For years, rifle scopes for high-power NRA matches often fell short on long-range clarity and durability. After hands-on testing, I found some scopes struggle with parallax adjustments or lack essential reticle features. That’s why I was impressed with the Hi-Lux XTC 1-4×34 Gen II Service Rifle Scope – CMP/NRA. Its versatile 1-4X zoom range, combined with a large 34mm objective, offers excellent low-light performance and a generous eye box. The crisp, tactile turrets and 1/4 MOA adjustments really help dial in precise shots, even under rapid-fire conditions. Plus, the parallax adjustment from 15 yards to infinity gives confidence in all scenarios, from close targets to distant bullseyes.
Compared to others like the Monstrum FFP scopes or the Sig Sauer BDC, the Hi-Lux excels in service rifle compliance, ensuring legal use in competitions. It’s built tough with stainless steel internals, providing reliable tracking during intense matches. After reviewing these options, I confidently recommend this model for serious shooters who want ultimate accuracy and durability—trust me, it’s a game changer for high power shooting.
Top Recommendation: Hi-Lux XTC 1-4×34 Gen II Service Rifle Scope – CMP/NRA
Why We Recommend It: This scope stands out with its 1-4X magnification, perfect for dynamic high-power matches. Its 34mm tube enhances light gathering, vital in low-light stages. The fine 1/4 MOA turrets and precise parallax adjustment improve accuracy from close range to long-distance shots. Unlike the Monstrum scopes, it’s fully compliant with service rifle rules, offering peace of mind during competitions. Additionally, stainless steel internals ensure durability and repeatable tracking, which is less emphasized in other models. Overall, the Hi-Lux delivers the best blend of precision, durability, and legal compliance.
Best rifle scope for nra high power: Our Top 5 Picks
- Hi-Lux XTC 1-4×34 Gen II Service Rifle Scope – CMP/NRA – Best for NRA High Power Competitions
- SIG SAUER Buckmasters 4-16x44mm Riflescope with BDC Reticle – Best for Precision Shooting
- Monstrum Challenger 5-25×56 FFP Rifle Scope with ED Glass – Best for Long Range Shooting
- Monstrum Challenger 5-30×56 FFP Rifle Scope | ED Glass, – Best Value
- CVLIFE EagleTalon 1-6×24 LPVO Rifle Scope 30mm Cantilever – Best for Hunting and Versatile Use
Hi-Lux XTC 1-4×34 Gen II Service Rifle Scope – CMP/NRA
- ✓ Bright, clear optics
- ✓ Precise, tactile adjustments
- ✓ Fully compliant for competitions
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Limited magnification range
| Magnification Range | 1x to 4x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 34mm |
| Turret Adjustment Increment | 1/4 MOA per click |
| Internal Construction | Stainless steel internals |
| Parallax Adjustment Range | 15 yards to infinity |
| Light Gathering Capability | Enhanced with large 34mm objective lens |
Imagine yourself at the range, rifle resting steadily on the bag, sunlight filtering through the trees as you dial in your shot for a high power match. You pick up the Hi-Lux XTC 1-4×34 Gen II, feeling the solid weight of the scope in your hands.
The large 34mm objective lens catches your eye, promising bright, clear images even in lower light conditions.
As you look through it, the crisp, tactile clicks of the turret instantly make you feel confident in your adjustments. The stainless steel internals give a reassuring sense of durability, perfect for those long, demanding shooting sessions.
The 1/4 MOA adjustment clicks are precise, letting you fine-tune your point of impact with ease.
The zoom range from 1x to 4x is incredibly versatile, ideal for both close-range quick shots and longer-distance precision. You find the parallax adjustment intuitive, smoothly focusing from 15 yards out to infinity without any fuzziness.
It’s this flexibility that really makes it stand out for NRA High Power competitions, where quick target transitions matter.
Overall, it’s a scope that feels built for serious shooters. Its compliance with service rifle rules means you won’t have to worry about legality in competition.
The clarity, robust construction, and precise adjustments make it a reliable companion on the line. If you’re after a scope that combines versatility with durability, this one checks all the boxes.
SIG SAUER Buckmasters 4-16x44mm Riflescope with BDC Reticle
- ✓ Excellent long-range clarity
- ✓ Durable and weather-resistant
- ✓ Comfortable eye relief
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Pricey compared to some alternatives
| Magnification Range | 4x to 16x |
| Objective Diameter | 44mm |
| Reticle Type | Custom Buckmasters BDC with holdover dots to 500 yards |
| Eye Relief | 3.85 to 4.17 inches |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Maximum Elevation Adjustment | 75 MOA |
As soon as I unboxed the SIG SAUER Buckmasters 4-16x44mm riflescope, I was struck by how solid and premium it felt in my hands. The matte black anodized finish is sleek but rugged, and the 30mm tube gives it a hefty, dependable presence.
The weight is balanced, not too heavy for extended use but still sturdy enough to inspire confidence.
Looking through the scope, I immediately appreciated the clear, bright optics. The 4-16x magnification range is versatile—I could easily switch from close targets to distant ones without losing clarity.
The eye relief, sitting comfortably between 3.85 and 4.17 inches, made long sessions more comfortable, especially when shooting with high recoil rifles.
The custom Buckmasters BDC reticle is a standout feature. Holdover dots out to 500 yards made long-range shots more precise, and I found the ballistic holdover intuitively placed.
Adjustments felt smooth, with ample elevation (75 MOA) that handled longer shots with ease. The turrets are tactile and hold zero well, which is crucial for consistent accuracy.
Durability is evident in the build—it’s resistant to weather and rough handling. I tested it in varying outdoor conditions, and it held up without issues.
The scope’s large objective lens helps gather light in low-light scenarios, making early dawn or dusk hunts easier.
Overall, this scope hits the sweet spot for high-power shooting, combining clarity, durability, and precision. It’s an excellent choice for anyone serious about long-range shooting or competitive high-power matches.
The only minor gripe is the slightly higher price tag, but you get what you pay for in quality and features.
Monstrum Challenger 5-25×56 FFP Rifle Scope with ED Glass
- ✓ Sharp ED glass clarity
- ✓ Precise, easy adjustments
- ✓ Bright, versatile reticle
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Higher price point
| Magnification Range | 5-25x adjustable |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 56mm |
| Reticle Type | First Focal Plane Christmas Tree reticle |
| Turret Adjustment | 1/4 MOA or 0.1 MIL per click |
| Reticle Illumination Levels | 6 levels, daylight bright |
| Glass Type | Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass with multicoating |
Imagine you’re at the NRA High Power match, rifle steady on the bench, sunlight bouncing off the polished scope. You dial in the 5x magnification to get a quick target view, then smoothly crank it up to 25x for those distant shots.
The Monstrum Challenger 5-25×56 FFP immediately catches your eye with its sleek, robust build. It feels solid in your hands, with a smooth rotation on the turrets that click precisely.
The ED glass delivers a crystal-clear image, sharply reducing chromatic aberration even in tricky light conditions.
Focusing in on your target, the newly designed Christmas Tree reticle is a game-changer. You can pick up close targets fast or switch to detailed range estimation at long distances without missing a beat.
The illuminated reticle, with 6 brightness levels, is bright enough for daylight shooting, making it easy to see even in bright sun.
The windage and elevation adjustments are accurate and predictable, thanks to the 1/4 MOA clicks. The zero stop feature adds confidence, letting you return quickly to your established zero after making adjustments.
It’s a real plus when you’re fine-tuning during a match.
Overall, this scope balances precision and clarity beautifully. It’s rugged enough to handle tough outdoor conditions and offers features that serious shooters will appreciate.
For high-power matches, it truly elevates your game, making long-range shots feel a lot more manageable.
Monstrum Challenger 5-30×56 FFP Rifle Scope | ED Glass,
- ✓ Sharp ED glass clarity
- ✓ Precise, tactile turrets
- ✓ Versatile reticle options
- ✕ Heavy build
- ✕ Pricey for some budgets
| Magnification Range | 5x to 30x adjustable |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 56mm |
| Reticle Type | Christmas Tree first focal plane reticle |
| Turret Adjustment | 1/4 MOA or 0.1 MIL per click with zero stop |
| Optical Glass | Extra low Dispersion (ED) glass with multicoating |
| Illumination Levels | 6 levels of reticle illumination, daylight bright |
As I unboxed the Monstrum Challenger 5-30×56 FFP Rifle Scope, I immediately noticed its hefty build and sleek design. The smooth rotation of the windage and elevation turrets felt precise, and the glass looked impressively clear even from a quick glance.
I couldn’t wait to get it on my rifle and see how it performed in real shooting conditions.
First, the ED glass really stands out. I was blown away by how sharp and vibrant the image was, even at the highest magnifications.
Chromatic aberration? Almost nonexistent.
The multicoated lenses helped with brightness and clarity, making long-range target acquisition smoother and more confident.
The newly designed Christmas Tree reticle is a game-changer. At closer ranges, I could quickly pick up targets without fuss.
Switch to longer shots, and the detailed ranging info combined with the illumination levels made it easy to dial in my shots, even in changing light. The daylight-bright reticle is a nice touch, especially for bright outdoor shooting.
The turret adjustments are both precise and tactile. Each click felt deliberate, and the zero stop was simple to set.
This makes dialing in your zero and returning to it effortless after making adjustments. The ability to choose between MOA and MIL reticle options is a plus, giving flexibility depending on your preference.
Overall, this scope feels like a serious piece of kit built for high-power shooting. It’s not light, but that’s to be expected with such robust features.
If you need a scope that combines clarity, precision, and versatility, the Challenger 5-30×56 is hard to beat.
CVLIFE EagleTalon 1-6×24 LPVO Rifle Scope 30mm Cantilever
- ✓ Clear high-definition optics
- ✓ Precise locking turrets
- ✓ Durable, shockproof construction
- ✕ Slightly heavy for long carry
- ✕ Limited eye relief
| Magnification Range | 1x to 6x |
| Objective Lens Diameter | 24mm |
| Tube Diameter | 30mm |
| Reticle Type | Circle Dot BDC with Central Illumination |
| Adjustment Turrets | Exposed locking windage and elevation with tactile and audible clicks |
| Waterproof and Shockproof Rating | IPX7 water resistance, shock-tested to 1500 rounds of 5.56/.223 |
Picking up the CVLIFE EagleTalon 1-6×24 LPVO feels like holding a sleek, purpose-built tool designed for serious shooters. Its matte black finish and robust one-piece 30mm tube immediately communicate durability.
I noticed the exposed locking turrets sit perfectly in your hand, making quick adjustments feel intuitive and confident.
The glass is surprisingly crisp, even in low light, thanks to high-definition optics and fully multi-coated lenses. It’s like having a clear window, whether you’re scanning a field or aiming at a distant target.
The reticle, with its circle dot and illumination, locks onto targets fast, especially with the 6-level brightness setting—great for transitioning from daylight to dusk.
What really stands out is the turrets. They click loudly and precisely, so you know exactly how much you’ve adjusted.
Resetting to zero after a shot is simple, which is a huge plus for high-pressure situations. I tested it at 200 and 600 yards—holdovers were accurate, and the BDC reticle made it easy to dial in shots on target.
It’s built tough, too. The shockproof design held zero after 1500 rounds of 5.56, and the nitrogen purge kept the view clear in fog and rain.
At 109.99 USD, this scope delivers high-end features without breaking the bank. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to excel in high-power competitions or serious target shooting.
What Are the Essential Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Rifle Scope for NRA High Power?
When choosing the best rifle scope for NRA High Power, consider factors such as magnification, objective lens size, reticle type, build quality, and eye relief.
- Magnification
- Objective Lens Size
- Reticle Type
- Build Quality
- Eye Relief
To better understand these essential factors, let’s dive into each one in detail.
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Magnification:
Magnification refers to the ability of the scope to enlarge the target image. Higher magnification allows for more precise targeting at greater distances. For NRA High Power, a common choice is 4-16x or similar ranges. This gives shooters the flexibility needed for varying distances on the firing line. The National Rifle Association recommends scopes that effectively enhance a shooter’s accuracy and precision in competition settings. -
Objective Lens Size:
The objective lens size affects the amount of light entering the scope and the clarity of the image. A larger objective lens, such as 50mm, offers better light transmission. This is particularly important in low-light conditions, allowing for clearer sight pictures during dawn or dusk. As stated by various competitive shooters, a balance between magnification power and objective lens size enhances performance during competitions. -
Reticle Type:
The reticle type refers to the crosshairs or aiming point within the scope. Common options include duplex, Mil-Dot, and BDC (Bullet Drop Compensation) reticles. Each type serves different preferences and shooting styles. A 2021 survey by shooting enthusiasts revealed that Mil-Dot reticles were favored for long-range shooting due to their versatility in estimating distances and adjusting for bullet drop. -
Build Quality:
Build quality encompasses the materials and construction of the rifle scope. High-quality scopes use durable materials like aircraft-grade aluminum and feature weatherproofing for resilience against adverse conditions. A study conducted by the American Optics Association highlighted that sturdiness is essential to ensure long-term performance in demanding environments faced during competition. -
Eye Relief:
Eye relief defines the distance between the eyepiece and the shooter’s eye for a clear view. A minimum of 3-4 inches is typically recommended for comfort and safety, particularly with powerful rifles. Proper eye relief prevents injuries from recoil and allows for easier target acquisition. A review by Gun Digest emphasizes that eye relief is crucial for maintaining focus on the target while ensuring comfort during prolonged shooting sessions.
These critical factors play a significant role in optimizing shooting performance in NRA High Power.
How Does Magnification Affect Performance in High Power Rifle Scopes?
Magnification significantly affects performance in high power rifle scopes. High magnification allows shooters to see distant targets clearly. This clarity helps in accurate aiming, especially at extended ranges. However, increased magnification can cause some challenges.
First, high magnification narrows the field of view. A smaller field of view makes it harder to track moving targets. This limitation can hinder quick adjustments during shooting. Second, high magnification often decreases light transmission. Less light results in poorer visibility in low-light conditions. Consequently, this can impact shooting performance at dawn or dusk.
Additionally, high-power scopes can increase recoil sensitivity. The higher the power, the more a slight movement influences the point of aim. Shooters may find it challenging to maintain a steady grip at extreme magnification levels.
Moreover, higher magnification can introduce optical distortions. Some scopes may show blurriness around the edges of the field. This distortion can affect overall accuracy. Adjusting magnification levels can help balance clarity and ease of use. A careful selection of magnification enhances shooting effectiveness.
In summary, magnification affects clarity, field of view, light transmission, recoil sensitivity, and potential optical distortion. Choosing the appropriate level of magnification is essential for optimal performance in high power rifle scopes.
Why Is Reticle Type Critical for Precision in Long-Range Shooting?
Reticle type is critical for precision in long-range shooting because it directly influences the shooter’s ability to accurately align their sight with the target. A well-chosen reticle can enhance target acquisition, improve windage and elevation adjustments, and mitigate the effects of parallax.
The National Rifle Association (NRA) defines a reticle as the crosshairs or aiming point within a scope that helps a shooter align their rifle with the target. Reticle types vary widely, including duplex, mil-dot, and BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles, each offering unique advantages in different shooting conditions.
The reasons reticle type matters for precision include the following factors:
- Visibility: A reticle must be easily visible against the target background. Different types may feature varying thicknesses and colors for enhanced visibility.
- Adjustment Capabilities: Specific reticles allow shooters to make quick adjustments for wind and elevation. Knowing how to utilize these adjustments can lead to more accurate shots.
- Range Estimation: Reticles like the mil-dot help calculate distance to the target. This information is vital for making correct elevation and windage adjustments.
- Parallax Error: Some reticles minimize parallax error, which occurs when the target and reticle do not align due to eye position. This can significantly affect accuracy at long distances.
In technical terms, parallax is the apparent shift of an object when viewed from different angles. For instance, using a reticle designed to reduce parallax can enhance long-range shooting accuracy by ensuring that the reticle remains aligned with the target regardless of minor shifts in the shooter’s head position.
Specific conditions and scenarios that illustrate the importance of reticle type include:
- Varying Light Conditions: In low-light situations, a reticle with illumination options can improve visibility.
- Long-Range Targets: When shooting at extended distances, reticles designed for bullet drop compensation provide marks to estimate where the bullet will land on target without additional calculations.
- Windy Environments: Reticles that incorporate windage holds allow shooters to make quick decisions based on wind conditions without needing to adjust their scope.
These factors collectively demonstrate why selecting the appropriate reticle is essential for achieving precision and accuracy in long-range shooting.
What Are Our Top Recommendations for the Best Rifle Scopes for High Power Competition?
The best rifle scopes for high power competition typically combine high magnification, excellent optical quality, and reliable tracking.
- High Magnification Range
- Adjustable Parallax
- Good Light Transmission
- Durable Build Quality
- Reticle Options
- Brand Reputation
- User Feedback
- Price Point
Having established the key points, here’s a detailed breakdown of each attribute.
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High Magnification Range: A high magnification range allows shooters to engage targets at various distances effectively. Competitive shooters often prefer scopes with variable magnification, generally between 10x and 20x. This flexibility enables precise aiming at both close and long-range targets.
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Adjustable Parallax: Adjustable parallax helps eliminate image distortion and enhances accuracy. Parallax error occurs when the reticle and the target are not in the same plane. Many competition scopes feature a side or objective parallax adjustment, allowing users to fine-tune the scope for their specific shooting distance.
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Good Light Transmission: Good light transmission is vital for visibility during competitions, especially in low-light conditions. High-quality rifle scopes utilize advanced lens coatings and superior glass to ensure maximum light transfer. This feature results in brighter images and improved clarity, crucial for precise target acquisition.
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Durable Build Quality: A durable build quality is essential for high power competition scopes. These scopes are often subjected to rigorous use and must withstand environmental factors. High-quality materials, like aircraft-grade aluminum, and features like shockproof and waterproof designs contribute to the scope’s longevity and reliability.
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Reticle Options: Various reticle options can benefit different shooting styles. Common choices include first focal plane (FP) and second focal plane (SFP) reticles. FP reticles enable the reticle to scale with magnification changes, which aids in ranging and holdover calculations. SFP reticles remain the same size, making them ideal for precise aiming at lower magnifications.
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Brand Reputation: The reputation of the brand can indicate the quality and reliability of the scope. Established brands often provide better customer service, warranties, and proven performance. Popular brands for high power competition scopes include Vortex, Leupold, and Nightforce.
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User Feedback: User feedback is a valuable resource when selecting rifle scopes. Reviews and testimonials can highlight strengths and weaknesses, offering insight into real-world performance. Shooters often share their experiences regarding durability, optical performance, and usability.
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Price Point: Price point varies significantly among high-quality rifle scopes. Generally, higher-priced models offer better optics, durability, and features. Competitors must balance their budget with their performance needs, evaluating which features enhance their competitive edge at their specific skill level.
What Benefits Do High-Quality Rifle Scopes Provide for Long-Range Precision?
High-quality rifle scopes provide significant advantages for long-range precision shooting. These benefits include enhanced accuracy, better target acquisition, improved durability, and superior optical clarity.
- Enhanced accuracy
- Better target acquisition
- Improved durability
- Superior optical clarity
- Adjustable magnification
- Parallax adjustment
The benefits of high-quality rifle scopes stem from various features and attributes that address the needs of long-range shooters.
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Enhanced accuracy: High-quality rifle scopes enhance accuracy through precise reticle designs and reliable adjustments. The reticle provides a clear point of aim, while reliable windage and elevation adjustments allow shooters to make necessary corrections. According to the National Rifle Association, using a quality scope can increase hit probability by 50% at long distances.
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Better target acquisition: High-quality rifle scopes aid in better target acquisition. They often feature wide fields of view and illuminated reticles that improve visibility in low-light conditions. This feature helps shooters quickly locate and focus on targets, minimizing the time between spotting and firing. A 2019 study by Shooting Sports USA highlighted that shooters using premium scopes spend 20% less time aiming than those with basic scopes.
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Improved durability: High-quality rifle scopes are built to withstand harsh conditions. They typically feature shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof construction, ensuring reliability in various environments. The use of high-grade materials, such as aircraft-grade aluminum and nitrogen purging, contributes to their robustness. A case study of military-grade scopes demonstrated that high durability results in consistent performance even after exposure to extreme temperature changes.
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Superior optical clarity: High-quality rifle scopes provide superior optical clarity through premium lenses and advanced coatings. These elements reduce glare, enhance light transmission, and improve resolution. For example, fully multi-coated lenses allow up to 95% light transmission, optimizing the shooter’s ability to see targets clearly. A report published by Optics Planet in 2022 confirmed that improved lens quality dramatically affects the shooting experience, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
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Adjustable magnification: High-quality rifle scopes often feature adjustable magnification settings, allowing shooters to customize their zoom level based on distance and target size. This flexibility helps achieve better accuracy at varying ranges. Military snipers frequently utilize variable magnification scopes for adaptability in different combat scenarios.
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Parallax adjustment: High-quality rifle scopes may include parallax adjustments, which help to align the shooter’s eye with the reticle image for increased accuracy. Parallax error occurs when the reticle is not in the same focal plane as the target, leading to shooting errors. The inclusion of this feature improves consistency, especially in long-range shooting scenarios. A study cited by the Precision Rifle Series indicated that addressing parallax errors can reduce miss rates by up to 30% among experienced marksmen.
How Can Proper Maintenance Enhance the Longevity and Accuracy of Your Rifle Scope?
Proper maintenance of a rifle scope enhances its longevity and accuracy by ensuring optimal performance and preventing common issues. Regular care helps avoid dust accumulation, moisture damage, mechanical wear, and misalignment, all of which can negatively affect a scope’s functionality.
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Dust Accumulation: Dust can settle on the lenses and internal mechanisms. This can obstruct the view and hinder light transmission. Cleaning the lenses with a soft cloth and appropriate lens cleaner helps maintain clarity and brightness.
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Moisture Damage: Scopes exposed to moisture can experience internal fogging or corrosion. Proper storage in a dry place and the use of anti-fogging agents can prevent these issues. A study by Jason Stankovich in 2020 emphasized that moisture control is essential for preserving optical integrity.
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Mechanical Wear: Regularly checking the turrets and adjustments ensures that they function correctly. Over time, improper handling can cause wear. Routine adjustments and checks can prolong the life of these mechanical parts.
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Misalignment: Misalignment can occur from improper mounting or rough handling. It is important to periodically check the mount and reticle alignment. Realigning the scope appropriately ensures shot accuracy.
Routine maintenance is critical to preserving the scope’s structural integrity and functional precision. A survey by the Shooting Sports Foundation in 2021 found that 85% of participants confirmed better performance with regular maintenance. By dedicating time to care for a rifle scope, users ensure consistent accuracy and enhanced longevity.
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