SIMMONS SPH3940 ProHunter Riflescope User Manual

July 24, 2024
SIMMONS

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SIMMONS SPH3940 ProHunter Riflescope

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SIMMONS LIFETIME LIMITED WARRANTY

All Simmons products are engineered to deliver to your expectations and manufactured to withstand the rigors of the outdoors for the lifetime of the product. If our product fails you, we will stand behind it and repair it at no cost to you. If we can’t repair the product then we will replace it with a product of equal or better value. No receipt is required and fully transferable.

All Simmons® products carry a limited warranty against defects in workmanship or materials. Product lifetime is defined as 30 years for Riflescopes, 20 years for binoculars and spotters, and 5 years for electro-optics and electronic components (laser rangefinders, tube red dots, and reflex sights). Coverage period start date is determined by proof of purchase or manufacturing date of the product. This warranty does not cover cosmetic damage; damage caused by failing to properly maintain the product; loss; theft; damage as a result of unauthorized repair, modification, or disassembly; or intentional damage, misuse, or abuse. This Warranty will be void if the date stamp or other serialization codes have been removed from the Product. We may replace your product with a product of equal or better physical condition.

How can I request service under my warranty?
No receipt, warranty card, or product registration is required to assert a Warranty claim. All claims must be submitted within the Warranty Period outlined in the Product Manual. USA & CANADA RETURNS: If you believe your request falls within the outlined warranty period, please call us at 1-800-423-3537 or send us a message through our Contact Form and we will help to resolve any issue.

You’ve made the right decision by choosing the Simmons ProHunter Riflescope!
Your new ProHunter riflescope also features our fast-focus eyepiece. In a normal eyepiece, eye relief typically shrinks as magnification is increased. Simmons’ new design delivers constant eye relief. Once the shooter finds the proper cheek weld, the position can be maintained throughout the entire power range. Another design feature of the new Simmons QTA eyepiece is a larger eye box, which provides the shooter with increased vertical and horizontal, as well as forward and backward movement behind the scope. Newly designed windage and elevation dials on your scope employ a ball bearing and spring system that significantly reduces wear while maintaining dial reliability and accuracy over time. Their firm and precise clicks give you the confidence to know that any adjustments you make, at the range or in the field, are accurate and repeatable.

  • WARNING: A SCOPE SHOULD NEVER BE USED AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR EITHER A BINOCULAR OR SPOTTING SCOPE. IT MAY RESULT IN YOU INADVERTENTLY POINTING THE GUN AT ANOTHER PERSON.
  • WARNING: DO NOT LOOK AT THE SUN THROUGH THE OPTICS, AS PERMANENT EYE DAMAGE OR EVEN BLINDNESS MAY RESULT.

PARTS GUIDE

  • Model Shown: ProHunter 3-9×40 Riflescope
  1. Ocular Lens
  2. Objective Lens
  3. Power Change Ring
  4. Windage Adjustment
  5. Elevation Adjustment

Accessories Included:

  • A. Weaver-style Mounting Rings
  • B. Bikini Lens Covers
  • C. Cleaning ClothSIMMONS-SPH3940-ProHunter-Riflescope-fig-2

KEY ELEMENTS OF A SCOPE

The major elements of a scope:

  1. Objective Lens: This lens has three functions. First, it permits light to pass into the scope. Second, it determines the resolution. Generally, larger lenses allow more light to enter the scope and resolve details better than smaller ones. Finally, it forms an image for the other lenses to magnify to a usable size. The image formed by this lens is upside down.
  2. Erector System: The erector system serves three functions. Its primary function is to erect the image (that is, flip the image right-side up) and align it to the reticle. During this process, primary magnification of the image takes place. These two functions are the result of lens action. The erector lenses are housed in a tube that is fixed at one end, while the other end of the tube is free to move and respond to dial adjustments. By moving the erector system, the point-of-aim of the scope is adjusted to match the point-of-impact of the bullet.
  3. Reticle: In simple terms, the aiming device around which the scope is built. This element replaces the iron sight system of non-scoped rifles.
  4. Ocular or Eye Lens: This element provides the secondary and final magnification of the image.

MOUNTING YOUR SCOPE

Your new scope, even with its technologically advanced design and features, will not perform at its best if not properly mounted. One of the most important contributing factors to the accuracy of your scope and rifle is the selection of the mount and the care with which mounting is done. Dependable mounts that attach your scope solidly to the rifle will reward you with dependability and consistent accuracy. You should take as much care in selecting a mounting system as you did in selecting your scope. Simmons recommends using the included set of mounting rings for your scope. Remember, not all scopes are compatible with all mounts on all rifles. If there is any doubt in your mind, you should seek the advice of your local retailer or gunsmith.

PRELIMINARY SCOPE ADJUSTMENTS
Before installing the scope, we recommend you set the focus of the eyepiece to fit your visual requirement. Refocusing the ocular distance will result in a sharper reticle focus, and an improved optical image, and will help to avoid eye fatigue when using the scope over prolonged periods. To refocus, hold the scope about 3 to 4 inches from your eye and point at the open sky or another flatly lit area such as a monotone-painted wall. Quickly glance into the scope. If the reticle appears blurred when you first glance at it, it is out of focus. Turn the eyepiece clockwise or counterclockwise several turns. Glance into the scope again to check the sharpness of the reticle. Remember to take glances, as the eye will compensate for slightly out-of-focus conditions with prolonged looks. If the reticle still appears blurred, turn the eyepiece another two or three turns. Repeat this procedure until the reticle is sharp and clearly defined. Unless your eyes undergo a significant change over the years, you will not have to make this adjustment again.

ATTACHING A MOUNT, RINGS AND SCOPE TO YOUR RIFLE

  • WARNING: BEFORE BEGINNING THE MOUNTING PROCEDURE, BE SURE THE ACTION IS OPEN, THE CLIP OR MAGAZINE IS REMOVED AND THE CHAMBER IS CLEAR. DO NOT ATTEMPT ANY WORK UNTIL YOUR FIREARM HAS BEEN CLEARED AND DETERMINED TO BE SAFE.
  • WARNING: IF THE SCOPE IS NOT MOUNTED FAR ENOUGH FORWARD, ITS REARWARD MOTION MAY INJURE THE SHOOTER WHEN THE RIFLE RECOILS.

In mounting your scope, we recommend that you DO NOT take shortcuts as it may lead to damage to either the mounting system or the scope. Each mounting system will have its instructions to follow, and it is best to read the instructions first to be sure you understand them and have the necessary tools on hand. We further recommend that you plan to go through the mounting procedure twice. The first time, to be sure everything fits together and functions properly. On the first run-through, please keep the following in mind:

  • Before attaching the base, clean the mounting holes in the receiver and the threads of the attaching screws with acetone or any good solvent to free them of oil or grease.
  • If the mount manufacturer has recommended the use of a thread adhesive, do not use it on the first mounting trial. Once the adhesive has been set, it is difficult to determine if anything needs correction.
  • Be sure the mounting screws do not protrude into the receiver or the barrel.
  • When using dovetail mounts, do not use the scope as a lever when installing the scope. The initial resistance to turning may cause damage to the scope and is not covered by the warranty. We recommend using a 1” wooden dowel or metal cylinder to seat the rings.
  • Be sure the position of the scope does not interfere with the operation of the action.
  • Be sure there is at least 1/8” of clearance between the edges of the rings and any protruding surfaces such as the turret housing (saddle), power selecting ring, and the flare of the objective bell. Also, be sure there is at least 1/8” of clearance between the objective bell and the barrel.
  • You should test position the scope for the proper eye relief. The scope rings should be left loose enough so that the scope will slide easily. Variable power scopes should be set at the highest magnification when performing this procedure. Mount the rifle and look through the scope in your normal shooting position.
  • Test position the rifle for the proper cheek weld several times to ensure that your scope is positioned properly.
  • When you are satisfied that everything is okay, demount and start again. This time, seat all screws firmly.
    CAUTION: Do not overtighten. Recommended torque settings for the included mounting rings are 25-30 lbfin (pound-force inch) for the cross-bolts/lugs and 13-15 lbfin for the ring cap screws.

PARALLAX
Parallax occurs when the target image is not focused on the same optical plane as the reticle. It appears as target movement against the reticle when the eye moves away from exit pupil center. The amount of movement depends upon the difference between the distance at which the objective lens is focused and the actual target distance. In most cases, parallax will not affect bullet points of impact enough to be of significant concern in large game hunting situations. The ProHunter 4-12×40 and 6-18×50 models feature an adjustable objective parallax focus ring (parallax adjustments), and are set at the factory to be parallax-free at 100 yards.

PRELIMINARY SIGHTING-IN
You can save a significant amount of expense and frustration by pre-sighting the scope to the rifle before you take it to the range for zeroing. Two basic methods can be used for pre-sighting your scope. Method one is to use a Bushnell® Bore Sighter (laser, magnetic or standard). The use of a Bore Sighter saves time and ammunition and is the system most often used by gunsmiths. The second method is traditional bore sighting:

BORE SIGHTING METHOD

  1. Place a target at 25 to 50 yards.
  2. Remove the bolt from the rifle.
  3. Place the rifle on sandbags or a shooting rest.
  4. Set the scope to its lowest magnification.
  5. Peer through the bore from the receiver and adjust the position of the rifle to center the target bull’s eye in the bore (Fig. A).
  6. Without moving the rifle, look into the scope and note the position of the reticle on the target. Adjust the windage and elevation adjustments to center the reticle on the bull’s eye (Fig. B).

FINAL SIGHTING-IN

WARNING: SINCE THIS PROCEDURE INVOLVES LIVE FIRE, IT SHOULD BE DONE AT AN APPROVED RANGE OR OTHER SAFE AREA. CHECK BORE FOR OBSTRUCTIONS. AN OBSTRUCTED BORE MAY CAUSE INJURY TO YOU AND OTHERS NEARBY. EYE AND EAR PROTECTION IS RECOMMENDED.

  1. From a steady rest position, fire two or three rounds at a 100-yard target. Note the impact of the bullet on the target and adjust the windage and elevation dials as needed.
  2. To move the bullet impact, turn the windage and/or elevation adjustments in the direction on the dials that corresponds to where the impact point falls on the target (for example, if test shots are hitting low, adjust elevation “down”). The adjustments on your riflescope model are marked in MOA (minutes of arc), and the point of impact at 100 yards will change by 1/4 MOA for each click of the windage or elevation adjustment. One full revolution of the adjustment=15 MOA.
  3. When the impact on the 100-yard target is satisfactory, switch to a target set at the desired distance for final zeroing. Set the magnification to the desired power on variable power models.

CARING FOR YOUR RIFLESCOPE

Your scope needs very little maintenance. Exterior metal surfaces should be kept clean. A light dusting with a slightly dampened soft cloth is enough in most cases. Your new scope features windage and elevation turrets that are completely sealed against water intrusion. However, we recommend that you keep the windage and elevation caps on the turrets, except when making adjustments, to prevent dust and dirt from collecting in the turret area. We also recommend that lens covers be kept in place when the scope is not being used. Lenses should be inspected regularly and kept clean at all times. Dust, dirt, and fingerprints that collect on the lens surfaces will severely degrade image quality, and if left unclean for long periods, the anti-reflection coating could be damaged. Although lens cleaning is not difficult, it does require care and some patience.

  • Start with a lens brush or a small, soft bristle paintbrush. Gently whisk away loose dirt particles.
  • Next, use an ear syringe or bulb aspirator (available in most drug stores) to blow remaining dirt or dust from lens surfaces.
  • If further cleaning is needed, use a dry, soft lint-free cloth. Very gently wipe the lens, starting at the center using a circular motion, then working outward to the edge.
  • If this has not corrected the problem repeat the process using condensation from your breath.

ALTITUDE AND TEMPERATURE
Ballistic charts published by ammunition manufacturers are based upon standard sea level conditions. When sighting in, it is well to keep in mind that altitude and temperature affect trajectory. It is best to sight-in under the same conditions in which you will be hunting.

DO YOU NEED TO SEND YOUR SCOPE TO US?
Before returning your scope for service, you should check the following points to make sure the problem is with the scope:

  • Check the mounting system and rings for looseness or misalignment.
  • Check to be sure the barrel and action are properly bedded and all receiver screws are tight.
  • Check to be sure the mounting system allows sufficient clearance between the objective bell and the barrel.
  • Check to be sure you are using the same type and weight ammunition that you used for sighting-in.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS


SKU

| ****

MAG X OBJ. DIAM.

| ****


RETICLE

| ****

ELEVATION TRAVEL

| ****

WINDAGE TRAVEL

| ****

TURRET ADJUSTMENT

| ****

EYE RELIEF (MM)

| ****

FIELD OF VIEW FT @ 100 YDS

| ****

LENGTH (IN/MM)

| ****

WEIGHT (OZ/G)

---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---
SPH3940| 3-9×40| Simmons Truplex| 60 MOA| 60 MOA| 1/4 MOA| 78-89| 13-37.5| 12.3/312| 14.1/399
SPH3950| 3-9×50| Simmons Truplex| 60 MOA| 60 MOA| 1/4 MOA| 75-88| 13-39| 12.6/320| 16.3/462.3
SPH41240| 4-12×40| Simmons Truplex| 60 MOA| 60 MOA| 1/4 MOA| 76-78| 10-32| 13.5/342.9| 17.8/504
SPH61850| 6-18×50| Simmons Truplex| 40 MOA| 40 MOA| 1/4 MOA| 95-100| 6-17| 14.3/361| 21.3/605

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  • www.simmonsoptics.com
  • 22.101 W. 167th St., Olathe, KS 66.062

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