Despite it being a rather obsolete design, I quite like the J4. With a 3/4-inch scope, bad eye relief and poor light transmission are typically the norm. With the J4, it’s surprisingly neither. So let’s get into it.

The J4 was first advertised in 1948, replacing the Weaver 440. Marketed as “a precision-built, moderately-priced 4 power scope,” the J4 offered shooters a more affordable alternative to the premium K4 while retaining the familiar 3/4-inch profile of earlier Weaver offerings. It featured achromatic lenses and generous eye relief, making it suitable for both rimfire and centerfire rifles. Through the 1950’s, the J4 served as Weaver’s top-of-the-line 3/4-inch scope. But by 1964, it had disappeared from Weaver’s advertisements, signaling the end of its production after more than 15 years in the company’s lineup. Enjoy the photos!

Weaver J4 with matching Weaver Rings.

Weaver markings, difficult to see in the afternoon light.

A closer look at the turret housings. One of my favorite design features of the J4, and similarly the early K4’s. The overbuilt housings are a nice contrast to the sleekness of the rest of the scope.

The turrets sans caps.

Ocular lens

Objective lens

Unfortunately no clarity board photos, but glass is clear albeit in need of a light cleaning. I’d have no problems throwing this on a nice vintage bolt-action .22

A terrible picture, but this J4 sports a fine wire crosshair. Once again, the best part of a vintage scope.

Should you be in the need for a 3/4-inch scope of the Weaver variety, I recommend you take a close look at the J4. The quality and craftsmanship is still evident today, even 70+ years after leaving the factory. Thanks for reading, and should you have anything you want to contribute to the J4 archive, feel free to contact us. Cheers!

- Hayes