Unmatched Precision in Extreme Conditions: Chad from Nightforce Optics on On The Range Podcast Live from NRA 2025

Chad from Nightforce joins On The Range Podcast during the inaugural Voices of the Second Amendment - Atlanta, NRA annual meeting 2025

Live from NRA 2025: Optics Built for Battle

When it comes to optics that endure the harshest environments and deliver pinpoint accuracy, Nightforce Optics stands in a class of its own. This truth came alive in a compelling live episode of the On The Range Podcast, recorded at the 2025 NRA Annual Meeting in Atlanta amid the inaugural Voices of the Second Amendment event. As founder of War HOGG Tactical and a 29-year US Army Special Operations veteran with 13 combat deployments, I've relied on gear that never fails under fire. Co-hosting with Mark Kelley of Kelley Defense, we welcomed Chad from Nightforce Optics—a representative deeply immersed in the brand's legacy of rugged, reliable, and repeatable performance.

Nightforce's Commitment to Excellence

This episode offers an insider's view into Nightforce's engineering philosophy, drawn from discussions across Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Make Ready TV platforms. Descriptions highlight "bomb-proof riflescopes for military and precision shooting," with YouTube showcasing impact tests and reticle demos. Make Ready TV emphasizes tactical applications, noting the blend of innovation and battlefield-proven design. Chad explained how Nightforce, founded in 1992, prioritizes optics that withstand extreme abuse while maintaining zero and clarity.Chad's Insights into Nightforce HeritageChad delved into the company's origins, emphasizing hand-built quality in Orofino, Idaho. "Everything we build meets the promise of rugged, reliable, repeatable," Chad shared, reflecting the mantra echoed in episode notes. With contracts across U.S. military branches, including USSOCOM selections for ATACR models, Nightforce serves elite operators, law enforcement, competitors, and hunters who demand unflinching performance.

ATACR Series: The Pinnacle of Tactical Optics

A key focus was the ATACR line, selected for programs like the Miniature Aiming Systems—Day Optic. Chad detailed features like ED glass for superior clarity, 0.1 mil-radian adjustments, and reticles like the TREMOR3 or MOA-XT for rapid ranging and holdovers. As a combat vet, I connected this to real-world needs for quick, precise engagements at varying distances. "These scopes hold zero through impacts over 1200 Gs," Chad noted, underscoring torture tests that simulate worst-case scenarios.

NX8 and Other Lines for Versatile Missions

We explored the compact NX8 series, ideal for shorter, lighter setups without sacrificing image quality. Chad highlighted models like the 1-8x24 for close-to-mid range and 2.5-20x50 for multi-role use, plus SHV for hunters and Competition for service rifle matches. Discussions included new reticles and Dark Earth finishes, making Nightforce adaptable for civilians building confidence or pros in dynamic operations.

Real-World Durability and Military Applications

Mark and I challenged Chad on field performance, from ice-block tests to temperature extremes. He shared how Nightforce supports snipers and special forces, with variants like the 4-20x50 and 7-35x56 earning spots in Mk13 Mod 7 and ranging scopes. "No mass production—each optic is rigorously inspected," Chad said, aligning with my experiences where optics failure isn't an option. Live audience questions at NRA sparked talks on mounting, zero retention, and pairing with suppressors.

Empowering Shooters Through Superior Optics

The dialogue expanded to how premium optics uphold Second Amendment freedoms by fostering safe, effective training and defense. In the energetic Voices event surrounded by advocates, Chad teased ongoing developments, like limited mil-spec releases. This reinforces our podcast goal: incremental daily improvement with elite tools.

Pro Tips and Stories from the Front

Chad recounted feedback from users in extreme conditions, paralleling deployment unpredictability. We provided actionable advice: proper mounting for zero hold, reticle selection for mission, and regular dry-fire integration. YouTube demos enhanced visuals, Apple audio suited mobility, Make Ready depth appealed to tacticians.

War HOGG's Alignment with Nightforce Optics Standards

This episode highlights why War HOGG Tactical respects Nightforce—for optics that match operational demands. From deployments to range days, they elevate capability. Access the full episode on ontherangepodcast.com, subscribe via Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or Make Ready TV, and join our On The Range Podcast "CREW" membership for NRA 2025 insights.

Celebrating Innovation and Resolve

This live recording captured the NRA spirit: community, advancement, steadfast Second Amendment support. Chad's perspective reminds us durable gear empowers responsibility. Be 1% better every day—mount Nightforce and dominate distance.