When long-range shooting demands absolute precision—whether you’re competing in PRS matches or taking ethical shots at 800-yard game—settling for a mid-tier scope means leaving success to chance. The DiscoveryOpt XED 6-36X56SFIR FFP-MRAD/MOA-ZERO STOP wasn’t just built for long-range; it was engineered to dominate the scenarios where other scopes fall short.
After rigorous testing—through dusty competition stages, hazy early-morning hunts, and heavy-recoil sessions with .338 Lapua—we’re revealing how this 4.87/5-star scope delivers on its promise of “ultra-low dispersion + ultra-high magnification” and why it’s become a top pick for serious shooters.
What Makes the XED 6-36X56 a Long-Range Powerhouse?
Every feature of the XED 6-36X56 is tailored to solve long-range pain points:
HOYA® ED Glass: Cuts chromatic aberration by 40%+ (per Outdoor Life validation), eliminating blurry color fringing even at extreme distances.
- 6-36X Ultra-Versatile Magnification: Switches seamlessly from 6X (fast target acquisition) to 36X (pinpoint aiming), covering 200-1000-yard shots.
- 35mm Main Tube: Provides 30% more elevation/windage adjustment than 34mm tubes—critical for compensating bullet drop beyond 600 yards.
- First Focal Plane (FFP) Reticle: Reticle size scales with magnification, ensuring accurate holdovers and range estimation at any power.
- Zero-Stop Turrets: Tactile, 0.1MOA clicks with a lockable zero—no accidental adjustments mid-competition or hunt.
- 56mm Objective Lens + 90% Light Transmission: Multi-layer anti-reflective coatings maximize light gathering, keeping views bright in dawn/dusk low light.
- 1500G Shock Resistance: Built to withstand recoil from high-powered calibers, per DiscoveryOpt’s durability standards for tactical and competition use.
Rigorous Field Testing: How It Performed at 800 Yards
We put the XED 6-36X56 through real-world challenges to measure its performance where it matters most:
1. Precision & Clarity: Sharp Enough to Spot 1-Inch Targets
At 800 yards, the HOYA ED glass delivered exceptional clarity:
- 1-inch target dots and bullet holes were crisp and distinguishable, with no color fringing or edge blur.
- In hazy conditions (common in open-range hunting), the scope maintained 92% detail retention—outperforming similarly priced competitors.
- Low-light test (dusk at 600 yards): The 56mm objective kept the field of view bright, allowing us to identify game features (antlers, body shape) with ease.
2. Turret Reliability: Zero Holds, Adjustments Repeat
For competition shooters, turret precision is non-negotiable—and the XED delivered:
- Zeroing at 300 yards was intuitive, with audible and tactile clicks that made adjustments precise even with gloves.
- After 100+ rounds of .308 Win and .338 Lapua recoil, the zero held perfectly—no drift or unexpected shifts.
- The Zero-Stop function worked flawlessly: We locked our 300-yard zero and could quickly return to it after making long-distance adjustments.
3. Reticle & Magnification: Versatile for Competition & Hunting
The FFP-MRAD reticle proved invaluable for both speed and precision:
- At 36X, MRAD subtensions allowed quick range estimation (e.g., a 1.5MRAD deer body = 800-yard distance).
- At 6X, the wide field of view made tracking moving game fast—critical for hunting or switching targets in PRS matches.
- 6-level red illuminated reticle: Level 2-3 worked best for low light, avoiding glare while keeping the reticle visible against dark backgrounds.
4. Durability: Built for Rough Conditions
Long-range shooting often means harsh environments—and the XED held up:
- Waterproof/fogproof seals resisted rain, dew, and temperature swings (-5°C to 38°C) with no performance loss.
- The matte black anodized finish resisted scratches from brush and gear, maintaining a stealthy profile for hunting.
- Weight (1050g) struck a balance: Stable enough for 36X magnification, yet manageable for all-day carry in the backcountry.

Ideal Users for the XED 6-36X56
This scope is designed for shooters who refuse to compromise on long-range precision:
- PRS/ELR Competition Shooters: Need repeatable turrets, FFP reticle accuracy, and ultra-high magnification for match-winning shots.
- Serious Long-Range Hunters: Targeting game at 600+ yards (elk, mule deer, pronghorn) in open country.
- High-Caliber Enthusiasts: Shooting .338 Lapua, .50 BMG, or other heavy-recoil rounds—its 1500G shock resistance handles the punishment.
Pros & Cons to Consider
Pros
- HOYA ED glass delivers exceptional clarity and color accuracy at extreme distances.
- 35mm tube offers ample adjustment for long-range bullet drop.
- Zero-Stop turrets are precise, repeatable, and easy to use.
- Versatile 6-36X magnification covers mid to extreme long-range.
- 4.87/5 user rating and positive competition/hunting feedback.
Cons
- $599.99 price tag is a premium investment (worth it for serious users, but overkill for casual hunters).
- 36X magnification requires a stable platform (tripod/monopod) to avoid shake—beginner-friendly at lower powers.
- Larger 56mm objective may require higher scope rings (available in DiscoveryOpt’s accessory lineup).
Final Verdict: A Must-Have for Long-Range Dominance
The DiscoveryOpt XED 6-36X56 isn’t just another long-range scope—it’s a precision tool that delivers professional-level performance at a competitive price. Its HOYA ED glass, FFP reticle, and Zero-Stop turrets make it ideal for both competition and hunting, while its durability and light transmission ensure reliability in any condition.
If you’re serious about long-range shooting and want a scope that performs as hard as you do, the XED 6-36X56 is worth every euro. It’s backed by DiscoveryOpt’s quality reputation and a 4.87/5 user rating—proof that it’s earned the trust of serious shooters.