TESTED: New Element Optics Helix Gen 2 4-16×44 FFP Riflescope

Looking for a versatile scope with a medium magnification range? Element Optics’ Helix Gen 2 4-16×44 FFP was designed to optimize usability across the entire 4-16x power range. We put this scope to the test on the range and on the Optics Test Rig!

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About the Element Optics Helix Gen 2 4-16×44 FFP

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. We’ve already tested the Gen 2 6-24×50 FFP with great results.

The Gen 2 4-16×44 has a 44mm objective lens and 30mm tube. As a first focal plane scope, subtensions are accurate at all magnifications. It includes the same tool-free turret adjustment Element is known for along with a zero stop, weather resistance, and advanced multi-coated lenses.

It is available in both MRAD and MOA and has an elevation adjustment range of 90 MOA/26.1 MRAD and windage adjustment range of 45 MOA/13 MRAD. Side parallax goes from 15 yards to infinity, allowing close focusing. The scope weighs 28.5 ounces with an MSRP of $589.99 as of October 2025.

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!

What’s in the Box

This scope comes with an aperture ring, sunshade, lens cloth, decal, removable throw lever, Allen keys, thread protector, windage cap, bikini lens cover, and flip-up caps. An insert with QR code linking to additional resources l accompanies a printed owner’s manual.

Installation and Shooting

I decided it was time for some more rimfire shooting, and mounted the Helix Gen 2 4-16×44 on a Bergara B-14R. I determined proper eye relief and used Wheeler F.A.T. Stix to torque the crossbolts, swapping to the F.A.T. Wrench to torque the ring caps.

This rifle was already equipped with an ARCA rail, so I mounted it on a Two Vets tripod and shot some steel before taking it up to the ridgeline.

It was incredibly windy, providing a perfect opportunity to use holdovers. It was a bit unsteady shooting .22 LR 200 yards off a tree branch and took a few shots to figure out exactly where I needed to hold.

Shooting the Bergara B-14R to 200 Yards with the Helix Gen 2 4-16×44

I enjoyed using the clear glass and varied my holds between one and two MILs depending upon the condition.

I settled on shooting 12x, which worked well for 200 yards. This scope and magnification range is ideal both for rimfire and for lightweight hunting rifles.

About the Reticle

The new MPR-1C is a mid-power optimized reticle featuring a floating center dot, hash lines, and tapered bars.

This style reticle is available in both MOA and MIL . I love floating center dots as they reduce clutter and allow for precise aiming.

The Christmas tree APR-2D reticle I have in my Helix Gen 2 6-24×50 has much more information than the MPR-1C.

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.

Besides a miniscule offshoot on the left 3 MIL, everything tracked as intended. It is also possible that we induced error given our perfect results with other Element Scopes.

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 slight shifts up during this test on both sides, but not enough to cause any measurable effect downrange.

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

The Helix Gen 2 4-16×44 FFP is a quality scope with a magnification range well-suited to rimfire shooting and hunting.

The MPR-1C does a splendid job of maintaining usability across the entire 4-16x power range. Combined with the included accessories, the Helix Gen 2 4-16×44 is hard to beat in its power and price range!