Last updated on April 22nd, 2024
When it comes to rifle scopes one brand stands out as having an option for all, Vortex Optics. I have put my money where my mouth is having owned almost one from all their scope series over the years and its given me a good idea on finding the best vortex scope. Known for their performance and affordable prices, Vortex rifle scopes have earned a well-deserved reputation among hunters and sports shooters alike.
Vortex’s scopes range from good enough for a back yard air-rifle, to long distance shooting comp winners. Its hard to find other optics manufacturers with such a wide range of optics available.
We’ll look at the top Vortex scopes and dive into the key aspects that make Vortex scopes stand out from the competition and explore their comparisons with another esteemed brand, Leupold. Additionally, we’ll address the manufacturing origins to shed light on the question of where Vortex scopes are made.
Are Vortex Rifle Scopes Good?
With options for budget minded all the way up to premium optics, Vortex rifle scopes have without a doubt established themselves as a top choice for both beginners and experienced shooters. The company’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction is obvious from the overwhelming positive feedback from owners.
One of the most appealing aspects for owning a Vortex scope is being able to match your budget to a quality optic. The range of optics on offer are made from quality materials, built to withstand challenging environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures and life in the field. Many Vortex scopes are fog-proof and waterproof, offering good reliability in the field.
The proven reliability and affordability have made Vortex a good choice when considering a new rifle scope.
Are Vortex as Good as Leupold Scopes?
When discussing rifle optics, it’s common to draw comparisons between Vortex and another popular choice, Leupold. Both brands have die hard followers who swear by their products, making the comparison an tough one. The reality is that both Vortex and Leupold offer exceptional rifle scopes, but their strengths lie in different areas.
Vortex scopes are praised for their value, providing outstanding performance at relatively affordable prices compared to other high end brands. On the other hand, Leupold scopes are renowned for their fantastic glass quality and optical performance, making them a preferred choice for many hunters and precision shooters looking for a high quality sight picture.
Ultimately, the decision between Vortex and Leupold comes down to individual preferences, shooting needs, and budget. Those seeking a perfect balance of performance and cost effectiveness might lean towards Vortex, while shooters prioritising optical quality might opt for Leupold.
Where Are Vortex Rifle Scopes Made?
The question of manufacturing origin is a common one when considering various products, and Vortex rifle scopes are no exception. The company’s headquarters are in Wisconsin and they have a state of the art facility where they design, engineer, and assemble many of their optics.
In order to offer optics for all budgets, some Vortex Optics are made in the Philippines and in China. Nonetheless, Vortex has built a strong reputation for quality control and craftsmanship, regardless of the manufacturing location.
| Optic Series | Made In |
| Vortex Crossfire | China |
| Vortex Venom | China |
| Vortex Diamondback Tactical | China |
| Vortex Strike Eagle | China |
| Vortex PST Gen II | Philippines |
| Vortex HST | Philippines |
| Vortex Razor Gen III | Japan |
| Vortex AMG (Discontinued!) | USA |
Vortex’s Range of Rifle Scopes
One of the key reasons behind Vortex’s popularity is its diverse lineup of rifle scopes catering to various shooting disciplines such as long distance target shooting, hunting, and tactical use.
For precision enthusiasts and long-range shooters, Vortex’s long-range scopes deliver impressive clarity and tracking capabilities. They often feature large objective lenses, high magnification, and decent turret systems for making precise adjustments. Below are each of the individual series of optics on offer from Vortex.
Best Budget Scope: Vortex Crossfire Series
Starting off with one of the most common optics around the Crossfire series are incredibly popular with rimfire and air rifle setups. Having said that, the Crossfire series aren’t exclusive to rimfire use with plenty of people I know running them on larger calibers such as .308 and .30-06. One thing to consider is that the Crossfire series are not a high end or even mid-range scope, but a budget option that are made in China and will lack performance in low light conditions. They are however easy to use, have good eye relief and good clarity for the 100-200 yard zone. At this price point you are getting great value for money.
POPULAR ENTRY LEVEL RIMFIRE SCOPE
Vortex Crossfire 3-9×50
Large objective lens for better light transmission
BRIGHT IMAGE
Vortex Crossfire 3-12×56
Extra large objective lens for better FOV and light transmission.
BEST VALUE
Vortex Crossfire 4-16×50
One of the most popular optics on the market. Decent magnification and great pricepoint.
Entry Level Long Range Scope: Vortex Venom 5-25×56
If you are new to long distance shooting, one of the main things you want is repeatability. Vortex have brought that with the Venom. The feature packed and budget minded Venom comes with the must have’s for long distance shooting. This setup makes it more affordable to get you behind a rifle and start sending rounds down range. A full review on the Vortex Venom is available here.
Vortex Diamondback Tactical Series
Designed with quick and easy adjustments in mind, Vortex tactical scopes are well made, reliable, and equipped with tactical reticles for rapid target engagement. These scopes are built to withstand tough conditions and are popular choice at the shooting range.
Vortex Diamondback Tactical scopes are rugged, reliable, and equipped with tactical reticles for rapid target engagement. A full review of my Diamondback Tactical is available here.
TACTICAL SERIES
Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-12×40
Versatile optic suitable for hunting and tactical use
TACTICAL SERIES
Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-16×44
Mid to long-range shooting and hunting. Good low-light performance
TACTICAL SERIES
Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50
Larger objective lens with better light transmission
Overall Long Distance Favourite: Vortex Strike Eagle Series
This scope has everything the long distance shooter needs including zero stop, parallax adjustment, illumination, locking turrets, throw lever, an advanced reticle and fully multi-coated lenses. The beauty of the Vortex Strike Eagle is giving the budget minded shooter, the option of getting a great optic packed with features and a lifetime warranty. If you are looking for a good scope that allows you to make hits at long distance and that is under $1,000 the Strike Eagle 5-25×56 is the optic for you.
Many people prefer the Strike Eagle over the Vortex PST Gen II for the extra features and great reticle at a lower price point. The Strike Eagles are made in China. Full review on the Vortex Strike Eagle available here.
HIGHER MAGNIFICATION
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24
Mid to long-range shooting and hunting. Good low-light performance
LONG DISTANCE FAVORITE
Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25×56
Mid to long-range shooting and hunting. Good low-light performance
Vortex HS Series
The HS has qualities built for hunting that include the capped windage and elevation turrets. Having these capped means that any bumps or knocks out in the field isn’t going to make a change to the position of the dial. The optic is lightweight and compact making it easier to carry on foot for extended periods. If you don’t need an illuminated reticle or exposed turrets then the HS might be a suitable hunting scope.
Vortex Viper HST & HSLR Series
My first ever scope for distance shooting was the Vortex HST. It had everything I needed at an entry level price point which included Zerostop, exposed turrets for dialing and a good reticle. Another major strength of the Vortex HST line in the overall light weight of the scopes in the series. Whilst the Vortex HST might lack some durability compared to Nightforce or Steiner optics, its a fraction of the price and packed with features the long distance target shooter needs.
TARGET SCOPE
Vortex Viper HSLR 6-24×50
Mid to long-range shooting and hunting. Good low-light performance
GREAT TARGET SCOPE
Vortex Viper HST 6-24×50
Mid to long-range shooting and hunting. Good low-light performance
Vortex Viper PST Gen II Series
For long distance shooters the Vortex PST Gen II 5-25x50mm scopes have delivered impressive clarity and tracking capabilities at the price point. Recently with the release of the Strike Eagle the PST Gen II series have dropped off in popularity as many shooters now prefer the Strike Eagle as it has a larger 56mm objective lens, more elevation travel and a newer reticle. There are however a large number of variants in the PST line which cover off all magnification needs.
I have used the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm extensively over years on my long distance rifle and it hasn’t given me any problems. This has been for both hunting in the mountains and long distance shooting applications. Made in the Philippines, my PST has been exposed to a variety of weather conditions and been hauled across the country and its stood up to every challenge I’ve thrown at it. I’m eagerly awaiting the PST Gen III’s release, but there is no official word on when or if they are in the works. The optic is a good choice for the long distance shooter and provides excellent value for money. Full review of the 5-25x50mm variant available here.
LOW PROFILE
Vortex PST Gen II 2-10-32
Mid to long-range shooting and hunting. Good low-light performance
GREAT LONG DISTANCE SCOPE
Vortex PST Gen II 5-25×50
Mid to long-range shooting and hunting. Good low-light performance
High Quality Series: Vortex Razor
This is a high magnification scope designed for the long range precision shooter. The Vortex Razor Gen II made a name for itself with its professional grade features and good price point and I am glad to see Vortex have expanded this line of optics.
Built in Japan by Light Optical Works who also manufacture the Zeiss LRP S3, Conquest V4, and glass for Nightforce, Burris, and many other optics companies. Japanese made pushes the price up.
Before you ask, the Vortex Razor AMG 6-24×50 has been discontinued by Vortex so its not included.
HIGH QUALITY LPVO
Vortex Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24
Mid to long-range shooting and hunting. Good low-light performance
COMPETITION FAVORITE
Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56
Larger objective lens with better light transmission
ULTIMATE LONG DISTANCE SCOPE
Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56
Mid to long-range shooting and hunting. Good low-light performance
Best Hunting Scope: Vortex Razor LHT 3-15×50
The Vortex Razor LHT 3-15×50 stands as an example of Vortex Optics’s commitment to producing high-end optics tailored for hunting. With its versatile magnification range of 3x to 15x and a generous 50mm objective lens, this rifle scope excels in providing clear and bright images, even in low-light conditions.
The use of HD optical elements and fully multi-coated lenses further enhances image quality and color fidelity. Its lightweight design and illuminated reticle ensure that hunters can swiftly adapt to changing environments and lighting conditions, making it an ideal hunting optic.
Constructed from aerospace-grade aluminum, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of challenging outdoor use. All in all its optical quality and rugged construction make it a worthy choice for hunters seeking exceptional performance in the field.
MID-LONG RANGE HUNTING OPTIC
Vortex Razor LHT 4.5-22×50
Mid to long-range shooting and hunting. Good low-light performance
Vortex’s Unbeatable Warranty
A standout feature that sets Vortex apart from many competitors is their VIP Warranty. It is a fully transferable, unlimited lifetime warranty that comes with all Vortex products. This means that no matter who owns the scope or when it was purchased, Vortex will repair or replace it if it becomes damaged or defective.
The VIP Warranty covers accidental damage, such as drops and impacts, making it one of the most comprehensive warranties in the optics industry. This exceptional customer service and commitment to their products have garnered Vortex a loyal and satisfied customer base.
Choosing the Right Vortex Scope for You
As you consider investing in a Vortex rifle scope, it’s crucial to assess your shooting needs, budget, and preferences. Each Vortex scope model is purpose-built, so knowing your intended use will guide you towards the ideal choice. Whether you prioritize affordability, optical performance, or specific features, there is a Vortex scope that fits the bill.
Ultimately, Vortex rifle scopes offer exceptional value for money, outstanding performance, and an unbeatable warranty. Their commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has solidified their position as one of the leading optics manufacturers in the market.
As with any optics purchase, it’s advisable to try out the scopes in person, if possible, or consult with experts and fellow shooters who have hands-on experience with Vortex products. Remember that selecting the right rifle scope can significantly impact your shooting experience and overall success in the field.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vortex rifle scopes continue to impress shooters with their excellent performance, reliability, and rugged construction. Whether you’re a hunter, sports shooter, or precision enthusiast, a Vortex scope can undoubtedly enhance your shooting experience. While the comparison with Leupold scopes reveals distinct strengths in each brand, both have solidified their positions as leading optics manufacturers in the market.
Remember to conduct thorough research and consider your specific shooting requirements before making a purchase decision. As technology and manufacturing processes evolve, it’s always a good idea to stay up-to-date with the latest information regarding Vortex rifle scope production and other related aspects.
PRECISIONRIFLE