New Schmidt & Bender 3-18x42 Meta Riflescope

For more than a few of my rifles, I’m looking for a riflescope that’s a good combination for both hunting and competition scenarios. It seems that the German high-end riflescope manufacturer Schmidt & Bender has a really interesting solution, as they unveil the next evolution with the 3-18x42 Meta (First Focal Plane). This scope blends those features needed, has a proven performance, with a sleek, modern design.

Schmidt & Bender Riflescope @ TFB:

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At the heart of the 3-18x42 Meta is the all-new SBX (Schmidt & Bender Crossover) Reticle, designed to excel in both close- and long-range shooting scenarios across various magnifications. Here’s what makes the SBX reticle stand out:

• The SBX reticle is a true "crossover," optimized for low- and high-magnification shooting. Its clean center cross ensures precision at any power setting, making it perfect for dynamic shooting and long-range hunting.
• Precision at Its Core: At high magnification, the reticle features a free-floating 0.065 mrad center dot surrounded by an interrupted cross with 0.2 mrad gaps and dashes. This setup is ideal for pinpoint accuracy, even in low-light conditions.
• Illuminated for Clarity: The illuminated center cross spans 2 mrad from the center to the outer pattern, offering quick hold-over references for popular cartridges up to 400 meters.
• Long-Range Capability: An intuitive "Christmas tree" pattern supports long-range shooting up to 1,000 meters, with windage holds for challenging conditions.
• User-Friendly Layout: The reticle’s clear, balanced design guides the shooter’s eye to the center for fast follow-up shots. Robust outer bars enhance usability at low magnification, critical for dynamic shooting scenarios.

Highlights of the 3-18x42 Meta (First Focal Plane):

• New SBX Reticle: The specially designed reticle ensures maximum shooting accuracy and is ideal for hunters and competition shooters.

• First Focal Plane Reticle: Perfect reticle pattern for precise shot placement at any magnifi- cation. Intelligent design ensures usability even at lower magnifications.

• New Design: A compact and bold appearance with optimized turrets for intuitive operation.

• Durability-Tested Turrets: Robust adjustment turrets have been proven reliable under the harshest conditions, offering maximum accuracy.

• Perfect for Clip-On Devices: The diopter adjustment has been optimized to ensure a smooth transition from the eyepiece to the main tube – ideal for use with clip-on devices.

• Ergonomic Magnification Adjustment: The “TMR” adjustment ring allows for an easy instal- lation of the S&B Throw Lever, supporting faster magnification adjustments.

• Tenebraex Lens Covers Included: These rugged lens covers provide optimal protection for the objective and ocular lens in all weather conditions

• Low profile turret enables shooting with two eyes open
• Perfect for additional piggybacked aiming device such as red dot sight
• Lockable Single Turn providing 12 mrad

These riflescopes are hand-made in Germany with a MSRP of around $4020.

I think the 3-18x42 META (the name was chosen before social media people announced theirs)  riflescope will behave perfectly both for hunting and long-range competitions like DMR and some PRS. There’s only one way to find out, so TFB has asked for a sample to review. Stay tuned!

Check it out here: https://www.schmidtundbender.de/en/NEW-META/ and https://www.schmidt-bender.com/

All images by Schmidt & Bender.