Thanks guys for your help, I find it strange that BSA would release a scope that wasnt capable of at least a reasonable level of clarity and sharpness at all its given magnifications. But I wont loose sleep over it. On the subject of cheap scopes, one I do have which works execptionally well is the simmons blazer 3-9 x 50. Its sharp and clear at all magnifications. The cross hairs are very fine, a personal preference and its very accurate so far on the HMR. I have used SB 8 x 56 scope on same rifle and whilst the build quality is in another league with the SnB , the grouping at 100 to 150 yard