SIG Sauer recently introduced the KILO8K-ABS GEN II SWG, the second generation of its monocular laser rangefinder with a built-in ballistic calculator. The upgrade was developed by the company’s Special Weapons Group. The most significant change concerns the optical system.
According to the manufacturer, the new optics reduce the blue tint of the image by as much as 95% compared to the first generation. The upgrade was developed based on feedback from users of the previous model. Reducing the blue cast is intended to provide more natural color reproduction of the observed surroundings. SIG Sauer also claims improved observation performance in low-light conditions.
The rangefinder offers 7× magnification and features a 25 mm objective lens, with a field of view of 6.78°. Diopter adjustment covers a range of ±3, while eye relief is 16 mm. Distance measurement is handled by the Gen II Lightwave DSP system, which features the XR — Extended Range extended-range mode. The manufacturer’s stated maximum measuring distance applies to highly reflective targets and is 8,000 yards, or approximately 7,315 m. The measuring range for trees is up to 2,500 yards, or exactly 2,286 m, while for deer it is up to 2,000 yards, or approximately 1,829 m. Beam divergence is 1.3 mrad.
The device features a built-in Applied Ballistics Elite calculator, including the full AB projectile database and individual drag curves that allow the aerodynamic characteristics of a specific projectile to be taken into account. The rangefinder also features environmental sensors and a digital compass, which are used for ballistic calculations. The software takes into account, among other factors, the Coriolis effect and spin drift, i.e. the lateral deviation of the projectile’s flight path caused by its rotational motion. Ballistic data and measurement results are displayed on an Active Matrix OLED display. The reticle used in the rangefinder consists of a circle and a ranging scale.
The model works with the SIG BDX app, available for devices running Android and iOS. It allows users to configure ballistic profiles tailored to the firearm and ammunition being used, as well as pair devices via Bluetooth. When used with a compatible SIERRA BDX riflescope, the rangefinder can transmit correction data to the scope, which then illuminates the appropriate aiming point on the reticle. The device also supports Archery Mode, designed for hunters using bows and competitive archers. The mode is activated through the rangefinder’s menu, while any software updates can be installed free of charge through the SIG BDX app. After the arrow velocity is entered, the mode takes the measurement angle into account and determines the equivalent horizontal distance for the shot. The device also allows users to remotely mark points in the mapping applications onX Maps, BaseMap, Apple Maps and Google Maps.
The rangefinder is assembled in Oregon, USA, and is available in Flat Dark Earth. The device is approximately 112 mm long, 33 mm wide and 76 mm high, and weighs approximately 213 g. The unit is powered by a single CR2 battery, which according to the manufacturer is sufficient for a minimum of 4,000 measurements.
The KILO8K-ABS GEN II SWG is primarily intended for long-range shooters and hunters looking for a rangefinder with advanced ballistic functions. Combining distance measurement and a calculator in a single device makes it easier to use this data in the field.
Photos: SIG Sauer
