At SWAROVSKI OPTIK, precision and innovation are at the heart of everything we do. With products designed to enhance your hunting experiences, we aim to provide the clarity and reliability. Join Marco Clarelli as he shares his journey with the Z8i+ 5-40x56 rifle scope, showcasing its exceptional features and how it redefines precision for hunting and shooting.
When it comes to mounting a rifle scope, taking the time to get every detail right is essential. Proper eye relief, correct height, and a stable cheek rest are key factors to ensure you get the best field of view out of your scope. With the Z8i+ 5-40x56 and its rail mount, setup was both fast and simple, allowing for a perfectly aligned and secure fit.
The Z8i+ 5-40x56: A Window to Precision
The larger eyebox of the Z8i+ 5-40x56 is nothing short of extraordinary. Looking through it feels like upgrading from a small TV to a cinematic screen. The clarity and detail it offers redefine long-distance viewing and make it easier to score precise hits.
When sighting in, I always use a steady rest with two points of support: a Spartan Hoplite tripod at the front and a beanbag or clothing under the stock for rear stability. I begin at 100 meters, firing an initial shot, then I go to the target to measure and adjust the clicks. Usually, a few adjustments are all it takes to center the group. To confirm accuracy, I always fire a group of three shots at the center.
Once sighted in at 100 meters, it’s time to test further distances. With my muzzle velocity data and clicks already calculated, I use the same BTF turret from my previous Z8i scope. Its compatibility made the transition seamless. While the ballistic data in the SWAROVSKI OPTIK Hunting app makes adjustments straightforward, I still prefer to verify and control the clicks myself. Testing distances from 200 to 450 meters, often on steel targets, allows me to fine-tune accuracy.
Hunting with Precision Technology
My setup includes:
Rifle: AKILA ACSR82 with .308 Winchester, Blaser barrel
Silencer: A-tec H2
Scope: Z8i+ 5-40x56
Support: Spartan gunsmith adapter for stability
Rangefinder: EL Range 12x42
For the EL Range 12x42, I accessed the same ballistic data via the SWAROVSKI OPTIK Hunting app. This technology provided real-time feedback on distance and click values, making adjustments precise and efficient. The setup’s reliability and accuracy give me the confidence to practice at uneven distances, such as 243 or 384 meters, instead of standard intervals, to mimic real-world conditions.
Practice Like You Hunt
In Denmark, I take nearly all my shots standing, using a Spartan Springbok quadstick. As such, my practice mirrors my hunting style. Shooting from a standing position with the quadstick ensures I’m prepared for real-life scenarios. For me, hard training isn’t just about improving accuracy. It’s about understanding my limits and being fully prepared before heading out into the field.
A Tool for Judging Wildlife
During the hunting season, the magnification of the Z8i+ 5-40x56 has been invaluable. For instance, while sika hunting in Northern Ireland, the scope’s detail made it easier to differentiate between young stags and mature ones, aiding in responsible and ethical hunting. Similarly, the EL Range 12x42 has proven indispensable in my work guiding hunters. Its 12x magnification allows me to evaluate animals from a distance, giving time to plan the perfect stalk without disturbing wildlife.
For me, hunting is about much more than taking a shot. Most of my time is spent observing deer, understanding their behavior, and ensuring I leave no trace of my presence. A successful hunt doesn’t necessarily mean bringing home venison. It’s equally rewarding to witness healthy animals thriving in their natural environment.
Hunting also involves caring for the land and its inhabitants, maintaining habitats, and fostering a responsible relationship with nature. At its core, hunting is about stewardship, nurturing the ecosystems that sustain us all.
About the Author
Marco Romeo Clarelli
is a Denmark-based teacher, hunter, and nature enthusiast. His passion for the outdoors has guided him to an inspiring career in the hunting industry, where he works at a hunting estate in Denmark and collaborates with SWAROVSKI OPTIK as a freelancer at shows, fairs, and events. In addition to teaching children with special needs, Marco cherishes the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and high-quality brands that share his love for nature and craftsmanship.
For more about Marco’s adventures and hunting insights, visit his Instagram account: @marcoromeoclarelli.
