The Latest from Cactus Tactical: IOR Valdada Tactical Rifle Scopes

Industry Optic Romania (IOR) scopes have been around since the 1930's and is one of the world's largest manufacturers of optics and precision glassware, but have really only been available in the USA for around 10 years. They have an excellent reputation, similiar to Zeiss, for quality "Eastern European" rugged scopes with excellent glass. The premier tactical scope is the 2.5-10x42mm Tactical model.

The scope is built extremely rugged, as most eastern European products are. They hold up extremly well to use and abuse. The knobs are well made, the tube is aircraft aluminum and the power select ring is very firm and not loose. The exterior is finished in standard matte. The magnification range is from 2.5-10x with a 42mm objective and a 30mm tube.

The reticle on this scope is the Valdada proprietary MP8 reticle which uses the milradian system. The gradiations have small hash marks for each half mil, large lines for 1 mil marks, and larger hash marks for every 5 mils. The reticle extends to 10 mils below the horizontal and allows hold over out to 800+ meters with a normal 100m zero and a standard 308 load.

The glass on the Valdada tactical scopes is outstanding: extremely clear and bright. The glass is also very sharp and clear from edge to edge, indicating full polishing from edge to edge. IOR-Valdada has had very close ties with German optics manufacturers (Schott Glasswerks) and Zeiss works with IOR from time to time on new products and improvements. The overall look and feel of the scope is utilitarian and ready for field use and these are where it is best used. The rugged construction, visible stadia lines, innovative reticle design and crystal clear glass add up to a well built, moderately priced scope which should give years of use.