When a hunt or an over-the-horizon stalk comes down to a single well-placed shot, your optic has to do more than simply magnify — it has to provide clear, usable data and remain rock-solid in the field. Precision, quick application, and low-light performance matter equally to a seasoned guide and a serious hunter stepping into the stand before dawn.
STEINER Predator 4 Matte Black 3-12x56mm
What sets the STEINER Predator 4 Matte Black 3-12x56mm apart
This riflescope is built around an illuminated, second focal plane E3 reticle engineered with hunters in mind. The second focal plane position keeps the crosshairs consistent and fully visible across the entire magnification range, so your holdovers stay intuitive whether you’re at 3x for a quick close shot or dialing to 12x for a longer engagement. The Predator 4 brings a combination of practical features that translate directly into faster, more confident shot execution in the field.
Reticle design: Practical, illuminated, and calibrated
The E3 reticle provides both BDC (bullet drop compensation) holdover marks and wind reference marks—5 MPH and 10 MPH—for every 100-yard increment along the lower vertical and horizontal crosshair. That layout is a hunter’s ally: you can read your drop and wind without pulling out a ballistic chart. Illumination offers 11 brightness levels (5 day / 6 night) and is adjusted with a tactile side dial, allowing quick fine-tuning from bright daylight to dim twilight without fumbling under cold gloves.
Optical performance and field utility
At the heart of the Predator 4 is a 56mm objective designed for superior light-gathering during those long minutes at first and last light. The broad objective combined with Steiner’s reputation for durable, clear glass delivers contrast and edge-to-edge clarity that matter when you’re reading brush edges, throat patches, or a subtle torso movement at distance. At $999.99, it sits in a price point aimed at hunters who want pro-level features without stretching into boutique pricing.
Why second focal plane is useful for hunters
Because the E3 reticle is in the second (rear) focal plane, the subtensions remain constant at all magnifications. That means your BDC and wind holds correspond to the same real-world values no matter where your magnification sits. For field use, that predictability speeds decision-making: you don’t need to remember which magnification gives true subtensions or re-calculate for the moment you have to make a quick follow-up shot.
Build quality and Steiner pedigree
Steiner has a long history of rugged optics that stand up to hard use. The Predator 4 follows that lineage with a matte black finish and a design oriented toward hunters who require reliable, no-nonsense performance. The side illumination dial is robust and user-friendly, favored in real-world conditions where tactile feedback beats tiny LED screens. The scope’s size, turret placement, and 56mm objective make it a solid match for big-game rifle platforms that need strong low-light performance without excessive bulk.
Mounting and setup notes
Mount this scope on a stable, properly torqued base and use quality rings that match your rifle’s geometry to maintain eye relief and alignment at the entire 3–12x range. Zeroing with the BDC marks is straightforward if you know your ammunition’s trajectory; start with a 100-yard zero, verify the ballistics in controlled conditions, and practice using the E3 marks for real-world holds. Keep the illumination dial set where the reticle is clearly visible but not washed out—5 day / 6 night steps give you fine control across lighting conditions.
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Field tactics: How to use the E3 reticle effectively
Start with a consistent workflow: establish your zero, confirm bullet drop at extended ranges, and practice engaging targets using the BDC marks. For windage, the 5 MPH and 10 MPH marks per 100 yards are fast reference points—train with them to develop a feel for how wind affects your rounds at common hunting distances. In low light, the 56mm objective and the illuminated reticle let you identify contrast quickly; that’s when a scope like this shines for ethical shot placement.
Scenarios where this scope excels
Long morning sits, glassing from elevated positions, or twilight stalks benefit most from the Predator 4’s light transmission and illuminated reticle. Its features suit traditional big-game hunting, glassing-and-moving strategies, and any environment where you need to make accurate, quick holdover decisions without complex calculations in the field.
Final thoughts
If you’re choosing a single optic for serious hunting missions that span low-light conditions and variable-distance shots, STEINER Predator 4 Matte Black 3-12x56mm offers a balanced package: an illuminated E3 reticle with practical BDC and wind references, a large objective for light capture, and the proven durability you expect from Steiner optics. At $999.99, it’s aimed at shooters who demand field-ready functionality and a reticle designed for real-world hunting scenarios. For a closer look and to purchase, visit the shop page where you can buy through the retailer’s purchase flow.
People Also Ask
What makes this product stand out from competitors?
This product offers superior quality and innovative features that set it apart in the market. Its design focuses on both performance and reliability, making it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Is this product suitable for beginners?
Yes, this product is designed with user-friendly features that make it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced capabilities for experienced users.
What warranty or support is available?
The product comes with comprehensive warranty coverage and excellent customer support to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind.
How does this compare to similar products in its price range?
This product offers exceptional value for its price point, providing features and quality that typically cost significantly more in comparable alternatives.
What maintenance is required?
Minimal maintenance is required thanks to the product’s durable construction and quality materials. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections will keep it performing optimally.
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