Product Review: Monstrum G3 3-18×50 FFP Rifle Scope
The Monstrum G3 3-18×50 FFP is a versatile and affordable first focal plane (FFP) rifle scope designed for hunters, long-range shooters, and tactical operators who need a reliable optic for a wide range of shooting distances. With its variable magnification (3-18x), 50mm objective lens, and etched reticle, the Monstrum G3 3-18×50 offers excellent performance and features typically found in more expensive optics—at a much more accessible price point. This review will take a closer look at the scope’s key features, performance, and overall value to determine if it’s the right choice for your shooting needs.
Key Features
- First Focal Plane (FFP) Reticle
The first focal plane (FFP) reticle is one of the standout features of the Monstrum G3. In FFP scopes, the reticle scales with magnification, meaning that the reticle’s size changes as you zoom in or out. This is particularly beneficial for long-range shooting, as it allows you to use the mil-dot or other holdover marks at any magnification level. This feature provides accurate distance estimations, windage adjustments, and holdover points without needing to adjust for magnification. - Variable Magnification (3-18x)
The 3-18x magnification range of the Monstrum G3 provides a great balance between close-range and long-range shooting. The low 3x magnification is ideal for engaging targets at closer distances, while the 18x magnification allows for precise shots at longer ranges, making this scope well-suited for a wide range of shooting situations, from hunting in open fields to long-range target shooting or tactical scenarios. - 50mm Objective Lens
The 50mm objective lens allows more light to enter the scope, which improves light transmission and helps to provide brighter, clearer images, especially in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk. A larger objective lens also improves the field of view, which is important when tracking moving targets or scanning a large area for potential shots. - Reticle Illumination (Red/Green)
The Monstrum G3 features illuminated reticle settings in both red and green colors, with multiple brightness levels for each. This makes the scope versatile for various lighting conditions. Whether you’re shooting in bright daylight or low-light conditions, you can adjust the reticle’s illumination to ensure that the reticle remains visible and clear against different backgrounds. This is especially helpful when shooting in low-light environments such as hunting at dawn or dusk. - Precision Turrets
The Monstrum G3 has click-adjustable turrets for windage and elevation with a 1/4 MOA (minute of angle) click value, allowing for precise adjustments when dialing in shots. These turrets are resettable to zero, making it easier to return to your original zero after making adjustments for range, wind, or elevation. The turrets offer a tactile and audible click for each adjustment, which is helpful for making quick, accurate changes on the fly. - Parallax Adjustment
The scope is equipped with a side parallax adjustment, which helps eliminate parallax error and allows for sharp focus of targets at varying distances. This is especially useful when shooting at longer ranges, as parallax can cause the reticle to shift slightly relative to the target, leading to inaccuracies in your shot. With the parallax adjustment, you can ensure that the target remains in focus, and your reticle stays aligned, regardless of the range. - Durable Construction
Built with a solid one-piece aluminum tube, the Monstrum G3 is designed to withstand heavy recoil and rough handling. The tube is shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof, making it durable enough to handle a variety of conditions, from rainy weather to extreme temperatures. The scope is sealed and nitrogen-purged to prevent internal fogging, ensuring that your view remains clear and unobstructed. - Wide Field of View
The Monstrum G3 offers a wide field of view, especially at lower magnifications, making it easier to track fast-moving targets or spot new targets in your environment. The field of view at 3x magnification is quite generous, which is great for close-range shots or for scanning a large area, while the higher magnification still provides excellent clarity for distant targets. - Cost-Effective
One of the major selling points of the Monstrum G3 3-18×50 is its price point. Compared to other riflescopes with similar features—such as FFP reticles, high magnification, and illuminated reticles—the Monstrum G3 offers an impressive value for the price. It’s an excellent option for shooters who want the performance of a premium scope without breaking the bank.
Performance
Clarity and Image Quality
The image quality of the Monstrum G3 3-18×50 is quite good for a scope in this price range. The clarity of the image is sharp, and the contrast is excellent, especially at the lower magnifications. As you zoom in to 18x, there’s minimal distortion or loss of detail, which is important for long-range shooting. The 50mm objective lens gathers ample light, and even in lower light conditions (such as twilight), the scope performs admirably, providing a bright, clear view.
Turret and Reticle Adjustments
The windage and elevation turrets on the G3 offer 1/4 MOA adjustments, which provide fine-tuned control over your shot placement. The turrets have a positive, tactile click with each adjustment, making it easy to feel and hear the changes. This is especially useful when you’re making rapid adjustments in the field, such as correcting for windage or dialing for long-range shots. The zero-resettable turrets are a practical feature, allowing you to easily return to your zero once you’ve made your adjustments.
The FFP reticle is another highlight, as it maintains its scale across all magnification levels. Whether you’re shooting at 3x or 18x, you can rely on the reticle’s markings for range estimation and holdovers. The illuminated reticle further enhances usability in low-light conditions, and the option to toggle between red or green illumination makes it versatile in different lighting environments.
Parallax Adjustment
The side parallax adjustment is smooth and easy to use, helping to eliminate parallax error when shooting at various distances. The focus ring is well-calibrated, allowing you to dial in sharp focus for targets at short and long ranges alike. This feature is particularly useful when shooting at targets beyond 100 yards, where parallax errors can lead to inconsistent shot placement.
Durability and Weather Resistance
The Monstrum G3 is built to handle tough conditions. Its shockproof and waterproof design ensure it performs well in challenging weather, from rainstorms to extreme heat. The nitrogen-purged body prevents internal fogging, keeping the reticle and target clear in humid or cold environments. The scope’s rugged construction allows it to withstand the recoil of high-powered rifles without compromising performance.
Pros
- First focal plane (FFP) reticle for accurate range estimation at any magnification.
- 3-18x magnification range is versatile for both close-range and long-range shooting.
- 50mm objective lens offers excellent light transmission for clear, bright images.
- Illuminated reticle with red and green settings and adjustable brightness levels.
- Precise and resettable windage and elevation turrets with 1/4 MOA adjustments.
- Side parallax adjustment for sharp focus at varying distances.
- Durable, shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof construction.
- Wide field of view at lower magnifications, making it easy to track moving targets.
- Affordable price point for the features it offers.
Cons
- Lack of advanced coatings on the lenses may result in slightly lower light transmission compared to higher-end optics.
- The illuminated reticle could be brighter at higher magnifications, especially in very bright conditions.
- Weight: At around 1.5 pounds, it’s slightly heavier than some other scopes in its class, though still manageable for most shooters.
Conclusion
The Monstrum G3 3-18×50 FFP is an excellent choice for shooters looking for an affordable, versatile, and durable rifle scope that can handle a wide range of shooting applications. With its first focal plane reticle, variable magnification, 50mm objective lens, and illuminated reticle, this scope offers premium features at a competitive price. Whether you’re a hunter, long-range shooter, or tactical operator, the Monstrum G3 provides reliable performance, excellent clarity, and solid build quality that make it a great value in its class.
While it may not have some of the advanced features of premium optics, the Monstrum G3 3-18×50 stands out for its affordability and the feature set it offers at its price point. If you’re looking for a scope that can do it all—from close-range engagements to precise long-range shots—the Monstrum G3 is definitely worth considering.