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10 Best Vortex Optics Rifle Scopes 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 3-18x44 First Focal Plane Riflescope - EBR-7C Reticle (MRAD)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,248
Reticle
Turrets

Most important from
838 reviews

Reticle
The scope lets in a ton of light, making the reticle very visible.
Turrets
The glass is clear, the turrets are firm, and the elevation has a lock-in feature.

The Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 3-18x44 FFP Riflescope is a versatile option designed for mid to long-range shooting, offering a good balance between magnification and weight. The 3-18x magnification range extends your effective shooting distance while maintaining a lightweight profile, making it more mobile than heavier scopes. The 44mm objective lens, combined with the XD Optical System and fully multi-coated lenses, delivers clear and sharp images from dawn to dusk.

The EBR-7C illuminated reticle in the first focal plane allows for accurate range estimation and holdovers at any magnification, making it suitable for dynamic target shooting in various lighting conditions. Additionally, the 34mm tube and exposed elevation turret provide significant adjustment capabilities for elevation, while the capped windage turret helps keep the scope's size and weight in check. The RevStop Zero System ensures a reliable return to zero, and the locking turrets facilitate quick and secure adjustments. The scope is built to withstand harsh conditions, being nitrogen-purged and o-ring sealed for waterproof and fogproof performance. Armortek coatings protect the lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt, enhancing durability.

One of the standout features is Vortex's unlimited, unconditional lifetime VIP Warranty, which offers peace of mind with its extensive coverage. However, at 2.7 pounds, it may still be considered somewhat heavy for users seeking ultra-lightweight optics. Also, the inclusion of only one battery may limit its utility in extended shooting sessions. This scope is best suited for shooters looking for a reliable, durable, and versatile optic for mid to long-range engagements, particularly those who value clear optics and robust construction.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,248
Reticle
Turrets

Most important from
838 reviews

Reticle
The scope lets in a ton of light, making the reticle very visible.
Turrets
The glass is clear, the turrets are firm, and the elevation has a lock-in feature.
#2

Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18x44 AO, 1-inch Tube, Second Focal Plane Riflescope - V-Brite Illuminated MOA, Model Number: CF2-31029

Rating
9.7
Reticle
Eye Relief
Turrets

Most important from
13746 reviews

Reticle
The glass delivers a noticeably clearer and crisper image with a sharp duplex dot reticle, offering a quality optic feel at a budget-friendly price.
Eye Relief
The scope provides excellent eye relief with a wide, bright sight picture and minimal black ring, making it comfortable and easy to acquire targets quickly.
Turrets
Adjustments are accurate and consistent, with turrets that offer tactile feedback even if the audible click isn’t very loud, ensuring precise zeroing.
Parallax Adjustment
The adjustable objective lens effectively removes parallax error, allowing for confident shots out to 500 yards and beyond when paired with proper ballistics.
Durability
This scope holds zero reliably through extensive use, provided it’s mounted properly, demonstrating dependable performance for rifles like AR-10 and .308 platforms.

The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18x44 AO is a solid choice for hunters seeking a versatile riflescope. Its 6 to 18 times magnification range allows you to zoom in well for distant targets, while the 44mm objective lens helps provide a bright, clear view even in lower light conditions. The V-Brite illuminated reticle is a helpful feature, making it easier to aim during dawn or dusk by lighting up the center dot. This illumination uses a battery-powered system, which is convenient but means you should keep spare batteries on hand.

The adjustable objective lens allows you to fine-tune the focus and removes parallax error, which helps ensure your aim stays accurate at different distances. The scope’s turrets are capped and have MOA clicks that can be reset to zero after sighting in, letting you make precise adjustments without tools. Eye relief is about 3.7 inches, which is comfortable and gives a forgiving eye box, so you can quickly get a clear sight picture without straining. Built from aircraft-grade aluminum, the scope is sturdy, shockproof, and sealed against water and fog, making it dependable in rough outdoor conditions. It also comes with a lifetime warranty, which is a reassuring promise of quality.

The 1-inch tube might limit light transmission compared to larger tubes, and the illuminated reticle relies on battery power, so it’s not entirely maintenance-free. It also doesn’t have night vision compatibility. This Crossfire II model is well suited for hunters wanting a reliable, medium to long-range scope with good durability and clear optics, especially if you appreciate an illuminated reticle for low-light shooting.

Rating
9.7
Reticle
Eye Relief
Turrets

Most important from
13746 reviews

Reticle
The glass delivers a noticeably clearer and crisper image with a sharp duplex dot reticle, offering a quality optic feel at a budget-friendly price.
Eye Relief
The scope provides excellent eye relief with a wide, bright sight picture and minimal black ring, making it comfortable and easy to acquire targets quickly.
Turrets
Adjustments are accurate and consistent, with turrets that offer tactile feedback even if the audible click isn’t very loud, ensuring precise zeroing.
Parallax Adjustment
The adjustable objective lens effectively removes parallax error, allowing for confident shots out to 500 yards and beyond when paired with proper ballistics.
Durability
This scope holds zero reliably through extensive use, provided it’s mounted properly, demonstrating dependable performance for rifles like AR-10 and .308 platforms.
#3

Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-9x50 Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescope - Straight-Wall BDC Reticle

Rating
9.7
Eye Relief
Reticle
Turrets

Most important from
13746 reviews

Eye Relief
Generous eye relief and a wide eye box provide a comfortable and forgiving sight picture, eliminating the 'soda straw' effect common in lesser scopes.
Reticle
The BDC reticle works well for holdovers and ranging out to 500 yards when paired with a ballistic calculator and stable shooting setup.
Turrets
Turrets are capped and functional but not designed for precise dialing; this scope excels as a reliable hunting optic rather than a precision long-range tool.
Objective Lens Diameter
Fully multi-coated lenses and a large objective lens ensure bright images, especially in low-light conditions like dawn or dusk.
Durability
Durable construction with aircraft-grade aluminum and weather sealing makes it rugged enough for rough outdoor use.

The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-9x50 rifle scope offers a solid choice for hunters and shooters who want a reliable and versatile optic. Its 3-9x magnification range is a classic setup that works well for medium-distance shooting, while the large 50mm objective lens helps deliver bright and clear images, especially in low-light conditions like dawn or dusk. The straight-wall BDC reticle is designed to assist with bullet drop compensation for popular rifle calibers, making aiming easier without complicated adjustments.

One standout feature is its generous eye relief and forgiving eye box, which means you can quickly get your sight picture without needing perfect alignment—great for fast target acquisition. Although it has a simple reticle illumination (V-Brite) and no night vision capabilities, the scope’s fully multi-coated lenses ensure clarity and reduce glare. The scope’s construction is rugged, made from aircraft-grade aluminum, and it’s sealed and nitrogen-purged to resist water and fog, making it durable enough for rough outdoor use.

The 1-inch tube diameter is standard but smaller than some higher-end scopes, which can affect light transmission and mounting options. The Crossfire II is backed by Vortex’s excellent lifetime warranty, offering peace of mind if issues arise. This rifle scope suits hunters and casual shooters looking for a dependable, easy-to-use optic with bright images and solid durability, though precision shooters seeking advanced features might find it somewhat basic.

Rating
9.7
Eye Relief
Reticle
Turrets

Most important from
13746 reviews

Eye Relief
Generous eye relief and a wide eye box provide a comfortable and forgiving sight picture, eliminating the 'soda straw' effect common in lesser scopes.
Reticle
The BDC reticle works well for holdovers and ranging out to 500 yards when paired with a ballistic calculator and stable shooting setup.
Turrets
Turrets are capped and functional but not designed for precise dialing; this scope excels as a reliable hunting optic rather than a precision long-range tool.
Objective Lens Diameter
Fully multi-coated lenses and a large objective lens ensure bright images, especially in low-light conditions like dawn or dusk.
Durability
Durable construction with aircraft-grade aluminum and weather sealing makes it rugged enough for rough outdoor use.

Buying Guide for the Best Vortex Optics Rifle Scopes

Choosing the right rifle scope is crucial for enhancing your shooting accuracy and overall experience. Vortex Optics offers a wide range of rifle scopes, each designed to meet different needs and preferences. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your shooting requirements. Here are the key specs you should consider when selecting a Vortex Optics rifle scope.
MagnificationMagnification refers to how much closer the target appears through the scope compared to the naked eye. This is important because it determines how well you can see your target at various distances. Lower magnification (1-4x) is suitable for close-range shooting and fast target acquisition, while medium magnification (5-12x) is ideal for mid-range shooting. Higher magnification (13x and above) is best for long-range precision shooting. Choose the magnification based on the typical distance you will be shooting.
Objective Lens DiameterThe objective lens diameter is the size of the front lens measured in millimeters. It affects the amount of light that enters the scope, impacting image brightness and clarity. Larger diameters (40-56mm) allow more light, which is beneficial in low-light conditions but can make the scope heavier. Smaller diameters (20-39mm) are lighter and more compact but may not perform as well in dim lighting. Consider where and when you will be shooting to determine the right objective lens size.
ReticleThe reticle, or crosshair, is the aiming point within the scope. Different reticle designs serve various purposes. Simple duplex reticles are great for general hunting, while BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles help with long-range shooting by accounting for bullet drop. Illuminated reticles are useful in low-light conditions. Choose a reticle that matches your shooting style and the conditions you expect to encounter.
TurretsTurrets are the knobs on the scope used to adjust windage (left/right) and elevation (up/down). They are important for fine-tuning your aim. Tactical turrets are exposed and allow for quick adjustments, suitable for dynamic shooting situations. Capped turrets are protected and prevent accidental adjustments, ideal for hunting. Consider how often you will need to make adjustments and choose accordingly.
Parallax AdjustmentParallax adjustment helps to eliminate the parallax error, which occurs when the reticle appears to move relative to the target when you shift your eye position. This is crucial for long-range shooting where precision is key. Scopes with adjustable parallax allow you to fine-tune the focus at different distances. If you plan on shooting at varying ranges, a scope with parallax adjustment is beneficial.
Eye ReliefEye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope where you can see the full image. This is important for comfort and safety, especially with high-recoil rifles. Longer eye relief (3.5 inches or more) is better for high-recoil firearms, while shorter eye relief (around 3 inches) can be sufficient for low-recoil guns. Choose eye relief based on the type of rifle you are using and your comfort level.
DurabilityDurability refers to the scope's ability to withstand harsh conditions and rough handling. This includes being waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. A durable scope is essential for hunting in various weather conditions and for ensuring longevity. Look for scopes with robust construction and protective coatings if you expect to use them in challenging environments.

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