Telson 5-32x56 Target Master Victory
Doug over at Camerland sent me this Telson 5-32x56 to put through the paces and see now she performs. During the Shot Show this year, I did happen to check them out. Each year new optics companies go to the show. These days optics are a far cry from when I was younger. Back in the day we had Leupold, Bushnell, Tasco, Weaver, Redfield, and Unertl. Now there are so many to choose from, it's overwhelming.
Checking out scopes at a trade show doesn’t really tell you much. Sure, you look through and spin the turrets, but how well they work and perform is unknown. The scope is made in Japan by I believe Japanese Optical. The scope comes with flip-up lens covers, as well as a sunshade with antireflective device. It has all the features you would want and expect these days. I feel unless you have FFP, lit reticle, zero stop, turret indicator, and a huge zoom, you can’t compete. The turrets have 15 mils per revolution with a total of 32 mils. The turrets have nice knurling and are easy to read. The clicks are audible, but I would like them firmer. If you spin quickly, you could go past where you want to stop. Keep in mind, I am comparing them to NF, Swaro, and Kahles all of which are higher end scopes. Since there are 15 mils per turn the clicks are tightly spaced. The turrets use 3 set screws to adjust them. They even marked the turrets so you can quickly find the set screws. There is a red pop-up revolution indicator which is becoming more popular these days. A quick glance tells you where you are. I’m sure most of us are guilty of failing to return to zero after a long shot. As far as the magnification and parallax controls they are smooth and have the perfect amount of tension. I have tested some scopes where it's a bit of a struggle to turn if you're in certain positions. The magnification ring has a removable throw lever. Thank God it comes off since I’m left-handed and it was interfering with my bolt. It’s not adjustable, which isn’t really a huge deal for me. (maybe add that for us left-handed shooters)
On one of my trips to the range I brought along an NF NX8 4-32x50 and an Element Theos 6-36x56. I was curious as to how the glass would stack up. The Telson glass is extremely clear edge to edge with almost no distortion at the edge. The image was extremely sharp, very bright, and has accurate color rendition. I always try to go out in different conditions from clouds, rain, to bright sun. The antireflective sunshade worked very well and didn’t block too much light from coming in. My range can be brutal in the afternoon once the sun drops. A sunshade is a must. First I compared it to my NX8. It was very close, but I’d give the win to Telson by a hair. What really surprised me is how much sharper it was than the Element Theos. It made the Theos look like a much lower quality scope. The image was sharper, and it didn’t appear to have a color cast like the Theos which seemed to have a yellow cast. Funny how the cheapest scope fared better when it came to optics.
To test tracking in the past I used tall tracking targets. Recently I picked up a device to test scope tracking and by the way tracked perfectly. It’s very similar to what Nightforce uses. The only disadvantage is I can only test Mil reticles, which isn’t a big deal since I hardly use MOA these days. I am trying to get a video of the test, but it's a pain in the ass. I would love to figure out a way to mount a camera to the device. I decided to try a different tracking test for the range. I sighted in at 50 yards and took one shot. Next, I dialed up 7.1 Mils for 200 yards and took another shot. I kept alternating between both distances until I had two 5 shot groups. Both were insanely tight and exactly at my point of aim. In other tests I cranked the turrets to their max adjustments on windage and elevation and returned to zero. Each time it went back to its original point of aim with no deviation. Once I had my zero, I still had 21.2 mils left. So, without holdovers on a 22LR I can get out to 450 yards. I was able to set a new personal record of 550 yards with my Vudoo, but I had to holdover once the turret was maxed out. If the place I shoot long range had some dirt instead of grass, I could probably reach out further. I have yet to be able to read trace off a 22 round and without trace or impacts in dirt, it's next to impossible to see misses.
As far as the reticle, it's your typical Christmas tree. The center has a dot which I’m a fan of, since it doesn't obscure the target. I love shooting at tiny targets and it makes it very easy. I set up my “know your limits target” to have some fun. If you have ever shot one, it’s a blast. The last target is the same size as a .22 bullet. This is why it's critical for the reticle not to obscure the target. The lit reticle has 6 intensity settings and turns off between clicks. (not daylight visible) The glass is clear, no dust or debris to be found. In the past some scopes have actually had some debris on the reticle floating around.
If you're an airgunner or 22 guy this scope can focus down to 15 yards. The parallax knob is very precise with no backlash and is smooth as butter. The 5-32 zoom makes easy work of spotting your shots. I was easily able to spot .22 caliber holes in paper at 200 yards regardless of the conditions. While at my club several other shooters tried it out and guys loved the glass. My one buddy shoots benchrest and is a March Optics fan. Once he got behind it his first remark was about the clarity and sharpness of the glass.
Overall, I was very impressed by the scope, especially at that price point. The glass is outstanding and the scope functions as it should. The only complaints I have, of which are miniscule, is the throw lever (blocks left hand bolts) and I’d like firmer clicks. It would be nice if the throw lever had different points to attach it to. They come with a lifetime warranty which seems to be another industry standard thanks to Vortex. Telson also offers discounts for military and law enforcement. If anyone has any questions, feel free to comment. I’m not paid for reviews and if something sucks I have no problem saying so. I’ve been an avid shooter since 7th grade. I have competed in everything from smallbore, high power, trap and skeet with the NYPD team, silhouette, F Class, and some 3-gun. I retired in 2022 from the NYPD as a firearms examiner and now I get to enjoy my hobbies full time. I gotta say being a firearms examiner was a dream job. There’s nothing like getting paid to shoot.
On a side note, I highly recommend the Warne Hyperlite rings. I have never used them and figured I would try a set. The price wasn’t too bad for 34mm rings. ($109) I’m not a fan of a scope with the 7/16 or ½ nut on the side. I prefer a cleaner look. When I was testing the scope I kept taking it off and when I installed it, I was amazed at how close it went back to zero. A few times it was not affected at all or maybe a click or two. When I get a new scope the first thing I do before I mount it on rings, is degrease the screws and the holes to remove oils and any debris. I use acetone as a degreaser. When the rings are placed on the base I use a 34mm bar to confirm the rings are in proper alignment. No, I don’t lap rings. They are all made so well and if you remove the finish on steel rings, they will rust. (these are aluminum) I place the bar in the rings and torque the screws to attach to the base. This way, if you're not aligned, you won’t damage the scope tube. I then remove the 34mm bar and confirm it is in perfect alignment. Once the eye relief is set, you need to level the scope. I have been using an Arisaka level device. It works off the flat on the bottom of the scope and the picatinny base. Once that’s done, torque the ring caps and you're good to go. Over the years, I have seen so many scopes ruined from improper mounting or guys who say a scope doesn’t track correctly, only to find out they have a loose base, ring, or a rifle issue. I do Cerakote work and it is common that rifles come in with ring and base issues.
Magnification: 5-32
Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm Apochromatic lens
Ocular Lens Diameter: 35mm
Tube Size: 34 mm
Reticle Type: Glass Etched FAR2
Illumination: 6 w/ On-Off
Glass Type: Extra Low Dispersion
Light Trans: 99.8% AR coating efficiency
Turret Style: 2-Turn W/ Indicator and zero stop
Turret Rotation: CCW
Adjustment Graduation: 1/10MIL
Parallax Setting: 15Yrds – Infinity
Max Elevation Adjustment: 32MIL
Max Windage Adjustment: 20MIL
Travel Per Rotation: 15MIL
Field of View at 100 Yards: 29.9ft-3.73ft
Apparent Field of View: 17.13°- 2.14°
Eye Relief: 90mm / 3.54”
Exit Pupil: 8mm – 1.6mm
Length:14 3/4”
Weight:36.9 oz.
Battery: CR2032
Doug over at Camerland sent me this Telson 5-32x56 to put through the paces and see now she performs. During the Shot Show this year, I did happen to check them out. Each year new optics companies go to the show. These days optics are a far cry from when I was younger. Back in the day we had Leupold, Bushnell, Tasco, Weaver, Redfield, and Unertl. Now there are so many to choose from, it's overwhelming.
Checking out scopes at a trade show doesn’t really tell you much. Sure, you look through and spin the turrets, but how well they work and perform is unknown. The scope is made in Japan by I believe Japanese Optical. The scope comes with flip-up lens covers, as well as a sunshade with antireflective device. It has all the features you would want and expect these days. I feel unless you have FFP, lit reticle, zero stop, turret indicator, and a huge zoom, you can’t compete. The turrets have 15 mils per revolution with a total of 32 mils. The turrets have nice knurling and are easy to read. The clicks are audible, but I would like them firmer. If you spin quickly, you could go past where you want to stop. Keep in mind, I am comparing them to NF, Swaro, and Kahles all of which are higher end scopes. Since there are 15 mils per turn the clicks are tightly spaced. The turrets use 3 set screws to adjust them. They even marked the turrets so you can quickly find the set screws. There is a red pop-up revolution indicator which is becoming more popular these days. A quick glance tells you where you are. I’m sure most of us are guilty of failing to return to zero after a long shot. As far as the magnification and parallax controls they are smooth and have the perfect amount of tension. I have tested some scopes where it's a bit of a struggle to turn if you're in certain positions. The magnification ring has a removable throw lever. Thank God it comes off since I’m left-handed and it was interfering with my bolt. It’s not adjustable, which isn’t really a huge deal for me. (maybe add that for us left-handed shooters)
On one of my trips to the range I brought along an NF NX8 4-32x50 and an Element Theos 6-36x56. I was curious as to how the glass would stack up. The Telson glass is extremely clear edge to edge with almost no distortion at the edge. The image was extremely sharp, very bright, and has accurate color rendition. I always try to go out in different conditions from clouds, rain, to bright sun. The antireflective sunshade worked very well and didn’t block too much light from coming in. My range can be brutal in the afternoon once the sun drops. A sunshade is a must. First I compared it to my NX8. It was very close, but I’d give the win to Telson by a hair. What really surprised me is how much sharper it was than the Element Theos. It made the Theos look like a much lower quality scope. The image was sharper, and it didn’t appear to have a color cast like the Theos which seemed to have a yellow cast. Funny how the cheapest scope fared better when it came to optics.
To test tracking in the past I used tall tracking targets. Recently I picked up a device to test scope tracking and by the way tracked perfectly. It’s very similar to what Nightforce uses. The only disadvantage is I can only test Mil reticles, which isn’t a big deal since I hardly use MOA these days. I am trying to get a video of the test, but it's a pain in the ass. I would love to figure out a way to mount a camera to the device. I decided to try a different tracking test for the range. I sighted in at 50 yards and took one shot. Next, I dialed up 7.1 Mils for 200 yards and took another shot. I kept alternating between both distances until I had two 5 shot groups. Both were insanely tight and exactly at my point of aim. In other tests I cranked the turrets to their max adjustments on windage and elevation and returned to zero. Each time it went back to its original point of aim with no deviation. Once I had my zero, I still had 21.2 mils left. So, without holdovers on a 22LR I can get out to 450 yards. I was able to set a new personal record of 550 yards with my Vudoo, but I had to holdover once the turret was maxed out. If the place I shoot long range had some dirt instead of grass, I could probably reach out further. I have yet to be able to read trace off a 22 round and without trace or impacts in dirt, it's next to impossible to see misses.
As far as the reticle, it's your typical Christmas tree. The center has a dot which I’m a fan of, since it doesn't obscure the target. I love shooting at tiny targets and it makes it very easy. I set up my “know your limits target” to have some fun. If you have ever shot one, it’s a blast. The last target is the same size as a .22 bullet. This is why it's critical for the reticle not to obscure the target. The lit reticle has 6 intensity settings and turns off between clicks. (not daylight visible) The glass is clear, no dust or debris to be found. In the past some scopes have actually had some debris on the reticle floating around.
If you're an airgunner or 22 guy this scope can focus down to 15 yards. The parallax knob is very precise with no backlash and is smooth as butter. The 5-32 zoom makes easy work of spotting your shots. I was easily able to spot .22 caliber holes in paper at 200 yards regardless of the conditions. While at my club several other shooters tried it out and guys loved the glass. My one buddy shoots benchrest and is a March Optics fan. Once he got behind it his first remark was about the clarity and sharpness of the glass.
Overall, I was very impressed by the scope, especially at that price point. The glass is outstanding and the scope functions as it should. The only complaints I have, of which are miniscule, is the throw lever (blocks left hand bolts) and I’d like firmer clicks. It would be nice if the throw lever had different points to attach it to. They come with a lifetime warranty which seems to be another industry standard thanks to Vortex. Telson also offers discounts for military and law enforcement. If anyone has any questions, feel free to comment. I’m not paid for reviews and if something sucks I have no problem saying so. I’ve been an avid shooter since 7th grade. I have competed in everything from smallbore, high power, trap and skeet with the NYPD team, silhouette, F Class, and some 3-gun. I retired in 2022 from the NYPD as a firearms examiner and now I get to enjoy my hobbies full time. I gotta say being a firearms examiner was a dream job. There’s nothing like getting paid to shoot.
On a side note, I highly recommend the Warne Hyperlite rings. I have never used them and figured I would try a set. The price wasn’t too bad for 34mm rings. ($109) I’m not a fan of a scope with the 7/16 or ½ nut on the side. I prefer a cleaner look. When I was testing the scope I kept taking it off and when I installed it, I was amazed at how close it went back to zero. A few times it was not affected at all or maybe a click or two. When I get a new scope the first thing I do before I mount it on rings, is degrease the screws and the holes to remove oils and any debris. I use acetone as a degreaser. When the rings are placed on the base I use a 34mm bar to confirm the rings are in proper alignment. No, I don’t lap rings. They are all made so well and if you remove the finish on steel rings, they will rust. (these are aluminum) I place the bar in the rings and torque the screws to attach to the base. This way, if you're not aligned, you won’t damage the scope tube. I then remove the 34mm bar and confirm it is in perfect alignment. Once the eye relief is set, you need to level the scope. I have been using an Arisaka level device. It works off the flat on the bottom of the scope and the picatinny base. Once that’s done, torque the ring caps and you're good to go. Over the years, I have seen so many scopes ruined from improper mounting or guys who say a scope doesn’t track correctly, only to find out they have a loose base, ring, or a rifle issue. I do Cerakote work and it is common that rifles come in with ring and base issues.
Magnification: 5-32
Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm Apochromatic lens
Ocular Lens Diameter: 35mm
Tube Size: 34 mm
Reticle Type: Glass Etched FAR2
Illumination: 6 w/ On-Off
Glass Type: Extra Low Dispersion
Light Trans: 99.8% AR coating efficiency
Turret Style: 2-Turn W/ Indicator and zero stop
Turret Rotation: CCW
Adjustment Graduation: 1/10MIL
Parallax Setting: 15Yrds – Infinity
Max Elevation Adjustment: 32MIL
Max Windage Adjustment: 20MIL
Travel Per Rotation: 15MIL
Field of View at 100 Yards: 29.9ft-3.73ft
Apparent Field of View: 17.13°- 2.14°
Eye Relief: 90mm / 3.54”
Exit Pupil: 8mm – 1.6mm
Length:14 3/4”
Weight:36.9 oz.
Battery: CR2032
