Vortex scopes

[ryutzy]

I have never used a Vortex scope. For those of you that have, how does it compare in quality and clarity of the glass to a Leopold or Nikon? I'm typically a leopold guy but I was curious about the Vortex.

[Joe O]

I have been using two Viper 6.5-20x44 Vortex scopes on 204rugers for a little over a year,and they have performed as well as most scopes.I paid @ $400 ea for mine,but the target dot model was discounted,recently to $259.Everyone that got in on that will be happy.I also have a Leupy VX3 6.5-20x40,with a Varmint reticle,and a 6500 Bushnell 4-30x50 tactical w/mildot.I have had a good impression of waranty service from the three companies.I like the dot in the Vortex because it's.191 dia.right inbetween 1/8 and 1/4.I would buy any of them.Price consideration goes to the Vortex two for one on the Leupy.All three companies stand behind their products.

[ryutzy]

Thanks for the input Joe O. How do your Vortex scopes do in low light conditions in comparison to your leupy? I have a Leupy Vari-xIII 4.5-14X50 with varmint reticle and I love it. Just gota fork out a lot for those. The reason that I'm asking about low light conditions, is because I shoot a lot of coyotes at night when the ground is covered in snow and I do not use a light. In the open fields with a snow background a quality scope works great. I will often use my leupy binos to find them then grab my gun. This also works great with the meatsicle.

[Joe O]

Your pupil opens to 7mm in total darkness.The 44mm objective on the Vortex will come very close to a 7mm exit pupil.The 40mm Leupy slightly less.Both set on 6.5X.Practical test, side by side, trumps theory every time,so I'll leave it there.I would want the BDC reticle in the Vortex scope for Yote hunting at night,which is OK to 400yds for PDs.The German #4 reticle is for night hunting.I have one in a 4-10X42 Nickel,on a Sako 243, that works great with any moon light, more than 1/4.

[ryutzy]

thanks Joe O for the info.

[Rick in Oregon]

Most here know I'm pretty much a Leupold kinda guy. That said, I've heard very good things about Vortex from folks within the industry that have valued opinions. No personal experience with the brand myself, but when those that I respect speak fondly of Vortex, I'd tend to agree on that alone.

They are reported to have very good optics, and a decent warranty to back it up. Worth looking at for sure.

[jlc204]

Just wanted to use this opportunity for my first post.
I recently purchased a target dot Vortex Viper 6.5-20x44. Upon arrival, I noticed a very small chip in the finish near the power ring. I contacted Vortex customer service. The lady was very nice and immediately sent me a return shipping label. I had a replacement scope in 2 working days!! I call that wonderful customer service!

[Sidewinderwa]

I have a 6.5-20X40 Viper Vortex scope that I used for prairie dog shooting last year. I really like it and will get another one prior to sage rat season. The Viper scopes have a large lever on it that makes it very easy and quick to change the magnification. Use it to locate and then magnify to make the shot. They are bright scopes with an unconditional guarantee. I do not think that they are quite as sharp as the Leupold at the high end of the magnification, but they cost much less. I love my Vortex binoculars. I have not used the Vortex scope at night because the 6.5 low end magnification is too high for me.