It was thorough and very much influential in my decision-making process. I really liked the 8x33, so I assume the 8x44 is also pretty great (I have not tried the x44). FRANAIS. I noted there is the Diamondback line, which must be the 2014 model, and the New Diamondback line which apparently debuted in 2016. Illuminated reticules also come standard in this series. Unlike some scope manufacturers, the Vortex warranty is not limited by a certain number of years or a time frame. How Much Should I Spend on a Rifle Scope? USA. Click here to open it up in a new tab. Of the 19 riflescopes in this category from Vortex, 16 are second focal plane models, and three are first focal plane versions. My preferred format for optical brand comparisons is as follows: In my opinion, those comparison points offer enough data to get a rough idea of how one optical brand stacks up against the other. The tripod mount is graceful and very strong, and the band that allows users to rotate the barrel is more robust than many other full-size spotters. ITALIANO. The Panorama series comes in four variable magnification models including 3-940, 3-950, 4-1240, and 4-1250. Should you do, this should be just enough, but in no way can these be described as having long eye-relief. Since I had to adjust the entry-level category numbers to accommodate the Hawke line, I made similar adjustments in the mid-range category. When it comes warranty, Vortex is also the clear victor with their Very Important Promise policy, but Redfield and Hawke stand out in other areas. 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. Hawke offers 31 riflescope models across three different Hawke scope families with an MSRP from $550 to $1000. If youre looking for a spotter to throw into a daypack or pickup console to give you a bit more reach than a binocular, a 45-degree angled optic is a good choice. Thats allowed what Id call the second tier of optics brandsLeupold, SIG, and Mavento really shine in this years test. There are no heart-stopping gee-whiz scopes in the mix but, with only a few exceptions, there are few leaky pipes. Should be readily available close to you. Snipers Hide is a community of Snipers of all kinds, focusing on long range shooting, accuracy, and ballistics. Vortex features a total of six scope models in one Vortex series that fall in the $1001 to $1500 MSRP price range. Vanguard Endeavor ED 10x42 This model got a good review. Curious about the basics on selecting a scope for $250 or less. The vortex got a much more narrow opening to look through. I have one inexpensive pair to take (10x50 Bushnell), but I want to take a good pair also. 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. Note: Vanguard Sport Optics have updated this model with their newer and improved Vanguard Endeavor ED II 8x42 Binoculars that does have a magnesium body and even higher quality ED glass, but at around $400, they are above your budget. With a configuration more similar to a riflescope than a spotting scope, and weighing just 20 ounces, we expected performance in proportion to its underwhelming size. At just shy of 3 pounds, the Bushnell is light, its 12-inch length is extremely packable, its magnesium chassis and tacky rubber armor are durable, and the straight, non-removable eyepiece makes target acquisition a cinch. Hawke's covers are pushed to the objective lens gaps and Diamondback's are embracing the edges of the barrels. Anyways, I figured it has been long enough for a long term impression of this Hawke scope. I found myself trying to justify the extra $$ for a scope that would be used for hunting. It delivers an entirely adequate image and sports excellent lens coatings. Within those seven optics, the lowest magnification range is 3-1550, while the highest magnification power is 5-3056. For others, it may not really matter as much. Todays topic is a comparison of scopes between Hawke Optics vs Vortex Optics. 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. First off, Crossfire 2 lenses are fully multi-coated for superior light transmission resulting in crisper and clearer images. I have often noticed well designed non ED glass instruments reduce color fringing to a level that is equal or even less than some that do have ED glass, especially at this lower price point. Those riflescope models are in the following Vortex series: As far as power magnification ranges, the Vortex optics in this group range from 1.75-532 to a maximum of 5-2556. Hawke has a close focus of 2 m and field of view of 129 m / 1000 m, while Vortex has a close focus of 1.5 m and field of view of 130 m / 1000 m. From that point, Hawke began to expand into other parts of the sporting optics market and currently offers riflescopes to fit almost any need on any budget. Im curious if you made a choice yet and what you decided too. If you wanted to read more about Hawkes approach to manufacturing, I wrote a more detailed post here about where Hawke Optics are manufactured. When Hawke Optics first entered the sporting optics business, its optics were predominantly sourced from Japan. However I would like to add that since 2013, the market has become even more competitive and as such it has driven down prices even more. They are among the few optical brands on the market that Ive seen feature crossbow scope options available in 1-inch and 30mm choices. (And with the Vortex I was disappointed because there were a lot of chromatic aberrations, instead with the Hawke, thanks to ED glass, it was perfect). With the Vortex optics in this price range, you begin to also the ability to integrate a custom turret from Kenton turrets. 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. While there is no clear victor, each scope offers exclusive features that may appeal to one shooter more than another. Congrats. Hawke are fantastic for the money and work a treat . All three scopes have fully multi-coated optics that are important when it comes to clarity, and all three are waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof to some degree, which is also a vital part of selecting a scope that lasts. I suspect that Bushnell saw the same issue with the Forge line of scopes. If thats the case, your only option between the brands will be Hawke, as Vortex no longer offers any fixed scopes. Read the full article here. Sorry you cannot see this table as your browser does not support iframes. Vortex has an integration deal with Kenton, where they produce aftermarket, drop-in custom turrets for the more higher-end Vortex scopes. In addition, almost all of those 13 reticles are also available in an illuminated version. Theres simply so much of it that it allows great quantities of light to reach the eye. The weight of Vortex Diamondback (604 g) is a bit lighter than of Hawke Endurance, as the latter weighs 652 g,. Hawke actually got their start in the sporting optics industry in a specialty scope market for air guns. The straight eyepiece is extremely packable, the armor is grippy, and the stylish hues of black, gray, and orange give it a sharp, distinctive appearance. Burris Fullfield II 3-9X40mm. 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. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates. So from your shortlist, I would probably also lean towards this binocular. 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. Proof of the underwhelming quality of the glass is found in the periphery of the image, which is fuzzy and slightly distorted. Show Removed Specs. None of the test-team members can figure out how Athlon can sell such a well-appointed scope for such little money, but thats not for us to solve. Hawke is a worldwide market leader, offering an extensive range of high quality, value for money sporting optics, from Rifle & Crossbow Scopes to Binoculars & Spotting Scopes . We noted the lustrously coated lenses and positivity of the power ring on the non-removable eyepiece, as well as the silky-smooth sunshade. Vortex features eighteen scope models spanning five different series with an MSRP of $1500 or higher. Entry Level Reticle Options - MSRP up to $550. SIG Sauer. Back in 2013 and when they were listed at $280 / 260, I thought that these were great value for money, indeed they won my award as the best value for money bin that I reviewed that year. 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). And yeah, my AMG was rad, for sure. The evaluation basis is entirely opinion based on ones own personal perspective and experience. If we're not suppose to eat animalshow come they're made of meat? No items to compare. (3) This warranty is only valid for the original owner, and the product has to be accompanied by a receipt or a prior warranty registration with Hawke. Hawke only offers a select few 1-inch models in this category. 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 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. GLOBAL. I kept thinking of all the animals I've put on the ground with a $300-$400 scope and thought to myself "do I really need to step up that much???" In this price range, Hawke features eight different reticle options, and all are geared towards long distance shooting as well. Unfortunately, Vortex does not offer any adjustable objective options in the mid-range category. Also on scopes in this range, would it make sense not to get the higher power ranges on them because the they arent the top tier glass and 25x would be low quality in this price range? Finally, Hawke offers a limited warranty that. And, for the record, I am no different as Im very particular when it comes to reticle styles. The upper mid-range scopes are their top tier of scope offering for Hawke. T: 877-429-5347 F: 260-918-3443 us@hawkeoptics.com Next, evaluate those models at a model versus model level instead of a brand versus brand level, then make a buying decision based on your findings or specific needs. 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. Coincidentally, I own a Celestron telescope and have no complaints about its quality or optics. Whilst still containing all the great components and features, the specifications of the 10x42 version could be a concern to some users. Sidewinder optics account for nearly half of the optics in this category. They are inspected, tested, and boxed at those locations, then sent to an authorized Hawke retailer. If you want a simple scope with as few adjustments as possible, youre probably interested in a fixed power scope. At my day job, it is very common to have customers ask for a comparison of different rifle scope brands and different scope models. The bulk of the models in this category are in the 3-9 and 4-12 power. Hawke offers sixty-one scope models within two scope series with an MSRP at or under $550. 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. We expect the durability of the Oscar8 to provide years of steady service. You also rightly mention that the 8x42 Endurance ED is currently unavailable in the US (it is listed as on back order on most websites I looked at), however I did notice that the 10x42 model is available in limited quantities (see Amazon and Adorama on the where to buy these link below) and so that is why I have added it here. 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. 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. The Revenge series comes in six variable magnification settings from 2-734 to 6-1844. Vortex Viper HD 8x42 or Alpen Teton ED HD Abbe 8x42? Vortex VS Hawke Body Comparison. While Vortex offers a broader line of optical products, Hawke features some attractive scope options that Vortex does not. Determining the better value between brands is always highly challenging because there are so many variables to consider. However, as you move up to the higher magnification ranges in the Hawke optics, you begin to see some flare and clarity issues along the very edges of the image. Editor's Choice: SIG Sauer Oscar8 27-5580. The Vortex line of optics has more individual series of scopes compared to Hawke. Just looking at the diversity of the scopes in this category, Id give the edge to Hawke, and heres why: Hawke offers three fixed 4x power scopes, where Vortex doesnt offer any fixed power options. Published Aug 18, 2020 4:01 PM EDT. In the end, I spent about $30 less than I would have if I hadnt used your web site for guidance, and that includes your $10 fee for personal consultation and I will be getting what I believe is the best pair of binoculars for me. Having looked through most all the models in this category across both brands, Id give the edge in optical quality to Vortex as I believe that their optics are slightly better in this price range. All Hawke riflescope models are built to Hawkes specifications and then shipped to a Hawke facility in either the UK or the United States. Like Vortex, most of those reticle options are built or geared towards long distance shooting. Both are fine, but not as good as the magnesium shells and dielectric coatings found on the best within this class. So I decided to go with something in the $1000 range. And by entirely made in the United States, I mean that all the components, including the lenses, are sourced from within the United States. The precision reticle has been expertly designed to offer aim points at 10yd intervals from 20 - 100 yards. Firstly, thanks very much for sending in your question to the BinoWizard and as you say, I really dont think you will go far wrong with any of the options that you have placed on your shortlist as not only are quite evenly matched, but for the money they are all excellent examples within this class. Vortex is the only manufacturer in this category, so they win by default. The center-barrel focus is tight and precise. However, that warranty comes with the following limitations: (1) The No-Fault Lifetime warranty program is only valid on products purchased after January 2018. Buy & Compare Prices for Celestron Trailseeker Binoculars. With tack-sharp controls and a shapely design that begs to be slipped into the side pocket of a mountain-hunters daypack, this mid-sized spotter is a worthy backcountry optic that can double as a durable shooting-range companion. Minoltah 2 yr. ago What were you thinking the advantage is of 8x42 is over 8x32 if you intend to keep both? Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Service. I would like your opinion on the Hawke Optics and Vortex Optics hunting scopes for mostly late afternoon hunts. Who am I kidding here? Being based in the UK, Hawke first established a presence in the UKs air gunning community by offering several versions of a dedicated air rifle or air gun scope. I'm curious as to which one of those two will have better glass. Its size, configuration, and versatility makes it a good choice for a deck scope, a shooting-range spotter, or as a tripod-mounted scope for scouting. Best example is why V went with 6-24 vs 5-25 or better like the rest of the manufactures, including themselves. At its higher powers, from about 5.5-8x, the reticle reveals its long game. The rubber ring that keeps the sharp edge of the ocular lens from biting the brow came off somewhere during our low-light testing. While the Hawke warranty isnt bad, its typical of the warranty restrictions seen in the optical industry these days. 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. Theres a lot to requite my love. You could also consider the Minox BL 8x44 HD (not the BR). Vortex optics is a great choice for those who demand the highest quality and durability in their rifle scope! Indeed in some cases (especially in the lower price brackets) they outperform them. The Konuspot placed third in our low-light test, despite the fact that the quality of glass isnt great. The Argos won our low-light test and finished in the top third in resolution testing, despite the fact that it doesnt contain ED glass. Subscribe to OL+ for our best feature stories and photography. For example, Vortex only offers one 4-16 power scope in this price range, while Hawke offers eight 4-16 optics, including one in FFP. Do You Want to Review Binoculars & Write for BBR? Having a good warranty in place offers some coverage if the riflescope has issues. 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 . 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. The 8x42 version won my award as the best value bin in 2014 and unlike the Vanguard, it does come with an upgraded magnesium chassis and like the Vortex, not only are the prisms phase corrected, but are also dielectrically coated to ensure as much light is transmitted through the optical system as possible. 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