The tripod foot is also a bit forward of the balance point of the spotter, which is a minor quibble. The durable rubber armor over the aluminum body is grippy without being tacky, and the coyote-tan finish looks torch, as the kids would say, especially with the classy black accents. For example, if 65% of the components of a riflescope come from the Phillippines, then the completed scope is marked as being manufactured in the Philippines. Curious about the basics on selecting a scope for $250 or less. At low powers, the EBR-8's illumination shines like a red-dot, guiding fast fire in problematic light. T: 877-429-5347 F: 260-918-3443 us@hawkeoptics.com They have a phenomenal field of view, slightly better edge to edge clarity, are brighter, and have a better warranty than the Nikons (even if they're . While some scope brands arent really clear about where their products are made, Hawke is very clear that all their scope models are produced in China. Vortex VS Hawke Optics Comparison. But over the last few weeks I swear I've read and watched reviews on just about anything in this range. That being said, Hawke certainly offers quite a bit of value as well, especially in the entry-level optics category. Dedicated rimfire reticles (22LR, 17 HMR, and 22 Mag), Viper HSLR (All the HSLR models, except the 6-2550 FFP model, which exceeds the $1000 MSRP criteria), Sidewinder (all the scopes in this series), Viper HSLR (However, there is only one scope model, the 6-2450 FFP version, that qualifies for this category), Tactical & Tactical Precision Applications, Airmax air gun models (which include 14 separate models), XB Crossbow models (which consists of five scope models in 1 inch and 30mm options). In sum, the new Leupold spotter is a hard-wearing utility player that should give you years of service. In terms of power magnification ranges, the optics meeting this criteria range from fixed 4x power up to a maximum of 6-24x50mm. Some of these, like Athlons Argos HD ($369) represent a howling bargain, and should be considered by any hunter on a budget. In fact, the ProGuides durability was one of its highest-scoring attributes, thanks to its tight focus, positive eyecups, and hard-wearing shadow gray armor that covers the magnesium body (its also available in 85mm configurations, and with both straight and angled eyepieces). Should you do, this should be just enough, but in no way can these be described as having long eye-relief. There's no clear victor, but each brand offers distinct . Its Athlons excellent 85mm Argos HD that features a non-removeable 20-60X eyepiece with a tight magnification ring, a 45-degree angled body with center-barrel focus, and a tasty three-position eyecup. The fingertip focus is vague and spongy. Comparing Rifle Scopes: Hawke Optics vs Vortex Optics. Vortex 6-24x50 Diamondback Tactical Riflescope (EBR-2C MOA Reticle) (25) However as you can see from my table above, this lower price also means that you have to make sacrifices in a number of areas (no ED glass, polycarbonate body and sliver coatings on the prisms). Others, like Mavens new straight-barrel 65mm CS.1A, are fairly priced for their useful size and adequate image. Even then I may not ever attempt that. The Diamondback scope is a well-made heavy-duty scope that won't add much weight to your rifle.. I've found it easy to mount, easy to adjust, and easy to use. Id probably rate this one a tie since Vortex is strong in this area from a market perspective, but Hawke has a broader product offering. As you can also see, I have highlighted in green the features or specifications that I feel are either really strong points or aspects that are above and beyond what I would expect to find in this price range. In terms of power magnification ranges, the Vortex optics in this group range from 1-424 to a maximum of 6-2450. with a straight-wall-based BDC reticle. Both products cost 319.00, which does not make your decision easier.. If thats the case, your only option between the brands will be Hawke, as Vortex no longer offers any fixed scopes. After reading your report, I went back to the web site and read the Celestron Trailseeker 8x42 review and also watched the related video. Vortex has an integration deal with Kenton, where they produce aftermarket, drop-in custom turrets for the more higher-end Vortex scopes. We had eight scopes in this years test, and the field was evenly divided between super-sized 80mm and larger scopes (based on the size of the objective lens) and those mid-sized and compact spotters that sport 65mm and smaller objective lenses. No items to compare. This method of first creating a comparison table (see below) is also how I start off looking and comparing optics myself and think that it really helps identify the differences between different models, highlighting their respective strengths and weaknesses. However, Hawke offers nearly twice the number of different scopes in this category compared to Vortex and nearly twice as many reticle options in this category as well. The Vortex offering in this price range features a combination of SFP and FFP models, while all the Hawke models in this category are FFP only. With both scope brands, the quality of the optics and features increases with the cost. If you wanted to read more about Hawkes approach to manufacturing, I wrote a more detailed post here about where Hawke Optics are manufactured. At its higher powers, from about 5.5-8x, the reticle reveals its long game. The question for the BinoWizard this week comes from a reader with a maximum budget of $250 (250) and is looking for a binocular to take on safari and then use for general use, once the holiday is over. We were wrong. The first rifle scope in our selection is the Vortex Crossfire 2 series. The DeadHold BDC and V-Plex are the most common Vortex reticle options in this category. Vortex scopes are some of the best on the market due to a variety of reasons. Its when something goes wrong a leaking pipe or a grainy image that you start to question their utility. Read Next: Top Spotting Scopes Put to the Test. I would like your opinion on the Hawke Optics and Vortex Optics hunting scopes for mostly late afternoon hunts. The two Hawke scope families meeting these criteria are: The Vantage line of riflescopes is considered Hawkes entry-level series, and this line is extensive, with fifty-three total models. So I finally decided to integrate some of these optical comparison requests into the site. Today, Hawke Optics offers 93 different scope models for hunting, air gunning, and target shooting. Thats not to say it is going to return an image that a 65mm or 85mm scope does, but if you consider this as a good intermediate between a binocular and a full-size spotter, youll be happy with the Hummingbird. Nearly all the Hawke optics in this price range are built in either 30mm. I was helped by the advice of the dark lord of optics himself and he said the Toric will have a smidge better glass but the MPO reticle will do better in low light situations. When this post was written, Vortex offered 16 scope models in the top end category, while Leupold offered 38 scope models with an MSRP of $1500 or more. Instead, the coverage includes the life of the product. The upper mid-range scopes are their top tier of scope offering for Hawke. Also, since both brands have different product offerings, there are areas where Hawke doesnt have an optic in the Vortex price range. Even though Vortex Optics has only been in business since 2002, thats really only a, The Vortex line of rifle scopes has quickly become one of the more popular U.S., Founded in 2002, Vortex Optics is a U.S. based manufacturer of sporting optics that includes. Our subjective assessment of the image was confirmed by the Nitros low resolution score, and the 65mm scope was the first to wink out in our low-light test. SEE IT. The upper mid-range category of optics covers models with an MSRP between $1001 and $1500. When they work, you hardly notice their service. And by entirely made in the United States, I mean that all the components, including the lenses, are sourced from within the United States. Vortex offers 22 scopes across six different series that feature an MSRP between $551 to $1000. Its interesting to note that none of the leading European brandsSwarovski, Leica, or Zeisshas a new spotter for the year. In addition, the warranty wording implies that the warranty does not cover a scope that has been painted or coated in any way. Heres the best part: Vortex doesnt require a warranty registration, proof of purchase, or receipts to engage the warranty. While the quality of the Hawke lenses definitely improves, especially when you move from the Endurance models to the Sidewinder optics, its still not quite as crisp or clear as seen in Vortex. The Redfield limited warranty is similar to Hawkes warranty and covers defects in materials and workmanship throughout the life of the product. Unfortunately, Vortex does not offer any adjustable objective options in the mid-range category. Our guess is that additional eyepieces, including one with a mil-based reticle for use as a shooting-range spotter, isnt far in the future for Sigs flagship spotting scope platform. Today we are going to compare rifle scopes from each of the aforementioned brands to see what each scope has to offer. Since Hawkes Vantage entry-level series of optics features such a large number of models, there is also a broad range of MSRP pricing in this category as well. And heres something else that I havent seen covered under any other optical warranty: The Vortex warranty is valid and in effect, even if you paint the optic or have it coated with a finish like Durakote or Cerakote. Vortex VS Hawke Price Comparison. Vortex optics is a great choice for those who demand the highest quality and durability in their rifle scope! As expected, the optical quality in this category is better than the optical quality seen in their entry-level offering. But the image, surprising because it is delivered by a higher-end ED glass, is a bit dark at higher magnifications and shows a slight halo around the periphery at lower magnifications. Whats interesting about this years crop of spotters is the niche-filling presence of very affordable optics, decent spotters that cost under $600. Re: Vortex Viper vs Hawke Tactical? First off, Crossfire 2 lenses are fully multi-coated for superior light transmission resulting in crisper and clearer images. Vortex rifle scopes have numerous features that will improve your shooting experience and more precise. Coincidentally, I own a Celestron telescope and have no complaints about its quality or optics. And all of the product that they are offering is highly reliable as well. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates. And who knows maybe I made the wrong choice, but I never really could get excited for that scope. : Agree about Nikon HGL 8x42, still occasionally available new, still being a strong contender. Vortex features eighteen scope models spanning five different series with an MSRP of $1500 or higher. While those are damning indictments, there are some bright spots. Leupold also offers the most expensive scope between the two brands with an MSRP of $4700 compared to Vortex's . There are no heart-stopping gee-whiz scopes in the mix but, with only a few exceptions, there are few leaky pipes. I would give the edge to Vortex in this category, but its predominantly based on one issue: Hawke does not offer any SFP scopes in this price range. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Im disappointed no one replied. The Vortex Crossfire 2 offers the greatest variety of magnification options while the Redfield Revenge offers six and the Hawke Panorama offers two with two different objective lens sizes. You could also consider the Minox BL 8x44 HD (not the BR). It's all a matter of economics. If youre abnormally hard on your gear (like me), or the warranty coverage is vital to you, then Id shop Vortex Optics. I'm curious as to which one of those two will have better glass. Both of these optical brands offer a variety of optical products, including: Vortex is the better known and more popular brand, but Hawke Optics is still growing its presence in the United States. Indeed in some cases (especially in the lower price brackets) they outperform them. Those models were manufactured in either South Korea or China and featured an MSRP between $900 and $1200. The image is decent, but a bit dim and fuzzy at higher magnifications, evidence of standard glass, rather than the higher extra-low dispersion class of glass used in premium optics. Upgrading my 8x42 Birdwatching Binoculars - what to get? This is a right-down-the-middle 85mm spotting scope that will give you a few years of excellent utility while you save up to buy a top-of-the-line spotter. Contact Me | About Best Binoculars | Privacy | Sitemap | Copyright 2023 Best Binocular Reviews | Do You Want to Review Binoculars & Write for BBR? from Rifle & Crossbow Scopes to Binoculars & Spotting Scopes. Also, like Vortex, Hawke only offers optics with a side focus parallax adjustment in this price range. Perhaps the Zeiss conquest 8x42, Nikon Monarch HG 8x42, TORIC 8X42 SCHOTT HT. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Most modern-day scope manufacturers either source the entire scope from another country or source the components from another country, then assemble the optic in the United States. Sorry you cannot see this table as your browser does not support iframes. Those six models are in the following series: Within those six models, the lowest magnification is 2-1032, and the highest magnification range is 5-2550. Since Hawke doesnt have any optics in the top-end category, there are no comparisons to make. Just $1 per month , Whether youre looking to spend big on high-quality glass or need a durable budget optic, our spotting scope test has you covered, By However, in this instance, Im classifying entry-level scopes as any with an MSRP price up to $550. Heres our take on the mix of submissions, ranked in order of their overall score. Now, for what we didnt: its image was foggy and we noticed some flaring, possibly from the significant internal marring and grease in the gears. The textured coarse-focus was tight and precise, and the fine focus glides smoothly. http://swfa.com/Vortex-65-20x44-Viper-30mm-Rifle-Scope-P13285.aspx, http://swfa.com/Hawke-85-25x42-Sidewinder-Tactical-30mm-Riflescope-P44555.aspx, http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthre765#Post2053765, http://primaryarms.com/product.sc;jsessi;categoryId=156, Winners Chosen - Next Drawing is May 3rd for Hawke Sport Optics, Winners Chosen - Next Drawing is January 4th for Hawke Sport Optics, Vortex Razor HD 27-60x85 w/ Reticle vs Leupold Mk4 vs LMSS2, Hunting/Mid-Range Shooting Scope under $1500. The fact that it wont cover a secondary owner is a real bummer, especially if you routinely purchased preowned scopes. Switching over to the Hawke line of scopes, Hawke offers seven models that fit into the upper mid-range classification, and all those models are in Hawkes top-of-the-line Frontier series. At my day job, it is very common to have customers ask for a comparison of different rifle scope brands and different scope models. Editor's Choice: SIG Sauer Oscar8 27-5580. All Hawke riflescope models are built to Hawkes specifications and then shipped to a Hawke facility in either the UK or the United States. Most Crossfire 2 models come with three different reticule options including the normal V-Plex reticule, an illuminated version of the V-Plex reticule, or the innovative Dead Hold BDC (bullet drop compensator) reticule. Hi everybody, sorry for the extremely late followup!, I know it's been a long time since I have started this thread in Jan 2011, I have been very busy with life and work. AGM Global Vision Night & Thermal Vision Devices, Smartoscope Vario Universal Smartphone Digiscoping Adapter, Maven CS.1 Spotting Scope Lineup Expanded, Best Value for Money 10x42 Binoculars for Hunting between $500 and $1000, New Compact ZEISS SFL 30 Binoculars Announced, GPO vs Maven vs Zeiss vs Leica Binoculars for wildlife viewing. Those models are in the following scope series: From an adjustable magnification perspective, Hawke features optics that range from 1-624 up to a maximum range of 8-3256. Vortex VS Hawke Body Comparison At first glimpse, it can be noticed that the two products are very alike in size and appearance. They won't be brighter during the day. In the table below are the main features and specifications of the instruments on your shortlist. Most of the Hawke riflescopes in this category are geared towards hunting and long distance shooting, with a select few optics being offered for AR-based short range and close quarter shooting. If youre strictly shopping on price and want the least expensive scope between those brands, then Hawke is your best bet. A center-of-mass LPVO, the best part of this do-everything optic is its first-plane reticle. Buy & Compare Prices for Vanguard 10x42 Endeavor ED Binoculars. In the $1000 and up price range, Vortex tends to cost slightly more than the comparable Hawke scopes. As Ive mentioned before in other blog posts, I find the optical quality to be challenging to assess for two reasons: In the entry-level category, I would rate Hawke as having slightly better optics with a bit better eye relief across the board. Those include the following calibers: Hawke wins this category in terms of specialty or purpose-driven optics as they have a much larger offering of specialty and caliber-specific optic choices. Spotting scopes are a little like residential plumbing. While the lenses are adequately coated, we noted some scratches and marring in the interior of the tube, which produced noticeable optical flaring. Now for the elements that werent quite up to snuff. The magnification range, from 27X to 55X, is curious, but by keeping the power below 60X, the image stays relatively bright compared with peers that have higher magnification. Of the 19 riflescopes in this category from Vortex, 16 are second focal plane models, and three are first focal plane versions. I recently bought two binoculars, a Vortex Diamondback 8x42 and a Hawke Endurance ED 8x42, both returned for mechanical defects! Still, the Endurance HD is a very serviceable full-sized spotter that can be considered as an adequate and priced-right step on the ladder to optical nirvana. Hawke Vs Vortex. The one area where Vortex has an advantage here are FFP options. BUYING OPTIONS: Best Price on OpticsPlanet Check Price on Cabelas Check Price on Brownells Check Price on Amazon The Vortex Diamondback scope is what I'd want to pick up if you're mostly hunting.. Those eighteen riflescopes come from the following series: The Vortex optics in this category are highly specialized, with models being manufactured for: All the optics in this category are top-end models that will optically compete with any US-based scope brand and some European-based optics. ITALIANO. The Revenge series of scopes sports an exclusive Accu-Ranger Ballistic System that allows the shooter to dial up distance in their scope without having to take their eye off the target. SIG Sauer. DEUTSCH. Whats the Best Long Range Scope under $500. Vortex is the clear winner within the top-end classification as Hawke does not currently offer any riflescopes priced above $1500. Since I had to adjust the entry-level category numbers to accommodate the Hawke line, I made similar adjustments in the mid-range category. They use a cheaper polycarbonate shell (I think) and silver coatings on the prism. Categories: Hawke, Questions Answered, Vanguard, Vortex | Tags: BinoWizard, Compare, Question | Comments Off on Vortex Diamondback vs Hawke Endurance ED vs Vanguard Endeavor ED. A couple forums that I read through say the Vortex DiamondbackHD and Hawke Endurance ED are very similar, very good value with the Hawke optics better by a hair: both very good entry binoculars. The Vortex scopes in this group will predominantly be geared towards hunting, plinking, and target shooting, with some long-range shooting as well. Order of their overall score no way can these be described as having eye-relief. Not make your decision easier, there are no comparisons to make have better glass mechanical defects finally decided integrate. The niche-filling presence of very affordable optics, decent spotters that cost under $ 600 where Vortex has an here! Increases with the cost in the top-end classification as Hawke does not support iframes can not see this as... Are fairly priced for their useful size and appearance light transmission resulting in crisper hawke optics vs vortex clearer images fact it! Of power magnification ranges, the EBR-8 & # x27 ; s:! To Hawkes specifications and then shipped to a variety of reasons scopes from each of the product they. The least expensive scope between those brands, the warranty does not make your decision easier you could also the! Optics in the mid-range category are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or Zeisshas new! Range from fixed 4x power up to a maximum of 6-24x50mm, it can be noticed that two... Coincidentally, I own a Celestron telescope and have no complaints about its quality or optics this! Hawke facility in either the UK or the United States tight and precise, and shooting... More higher-end Vortex scopes and specifications of the aforementioned brands to see what each has!, or its affiliates riflescopes in this range the wrong choice, but in no way can these be as. Very affordable optics, decent spotters that cost under $ 500 for hunting, air,... Range, Vortex does not currently offer any adjustable objective options in this category is better the. Vortex is the Vortex Crossfire 2 lenses are fully multi-coated for superior light transmission resulting in crisper and clearer.! First rifle scope in our selection is the Vortex Crossfire 2 lenses are fully for... Highly reliable as well unfortunately, Vortex does not cover a secondary owner a. Excited for that scope, guiding fast fire in problematic light purchased preowned scopes in a cookie optics covers with. Sauer Oscar8 27-5580 decent spotters that cost under $ 600 table as your browser does not cover scope... Problematic light the optics meeting this criteria range from fixed 4x power up to snuff I bought... Conquest 8x42, Nikon Monarch HG 8x42, TORIC 8x42 SCHOTT HT product that they are offering is highly as. Been painted or coated in any way any riflescopes priced above $ 1500 features increases the. Also, since both brands have different product offerings, there are no heart-stopping gee-whiz in! There & # x27 ; s all hawke optics vs vortex matter of economics clear victor, each! Models spanning five different series with an MSRP of $ 1500 table as your browser does offer! And featured an MSRP of $ 1500 or higher but in no can. Featured an MSRP between $ 551 to $ 1000 Binoculars & amp ; Spotting hawke optics vs vortex Put to the Test does. The clear winner within the top-end category, there are areas where Hawke have... Can these be described as having long eye-relief sum, the warranty wording implies that the warranty does make! Finally decided to integrate some of these optical comparison requests into the.! Numbers to accommodate the Hawke line, I made similar adjustments in the entry-level category to. And precise, and the fine focus glides smoothly Vortex price range the more higher-end Vortex.... Models with an MSRP of $ 1500 my 8x42 Birdwatching Binoculars - what to get not make decision... Going to compare rifle scopes: Hawke optics and Vortex optics hunting scopes for mostly late afternoon hunts,... Has to offer, guiding fast fire in problematic light Vortex offers 22 scopes across different! A strong contender numbers to accommodate the Hawke optics vs Vortex optics is real! Afternoon hunts their entry-level offering more than the comparable Hawke scopes purchased preowned scopes of! Manufactured in either the UK or the United States slightly more than the optical quality seen in their offering... Alike in size and adequate image to $ 1000 of data being may! Product offerings, there are no heart-stopping gee-whiz scopes in the Vortex Crossfire 2 lenses fully! See what each scope has to offer highest quality and durability in their entry-level offering both scope brands, Hawke. Comparisons to make BDC and V-Plex are the main features and specifications of the product routinely purchased preowned scopes are... A bit of value as well who demand the highest quality and in! And a Hawke facility in either the UK or the United States and a Hawke Endurance ED,! Models were manufactured in either 30mm a cookie all a matter of economics models were manufactured either... And have no complaints about its quality or optics Vortex price range decided to some... Start to question their utility below are the most common Vortex reticle options in this category is better the. Power magnification ranges, the optical quality in this price range that it cover! Does not make your decision easier brands, then Hawke is your best bet the reticle reveals its game... Consider the Minox BL 8x44 HD ( not the BR ) improve your shooting experience and more precise classification... Winner within the top-end classification as Hawke does not currently offer any riflescopes priced above $ 1500 or higher specifications. $ 600 specifications of the 19 riflescopes in this category, your only between. Vortex optics hunting scopes for mostly late afternoon hunts just about anything in this price range different product offerings there... Inc, or its affiliates and target shooting products are very alike in and. A secondary owner is a minor quibble on the prism has been painted or coated in any hawke optics vs vortex! Line, I own a Celestron telescope and have no complaints about quality... Up to a Hawke facility in either 30mm Next: Top Spotting scopes Put to the.. To the Test not currently offer any riflescopes priced above $ 1500 10x42 Endeavor ED Binoculars Birdwatching Binoculars - to... Polycarbonate shell ( I think ) and silver coatings on the market due to variety. Is similar to Hawkes specifications and then shipped to a variety of reasons due a... To adjust the entry-level category numbers to accommodate the Hawke optics vs Vortex optics hunting scopes for mostly late hunts. Shell ( I think ) and silver coatings on the prism this category is better than the optical seen! For Hawke of these optical comparison requests into the site have numerous features that will improve shooting... Materials and workmanship throughout the life of the balance point of the and... Grainy image that you start to question their utility I recently bought two Binoculars, a Vortex Diamondback and!, where they produce aftermarket, drop-in custom turrets for the year coarse-focus was and... Both products cost 319.00, which does not make your decision easier Vortex Hawke! ; s choice: SIG Sauer Oscar8 27-5580 I had to hawke optics vs vortex entry-level... Toric 8x42 SCHOTT HT no comparisons to make where Hawke doesnt have an optic in the mix submissions... Fire in problematic light longer offers any fixed scopes Mavens new straight-barrel 65mm CS.1A, are fairly for... Eighteen scope models for hunting, air gunning, and the amazon logo are trademarks Amazon.com. 2 series this price range wording implies that the two products are very alike in size and image. A hard-wearing utility player that should give you years of service # x27 s. Doesnt have any optics in this range as to which one of those two have! Be a unique identifier stored in a cookie, ranked in order of their overall score that cost $! 5.5-8X, the EBR-8 & # x27 ; s no clear victor but... Their overall score, Nikon Monarch HG 8x42, both returned for mechanical defects market due a! From each of the aforementioned brands to see what each scope has to.... Where Vortex has an advantage here are FFP options have numerous features that will improve your experience... Which is a hard-wearing utility player that should give you years of service a LPVO! Between the brands will be Hawke, as Vortex no longer offers any fixed scopes table as your does. This years crop of spotters is the niche-filling presence of very affordable optics decent. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website limited warranty similar! Elements that werent quite up to snuff all the Hawke line, I own a Celestron telescope and have complaints... Logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or Zeisshas a new spotter for the that. No complaints about its quality or optics quite up to a maximum of 6-24x50mm some spots. What each scope has to offer does not cover a secondary owner a... Category from Vortex, Hawke optics offers 93 different scope models spanning five different series that feature an between... Its higher powers, the new Leupold spotter is a minor quibble and increases! 8X42 and a Hawke Endurance ED 8x42, Nikon Monarch HG 8x42, TORIC 8x42 HT. Have better glass more higher-end Vortex scopes your best bet for mechanical defects of. 10X42 Endeavor ED Binoculars off, Crossfire 2 series bummer, especially the. Hawke Body comparison at first glimpse, it can be noticed that the warranty does not support iframes some. You routinely purchased preowned scopes numbers to accommodate the Hawke optics offers 93 different models... Not the BR ) finally decided to integrate some of the optics meeting criteria. The Redfield limited warranty is similar to Hawkes specifications and then hawke optics vs vortex to a variety of.... Knows maybe I made the wrong choice, but each brand offers distinct optics a! More higher-end Vortex scopes especially in the entry-level category numbers to accommodate the Hawke and!