In a huge leap toward building out the tools of its sniper squads, the United States Special Operations Command defined two models within the Nightforce Optics ATACR line of products to meet the Precision – Variable Power Scope capability within the MAS-D Miniature Aiming Systems – Day Optic Program. The chosen models, the MIL-SPEC ATACR™ 5-25×56 F1 and the MIL-SPEC ATACR™ 7-35×56 F1 will be the Standard and Long Range solutions for the current and future Sniper Weapon Systems.
This selection represents part of a wider life cycle replacement program that is currently underway to enhance capabilities. The Nightforce MIL-SPEC ATACR 5-25 and 7-35 were designed to increase target detection and acquisition as well as hit probability out to 1500 meters and beyond. Tod Litt, Nightforce’s MIL-GOV-LE Business Development Manager, explained the significance of this selection: “It brings continuity to a community that has been forced to use many aged systems with similar but slightly different controls and prolific reticle designs.”.
The MIL-SPEC Nightforce ATACR 5-25 and 7-35 set the gold standard for long-range target detection and mechanical adjustment reliability. These optics feature Nightforce’s superior ED glass, 0.1 Mil-Radian adjustment value for both windage and elevation and the Horus Vision TREMOR3 reticle. They also come with a tan, hard-coat anodized finish. These selected optics are provided as a system with a purpose-built Nightforce scope mount and laser range finder integration platform, which increases the speed for SOF Snipers in detection, ranging, and receipt of a firing solution.
These new optics will augment multiple systems within the SOCOM inventory and will be fielded with the Mk22 Sniper System based on the proven Barrett MRAD platform.
We pride ourselves on being one of the toughest, most reliable, repeatable optic manufacturers on this planet. Each riflescope is built with the highest degree of care and attention to the smallest detail, rugged and tough to commit against the hardest challenges and to stand the test of ages. The company puts it through a series of impact tests, including follow-up test inspections after impact, to ensure the riflescope is beyond the expectations of customers.
The Nightforce ATACR™ line is inspired by making the ultimate riflescope. The ATACR 4-16×50 F1 features a 50mm objective lens that provides better performance for low-light and long-range applications. Proprietary ZeroStop elevation adjustment, exceptionally clear ED glass, and intelligent reticles such as the MOAR and Mil-C are just a handful of the inclusions from Nightforce. An integrated Power Throw Lever for rapid changes in magnification and digital illumination selectable between red and green are also provided. This model answers the demanding requirements of police officers, hunters, and competitors.
The SHV™ lineup from Nightforce, available for several years, keeps improving according to the input of consumers. Now the SHV™ 3-10×42 joins this family, featuring at its core an Illuminated MOAR™ or Forceplex™ reticle for low light, and user-adjustable illumination control on the 3-10 model replaces the parallax adjustment.
Alan Stilwell, North American Sales Manager for Nightforce, stated that the company is more customer-focused and lets its consumers participate in the product development process: it designs products by listening to feedback from the customers. He said that whether in the top-of-the-line ATACR series or his more affordable SHV family, Nightforce designs, tests and builds the optics to deliver performance that surpasses expectations.
Nightforce Optics, based in Orofino, Idaho, is probably the standard of the industry when it comes to performance products. Their optics have hit the war line with the best soldiers, have turned the champions’ circle with world-class shooting champions, and have helped hunters bag trophies that last a lifetime.