality.

Your mileage may vary.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar threads

S
New Optic. Help me spend my money.
Replies
15
Views
1K
Sigmanx
S
ivorykid
SOLD US Optics SN3 3.2-17X (made in Brea)
Replies
6
Views
832
ivorykid
ivorykid
Freedom Thirty-Five
Best Sub $750 optic for target and varmint - 2025
Replies
57
Views
2K
TonyAngel
T
S
My Review: Telson 5-32x56 Target Master Victory Rifle Scope
Replies
1
Views
228
David.Jacob
D
P
Rifle Scopes S&B Exos. 👎
Replies
8
Views
783
carbonbased
carbonbased
Top Bottom
Back
Home
Forums
Merch
Alerts