We’ve already tested the Helix HDLR from Element Optics—the “HD” version of the standard Helix with a higher zoom ratio and better glass. Now the standard Helix is getting an upgrade with the Gen 2!
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About the Element Optics Helix Gen 2 6-24×50
The Helix Gen 2 line features the same magnification scopes as Gen 1: 4-16×44 FFP, 6-24×50 FFP, and 6-24×50 SFP.
I have the 6-24×50 FFP model.
From Element Optics:
The HELIX GEN 2 continues the legacy of our original HELIX line of riflescopes, with industry-leading reliability and performance taken to the next level with new features and further design improvements.
The important things come first: Reliable tracking, intelligent reticles, innovative features and a user-friendly turret system. The turret system is tool-free and now features 8 MRAD or 20 MOA per revolution. The zero-stop mechanism ensures you never lose track of where you are, and the First Focal Plane reticle ensures precise reticle calibration at all magnifications. Optically, the familiar 4x erector system is complemented by a new design allowing for a larger field of view and a more forgiving eye-box. Stringent quality control checks are in place to ensure repeatable performance under harsh conditions, and if something goes wrong, our Platinum Lifetime Warranty has you covered!
It features improved optical performance over Gen 1 with improvements in the parallax, eyepiece, and turret click feel.
Windage is capped with a thread protector and the aperture ring. Element also reengineered tracking. Our tests on the optics test rig confirm precision tracking.
The Gen 2 Helix is 0.4” shorter but 5 ounces heavier. It has a +2’ field of view at 100 yards and increased diopter compensation.
Read the chart below for the full differences between Helix Gen 1 and Gen 2.
What’s in the Box
This scope comes with an aperture ring, sunshade, lens cloth, decal, removable throw lever, Allen keys, thread protector, bikini lens cover, and flip-up caps. Also included is an insert with QR code linking to an owner’s manual.
Installation and Shooting
I decided to mount the Helix Gen 2 on my new Pristine .22 ARC rifle build (coming soon!)
This build features a 6-lug Pristine short action with 0.445” bolt face, Ballistic Advantage 1:7 .22 caliber barrel blank, and Bix’n Andy TacSport Pro-X Trigger from Bullet Central.
All sits in a Foundation Centurion stock with Hawkins M5 DBM.
This rifle does take a special magazine. I used one with Primal Rights components I had used in my .224 Valkyrie.
I tested several different chargeweights of Varget with Sierra .22 caliber 77 MatchKings.
Once I found a load that worked particularly well at 100 yards, I headed to the ridgeline.
The .22 ARC hammered at 335 yards.
It shot well at 660 yards too, but it took a little more time to get on target.
Finally, I decided to push the cartridge out to 1,390 yards. The greatest challenge was navigating varying conditions with a small caliber bullet.
I watched the mirage and adjusted my holds based on the wind and my trace.
Seeing my misses made it possible for me to finally hit the target.
In addition to shooting prone on the ridgeline, I also shot 400 yard steel off of a bipod on a picnic table.
Ultimate Reloader Optics Test Rig
The Ultimate Reloader Optics Test Rig, designed and built in house, measures actual optics performance using precision 100 yard targets (MIL, MOA) and camera positioning to sub -0.0005”. It tests tracking, zoom, parallax, and distortion, but does not currently have a way to capture optics image quality in a meaningful way.
To test tracking, we took the scope up, down, left and right 3 MIL, noting where we landed on the target. Tracking was perfect!
For parallax, we started with the center of the scope scope and camera collinear. With the parallax set to the testing range (100 yards), we moved the scope left and right 0.050” to simulate varying head position. We saw no shift.
To test image distortion, we took one frame from the video and aligned it with a rectangle to see if there is any pincushion effect. All lines were parallel, indicating zero distortion.
The reticle was also in perfect alignment, confirmed after leveling the target, camera, and scope with a precision level.
Conclusion
Element Optics put some thought into updating their Helix line while maintaining the same quality and attention to detail they are known and loved for. It is affordably priced at $599.99 MSRP yet maintains great performance and tactical scope features.
Get the Gear
Order the new Element Optics’ Helix Gen 2 line here!
Hodgdon Varget at Midsouth Shooters Supply
Sierra .22 Caliber 77 Grain MatchKing Bullets at Midsouth Shooters Supply
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Thanks,
Gavin Gear
