Steiner Ranger 8 Riflescopes Preview

When Steiner first released the Ranger series in 2015, it was an instant success. Steiner Ranger riflescopes are especially valued among European hunters who want to buy quality-made optics from a German manufacturer without re-mortgaging the house.

Six new models were unveiled at the JAGD & HUND 2022 trade fair in Dortmund. Here’s a first look at what you can expect from Steiner Ranger 8 riflescopes.

Steiner Hunting Scopes

• rugged construction 
• water pressure resistance
• reticle illumination
• price-to-performance ratio

Steiner hunting scopes are much sought-after devices because the standard of manufacture is so high. Hunters routinely use Ranger scopes under the harshest conditions as these devices meet military standards. The scope build is outstandingly robust and hard recoil-proof as it can take up to 500 gs. The Steiner nitrogen filling and water-tight construction eliminate liquid damage up to 1 meter.

The incorporation of ballistic turrets gave another spike to the Ranger series’ immense popularity. Sure, working with Steiner BT is not as seamless as with Leica BDC or similar top-notch hunting turret for bullet drop compensation. But it’s still dependable and gets the job done –  at half the price. The high-contrast numbers are visible in any situation, perfect for fast adjustments on the go.

Many customers are interested to see Steiner vs Zeiss comparison in the €1500-2000 price range. Sure, based on the brand cachet alone you might be swayed to pick Zeiss Conquest over any Steiner Ranger scope.  But think twice. The fact is that Steiner hunting riflescopes offer great value for money, with consistent features and shot repeatability. The powerful 8x zoom and a finely adjustable red dot are rare perks that separate these German scopes from the rest. Another point in favor of choosing a Steiner rifle scope is the excellent post-sales customer care.

Steiner Ranger 8 Models

1. Steiner Ranger 8 1-8×24
2. Steiner Ranger 8 2-16×50
3. Steiner Ranger 8 3-24×56
4. Steiner Ranger 8 4-32×56

Ranger 8 series offers something for every hunter’s needs.

Steiner Ranger 8 1-8×24

Steiner 8 1-8×24 is the shortest model from the line-up, made for quick shots on drives. Smaller dimensions and reduced weight are especially important if you’d like to use your hunting scope in combination with NV and thermal clip-ons.  It’s 290mm long and clocks at 510 grams, thanks to the lightweight but shock-resistant aluminum housing. The outstanding feature of the 1-8×24 model is the wide field of view of 37.8m-4.73m at 100m. Perfect for fast target acquisition on driven hunts. This is the only Ranger 8 model that has parallax fixed at 100m.

Steiner Ranger 8 2-16×50

The next model is the Steiner 8 2-16×50. The moderate magnification power in combination with the 50mm lens makes it great for stalking game at dawn or later in the day. Steiner maximized the flexibility of the scope by adding an integrated ballistic turret as an option. Steiner 8 2-16×50 BT model can be pre-set at 4 distances for lightning-fast changes when it’s GO time. The 8x zoom and adjustable parallax will make this scope a serious contender against Zeiss Conquest V6 2.5-15×56 for best in the €1500-2000 class.

Steiner Ranger 8 3-24×56

Steiner Ranger 8 3-24×56 and its BT counterpart were made for mountains and other types of hunts that take place at dusk. This is the model that Steiner advertises as an all-rounder scope. Adjustable parallax from 20m to infinity gives hunters perfect control at any distance. Steiner didn’t slack when it comes to the optical performance either. Optimized light transmission and the high-contrast image of this 3-24×56 scope will extend the golden hour for some precious minutes.

Steiner Ranger 8 4-32×56

Last but certainly not least, we have the 4-32×56 BT. This is a long-range specialist you can depend on, whether you’re shooting on plains or at high altitudes. Mountain hunting is often touted as the most challenging hunt of them all. The battle against the dying light and fast-changing conditions requires the right tool. Thanks to the powerful magnification and wide field of view, many hunters will use this Ranger 8 as a spotting scope. One optical device instead of 2 saves you money and space. Steiner Ranger 8 4-32×56 BT scope is no heavier than the 3-24×56 BT model, both weighing 774 grams. True 8x zoom at all magnifications is really put to the test here and passes with flying colors.

Steiner Ranger 6 vs Ranger 8

Steiner Ranger 6 series hit the shelves in February 2021. The series was a class above Steiner Ranger 4 (also introduced in 2021) but initially offered only 2 models – Steiner Ranger 6 1-6×24 and Steiner Ranger 6 3-18×56. The latter addition of 2.5–15×50 and 5–30×56 configurations filled the glaring gap between the wide-angle scope and long-range specialist.

The most notable difference between the Steiner Ranger 6 and Steiner Ranger 8 series in in the zoom factor. We were already pleased with the 6x zoom of the 2021 line but the more powerful 8x zoom is a real feather in the cap. 

No changes were made in the light transmission of these riflescopes. After Ranger 4 models already impressed with 90% permeability of traveling light, Ranger 6 line-up added on 2%. In all fairness, the data-dictated market of sports optics often misrepresents these numbers. The human eye cannot detect the infinitesimal difference between the two percents. Take a look through Steiner Ranger 8 optical system and all you’ll see is a bright image in the most challenging conditions.

Only the most meticulous users will notice the minute changes in design. The fast-focus eyepiece of Steiner Ranger 8 scopes now has raised + ↔ –  marks to denote the correct rotation. The bar on the soft rubber magnification ring was also adjusted for easier manipulation with gloved hands.

Steiner Ranger 8 First Look

Here’s a sneak peek at the highly-anticipated Steiner Ranger 8 riflescope series.

For Steiner Ranger 8 review and more videos about the new models, keep your eyes peeled on the Optics Trade Youtube channel!

Physical Properties

• 30mm anodized tube
• scratch-resistant satin finish
• 1cm/100m clicks
• comfortable eye relief
• ballistic turret

Steiner Ranger 8 scopes have a robust 30-millimeter tube made of aircraft-grade aluminum. The hard-anodized finish protects the housing from mild scratches and rust. The insides are purged with dry nitrogen gas and mechanical parts function just fine even in extreme temperatures (from -25°C to +63°C). The super-rugged construction of Ranger 8 models can withstand impact up to 500 gs.

The design is simple, with high-visibility markings printed in white onto the black surface that has a satin finish. The eye relief on all models from the Ranger 8 series is 95mm. This is a very forgiving distance, that will cover for any stock-to-shoulder mistakes with hard-recoil ammo. The 1-8×24 model can be used with both eyes open at 1x magnification. Similarly, the diopter on all models can be compensated by -3/+2 diopter points.

There’s not much to say about the ergonomics of the scope. It’s sleek, with occasional tactile indicators for easier operation in the dark. The soft rubber magnification ring has a slightly protruding fin for easier rotation with gloved hands and the parallax turret sports 2 raised metal dots at the 100m mark.

Turrets

The capped turrets move 1cm/100m per click. Turrets give audible and clearly distinctive clicks, so you’ll be able to dial in your shots effortlessly. Depending on the model, the W&E adjustment range goes from +/- 200cm of the wide-angle scope, down to +/-95 centimeters on the 4-32×56 BT model. The elevation turret has a zero stop, often marketed under Steiner’s Zero Mode name.

The 2-16×50, 3-24×56, and 4-32×56 models are available with an integrated ballistic turret. This handy tool makes a world of a difference on challenging shots. Four different numbered rings give the hunter the option to pre-set the scope at 4 preferred distances.

Steiner Ranger 8 and Thermal Devices

Once considered a rare glimpse into the future, the incorporation of thermal optics is now part of the everyday hunt. The year is 2022. The African wild boar fever shows no sign of stopping and the fight against its deadly spread is urgent. Luckily, modern sports optics allow efficient yet responsible hunting at night.

Steiner now has 5 thermal devices in its repertoire: Steiner S35 Nighthunter thermal riflescope, Steiner Nighthunter H3 hand-held scope, Steiner C35 Nighthunter thermal clip-on, and Steiner CQT thermal red dot sight.

Looking for Thermal Clip-on?

Steiner has only recently tapped into the world of NV and thermal devices. Interestingly, one of the first clues of Steiner’s expanding product range was the change in Ranger’s objective diameters. The first iteration of the Ranger rifle scopes back in 2015 had unconventional diameters that were impractical for use with thermal clip-ons. Ranger 4 and Ranger 6 fixed the issue.

Steiner Ranger 8 was designed with Steiner C35 Nighthunter clip-on in mind. Hunters can easily connect the 2 devices with the help of an adaptor. Hunter’s duty of responsible game assessment and clean shots does not wane with dying light. Ethical hunting is one of Steiner’s priorities and the riflescope and thermal clip-on combo provides just that.

How to mount Nighthunter C35 on Steiner Ranger 8?

To combine your Steiner Ranger scope with any thermal clip-on, you’ll need a clip-on adapter and a reduction ring.

A Clip-on adapter is a riflescope accessory that connects a thermal device with a riflescope. With the industry boom that happened in the 2010s, hunters were looking for new ways of combining thermal devices with their daytime riflescopes. Many traditional manufacturers of rails and rings recognized the unique opportunity for expanding their customer base. Rusan began making quick-release adapters and reduction rings for every NV and thermal device available on the fast-growing market. Their products remain at the top of the quality pyramid, along with other companies like Smartclip that are dedicated solely to clip-on adapters.

But how can you select the right clip-on adapter for your scope? First, measure the objective diameter. Do NOT confuse the lens size (e.g. 50mm) for the objective bell diameter, which is always at least a few centimeters wider (e.g. 57mm). You’ll need a clip-on adapter of the same diameter as the riflescope’s objective. When putting the correct clip-on adapter onto the objective bell, you’ll immediately realize that the clamping force of the clip-on lever is not strong enough. So you’ll have to tighten the screws next to the lever with a hex key.

Clip-on adapters have a specific outside thread, like M52x0.75 for example. If the thermal device uses the same thread, you can seamlessly connect the two. If not, the additional reduction ring can solve the matter.  The reduction ring fits inside the clip-on adapter but it has a different, smaller thread – like M43x0.75. With this additional piece, you can also utilize NV and thermal devices that otherwise could not be fitted onto your scope.

For connecting Steiner Ranger 8 with Steiner Nightunter CS35, we suggest Rusan Q-R adapter for Dedal 540-552 with Rusan reduction ring.

Another great alternative is Smartclip AS. Use it in combination with Smartclip reduction ring for Guide, which has the same thread as Nighthunter CS35.

Optical Properties

• high-contrast image
• 8x zoom factor
• variable magnification
• optimized light transmission

Ranger optics always outdid the expectations and this time it’s no different. The view through Steiner Ranger 8 scopes is remarkable. Quality glass is absolutely tint-free, with impressive color fidelity. What we also like is the edge-to-edge sharpness and bright image on all magnifications. Indeed, the only fault we could find is the very moderate chromatic aberration. Without pointing it out, most people did not notice it when testing the scope. For the highly competitive price, Steiner Ranger 8 scopes truly deliver the goods.

Focal Plane

• 2nd focal plane

All Steiner Ranger 8 models are configured in the 2nd focal plane. The reticle stays the same size at any magnification. No surprise, as this is the only focal plane that is usable for hunters. It’s vital that the reticle design does not cover too much of the target.

Ranger 8 Reticle

• modern German 4 reticle
• fiber dot reticle
• precise illumination
• 11 brightness levels
• 6h auto shut-off

This brings us to the 4A-I reticle design. It’s a modern take on the German #4 – an old favorite, appreciated for its clean style and straightforward use. What changes did Steiner make? 3 thick bars in the lower half are counter-balanced with thinner lines in the center. This guarantees an unobstructed view of the game. 11 levels of illumination reveal a fine center dot. 

The top of the line illumination system is another outstanding feature of the Steiner Ranger 8 models. The red dot is crisp and day-bright. The 11 intensity levels are clearly distinguishable and there’s an OFF step between each one.

Let us also note that Steiner Ranger 6 and Ranger 8 models use optical fiber for the center dot. These are ranked higher than your run-of-the-mill printed or laser-etched reticles. Optical fiber does not fade with time and is optimal for precise illumination. In this regard, too, Steiner joins renowned brands like Zeiss and Leupold that use optical fiber in premium scopes.

Reticle Subtensions

We realize that this data means very little without an in-the-field look through each Steiner Ranger 8 model on all magnifications.

Head over to the Optics Trade Youtube channel where we routinely review riflescopes and upload video clips of reticle subtensions.

Scope of Delivery

The product box has the same number of extras as Ranger 4 and Ranger 6 scopes.

Here’s the list of items that are included in the packaging:

1. Steiner Ranger 8 riflescope
2. Bikini covers
3. Hex key
4. Warranty card

Many brands spoil us with the deluge of goodies inside the packaging. That’s OK. We’ll take a quality product over a shoddy scope with 5 free stickers in the box, thank you.

Technical Specifications

Steiner Ranger 8 Price

Here comes perhaps the biggest surprise – the pricing.

Steiner Ranger 8 riflescopes are just a few hundred euros pricier than the Ranger 6 series. With superb optics reaching sky-high numbers that have people reconsidering their hunting hobby, this is a shocker. With the quality of Steiner Ranger 8, we could easily see the manufacturer sell these scopes for 3000+ euros and still make a bank.

For example, you can get the 1-8×24 model for only €1.799,00. Even the most expensive model of the bunch, the Ranger 8 4-32×56 with ballistic turret, only just hits the 2000-euro mark. Looking at these numbers, we can’t really see any other brand posing much of a threat in this price range.

Warranty

• 10 year warranty
• excellent customer care > repair & maintenance
• sturdy and reliable devices
• post-sales service in Bayreuth, Germany

Steiner Ranger 8 riflescopes offer an impressive 10 years of warranty. Note that the warranty on the electronic parts is 2 years. Yeah, yeah – we hear the complaining. But that’s no different than what the most high-end brand like Swarovski, Leica, and Zeiss will tell you.

The truly outstanding Steiner post-sales customer service has you covered either way. Not to toot our own horn but the people running this blog have decades of experience in sports optics and worked with 50+ brands. We can say with utmost confidence that the Steiner repair center in Beyruth does the best work in the business.

Come hell or high water, the manufacturer will repair your device at a fair price and in a timely manner long after the warranty has run out. No hidden costs either.

Conclusion

Run, don’t walk. With the overflow of riflescopes hitting the market, it seems like finding a truly dependable scope is harder than ever. But this is a true gem.

Steiner Ranger scopes tick off all the boxes: solid optical performance, great mechanism, and made by a German manufacturer you can trust. The ease of use and straightforward 4A-I reticle make these riflescopes a perfect choice for hunters from all levels.

At the 1500-2000 price point, Steiner Ranger 8 is the best your money can buy.

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