Maintaining a safe distance from animals is important when you’re hunting. The quality of your rifle scope makes a difference in your success rate too. One of the most effective rifle scopes that’s also affordable is the Nikon Prostaff 4 12×40 BDC. It not only fits on most rifles but works well with them. Both lightweight and heavy recoil rifles are good to use with this scope. It comes with a generous eye relief and 40mm lens that protect your brow if the rifle recoils.

Nikon is a reputable company to buy from. They are a multinational corporation headquartered in Tokyo that specializes in optics and imaging. Nikon is well-known for their cameras, but they also sell spotting scopes, rifle scopes, microscopes, measuring instruments, and binoculars. You can learn about the pros and cons of Nikon’s Prostaff 4 12×40 BDC by reading our review below.

Nikon Prostaff 4 12×40 BDC Pros and Cons

Pros

1. BDC Reticle

Nikon’s BDC reticle enables you to hold dead-on at farther ranges during hunting. The conventional medium plex crosshair has four hollow circles under the center. These hollow circles help hunters transition between distances with greater ease. You won’t need to click different elevations with your scope turrets. Nikon advises shooting range numbers on their website for the BDC reticle. This is helpful for those who are unsure which range to use.

2. Versatile Magnification Range

The Nikon Prostaff 4 12×40 BDC has a versatile magnification range, giving hunters more flexibility. You can use it for virtually any type of hunting due to its versatile magnification range. The magnification is superb for long-range shooting. It also works well for mid-range hunting.

3. Bright Sight Picture

Sight pictures are bright and high-resolution with this scope, even in less-than-desirable hunting conditions. Bright sight pictures allow hunters to shoot with higher accuracy.

4. Durable Scope

The Nikon Prostaff 4 12×40 BDC is fogproof, waterproof, and shockproof. You can use it in various weather conditions because water won’t damage it. Fog won’t obscure your vision either. Even if you accidentally drop the scope a few times, it will still work because it’s shockproof. Of course, this doesn’t mean the scope is invincible, so we still advise treating the scope as you do your other scopes.

5. Lifetime Warranty

Nikon includes a lifetime warranty with the Nikon Prostaff 4 12×40 BDC. It’s unlikely you’ll ever have to redeem the warranty, but it gives one peace of mind knowing it’s available.

6. Precise Hand-Turn 1/4-MOA Click Adjustments

You can zero in on your target faster thanks to precise hand-turn 1/4-MOA click adjustments in this Nikon scope. The setting sticks better as well, even if your rifle has a heavy recoil.

7. Multicoated Optical System

This rifle scope has a multicoated optical system that increases light transmission up to 98%. Similarly priced scopes don’t have multicoated lenses. It’s easier to hunt in low light conditions when the lenses have better light transmission.

8. Good Eye Relief

The Nikon Prostaff 4 12×40 BDC provides 3.7 inches of eye relief. This means you’ll be able to see the full picture 3.7 inches from your scope. And your brow stays safe from the rifle’s recoil.

Cons

The 12 power setting is sometimes too high for hunting purposes. As long as you keep the scope on lower settings, however, it’s an excellent hunting scope. The reticle indications are too imprecise at 12 power too. Nikon offers ranging software on their website to improve reticle indications, but it’s still too imprecise at 12 power. The ranging software is more useful at 4X to 6X on this scope. Another problem encountered at 12X is poor light gathering, which is to be expected of a 40mm. The crosshairs become too thick at 12X as well, decreasing your precision.

According to a negative customer review on Amazon, the scope is sensitive to parallax distortion at different eye angles. She said it might not be good for hunting squirrels for that reason. Her eye movement left, right, up, and down would change the crosshairs location.

It’s not a good scope for bench shooting. The Nikon Prostaff 4 12×40 BDC works better for hunting and military purposes. Bench shooters who have tried this scope experienced several frustrations, such as the crosshair lines being too thick. At 100 yards, a customer said that the crosshairs covered his target, which was a two inch piece of adhesive paper.

Who Is This Product Best For?

The Nikon Prostaff 4 12×40 BDC is best for hunters and military service members. Hunters can switch between distances quickly and with ease thanks to the conventional medium plex crosshair. Sight pictures are in high resolution regardless of weather conditions, a benefit for both hunters and service members. It works for a wide range of hunting types in varying conditions. Although the Nikon Prostaff 4 12×40 BDC can be used on any rifle, it works best on higher performance rifles.

Conclusion

This rifle scope is excellent for mid to long range shooting. It has a generous 3.7 inch eye relief to keep your brow safe while shooting the rifle. You’ll have an advantage shooting long-range due to the see-through ballistic circles. When shooting shorter range, you still have a good aiming point via the crosshair. A durable product, the Nikon Prostaff 4 12×40 BDC is shockproof, waterproof, and fogproof. It’s compatible with use of a sunshade in case you want extra protection from the elements. On the off chance that your rifle scope is damaged, Nikon has you covered with a lifetime warranty.

The Nikon Prostaff 4 12×40 BDC is weak when it comes to bench shooting. It wasn’t designed for shorter range shooting. You may be unable to see the target clearly because of thick crosshair lines during bench shooting. Overall, the Nikon Prostaff 4 12×40 BDC is a great scope for most mid to long range shooting activities. What do you think of this rifle scope? Let us know in the comments below.

IMAGE SOURCE: 1, 2

Nikon developed the P300 scope specifically for use with the .300 AAC Blackout cartridge. Used with an AR-style rifle, these cartridges allow you to shoot low-noise with subsonic ammunition and long-range using supersonic ammunition. With the Nikon P300 scope attached to an AR-style rifle, you can take advantage of the .300 AAC Blackout cartridge in low-light conditions.

With over 90 years of experience making premium quality optical products, it is no wonder that it is Nikon who developed the P-300 riflescope. The Nikon P300 scope achieves just the right balance between razor sharp, high resolution, and aberration-free images while maximizing light transmission. Using top quality materials and production standards, Nikon continues to build and support sport optics like the P300. As a leader in developing multicoated lenses which maximize light transmission, the Nikon P300 scope gives you the light, contrast, and resolution crucial for hunting at dawn, at dusk, or at twilight.

Nikon P300 Scope Pros and Cons

Pros

1. BDC SuperSub Reticle

The P-300 has Nikon’s new BDC (Bullet Drop Compensated) SuperSub reticle to work with both subsonic and supersonic ammunition. There is circle aiming points marked from 100 to 600 yards, in 100-yard increments, with hash marks at 50-yard points. With Nikon’s Spot On Ballistic Match Technology, you can find all the specific aiming points at different distances whether using the .300AAC Blackout cartridge in subsonic or supersonic loads. And the open aiming circles make it easier to see your target.

2. Easy Zeroing and Fast Focus

Integrated into the P300 scope, is Nikon’s Spring-Loaded Zero-Reset Turrets. With the easy to use adjustment knobs, zeroing is quick and flawless. All you need to do is sight at 100 yards, lift the adjusting knob, rotate to the “zero,” and then re-engage. Focusing is also fast and sharp with Nikon’s Quick Focus Eyepiece. Unlike other scopes that requiring turning and turning a lens piece fixed to the scope with fine threads, with the Nikon eyepiece you just twist and push or pull, moving the lens piece in and out, a procedure that is fast and precise.

3. Fully Multicoated Optics

The entire optical system of the Nikon P-300 scope is engineered to provide maximum light transmission and maximum brightness. With specifications that state 98 percent of light transmitted, resulting in a very clear picture, the P-300 is perfect for shooting in low-light conditions.

4. Hand-turn 1/4 MOA Adjustments

You can make adjustments to the reticle in ¼ MOA click-stops that are both felt and heard. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the sight creeping off the target. With the positive click adjustments, you can zero in faster and keep the setting, even under hard conditions and repeated recoils.

5. Waterproof and Fog Proof

Nikon makes sure your P300 will work under the toughest conditions. Sealed with O-rings and filled with nitrogen, the inside mechanisms of the Nikon P300 scope will stay clear and dry.

6. Warranty

The Nikon P300 scope comes with Nikon’s hassle free lifetime warranty.

7. Price

With a list price of $199.95, it will be hard to find a better scope for a comparative price.

Cons

The Nikon P300 scope is a second focal plane scope. This is important for the shooter to know because with a second focal plane BDC scope, you need to be at full magnification for the distance markings to be useful. When shooting at 250 yards and further, this isn’t an issue because you’ll probably be using full magnification in that situation. But, it could be bothersome to shooters who want to have reticle markings that align with the flight path throughout the entire range of magnification. Plus, the reticle values change with changes in the magnification.

Some shooters just don’t like Bullet Drop Compensation reticles at all. They find them kind of busy with all their circles and hash mark lines and the thick lines that they feel can make it difficult to get an accurate shot. Also, the accuracy of the reticle will depend on the ammunition you are using. With this scope meant for the .300 AAC Blackout cartridges, you’ll have excellent sighting results using that ammo. But, use it with different ammunition and you’ll have different results.

The Nikon P300 scope does not come with mounts. You can buy P-series and M-series mounts and either is suitable for use on an AR-style rifle.

Set-up on the Nikon P300 can only be for supersonic or subsonic ammunition. The Bullet Drop Compensation reticle does not have different graduations for other types of ammo. To use the scope with different ammunition, you will have to do some trial and error shooting to figure out what type of compensation you will have to make for sighting through the reticle.

Who Is This Product Best For?

The .300 AAC Blackout cartridges with AR type rifles is one of the best new cartridges used for feral hog hunting. With the Nikon P-300 scope designed for use with the AR-style rifle and .300 AAC Blackout cartridges, it is a perfect scope for the feral hog hunter.

Nikon produces a range of scopes for shooters, hunters, and sportsmen who are looking for the best optics at the best price. The Nikon P300 is calibrated for use with 115 gr ammunition moving at 2280 feet per second which are the specifications of the Remington UMC 300 AAC Blackout cartridge. So if you are looking for a rugged scope that is also bright, precise, and clear for late-day shooting and to use with 300 AAC Blackout cartridges, the Nikon P300 scope is it.

IMAGE SOURCE: 1, 2

Nikon continues to exhibit their commitment to providing customers everything they need and more. They developed the Nikon M-223 line both in response to the growing popularity of AR rifles and to show off the versatility and enjoyment in using it. Shoot for fun, hunting, or competition. These riflescopes are designed to deliver heightened accuracy at incredible speeds.

With these scopes, you can fire from zero to 200 yards at an accelerated speed. Also, see it all in action with a super wide view even in low lighting environments. The Nikon M-223 line features many features the company is known for. You can experience multicoated optics and waterproof, shockproof, and fogproof performance all bundled in a lifetime warranty. Read on below to learn more about the advantages and benefits of using the Nikon M-223.

Nikon M-223 Pros and Cons

Pros

1. Multicoated Lens

The optics allow for clear sight shooting regardless of the time of day. You can see clearly from dusk until dawn. Get sharp, flat, and bright sight picture all with a maximum light transmission of up to 95%.

2. Eye Box Technology

Each M-223 model comes with this design feature. Enjoy sight at high-resolution and superior brightness with the ocular lens. Moreover, it has 4x zoom range and 4 in. of constant, uncritical eye relief.

3. First-rate Reticle Performance

BDC 600 and the Nikoplex reticles are calibrated to match the .223 Rem/5.56 NATO round trajectory with 55-grain. The BDC 600 gives explicit target acquisition from 100 to 600 yards and aids in giving open circle aiming points. On the other end, the Nikoplex is ideal for those with an AR15 that has a heavy barrel. It has a high magnification range zoom and removable ARD objective lens glare eliminator.

4. Riflescopes Made to Last

The body tubes in the Nikon M-223 line withstand the natural elements such as water and fog. This design keeps the scopes safe from harmful, external factors. Scopes are Nitrogen-filled and O-ring sealed so the optics stay in the best condition. Some scopes in the M-223 family feature a 30mm main body tube that adds additional durability and wider adjustment range.

5. Increased Dial Speed

The Rapid Action Turret system gives remarkable speed when dialing shots. Easily and quickly go from 0 to 600 yards while still maintaining the hold of your recticle’s crosshair on the target. It’s a great, easy option for long-range shooting.

6. Holds Zero

Zeroing the scope is very easy, much of that due to the turret system. It will hold while you run, jump, or even dive. No matter what you throw at it, the zero on the scope will remain steady and unchanged.

7. Customized Shooting Experience

Nikon M-223s can now fully integrate with Spot On Custom Turrets. With this compatibility, you can further personalize your shooting to get the best experience possible. Long-range shots gain precision while you are able to compensate for bullet drop.

Cons

An issue can lie in image clarity and eye relief between low and high magnification. Lower magnification keeps a clear picture, but eye relief at higher magnifications can become inconsistent. The edges of the view can sometimes have an issue with becoming a bit fuzzy. In addition with sight, those with vision problems can find the BDC 600 reticle a bit difficult to read. A further complaint about the BDC 600 is that the bubbles can appear too small.

In regards to the turrets, the hash marks may not exactly align with the adjustment line. The actual line may sit slightly off. More with the turrets, they cannot be locked in. After your zero has been set, an accidental bump may be able to reset it.

Another area of concern lies in the size and weight of the various Nikon M-223s. They can range from around 13 oz. like the 1-4×20 BDC 600 to 19 oz. such as the 4-16×42 model. Some may find the models leaning toward the heavier end, and thus more difficult to maneuver fast and shoot rapid fire at targets from varying distances.

On the size end, the scope can be too long for an AR without a mount. It can cause the rear end to hang over the charging handle. That, in turn, brings some difficulty in accessing the handle to pull it back.

Other issues can crop up concerning the quality of certain pieces. There have been reports of the windage knob coming loose. Sometimes, when attempting to tighten the knob, the entire thing can break off. Weak or faulty screws are usually the culprit in this case.

Who Is This Product Best For?

The Nikon M-223 best suits ARs, especially AR-15s. As for their use, the line is an optimal choice for those interested in competitive shooting, hunting, or just firing off at the range. They also offer good value for the price, making the M-223 great for those on a budget.

To Sum It All Up

Nikon M-223 has an exceptional line of scopes built to last and hold up in numerous of conditions whether freezing rain or sunshine. The built-in technology gives you a crisp and bright picture regardless of the surrounding light. It is simple to adjust and it typically holds your zero well even if you are a little rough with it. The dial speed is also something to admire. It’s a functional scope for long-range shooting.

There are a few drawbacks such as the weight and the low-quality screws that can cause the windage knob to fall off. However, the many advantages in the design of the M-223 can easily outweigh the minimal faults. The lifetime warranty offered by Nikon doesn’t hurt either, so anything such as loose knobs can be replaced over time.

IMAGE SOURCE: 1, 2, 3

Features of the Nikon P-223 3-9×40 

This particular rifle scope model packs in a lot of features, as you’ll see further down in our Nikon P 223 3 9×40 Mate BDC 600 review. Here’s a quick run-down of the product specs you need to know.

1. BDC 600 Reticle-Developed for .223 REM/5.56 NATO round with 55-grain polymer trip bullet

What you’ll notice in Nikon’s range of precision optics designed for AR rifles is that they almost always have superior accuracy even for long-range targets. Compare the reviews for different scout rifle scope models under this brand and you’ll see that Nikon zeroes in on extreme sighting speed as evidenced by this P-223.

BDC Technology

 2. Fully multicoated for more effective light transmission

Those who have experience in target shooting would understand that light can get in the way of precise shooting. This is probably one of the disadvantages and yet challenge of outdoor games. The P-223 answers such a problem with its fully multicoated optical system that effectively transmits light by 98%.

 3. Zero-Reset feature

In its aim to simplify field adjustment, the P-223 has what you call a Zero-Reset feature to help you maintain the current setting when on the ground. The ¼ MOA Hand-turn Tactical Style retice adjustments make sure you’re on target even if there is strong recoil.

 5. Powerful Parallax Setting

Rifle scope parallax is a frequent issue that even professionals encounter. The trick of the matter here is to have a gadget that helps you manage, if not eliminate, such an occurrence. The P-223 has a 100-yard Parallax Setting that further eliminates parallax errors. With such a system, you won’t miss out on a shot just because the AR scope you’re using isn’t as precise.

 6. Compatible with Nikon products

Specifically, the P-223 is designed for Nikon Spot on Ballistic Match Technology. This gives you the advantage of more exact aiming, and ammunition loading. You can further enhance the features of this scope by using other Nikon gadgets,

What Customers Are Saying

Affordability and price over many

One evident comment from all the reviews is the affordability of the P-223 despite its high-range of specifications. A lot of the customer’s reviews emphasized that this particular rifle scope model is more affordable compared with others that have the same product features.

Very clear optics

A lot of the positive comments on the P-223 zeroes in on its precise and clear optics. So much so that customer Gerry Zanzalari posted: Outstanding optic. Clear, bright, easy to zero. BDC is excellent. Comparable to Leupold Vari X 3 on my .308. Highly recommend.

Recommendable

The stream of happy customers also noted that they would definitely recommend the P-223 to friends.

Who Is this Product Best for?

This P 223 3 9×40 Mate BDC 600 review concludes that this is a tactical rifle scope perfect for shooters and hunters.

Verdict

As evidenced by the high ratings and positive customer reviews, the Nikon P 223 3-9×40 Mate BDC 600 is a recommendable scope for all kinds of shooters. The upside of the product boils down to its wallet-friendly features.  Not all rifle scope offerings today provide the same specifications at that low a price. It’s definitely a wise investment for both new and seasoned hunters.