Well, since I got no replies to my original post, I did the next best thing and bought one to review.
So, for anyone who cares, here's a brief and unprofessional look at a Schmidt and Bender Summit 2.5-10x40 with the A7 reticle.
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After looking on the web, I didn't have much luck finding anyone in Canada who sells S&B. Lo and behold, as I go to S&B's website, I find that Wolverine Supplies seems to be the only AD in Canada. A quick glance on their website shows specs and prices.
I sent an e-mail and got a quick reply. The Summit was in stock with the A7 and A9 reticle. I'm not a fan of the "circle-x" type reticles, so the choice was easy, A7 it is @ $1395
Within 2 days, I had the scope at the post office. I would really like to add that the few dealings I've had with Wolverine have always been outstanding. It is also of importance to note that their prices on most all S&B scopes are the lowest I could find anywhere in North America. This would have to be the only time I can remember when an optic was priced lower in Canada than the US.
The scope comes in the box with registration/warranty papers. Also included is a see through bikini cover. For the life of me I can't figure out why a top tier optics company like S&B would want you to look through a plastic lens covering their state of the art glass. Must be a German thing, as most Euro scopes have the included cover. I personally prefer the neoprene one that Leupold includes, it protects the whole scope.
Initial impression is that the ocular housing is the same as the one used on the Zenith line. The scope is pretty beefy at 16.9 ounces, but still a lightweight compared to their other models. While it's not in line with some North American lighweights in the 12-13 oz class, I have no problem with more durable internals that tend to add weight.
The power adjustment ring is relatively stiff, but I imagine this will loosen over time. Everything appears very solidly built and adjustments are smooth.
I mounted it on my Rem 700 CDL SF in 257 Wby. in Talley Lightweights, low. Everything fit, just barely. There was no room to manouver the scope back or forward as the ocular housing or objective bell would contact the rings/bases. However, eye relief was set perfectly for me at this position. Others may want to get a set of the medium height rings/bases if you feel the need to adjust.
The A7 reticle is a bit different than it appears in the online pictures. It is definitely a precision reticle and not a low light reticle. The center crosshairs are fine and the wider portion does not begin until well toward the outer edge, unlike the pictures.
I had a chance to compare this scope to a few others at daylight,dusk and dark. Comparisons were between a Leupold VX3 3.5-10x40, Zeiss Diavari 1.5-6x42, Leupold VX7 2.5-10x45, Zeiss Conquest 3-9x40 and Bushnell Elite 4200 2.5-10x40. The Summit was the overall winner, to my eyes, in all light conditions. It even edged out the Diavari, which is a more expensive scope.
Order of rating would be something like this, with the first being the clearest and brightest:
Schmidt and Bender Summit
Zeiss Diavari
Leupold VX7
Zeiss Conquest
Leupold VX3
Bushnell 4200
The difference from bottom scope to top rated scope is pretty apparent, of course so is the price. One aspect I really like with the Summit is the fact the reticle is in the second focal plane. I've never been a fan of reticles in the first focal plane, perhaps they have their uses for repeatability and accuracy for competion shooters, but I find them annoying for hunting, especially at longer ranges. I wish more european manufacturers would follow suit. Notably, Leica's new scopes have this feature as well.
So, in conclusion, for anyone looking to buy an absolute top quality scope optically speaking, I think this one can't be beat for the price. The power range and light gathering capability should suit anyone in North America during legal big game hunting times. Two thumbs up for Schmidt and Bender on this one!!
