Vector Optics Cerato C3 3‑9×32 SFP Rifle Scope – Ultra‑Compact Mil‑Dot Scope with Illumination
The Vector Optics Cerato C3 3‑9×32 is engineered as a super-compact, ultra-light riflescope ideal for close-range to short-mid engagements. With a minimal length of only 208 mm (8.2") and a weight of 380 g (13.4 oz), it’s perfect for compact builds, youth rifles, and field use where low profile and agility matter.
Crystal Optical Design & Wide Field of View
Featuring a 32 mm objective lens fully multi-coated to maximize light transmission and reduce glare, this scope delivers sharp, high-contrast images edge-to-edge. The exit pupil ranges from 10.6 mm at low magnification to 3.6 mm at high, delivering excellent brightness across settings. Field of view spans approximately 37 ft at 100 yd (10 m @ 100 m) down to around 12.5 ft (3.8 m @ 100 m).
Mil‑Dot Reticle, FFP on a Compact Tube
A crisp Mil‑Dot reticle positioned in the second focal plane (SFP) stays consistent across magnification changes. With fully illuminated reticle in selectable red or green, visibility remains excellent in varied lighting conditions. Its minimalistic design supports fast target acquisition in daylight or twilight.
Tactical Turrets & Parallax Focus
- 1/4 MOA capped turrets with audible clicks provide precise elevation and windage adjustment.
- Generous travel: ±120 MOA adjustment range in both axes allows dialing far beyond typical short-range zeroes.
- Adjustable side focus/parallax from as close as 3 yards (approx. 3 m), stepping through 5, 10, 15, 25, 50, 100 yards up to infinity—ideal for short-range use such as airguns or field-target.
- Turret lock feature secures your zero setting from accidental bumps.
Built Rugged for the Field
- Constructed of 6061‑T6 aircraft-grade aluminum featuring a 25.4 mm (1") monotube for structural strength.
- Rated to withstand recoils up to 750 G and is nitrogen purged with O-ring sealing for waterproof and fog-proof reliability.
- Matte black finish resists glare and blends with tactical gear.
- Fast‑focus eyepiece allows diopter adjustment from approx. –2 to +2 to match your eyesight.
Comfort & Ergonomics
- Eye relief ranges from ~102 mm (4") to ~76 mm (3") across 3–9×, ensuring safe distance from recoil.
- With its compact length and light weight, the Cerato is comfortable to mount on subcompact rifles and lightweight platforms.
Included Accessories
- Users get: standard 25.4 mm Weaver-style mounting rings (adjustable), screw-in sunshade, flip-up lens caps, cleaning cloth included in box.
- Battery: CR1620 (not included) powers the illumination.
Technical Specifications
| Feature |
Specification |
| Magnification |
3–9× |
| Objective Lens Diameter |
32 mm |
| Tube Diameter |
25.4 mm (1 in) |
| Reticle |
Mil‑Dot, SFP, illuminated (red/green) |
| Eye Relief |
102–76 mm (4.0–3.0 in) |
| Field of View @100 yd |
37.0–12.5 ft (11.2–3.8 m @100 m) |
| Exit Pupil |
10.6–3.6 mm |
| Parallax Adjustment |
Side focus, from 3 yd to ∞ |
| Click Value |
1/4 MOA (≈7 mm @100 m) |
| Elevation/Windage Range |
±120 MOA |
| Illumination Levels |
Stepless red/green |
| Waterproof/Fog-proof/Shockproof |
Yes (nitrogen‑purged, up to 750 G) |
| Diopter Range |
~ –2 to +2 |
| Length |
208 mm (8.2 in) |
| Weight |
380 g (13.4 oz) |
| Battery |
CR1620 |
User Feedback & Real‑Use Observations
- Praised across forums for its exceptional clarity and compact size for the price—often compared favorably with industry rivals.
- Ideal for close‑range use; parallax focus down to 3 yards is rare in scopes of this class.
- Some users note the reticle lines are slightly thick for fine pinpoint work, but illumination and clear glass make up for this for tactical or plinking use.
- Eye relief may require offset or cantilever mount on certain rifles due to compact tube design.
Verdict
The Vector Optics Cerato C3 3–9×32 SFP is an outstanding compact optic offering unmatched value. With features like deep short-range parallax, full illumination, large adjustment travel, and rugged construction, it punches well above its price class—ideal for airguns, carbines, youth rifles, or anyone needing a reliable short to mid-range optic.
