The Schmidt Bender Police Marksman II 6-36×56 High-Performance riflescope made its debut in 2022. This tactical rifle scope is specifically designed for medium to extreme long-range shooting. It is a part of the well-known PM II series of riflescopes.
The scope is offered in a variety of configurations, providing users with options such as color selection, click adjustment, turret rotation direction, turret type, and reticle.
About the Schmidt & Bender
Schmidt & Bender, a company founded in 1957 by Helmut Schmidt and Helmut Bender in Biebertal, initially focused solely on manufacturing rifle riflescopes. They began as an OEM producer, crafting riflescopes for other brands. However, in 1971, they transitioned to producing riflescopes under their brand name.
In 1997, they introduced the Police Marksman series, specifically designed for police and military snipers. This series garnered Schmidt & Bender numerous military contracts worldwide, cementing their reputation as a trusted provider in the industry.
The New Schmidt & Bender 6-36×56 PM II LPI
The latest addition to the PM II series is a 6-36×56 riflescope with a magnification range of 6x to 36x. It boasts a 56mm objective lens and a six-times zoom factor. With a redesigned main tube, the reticle illumination system is now placed on the turret for parallax. This allows for increased surface area for mounting.
When comparing the new Schmidt & Bender 6-36×56 PM II to the Schmidt Bender Exos riflescope, the difference becomes apparent. The additional benefit comes from the substantial improvement in mounting capabilities. I find this new feature particularly enticing, as it conforms to the standard found in the majority of rifle scopes available on the market.
Physical Properties
The scope is constructed entirely from metal, devoid of any rubberized components. It is offered in both black and RAL 8000 color options.
The main tube has a diameter of 34 millimeters. The scope is fully shockproof, as expected from a rifle scope of this caliber. It can be mounted on a 50 BMG without any issues.
With an impressive operating temperature range spanning from -46 to +61 degrees Celsius, this scope can withstand extreme conditions. It is nitrogen-purged, ensuring no internal fogging even in cold temperatures. Additionally, it is water-resistant up to three meters. For those seeking even greater waterproofing capabilities, a variant is available that can withstand depths of up to 25 meters.
The scope measures 390mm in length, which is shorter than the popular Schmidt Bender flagship rifle scope, the 5-25×56, by 3cm. Despite its compact size, it provides even higher magnification and a greater zoom factor.
Additionally, when considering weight, the scope weighs 940 grams, though this can vary depending on the turret. With the multi-turn turret, it can reach up to 995 grams. Nonetheless, it remains a lightweight rifle scope. In comparison to the 5-25×56 rifle scope by Schmidt and Bender, it is approximately 100 grams lighter, which, in my perspective, is quite substantial.
The outer objective diameter measures 62mm and plays a crucial role in mounting night vision or thermal clip-on devices, as well as determining the appropriate mounting height.
European-style eyepiece
The scope features a European-style eyepiece, where only the rear part rotates. I must say that the eyepiece rotation is very firm, which, in my opinion, is ideal. Frequent adjustments are unnecessary, and thanks to the firm rotation, there is no risk of accidental shift when removing the scope or rifle from the bag.
Magnification Ring
The magnification ring has a pleasantly firm feel, which is ideal. It smoothly transitions from 6x to 36x magnification, covering the entire range in just under a 195-degree turn, or slightly more than half a revolution.
The magnification ring features an aggressive design that ensures a perfect grip when using the scope. It enables easy mounting of the Schmidt & Bender throw lever.
Reticle
The reticle is located in the first focal plane. Currently, this scope offers two reticle options:
- the P5FL, an upgraded version of the P4FL reticle, and
- the GR2ID reticle, a new addition from Schmidt & Bender specifically designed for PRS-style shooting.
Both reticles feature illumination. On the P5FL, only the central section of the reticle is illuminated, whereas on the GR2ID reticle, specific sections are illuminated.
Illumination System
The illumination system is, as I’ve previously mentioned, now located on the left side turret. There are 11 intensity settings. Despite the absence of a click between each illumination setting, there is an off-switch position between each setting. For instance, if you are currently at the 11th setting and wish to turn off the illumination, you simply transition between the settings and the illumination will be switched off.
The illumination is excellent at the first position. It’s only visible in complete darkness, which is ideal. It doesn’t shine too brightly, allowing for better focus on the target.
At position 11, the illumination is sufficient for daytime use, albeit only at the highest magnification.
I should mention that if the battery is low on power, the illumination starts to flash. This serves as an immediate reminder to change the battery.
The illumination also features an automatic turn-off feature. If you happen to forget to turn it off, it will automatically switch off after 6 hours.
Battery
The illumination system operates on a single CR2032 battery. The battery can be found beneath the cap of the left-side turret.
Parallax Adjustment
The parallax adjustment is located on the left-side turret, alongside the illumination system. This feature allows you to fine-tune the parallax from a minimum of 20 meters to infinity.
I appreciate the firm feel of the parallax wheel, as it enables precise adjustments. In my opinion, a loose parallax adjustment would compromise its effectiveness.
Additionally, the parallax wheel features an aggressive design that provides a secure grip.
Turrets
Schmidt & Bender 6-36×56 PM II offers a selection of four turret options for users to choose from. Turrets (Elevation / Windage):
- DT27 MTC LT / ST ZC CT
- DT35 MTC LT / ST ZC CT
- DT II+ MTC LT / ST II ZC LT
- MT II MTC LT / DT II+ ZC LT
| Turrets (Elevation / Windage) | Adjustment range elevation | Adjustment range windage | Turret rotation | Click value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DT27 MTC LT / ST ZC CT | 27 MRAD | ±6 MRAD | cw/ccw | 0.1 MRAD |
| DT35 MTC LT / ST ZC CT | 35 MRAD | ±6 MRAD | cw/ccw | 0.1 MRAD |
| DT II+ MTC LT / ST II ZC LT | 30.5 MRAD | ±6 MRAD | cw/ccw | 0.1 MRAD |
| MT II MTC LT / DT II+ ZC LT | 395 cm/100 m | ±65 cm/100 m | cw/ccw | 0.5 cm/100 m |
Explanation of Acronyms:
- DT = Double Turn
- MT = Multi-Turn
- ST = Single Turn
- MTC = More Tactile Clicks
- LT= Locking Turret
- CT = Capped Turret
- ZC = Zero Click
Scope with the DT II+ MTC LT / ST II ZC LT Turrets Configuration
In my opinion, the turrets from Schmidt and Bender are truly exceptional. The tactile feedback and audible clicks they provide are of the highest quality.
The DT II+ MTC LT turret on the 6-36×56 PM II is distinguished by its unique feature: a lever with three positions.
- In the first position, the turret opening shows no color, indicating that it is unlocked and all the clicks are consistent.
- In the second position, the opening turns green, indicating that every 10th click is slightly stronger. This is the MTC feature, which stands for More Tactile Clicks. It allows you to count the stronger clicks when in a dark environment. For example, if you need 33 clicks, you would count three strong clicks and then the additional three. This design enables easier counting and usage in low-light conditions.
- When the turret is in the third position, the color indicator turns red, indicating that it is locked. This allows you to securely set the turret at any desired position.
The elevation turret is a dual-turn turret with 15 or 16 milliradian elevation in a single turn and a total elevation of 30.5 MIL. This equates to 3.5 meters at 100 meters, which is quite significant. When operating the turret during the first revolution, focus on the lower numbers on the turret, marked in white.
As you reach the second revolution, a small yellow pin emerges from the turret’s top, guiding your attention to the corresponding numbers. This tangible and visual indicator confirms your entry into the second revolution.
Zero-Stop Function
The turret is equipped with a zero-stop function. It can be adjusted four clicks below zero. Simply count four clicks or until the first stronger click if the MTC is engaged.
MTC Feature
I appreciate the MTC feature, although I would prefer slightly stronger clicks. While they are noticeable, they lack the intensity needed to count effectively, particularly in stressful situations.
The rifle scope boasts an impressive internal elevation of 41 MIL. However, unlocking the maximum elevation requires the multi-turn turret, which happens to be the pricier option. Nonetheless, it provides an astounding 395 clicks, granting an extended range of nearly four meters.
Scope with the MT II MTC LT / DT II+ ZC LT Turrets Configuration
The MT II MTC LT turret, which stands for Multi-turn II, More Tactile Clicks, Locking Turret, represents one of the most recent turret innovations by Schmidt & Bender.
This turret is unique due to its precise adjustments, with each click measuring 0.5 cm or 0.05 MIL.
The elevation range of this turret is 39.5 MIL, allowing for full utilization of the elevation range.
The clicks, as expected from Schmidt & Bender, have perfect tactile feedback. They are also audibly distinct, allowing for easy recognition. The clicks are precise and provide a clear indication with each adjustment.
The turret markings are spaced at 0.5 MIL. Each click represents a movement of 0.5 centimeters at 100 meters. Therefore, there are 10 clicks to reach the first marking, and another 10 clicks to reach the second marking.
The turret is a multi-turn turret, meaning it can make multiple revolutions. On this particular turret, there are five revolutions in total. What makes it special is that inside the turret, there is a small number indicating the current revolution. For example, when I’m in the first revolution, there is a small “1” displayed. As I go up to the second revolution, a small “2” appears inside the turret, indicating that I’m now in the second revolution. This pattern continues up to the fifth revolution, where the number “5” appears. This visual turn indicator allows you to easily keep track of which revolution you are currently in.
What is also special about this turret is the small lever on the side of the turret, similar to the DT II+ MTC LT turret. It has three positions:
- In the first position, all the clicks are uniform, allowing you to fine-tune the turret as needed.
- When we move to the middle position, a green color appears in the small window below the turret. Being in the second position activates the more tactile clicks feature. Each click on the turret that is numbered becomes stronger, allowing you to feel and count the clicks even in complete darkness.
- Finally, in the third position, the window displays a red color, indicating that the turret is locked.
Windage Turret
Moving on to the windage turret, it’s worth noting that there are various options to choose from. In total, there are two single-turn turrets available, as well as one double-turn turret that typically accompanies a multi-turn elevation turret.
- The first turret, known as the ST ZC CT, is the low-profile option.
- The second one is the ST II ZC LT.
- And the final one is the DT II+ ZC LT.
The third turret also includes a small locking lever on the side and the MTC function. This provides a more tactile or stronger click at the zero position, making it easy to find even in the dark.
Optical Performance
The magnification range of the scope is 6x to 36x, providing a six-fold zoom factor. However, what truly fascinates me is the remarkably wide field of view it offers. At six times magnification, the field of view spans an impressive 7.3 meters at 100 meters. This surpasses the capabilities of many 5-25 riflescopes.
When comparing this scope to its previous generation, such as the 5-25×56 riflescope, it is evident that the field of view is significantly larger. At the lowest magnification, the 5-25 riflescope only offers a field of view of 5.3 meters at 100 meters. In contrast, the 6-36 scope provides an exactly 2-meter wider field of view at 1 time higher magnification, which is truly impressive in my opinion.
At 36 times magnification, the field of view is 1.25 meters at a distance of 100 meters, which is considerable for such a high magnification.
The absence of a tunneling effect in the scope contributes to its exceptionally wide field of view, setting it apart from the 5-25 model. With magnifications below seven times, the 5-25 model exhibits a tunneling effect, limiting the field of view.
The eye relief, measured at 90 millimeters, provides ample distance for comfortable viewing. This forgiving eye relief allows for slight adjustments in positioning without compromising clarity. Additionally, the generous eye box allows for freedom of movement behind the scope, ensuring an optimal viewing experience. At a magnification of 36 times, the performance is remarkably impressive.
When it comes to optical quality, Schmidt & Bender deliver as expected. It is exceptional, with impressive resolution and spot-on color accuracy.
Mounting Solution
As previously mentioned, the 6-36×56 PM II scope boasts a 34mm main tube diameter. This implies that in order to attach the scope to your rifle, you will require 34mm scope mount rings.
Looking for a Scope Mount? Find it right below:
Price and warranty
The Schmidt & Bender 6-36×56 PM II is completely made in Germany and it comes with a 10-year warranty.
The price is 4,169 euros. However, please note that the final cost may vary depending on the turret selection or if you prefer a brown riflescope instead of the standard black. These modifications will incur additional charges.
Scope of delivery
The scope package includes essential accessories such as a cleaning cloth and Tenebrax flip-up covers. Additionally, you will find an instruction manual complete with an Allen key for easy adjustments. A warranty card is included for your assurance, along with bonus stickers.
Looking for more accessories? Find them below:
Tenebrex flip-up covers
The Schmidt & Bender 6-36×56 PM II is equipped with premium Tenebrex covers that can be securely locked in place, ensuring they do not interfere while using the scope. These covers can be locked at any position around the scope, providing flexibility and convenience.
To install the front covers on the scope’s objective, simply screw them in place. Removing the scope covers is a simple process – just push down to remove the rear cover and unscrew the front one.
Pros
To summarize, let’s begin with the positives. The build quality is really good. The 6-36×56 model boasts a more compact and lightweight design compared to its 5-25×56 counterpart.
The optical quality of the scope is exceptional. It now includes a new, perfectly positioned illumination system, which, in my opinion, is ideal.
I appreciate the variety of turret designs available with the scope, allowing users to select the one that best suits their requirements.
I value the addition of the lever on the elevation turret, providing convenient locking and activation of the MTC feature.
Prosm summary:
- great build quality
- compact design
- good optical quality
- four different turrets to select from
- MTC feature
Cons
When considering areas for improvement, I noticed one aspect that stood out—the highly aggressive magnification ring. However, as mentioned earlier, it is specifically designed for the throw lever. Another point worth mentioning is the challenge of cleaning. During the scope test, I observed a considerable build-up of dust within these apertures.
Furthermore, the second aspect to consider is the price. Although it is relatively competitive within this category, I must admit that it still demands a significant investment. With a price tag of 4,100 euros for the standard option, and nearly 4,800 euros if you opt for the alternate turret, it can be deemed as quite expensive.
Cons summary:
- aggressive magnification ring
- high price
The Competition
Currently, there are only two high-priced riflescopes available on the market, both offering the same magnification.
The Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56 FFP is priced similarly, but it offers a narrower field of view. Additionally, it weighs nearly 300 grams more, which is quite significant. However, with the standard turret or on the Vortex, you will have only one turret that provides 36 milliradians of elevation.
The second competitor, the Tangent Theta 6-36×56, is one I didn’t have the opportunity to test. However, based on my knowledge of the European market, I am highly confident that it surpasses the price range of the riflescope discussed here.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Schmidt & Bender 6-36×56 PM II riflescope is a superb piece of equipment, standing out in terms of both its build quality and optical performance. Its wide field of view and forgiving eye relief enhance the user experience, while the variety of turret designs and the new illumination system add flexibility and convenience.
Despite its relatively high price point and the slight issue with the aggressive magnification ring, it offers excellent value for money given its impressive features and performance. It holds its own against competitors in the market, making it a worthy investment for those seeking high-quality, reliable, and durable equipment for extreme long-range shooting.
Looking for a Schmidt & Bender 6-36×56 PM II? Find it below:
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