I had an early model of one of these, and although there were a lot of things to like about it, I wasn't very impressed by the optics. Nothing I could do would give me any better than a "soft" focus, I could never get a crisp, sharp sight picture at any range or magnification. At the time, I seem to recall Hawke admitting that some of the early models did have a problem with some of the glass used, and that they'd already dealt with the problem, but that some had made it into the supply chain. So now it's about a year later, and I'm thinking I need to go scope shopping again. I recently tried a Bug Buster after several years, looks like Leapers has made some serious improvements, so I'm wondering if Hawke has done the same. Later.

Dave

when i get it i will render my opinion here. I plan on using it on a ".17" out to 150 yards or so. It is the 24x version. I like the fact that it is a side focus since that is what i am used to.

I bought a Hawke Varmint SF last year and sold it a week later. It wouldn't focus just like you said. Nice features otherwise except for the bunched up half mil dots. If it would have focused I'd have kept it. If they have improved that I may buy another.

Dave, I bought a 4-16 Varmint SF from ED Brown in December. I found the side focus much more critical than an objective focus. With an objective focus I set it on 50yds and everything is in focus out to 70yds or so. Not so with the Varmint SF. It's the only side focus scope I have so I can't compare it to anything else. You have to be pretty much right on to be in focus. That might be ok if you are using it to range with but I use a rangefinder and the 1/2 mil dots. It is pretty clear when you get the range right.You can fiddle around with the eye piece and that helps alot. I find the crosshair too large. The dots and lines are not as distinct as I would like. The guy at Hawke said I should have bought an etched glass reticle. Guess I should have. The example of the reticle on the website showed a fine wire crosshair. The scope is pretty crisp I guess. Not Leupold quality of course. My Tasco 2.5x10 isn't etched glass but the mil dots show up great. The Tasco is a good scope for the money.Hope this helps. Scott