You are likely to come across terms like reticle, first (or front) focal plane, second (or rear) focal plane, and illuminated reticle, which are now used to describe scopes instead of crosshairs. But what do we mean by the Best Vortex Illuminated Scope?
Illuminated reticles have been used in rifle scopes for a couple of years, but they have gained more popularity over the last few years. They are most common in AR battle scopes and hunting rifle scopes.
Hunting is more productive into the wee hours of the evening and this is where illuminated reticles come in handy. An illuminated reticle makes the crosshairs visible enough to make an accurate shot.
With most brands coming up with illuminated reticle scopes, Vortex stands out as one of the best optics brands in the market. Founded in 2002, Vortex optics has continued to provide quality rifle scopes at reasonable prices.
In this review, we discuss the best 2 vortex scopes with illuminated reticles.
Best Vortex Illuminated Scopes Review
1) Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
Due to its quickness and adaptability, the Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Riflescope is well-liked. You can quickly engage targets at close ranges or at long distances thanks to its real 1x low end that adjusts to a variety of settings.
The magnification indicators may now be seen without taking the scope off since the magnification ring has been upgraded to include a thread-in throw lever. Also included in this updated Strike Eagle 1-6×24 is the new illuminated BDC3 reticle, which quickly sharpens the shooter’s eye to the target.
The fast focus dial on the eyepiece enables quick and simple reticle focusing, while the holdovers enable immediate use out to 650 yards for targets of known distance. The anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces, which boost light transmission for better clarity and low-light performance, are another significant feature.
Key features
- Made of high-quality materials for durability
- All glass surfaces have anti-reflective coatings for maximum light transmission
- It is Nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed for water and fog-proof performance
- It has an illuminated BDC3 reticle that quickly focuses the user’s eye on the target
- It has holdovers for immediate use out to 650 yards for targets of known distance
- The eyepiece has a fast focus dial for quick and easy reticle focusing
Pros
- It is affordable
Cons
- It has a low magnification power
2) Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24 Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Vortex Razor HD Gen II-E weighs around one-fourth less than its predecessor. It has many functions and is very accurate for short- to medium-term applications. The scope’s VMR-2 MOA reticle enhances long-range shooting and ranging capabilities, and its APO optical system uses premium, high-density, and extra-low dispersion glass to produce spectacular images.
The Razor Gen II-E scope provides high clarity, resolution, color accuracy, light transmission, and edge-to-edge sharpness. All lenses are fully multi-coated with XR plus anti-reflective coatings to maximize light transmission for image brightness.
This scope offers a clear sight picture for quick target acquisition and optimal environmental monitoring thanks to its ultra-forgiving eye box and substantial eye relief. The compact zero-resettable turrets track accurately and provide enough adjustment with just one turn.
Key features
- It is made of a single-piece 30mm tube that withstands heavy recoil and impact
- It has a low-profile locking illumination dial with 11 levels of brightness
- It features a daylight-bright illuminated center dot
- It uses the APO optical system for clear, bright images
- It has a second focal plane reticle
- It has Armortek coatings that protect external lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt
Pros
- It is O-ring sealed and argon purged for weatherproof performance
Cons
- Small objective diameter
Best Vortex Illuminated Scope FAQs
- Is Illuminated scope worth it?
Illuminated rifle scopes do not improve or alter the image of the target, but the brightness of the reticle. They are most useful during low light conditions or when there are difficulties to seeing due to the coloration or lighting of the target.
- Does Vortex make night vision?
Many people confuse illuminated scopes with night vision scopes. The two are different and Vortex optics has scopes in both types. With night vision scopes, you have the ability to deploy in low-light conditions.
- Is the Vortex Viper a good scope?
Vortex Optics has a wide range of scopes that are classified into different classes. The two discussed in this review are part of Vortex Strike Eagle and Razor. The Vortex Viper scopes are part of the best scopes in the market. They are a great choice for hunters, competition shooters, and firearm enthusiasts.
Read:
- Best Mil-Dot Scopes | Mil-Dot Scopes for Hunting
- Best Side Focus Air Rifle Scopes
- Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24 Rifle Scope Review
Final Thoughts
The best vortex scopes are reliable, versatile, and well-built to offer a long time of performance. These scopes are made with an illuminated reticle which allows you to go a little extra time when the sun goes down, although not night vision scopes.
Although they have the downside of needing battery change, these scopes are worth every penny.