Last updated on August 3rd, 2024
When it comes to rifle scopes, there’s one name that rises above the rest like a Ferrari on a race track, Vortex Optics. Now, I’ve not just seen these scope in action. I’ve practically dived in headfirst, owning nearly every model they’ve ever produced over the years. This has given me a rather comprehensive perspective on Vortex scopes. And believe me, they’ve earned their stripes in the world of hunting and sports shooting with their performance and surprisingly reasonable prices.
Vortex scopes cover the whole spectrum. From the kind of thing you’d stick on a backyard air rifle to the sort of kit that could help you win a long distance shooting competition. It’s almost impossible to find another optics manufacturer that offers such an extensive range.
So, let’s check out all that’s on offer from Vortex. We’ll dissect the features that make Vortex scopes an attractive option in the optics world and see how they stack up against another revered brand, Leupold. We’ll also unravel the mystery of where their different variants are made. It’s more interesting than you might think.
Are Vortex Rifle Scopes Good?
Let me put it this way, if Vortex rifle scopes were cars, they’d range from a reliable Ford Fiesta to a top of the line Bentley. Yes, they’ve got something for everyone, from the budget conscious novice to the seasoned competition shooter with a taste for the finer things. Their drive for innovation and customer satisfaction is clear in the avalanche of glowing reviews from happy owners around the world.
One of the most attractive features of owning a Vortex scope is the ability to pair your budget with a quality optic. These scopes are crafted from great materials, built to endure the harshest environments, whether it’s sweltering heat or freezing cold. Many Vortex scopes are fog proof and waterproof, providing great reliability out in the wild. This dependability and wallet friendly pricing make Vortex a great choice when you’re in the market for a new rifle scope.
Are Vortex as Good as Leupold Scopes?
Vortex scopes are the kings of value, delivering superb performance without emptying your bank account. They’re the smart choice for those who want great performance without selling a kidney. Leupold, on the other hand, is the connoisseur’s choice, famed for their outstanding glass quality and optical performance. If you’re a hunter or precision shooter who prefers US manufactured and demands nothing but the clearest, sharpest sight picture, Leupold is a great go to.
When it comes to rifle optics, comparing Vortex to Leupold is like comparing a Porsche to a Lamborghini, both have passionate fans who will defend their brand to the last round. It’s a fierce debate, and for good reason. Both Vortex and Leupold produce exceptional rifle scopes, but they each shine in different arenas.
So, which is better? It all boils down to what you need. If you’re after a perfect blend of performance and affordability, Vortex is your best bet. But if you’re willing to pay a premium for better optical quality, then Leupold should be your choice.
Where Are Vortex Rifle Scopes Made?
Asking where things are made a bit like asking if your favourite beer is brewed in a local brewery or mass produced in some giant factory. Vortex rifle scopes are no different, with curious enthusiasts eager to know their origins. The company’s nerve centre is in Wisconsin US of A, where they design, engineer, and assemble a good chunk of their optics in a state of the art facility.
But there is a twist, to cater to every budget, some Vortex optics are produced in the Philippines and China. Before you raise an eyebrow, let me assure you, Vortex’s reputation for top notch quality control and craftsmanship remains impeccable, regardless of where the scopes are made. So, whether it’s from the heartland of America or overseas, a Vortex scope has always been a mark of excellence for me.
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
Kicking things off with the Vortex Crossfire series, the bread and butter of budget optics. These scopes are a favourite among rimfire and air rifle shooters, and for good reason. But don’t be fooled into thinking they’re only for the small stuff. I know plenty of guys who strap these onto larger calibers like .308 and .30-06 without a second thought.
Now, let’s be clear, these aren’t your high end or even mid range scopes. They’re made in China and won’t win any awards for performance in low light conditions. But they’re dead easy to use, offer solid eye relief, and provide clear vision within the 100-200 yard range. At this price, you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck. In the world of budget optics, the Crossfire series is a no brainer.
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 has delivered that with the Vortex Venom 5-25×56. This feature packed and budget minded scope comes with all the essentials for long distance shooting, making it more affordable to get you behind a rifle and start sending rounds downrange. The Venom 5-25×56 offers a 5-25x magnification range, a 56mm objective lens, and a 34mm tube. It features Vortex’s RevStop Zero System, which ensures that the shooter can return to their zero settings effortlessly, a crucial feature for competitive shooting.
The Venom’s first focal plane EBR-7C reticle allows for accurate holdovers at any magnification level, making it ideal for precise long range shooting. The scope is also shockproof, waterproof, and nitrogen gas purged, ensuring durability and clarity under various environmental conditions. The MSRP for the Vortex Venom 5-25×56 FFP is $699.99, but it can often be found for around $500, offering an exceptional value for its capabilities. This scope makes high quality, long range shooting accessible to more shooters, combining premium features with affordability and reliability. Full Vortex Venom review available here.
Vortex Diamondback Tactical Series
When it comes to the Vortex Diamondback Tactical Series, what you’re looking at is a bit of a gem in the world of tactical rifle scopes. Built for quick adjustments and resilience, these scopes are tough. They’re made to withstand the sort of punishment you’d expect from a day out in the wilderness or a big shooting range session.
Let’s dive into the specs of The Diamondback. The Diamondback Tactical scopes, like the 3-9×40, feature exposed tactical turrets designed for rapid adjustments. These turrets track well and snap back to zero every time with a reassuring click. The scope offers a magnification range of 3-9x, an objective lens diameter of 40mm, and a tube size of 1 inch. It’s lightweight, weighing just 15.9 ounces, and has a length of 12.5 inches. You get a field of view from 33.7 to 11.3 feet at 100 yards, and a comfortable eye relief of 3.9 inches, making it a fantastic budget friendly option for various shooting applications.
On the more advanced end, we have the Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP. This scope brings first focal plane performance to the masses. With a magnification range of 6-24x and a 50mm objective lens, it’s perfect for long range shooting. The 30mm tube, combined with tactical turrets that offer up to 65 MOA of adjustment for both windage and elevation, means you can dial in your shots with accuracy. It’s a bit heftier at 24.6 ounces and measures 14.28 inches in length, but that’s a small price to pay for the level of precision it offers. It also has a parallax adjustment from 10 yards to infinity, ensuring clarity whether you’re close up or stretching out to that 1000 yard mark.
What sets these scopes apart, besides their construction and tactical turrets, is their value. You’re getting performance and features that, quite frankly, should cost more than they do. The Diamondback Tactical scopes manage to bring the essentials of high end optics to the budget conscious shooter, making them a popular choice among both novices and experienced marksmen.
In summary, the Vortex Diamondback Tactical Series is about as reliable and feature packed as you can get without having to remortgage your house. Whether you’re at the range or out in the field, these scopes will get the job done and then some. Full Vortex Diamondback Tactical review 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
One of my all time favourite optics is the Vortex Strike Eagle. It’s got more features than a Swiss army knife, zero stop, parallax adjustment, illuminated reticle, and locking turrets that click with the satisfaction of a luxury car door. It even comes with a throw lever. And those lenses? Fully multi coated, because anything less just wouldn’t work as well.
Now, here’s the kicker, all these features don’t come with a price tag that rivals a small island nation’s GDP. In fact, it’s under $1000 which in the world of optics is a bit like finding a Picasso at a garage sale. The Vortex Strike Eagle isn’t just a scope, it’s a statement in the shooting world. A statement that says, ‘Yes, you can have it all without mortgaging your soul.’ And if that’s not enough, there’s a lifetime warranty thrown in.
People rave about it, preferring its bang for buck over even its pricier sibling, the Vortex PST Gen II. And yes, it’s made in China, where they seem to have mastered the art of making things that punch well above their weight, especially in the last 5 years. So, whether you’re a sharpshooter on a budget or just someone who appreciates a good deal, the Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25×56 is your ticket to hitting targets for a great price. Full Vortex Strike Eagle review available here.