Image unavailable
Steiner Predator 8 2-16x42mm Rifle Scope SFP E3 Illuminated Reticle
Our editorial team reviews specifications, product data, and field-use information to keep pages accurate.
$1699.99
List Price: $1999.99
You Save: $300.00 (15%)
View on Sportsmans Guide
You'll be taken to Sportsmans Guide to complete your purchase.
Hunter's Outpost earns a commission from affiliate links at no extra cost to you.
SKU: WX2*0731239
Overview
Built for hunters who need a flexible optic for changing distances, this scope pairs 2-16x magnification with a second focal plane illuminated E3 reticle to support precise aiming in a wide range of field conditions. The integrated customizable ballistic turret, Zero Mode, and audible, tactile adjustments are designed for straightforward dialing when bullet drop matters, while the 11 brightness settings help match the reticle to available light. Its compact, lightweight form makes it a practical choice for rifles carried over long days in the field. With waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction, it is positioned for demanding hunting use without adding unnecessary bulk.
Why Hunters Choose the Steiner
Integrated Customizable
Ballistic turret supports reliable bullet-drop
Second Focal
Plane illuminated E3 reticle includes
11 Brightness
Settings help match the reticle
Predator Diamond
Coating is described as providing
Zero Mode
Allows quick return to zero
Key Features
- 2-16x42mm Predator 8 hunting scope with second focal plane E3 illuminated reticle
- Predator Diamond Coating for superior light transmission and high-contrast imaging
- Integrated customizable ballistic turret for dialing bullet drop
- Zero Mode allows quick return to zero without coming off the scope
- 11 reticle brightness settings: 5 daylight and 6 night
- 100% waterproof, fogproof and shockproof construction
Best Used For
- Hunters needing a compact 2-16x scope for varied woods-to-open-country shots
- Users who want quick dial adjustments with an integrated customizable ballistic turret
- Hunters making holdover decisions with the illuminated E3 reticle and windage marks
- Those needing a lightweight, compact optic with waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction
- Shooters who prefer audible, tactile turret controls and a simple return-to-zero setup
Specifications
| Adjustment Click Value | 1/4 MOA |
|---|---|
| Brightness Settings | 11 (5 daylight / 6 night) |
| Bullet Drop Compensation | Yes |
| Coating | Predator Diamond Coating |
| Compact | Yes |
| Focal Plane | Second Focal Plane (SFP) |
| Fogproof | Yes |
| Glass | High-definition glass |
| Lightweight | Yes |
| Magnification | 2-16x |
| Movable Rings | 3 numbered movable rings |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 42mm |
| Reticle | E3 Illuminated Reticle |
| Shockproof | Yes |
| Turret Type | Integrated customizable ballistic turret |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Windage Reference Marks | 5 MPH and 10 MPH crosswind reference marks |
| Zero Stop | Zero Mode |
Pros
- Integrated customizable ballistic turret supports reliable bullet-drop dialing.
- Second focal plane illuminated E3 reticle includes windage dots and holdover references.
- 11 brightness settings help match the reticle to changing light conditions.
- Predator Diamond Coating is described as providing high-contrast imaging and light transmission.
- Zero Mode allows quick return to zero without coming off the scope.
- 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction for demanding hunting conditions.
Considerations & Trade-offs
- The 2-16x magnification range is versatile, but it is still a second focal plane optic, so reticle subtensions are not constant across all magnifications.
- The illuminated E3 reticle offers holdover and windage references, but it may take time to learn the cascading subtensions and numbered turret rings for confident use.
- With 11 brightness settings, the reticle can be adapted to changing light, but illumination adds another control to manage in the field.
- The integrated customizable ballistic turret is useful for dialing, but it requires setup and verification to match your load and distances.
Suggested Comparisons
- Hunting rifle scope
- Low-power variable optic
- Illuminated reticle scope
- Ballistic turret scope
Suggested Accessories
- Rifle scope rings
- Scope mount
- Lens cleaning kit
- Flip-up scope caps
Frequently Asked Questions
What reticle does the Predator 8 2-16x42mm use, and is it illuminated?
It uses a second focal plane illuminated E3 ballistic reticle. The description says it includes cascading subtensions, windage dots, 5 MPH and 10 MPH crosswind reference marks, and bullet drop compensation holdovers.
How many brightness settings does this scope have?
It has 11 brightness settings total: 5 daylight settings and 6 night settings.
Does the scope include a turret for dialing bullet drop?
Yes. The Predator 8 features an integrated customizable ballistic turret for dialing bullet drop, along with 3 numbered movable rings that can be set to custom distances. It also has audible and tactile turret mechanics and a Zero Mode for returning to zero.
Is this scope part of the Predator lineup, and how compact is it?
Yes. The product description says the Predator 8 2-16x42mm is the lightest and most compact scope in the Predator lineup.
What weather protection does the scope offer?
The description states that it is 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.