Abstract: A static reflex sight for a handgun can reduce parallax errors and improve accuracy by locating electronic components of the sight in compartments disposed below the slide of the handgun rather than above. Only the sight lens and light projection point need be located in an upper mounting portion situated above the slide. An electronics compartment connected to the upper mounting portion by a side mounting portion can house an LED, battery and control electronics. An optic fiber conveys light from the LED to the light projection point which projects light onto the lens.

Abstract: An optical instrument, such as a riflescope, is disclosed having variable magnification. The reticle can include a stationary display element, such as a magnification scale displayed on a perimeter of the field of view. A moving display element, such as a scale indicator, may be coupled to an actuator that is used to change the magnification power. Both the moving display element and stationary display element may be visible in a field of view through the ocular and together can be used to indicate the magnification power, or a related parameter, such as the range or distance to a target. As the actuator is used to change the magnification power, the user can see the magnification adjustment in the field of view. Thus, the user does not need to look away from the field of view of the instrument to know the magnification setting.

Abstract: An optical instrument, such as a riflescope, is disclosed having variable magnification. The reticle can include a stationary display element, such as a magnification scale displayed on a perimeter of the field of view. A moving display element, such as a scale indicator, may be coupled to an actuator that is used to change the magnification power. Both the moving display element and stationary display element may be visible in a field of view through the ocular and together can be used to indicate the magnification power, or a related parameter, such as the range or distance to a target. As the actuator is used to change the magnification power, the user can see the magnification adjustment in the field of view. Thus, the user does not need to look away from the field of view of the instrument to know the magnification setting.

Abstract: A scope for a rifle provides a wide field of view and safe eye relief. The scope includes an objective lens group and an ocular lens group, one lens of the ocular lens group being at least 10% greater in diameter than the first lens of the objective lens groups. Focal lengths of the lenses of the ocular lens groups satisfy relationships to provide safe eye relief and a proper distribution of power amongst the lens groups.

Abstract: A riflescope is provided with a detachable digital ocular lens group that enables vision enhancement functions, e.g. night vision, zoom, etc while being replaceable with a regular ocular group in the event of power failure or faulty components. To ensure accuracy of the digital ocular lens group, a non-visible marker, e.g. IR marker, may be placed on a reticle that can be detected by a photo-sensor of the digital ocular. A processor can use the detected position of the marker to calibrate the digital display of the digital ocular.

Abstract: A riflescope is provided with a detachable digital ocular lens group that enables vision enhancement functions, e.g. night vision, zoom, etc while being replaceable with a regular ocular group in the event of power failure or faulty components. To ensure accuracy of the digital ocular lens group, a non-visible marker, e.g. IR marker, may be placed on a reticle that can be detected by a photo-sensor of the digital ocular. A processor can use the detected position of the marker to calibrate the digital display of the digital ocular.

Abstract: To improve the flexibility of a scope, such as a riflescope, spotting scope, and the like, a holder is mounted forward of the scope. The holder allows connection of a lens system, such as a wide angle lens system for improving the viewing angle. The holder may be mounted on a rail, such as a standard Picatinny rail, or may include a ring locking mechanism that engages and locks onto the outer scope housing.

Abstract: A scope for a rifle provides a wide field of view and safe eye relief. The scope includes an objective lens group and an ocular lens group, one lens of the ocular lens group being at least 10% greater in diameter than the first lens of the objective lens groups. Focal lengths of the lenses of the ocular lens groups satisfy relationships to provide safe eye relief and a proper distribution of power amongst the lens groups.