Range Report: Zeiss Conquest V4 3-12X56MM

Zeiss' Conquest V4 riflescope models bring a useful magnification range and desirable features to hunters at a respectable price.

August 29, 2024 By Drew Warden

Variable-power riflescopes with a magnification range of 3-12X are, in my humble opinion, some of the most versatile options for the average hunter. The low end of that range provides a reasonably wide field of view at closer distances, while the far end offers hunters the ability to confidently take most medium- to long-range shots. The addition of an elevation turret with a Ballistic Stop (aka zero stop) would make such a riflescope even more versatile still, offering the freedom to dial for longer shots and quickly return to a pre-established zero.

This summer, Zeiss added two new models to its Conquest V4 riflescope line with exactly these characteristics. The two new scopes are the Conquest V4 3-12x44mm with a non-illuminated Z-plex reticle (#20) and the Conquest V4 3-12x56mm with an illuminated center-dot reticle (#60). I recently had a chance to get my hands on the latter of these and (it being the off season) spend some time with it at the range.

gaf-zeiss-front-of-scope — The ZEISS Conquest V4 riflescopes all deliver 90 percent to-the-eye light transmission and clear, high-contrast images courtesy of high-definition glass and their ZEISS T* coating. With its larger objective lens, the 3-12x56mm model works especially well in low light. (Photo by Author)

As with all models in the Conquest V4 line, the 3-12x56mm riflescope (and the 3-12x44mm) is based on a 4X zoom ratio, incorporates a 30mm main tube, utilizes a second focal plane reticle, offers 1/4 MOA click values and delivers 90 percent to-the-eye light transmission. Additional features common to other models in the Conquest V4 line include the Zeiss T* coating, which guarantees brilliant, high-contrast images even in adverse light conditions, and the LotuTec coating, which ensures a clear view in any weather conditions. The Conquest V4 line, in general, contains great options for hunters due to the combination of features and reasonable price points (roughly $850 to $1,400).

One key place where the Conquest V4 model I tested differs from its siblings is in its 56mm objective lens. The larger objective, given its ability to gather more light, makes this riflescope an even more impressive performer in low-light conditions. The inclusion of the illuminated dot reticle only further enhances its suitability for hunting near dawn and dusk, which, of course, is when many game animals are most active. I’ve long been a fan of illuminated reticles, especially when hunting in thick, wooded environments where dawn seems to arrive a bit later and dusk a little earlier. And I also appreciate that the Conquest V4 3-12x56mm has 10 different brightness settings for the illuminated reticle, including some brighter levels that shine for daytime use.

gaf-zeiss-left-knob — The Conquest V4 3-12x56mm riflescope utilizes an illuminated center dot reticle (#60) and features an adjustment knob on the left side with 10 different brightness settings, and “off” settings in between each. (Photo by Author)

Unlike higher-magnification Conquest V4 riflescopes, which feature adjustable parallax (10 yards to infinity), the two new 3 to 12 power models utilize a fixed 100-yard parallax setting. Given the intended use and likely hunting scenarios, this seems fitting, as users won’t encounter many issues shooting at sensible ranges.

Beyond the excellent optical clarity in varied light conditions, the versatile magnification range and easy-to-use illuminated reticle, something that I appreciate—and that many hunters are likely to appreciate—on the Conquest V4 is the External Elevation Turret (ELT). This turret is multi-turn capable, includes that previously mentioned Ballistic Stop (zero stop) and updated engravings. Elevation adjustments are super easy, as you don’t have to remove a cap. In addition to clicks being tactile and audible, the upgraded and highly visible engravings, similar to those found on tactical or PRS-style riflescopes, make changes visibly apparent as well. The windage turret is capped, though still easy to adjust once the cap has been unscrewed.

gaf-zeiss-zero-stop — The Ballistic Stop on the Conquest V4 was a breeze to set with the included T8 Torx wrench once a zero was established. Dialing for longer shots and returning to zero is straightforward and simple. (Photo by Author)

I mounted the new Zeiss Conquest V4 3-12x56mm riflescope to a Weatherby Vanguard Backcountry in 6.5 Creedmoor using a pair of Zeiss Precision Rings, took the duo to the range and was quickly able to get dialed in. Setting the Ballistic Stop proved equally straightforward with the included T8 Torx wrench. Once set, I could easily dial up the elevation as needed (multiple turns, if desired) and return to my established zero with no worries. Having witnessed the results of scope turrets being accidentally nudged off zero during hunts, I’m a big fan zero stops, which help reduce this possibility.

The risk of these inadvertent adjustments is, of course, eliminated altogether with the scope’s capped windage turret. Clicks are similarly tactile, audible and still easy to see after the cap is removed, and once a new zero is established, you simply pull out the windage turret’s outer ring and rotate it to index the zero position. My lone criticism with the windage turret is that on the riflescope I tested, the cap didn’t always want to screw back on easily and occasionally required a bit of finessing. However, this is a minor issue overall and hardly affects my opinion of the scope at large.

gaf-drew-on-rifle — The 3-12X magnification range on the Conquest V4 model that the author tested offers a field of view of 38 feet at 100 yards on 3X and 10 feet on 12X at the same distance. This makes it well suited for relatively close shots in timber on its lowest power and medium- to long-range shots in more open environments on its highest power. (Photo by Author)

With it being the end of summer and with most hunting seasons being closed, I was not able to tote this riflescope in the field or extensively test its durability. That said, Zeiss itself puts its optics through the ringer with waterproofing immersion, continuous vibration, temperature shock, corrosion resistance and impact shock tests. The Zeiss Conquest V4 3-12x56mm is waterproof to 13 feet deep for 2 hours, and it will operate in temperatures from -13 to 122 degrees. And, to boot, all Conquest V4 models are also backed by Zeiss’ Limited Lifetime Transferable Warranty and Five-Year No-Fault Policy.

In general, during testing, I found the new Zeiss Conquest V4 3-12x56mm with its Plex-style illuminated center dot reticle to be a fine riflescope suitable for most hunting situations. Between its useful magnification range, large objective lens, exceptionally clear glass, easy-to-use External Elevation Turret with Ballistic Stop and reasonable price, there’s a lot for hunters to like with this new scope.

SPECIFICATIONS: Zeiss Conquest V4 3-12X56

zeiss.com

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