Complete Vortex Scope Lineup Guide: Every Model Compared

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Overview: The Complete Vortex Scope Lineup

Vortex Optics has grown from a small family operation in 1986 to a 300-person team delivering riflescopes across every price point and application. As a veteran-owned, American company still led by the Hamilton family, they’ve built their reputation on one thing: the VIP (Very Important Promise) Warranty that covers every scope regardless of how it was damaged—no receipt required, fully transferable.

I’ve spent time behind glass from every tier of Vortex’s lineup, from budget Crossfires on rimfire trainers to Razors on precision rigs. This guide breaks down each product line so you can match the right optic to your specific use case—whether that’s whitetail hunting, PRS competition, or long-range target shooting.

Advantages of Vortex Scopes

• Industry-leading warranty: The VIP Warranty covers any damage, no questions asked—even if you caused it
• Wide price range: Quality options from $100 entry-level to $3,000+ premium glass
• Consistent build quality: All models are fog-proof, shockproof, and waterproof
• Strong resale value: Transferable warranty maintains value on the used market
• Excellent customer service: Users consistently report Vortex going “above and beyond” on warranty claims

Disadvantages

• Quality control concerns at lower tiers: Some users report needing warranty service on budget models
• Glass quality scales with price: Entry-level scopes show noticeable chromatic aberration and edge softness
• Most manufacturing overseas: Only the Razor AMG is fully American-made (Wisconsin); other Razors are Japanese (LOW), Vipers are Philippine-made, and Crossfires are Chinese

“For middle class and most hunters, Vortex products will do what you need them to. They are unmatched in their customer service.” — Rokslide Forum user

Vortex Scope Comparison Table

Vortex Crossfire II

The Crossfire II sits at the foundation of Vortex’s lineup, offering entry-level optics backed by the same VIP Warranty as their premium glass. Available in 1-inch and 30mm tube configurations, these scopes span magnification options from 1-4x for close-quarters work up to 6-24x for reaching out to medium distances. The 30mm tube models retail around $200-$220, while 1-inch variants run $100-$150.

Glass quality is where you’ll notice the budget positioning—expect some chromatic aberration around high-contrast edges and softness toward the periphery. However, the Crossfire II delivers where it matters for most hunters: 3.8-3.9 inches of consistent eye relief prevents scope bite, even with magnum calibers. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle handles holdovers for hunting distances, and fully multi-coated (FMC) lenses provide acceptable light transmission for dawn and dusk shooting.

The single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube is nitrogen-purged for fog-proof, waterproof performance. For hunters working within 300 yards who want reliable glass without financial risk, the Crossfire II makes sense—especially since that unconditional warranty means Vortex will fix or replace it regardless of what happens.

“The Crossfire II delivers clear enough glass to pick out details at 300 yards, and the zero has held through drops, weather, and hundreds of rounds. For hunters working within reasonable distances, I recommend this scope without hesitation.” — Scopes Field review

Pros

• Best-in-class eye relief (3.8-3.9″) at this price point prevents scope bite
• VIP Warranty protection identical to premium Vortex scopes
• Wide range of magnification options for different applications
• Illuminated reticle available on select models
• Zero holds reliably through rough handling and recoil

Cons

• Chinese-made glass shows noticeable chromatic aberration
• Edge sharpness suffers compared to higher tiers
• Second focal plane only—no FFP options available

Who should NOT buy: Shooters who need glass clarity for precision work beyond 400 yards, low-light hunters who need maximum light transmission, or anyone who will be frustrated by optical compromises. Skip to Diamondback Tactical or Viper for serious use.

Vortex Diamondback

The standard Diamondback line represents Vortex’s lightweight hunting option, built on a compact 1-inch tube platform. These scopes run $180-$280 and cover magnification ranges from 1.75-5x up to 4-12x—the sweet spot for most hunting scenarios. At 12-15 ounces depending on configuration, they’re noticeably lighter than the Crossfire II series despite offering improved optical clarity.

The argon-purged, single-piece aluminum construction (versus nitrogen in the Crossfire) provides enhanced moisture protection for extreme temperature swings. Glass quality steps up from the Crossfire with better edge-to-edge sharpness and reduced chromatic aberration. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle and V-Plex options cover most hunting applications, though no illuminated variants exist in this line.

Eye relief runs 3.0-3.2 inches—shorter than the Crossfire II and more critical to head positioning. This is a trade-off for the improved optics and reduced weight. For hunters who prioritize carrying a light rifle through steep terrain, the Diamondback makes sense. For those who value eye relief forgiveness, stick with Crossfire.

Pros

• Improved optical clarity over Crossfire II at similar price point
• Lighter weight (12-15 oz) for mountain hunting applications
• Argon purging provides better fog-proof performance
• Compact profile fits well on lightweight hunting rifles

Cons

• Shorter, more critical eye relief (3.0-3.2″) than Crossfire
• No illuminated reticle options available
• All models are SFP—no first focal plane configurations

Who should NOT buy: Shooters who wear glasses or need forgiving eye relief, anyone wanting illumination for low-light hunting, or precision shooters who need exposed turrets and FFP reticles.

Vortex Diamondback Tactical

The Diamondback Tactical represents Vortex’s entry point into serious precision optics, delivering first focal plane reticles and exposed tactical turrets at the $350-$450 price point. Available in 4-16×44 (85 MOA adjustment range) and 6-24×50 (65 MOA adjustment range) configurations, these scopes bridge the gap between budget hunting glass and dedicated long-range optics.

Built on a 30mm tube, the Diamondback Tactical has been torture-tested to withstand .338 Lapua recoil. After extensive field testing including intentional drops onto rocky terrain and heavy rain exposure, these scopes maintain zero. The turrets track consistently, returning to zero within 0.25 MOA during box testing. Users report comfortable shooting at 18x magnification with the 6-24×50 model, with clarity extending to 800-1,000 yards.

The notable limitations: no zero stop (unlike the Viper PST Gen II), tighter eye box at maximum magnification requiring precise cheek weld, and reduced low-light performance compared to premium options. These trade-offs are acceptable for the price, making this scope ideal for PRS beginners, long-range hunters shooting under 800 yards, and rimfire trainers who want to practice with an advanced reticle system.

“The Diamondback Tactical is highly recommended for anyone looking for a scope in the $400-$450 price range. The features you get at this price are tough to beat.” — Vyce Outdoor review

Pros

• First focal plane reticle at entry-level pricing
• Exposed tactical turrets with reliable tracking
• Proven durability through .338 Lapua recoil testing
• Excellent value for PRS training and entry competition
• 85 MOA adjustment range on 4-16×44 model

Cons

• No zero stop—must count clicks to return to zero
• Low-light performance noticeably weaker than higher tiers
• Eye box tightens significantly at maximum magnification

Who should NOT buy: Hunters who shoot primarily at dawn/dusk, serious competitors who need zero stop functionality, or anyone who can stretch budget to the Viper PST Gen II for the meaningful feature upgrades.

Vortex Strike Eagle

The Strike Eagle line targets AR-15 and MSR shooters who need versatile optics spanning close-quarters to medium-range engagement. The 1-6×24 ($300-$400) provides true 1x magnification with a 109-foot field of view for both-eyes-open shooting, while the 5-25×56 ($699-$799) brings PRS competition features—34mm tube, 110 MOA (31 MRAD) of elevation adjustment, and illuminated FFP EBR-7C Christmas tree reticle.

The 5-25×56 packs features from Vortex’s expensive Razor line into an accessible package. It includes locking tactical turrets, RevStop Zero System, side parallax adjustment from 15 yards to infinity, and the illuminated FFP reticle essential for competitive shooting. Users report solid performance through full-day PRS matches with acceptable sight pictures and visible impacts.

Compared to $1,000+ options like the Athlon ARES ETR or Steiner P4xi, there’s a definite capability gap—but the Strike Eagle is “good enough” for developing competitors. The eye relief can be confusing initially, requiring practice to find the sweet spot. And the zero stop nearly halves available elevation travel, which matters for extreme long-range applications.

“The Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25×56 is a great precision rifle optic for burgeoning competition shooters. It’s not as bright or clear as something closer to $1,000, nor do the turrets give as good a feel, but I sincerely think it’s ‘good enough.'” — Everyday Marksman review

Pros

• True 1x magnification on LPVO models for both-eyes-open shooting
• 110 MOA elevation adjustment on 5-25×56—designed for PRS
• Illuminated FFP reticle with EBR-7C Christmas tree pattern
• RevStop Zero System included at this price point
• Best value for AR-15 and entry PRS applications

Cons

• Zero stop significantly reduces available elevation travel
• Eye relief “sweet spot” requires learning curve
• Glass and turret feel noticeably below $1,000+ competition

Who should NOT buy: Experienced PRS competitors who will notice the glass and turret limitations, ELR shooters who need maximum elevation travel, or hunters seeking lightweight mountain optics.

Vortex Venom

The Venom bridges budget hunting scopes and serious tactical glass with a 34mm tube and first focal plane reticle at a price point ($600-$700) that undercuts the Viper PST. With 40 MRAD of elevation adjustment, it offers versatility for shooters transitioning from hunting to precision applications without committing to Viper pricing.

This relatively new addition to Vortex’s lineup targets the gap between Diamondback Tactical and Viper PST Gen II. The 34mm tube provides additional internal adjustment range and light transmission compared to 30mm options at similar prices. For shooters who want FFP capability with exposed turrets but find the Viper’s $900+ price point steep, the Venom makes sense.

The trade-off is glass quality—it won’t match the Viper’s extra-low dispersion elements or low-light performance. But for daylight shooting and hunters who dial for elevation, the Venom delivers solid value. Consider it a “tactical-capable hunting scope” rather than a “hunting-capable tactical scope.”

Pros

• 34mm tube provides increased elevation range and light gathering
• FFP reticle at a price point below Viper PST Gen II
• 40 MRAD elevation adjustment for long-range versatility
• Bridges hunting and tactical applications effectively

Cons

• Glass quality below Viper tier—noticeable in low light
• Newer product line with less long-term reliability data
• Weight penalty from 34mm tube may concern mountain hunters

Who should NOT buy: Hunters prioritizing low-light performance, weight-conscious mountain hunters, or shooters who can stretch budget to Viper PST Gen II for the glass quality upgrade.

Vortex Viper PST Gen II

The Viper PST Gen II represents where Vortex’s lineup “gets serious about long-range precision without crossing into Razor pricing.” The 5-25×50 FFP model ($850-$1,000) has become the benchmark for value in precision optics—offering first focal plane MRAD reticles, RZR zero stop turrets, and glass quality that genuinely performs in low light.

Extensive testing confirms the PST Gen II tracks reliably to the click, with turrets that have been “cranked up, down, left and right” and banged off barricades without losing zero. The extra-low dispersion glass delivers crystal-clear images from 3x through 15x (on the 3-15×44) and 5x through 25x without degradation. At 800 yards, optical clarity remains exceptional with minimal edge distortion.

Quality control concerns exist—some users report needing warranty service for focus issues or zero stop problems. Vortex customer service resolves these issues quickly, but it’s worth noting if you’re ordering for a time-sensitive hunt. Some experienced shooters also note that if you expect the scope to hold zero through aggressive foot-hunting handling, you might want to consider the Razor tier.

“I have Vipers, Diamondbacks, and Crossfires—all have performed flawlessly. The oldest one is 4 years old, gets used very hard, never lost zero, performs every year.” — Hunt Talk Forum user

“If you’re okay with frequent re-zeroing and potential warranty service, they work fine for casual PRS-type use. If you expect it to hold zero with foot-hunting type handling, pick a different scope.” — Experienced precision shooter, Sniper’s Hide

Pros

• Best-in-class value for FFP precision optics under $1,000
• RZR zero stop turrets with reliable tracking
• Extra-low dispersion glass performs well in low light
• Multiple configurations: 1-6×24, 3-15×44, 5-25×50
• Strong track record across PRS competition and hunting

Cons

• Some QC issues reported—may require warranty service
• Zero stop setup process frustrates some users
• Glass gets darker at maximum magnification

Who should NOT buy: Shooters who need absolute reliability without any warranty risk, those who will be frustrated by occasional QC lottery, or anyone whose budget can reach Razor HD LHT for meaningful glass and durability upgrades.

Vortex Viper HD (New)

The new Viper HD line (not to be confused with the PST Gen II) launched with three hunting-focused configurations: 2-10×42 SFP, 3-15×44 SFP, and 5-25×50 FFP/SFP. All feature 30mm tubes, adjustable illumination, and new HD glass unique to this line. Pricing runs $600-$800 depending on configuration.

Outdoor Life’s testing of the new Vipers found them positioned between the affordable Diamondback line and higher-end Razor series in both price and performance. The HD glass designation indicates improved optical clarity over previous Viper variants while maintaining hunting-appropriate weights around 17-22 ounces.

These scopes are manufactured in the Philippines—a step up from Chinese production on entry-level models. For hunters who want illuminated reticles and improved glass without jumping to Razor pricing, the new Viper HD line fills an important gap. The SFP options keep weight down for mountain applications, while the FFP 5-25×50 provides precision capability.

Pros

• New HD glass improves clarity over previous Viper models
• Illuminated reticle options across the line
• Both SFP and FFP configurations available
• Hunting-appropriate weights for mountain applications

Cons

• Newer product line with limited long-term field data
• SFP models limit precision shooting at varying magnification
• Price overlaps with proven Viper PST Gen II

Who should NOT buy: Precision shooters who need FFP at lower magnification options, buyers who want proven long-term reliability data, or those who prefer the PST Gen II’s established track record.

Vortex Razor HD LHT

The Razor HD LHT (Light Hunter) represents Vortex’s purpose-built mountain hunting scope. At just 20-22 ounces with a 30mm tube and 50mm objective, it delivers Razor-tier HD glass in a package that won’t break your back on steep terrain. The 3-15×42 runs $1,200-$1,400 while the newer 4.5-22×50 FFP commands $1,500-$2,200.

Glass quality matches other Razor optics—minimal edge distortion even at maximum magnification, forgiving eye relief (3.8 inches), and light transmission among the best available. The XLR-2 reticle excels for holdover shooting, and the RevStop Zero System allows confident dialing. For hunters who dial elevation rather than hold, this is the go-to premium hunting optic.

The trade-offs are mechanical: the magnification ring runs exceedingly tight, making quick adjustments difficult without breaking shooting position. Elevation clicks feel “mushy” compared to precision-focused optics like the Razor HD Gen III. These are deliberate design choices—the tight power ring prevents accidental adjustment—but they frustrate some users.

“The Razor HD LHT 3-15×42 is ideal for hunters who need a versatile, light scope they can dial for elevation. You can use it in the timber for whitetails or on a sheep hunt.” — Rokslide review

Pros

• Exceptional glass quality in lightweight (20-22 oz) package
• 3.8″ forgiving eye relief accommodates various shooting positions
• RevStop Zero System for confident elevation dialing
• Edge-to-edge sharpness at maximum magnification
• FFP option available in 4.5-22×50 configuration

Cons

• Magnification ring is extremely stiff—difficult to adjust quickly
• Elevation clicks feel mushy, lacking tactile precision
• Premium pricing ($1,200-$2,200) puts it beyond many budgets

Who should NOT buy: Shooters who need quick magnification changes, precision competitors who want crisp turret feedback, budget-conscious hunters who would be better served by Viper PST Gen II, or those who don’t hunt conditions requiring premium low-light glass.

Vortex Razor HD Gen III

The Razor HD Gen III represents Vortex’s flagship precision optics, available in two distinct configurations: the 1-10×24 FFP LPVO ($2,000-$2,200 street) and the 6-36×56 FFP long-range scope ($3,000). Both feature 34mm tubes, Japanese LOW (Light Optical Works) glass, and are built for professional-grade performance trusted by MIL/LE operators and advanced competitors.

The 1-10×24 maintains the same compact 10.1-inch length and similar footprint as the Gen II-E 1-6×24 while adding substantial magnification capability. Designed to perform out to 600 yards, testers have racked up reliable hits at 750 yards. The HD optical system with XR fully multi-coated lenses and APO apochromatic system delivers peak color accuracy across the visible spectrum. Many reviewers consider it “currently the best LPVO on the market” for serious defensive or competitive AR-15 use.

The 6-36×56 competes directly with premium long-range optics from Nightforce and Schmidt & Bender. The EBR-7D FFP Christmas tree reticle provides precise holdovers, while the 34mm tube delivers maximum light transmission and adjustment range. Clarity is exceptional—users can make out fine details at extreme distances with good depth of field across magnification ranges.

“For those who understand how FFP reticles and focusing works on an LPVO, the Razor HD Gen III 1-10x will meet and exceed your expectations.” — RECOIL Magazine review

Pros

• Japanese LOW glass delivers exceptional clarity at all magnifications
• APO optical system ensures color accuracy across spectrum
• Compact 1-10×24 maintains Gen II-E footprint with more capability
• Professional-grade durability for MIL/LE and competition use
• Daylight-bright illumination for rapid target acquisition

Cons

• Premium pricing ($2,000-$3,000) limits accessibility
• 6-36×56 weight (44 oz) unsuitable for mountain hunting
• Overkill for casual shooters or typical hunting applications

Who should NOT buy: Budget-conscious hunters, weight-sensitive mountain hunters (the 6-36×56 is heavy), recreational shooters who won’t use the capability, or anyone not shooting in conditions requiring professional-grade optics.

Vortex Golden Eagle HD

The Golden Eagle HD 15-60×52 is Vortex’s purpose-built extreme-magnification scope for F-Class competition and benchrest shooting. At $1,400-$1,600 street price, it delivers features specifically requested by competitive shooters: 15-60x magnification range, target turrets with 1/8 MOA clicks (10 MOA per turn), 55 MOA total elevation, and the ECR-1 reticle many F-Class shooters consider the best available.

Optical quality matches scopes at significantly higher price points. At 40x—the most common magnification for F-Class—both resolution and brightness remain excellent. Even at 60x, testers found no loss of crispness in the image. Tracking accuracy is exceptional: one test showed 21.5 inches of actual movement versus 21 inches calculated when dialing 20 MOA at 100 yards.

The limitations are application-specific. At 29 ounces, it’s not a hunting scope. Light transmission decreases noticeably above 50x, making high-magnification shooting challenging in overcast conditions. And the second focal plane design means reticle subtensions only work at one magnification. For F-Class, benchrest, and dedicated long-range target shooting from 300-1,200 yards, the Golden Eagle HD excels.

“The optics in this scope are, to my old eyes, as good as any that I have used—regardless of price.” — Accurate Shooter review

Pros

• 15-60x magnification range purpose-built for F-Class competition
• 1/8 MOA clicks provide fine adjustment for precision work
• Exceptional tracking accuracy verified through testing
• ECR-1 reticle specifically designed for F-Class applications
• Glass quality competitive with much more expensive options

Cons

• 29 oz weight prohibits hunting applications
• Light transmission decreases above 50x magnification
• Second focal plane limits reticle ranging flexibility

Who should NOT buy: Hunters (too heavy), practical/PRS competitors (SFP and extreme magnification not suited), or anyone shooting in consistently low-light conditions where 50x+ magnification becomes too dark.

Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Vortex Scope

By Application

Budget Hunting (under $300): The Crossfire II 3-9×40 or 4-12×44 provides reliable performance for whitetail and general hunting under 300 yards. Choose this if eye relief forgiveness matters more than optical clarity. Opt for Diamondback if weight savings and slightly better glass matter more.

Precision Hunting ($600-$1,000): The Viper PST Gen II 3-15×44 or 5-25×50 FFP delivers the turrets, tracking, and glass quality for shots beyond 400 yards. If weight matters more than FFP capability, consider the new Viper HD line.

Mountain Hunting ($1,200+): The Razor HD LHT 3-15×42 provides premium glass at 20 ounces—purpose-built for sheep, goat, and alpine hunting where ounces matter.

AR-15/Home Defense: The Strike Eagle 1-6×24 offers true 1x with both-eyes-open capability and enough magnification to reach 300+ yards. For serious defensive or competition use, the Razor HD Gen III 1-10×24 is the professional standard.

PRS Competition: Start with the Strike Eagle 5-25×56 ($700) to learn the sport. Progress to Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 ($900) when glass and turret quality become limiting. The Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56 ($3,000) competes at the national level.

F-Class/Benchrest: The Golden Eagle HD 15-60×52 was designed specifically for these applications based on competitor feedback.

By Budget

• Under $200: Crossfire II (best eye relief) or Diamondback (best glass)
• $200-$500: Diamondback Tactical (FFP at entry price) or Strike Eagle 1-6x (AR platforms)
• $500-$1,000: Viper PST Gen II (best value precision) or Strike Eagle 5-25x (entry PRS)
• $1,000-$2,000: Razor HD LHT (lightweight hunting) or Golden Eagle HD (competition)
• $2,000+: Razor HD Gen III (professional tactical/competition)

Where to Buy

• Vortex Crossfire II on Amazon
• Vortex Diamondback on Amazon
• Vortex Diamondback Tactical on Amazon
• Vortex Strike Eagle on Amazon
• Vortex Viper PST Gen II on Amazon
• Vortex Razor HD LHT on Amazon
• Vortex Razor HD Gen III on Amazon

Related Vortex Guides

Explore our caliber-specific and use-case guides to find the perfect Vortex scope for your setup:

By Caliber

• Best Vortex Scopes for .223
• Best Vortex Scopes for .243
• Best Vortex Scope for PTR
• Best Vortex Scope for .375 H&H
• Best Vortex Scopes for .50 BMG

By Platform

• Best Vortex Scope for AR-15
• Best Vortex Scope for AR-10
• Best Vortex Rimfire Scopes

By Use Case

• Best Vortex Scopes for 1000 Yards
• Best Vortex Scope for Coyote Hunting
• Best Vortex Red Dot Scopes
• Best Vortex Long Range Scopes
• Best Vortex Short Range Scopes
• Best Vortex Low Light Scopes
• Best Vortex Turkey Hunting Red Dot

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Vortex scopes made in America?

Only the Razor AMG (American Made Glass) is fully manufactured in Wisconsin. The standard Razor HD line is built by Light Optical Works (LOW) in Japan. Viper scopes are made in the Philippines, and Crossfire/Diamondback models are manufactured in China. All are designed in Wisconsin and backed by the same VIP Warranty.

What is Vortex’s VIP Warranty?

The VIP (Very Important Promise) Warranty is unlimited and unconditional. Vortex will repair or replace any scope regardless of how it was damaged—even if you caused it. No receipt required, fully transferable, and covers scopes bought used. It’s widely considered the best warranty in the optics industry.

Viper PST Gen II vs Diamondback Tactical: Which should I choose?

The Viper PST Gen II ($850-$1,000) adds zero stop turrets, better glass for low-light shooting, and improved build quality over the Diamondback Tactical ($350-$450). If you’ll shoot in low light, need zero stop functionality, or want fewer potential QC issues, the Viper is worth the upgrade. For budget PRS training or daylight-only shooting, the Diamondback Tactical delivers excellent value.

What’s the difference between Razor HD LHT and Razor HD Gen III?

The LHT (Light Hunter) is optimized for hunting: lighter weight (20-22 oz), 30mm tube, and designed for field use. The Gen III is optimized for tactical and competition: heavier, 34mm tube, and built for maximum performance. Choose LHT for hunting, Gen III for serious competition or professional applications.

Is Vortex good for beginners?

Yes. The VIP Warranty removes financial risk from learning, entry-level models like the Crossfire II provide reliable performance at accessible prices, and the lineup offers clear upgrade paths as skills develop. Start with Crossfire or Diamondback, progress to Diamondback Tactical or Strike Eagle for precision work, then upgrade to Viper or Razor as needed.

How does Vortex compare to Leupold?

Both are reputable American-designed brands with excellent warranties. Vortex generally offers more features at each price point (FFP, illumination, tactical turrets), while Leupold emphasizes American manufacturing and traditional hunting optics. The Vortex Viper PST Gen II competes directly with Leupold VX-6HD at similar performance but lower price. Personal preference and specific model comparison matters more than brand loyalty.