If that sounds downbeat, its not intentional. Vortex optics is a great choice for those who demand the highest quality and durability in their rifle scope! 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. Let us talk about the reticle choices for these two optic manufacturers across each of the price ranges. 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. 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. Anyways, I figured it has been long enough for a long term impression of this Hawke scope. Hawke offers sixty-one scope models within two scope series with an MSRP at or under $550. And yeah, my AMG was rad, for sure. So I actually landed on two totally different scopes. 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. We loved the tight, responsive controls, from the removable angled eyepiece to the rubberized center-barrel focus, and the sunshade seemed to glide as though mounted on ball-bearing tracks. Either way, I found both to be excellent in their class. If youre looking for a cast-iron (actually, magnesium/polymer) optic that is purpose-built for backcountry hunters, and can be used with or without a tripod, this is an excellent option. It was thorough and very much influential in my decision-making process. Cheap Binoculars for Safari - Compact, Mid or Full Size? Todays topic is a comparison of scopes between Hawke Optics vs Vortex Optics. In the $1000 range I'm debating between the Vortex PST Gen ii or the Hawke Frontier 30 FFP. Vortex features forty-three scope models covering five different scope lines with an MSRP under $550. I dont see how I could go wrong with any of the 3, My inclination is to go with the New Diamondback, but I would appreciate any comments you may have as to my choices, or any others you may think are better. So whilst the original Endeavor ED does come with ED (Extra low-dispersion) glass, phase corrected roof prisms made from high quality BaK-4 glass and are fully multi-coated. That being said however, since this is likely the only safari well ever take, the binoculars I purchase should be suitable for other general uses as well. This means that features that would only be the reserve of higher end, more expensive instruments back then are now found on many the best within this price bracket. Individual Focus Binoculars or Single Diopter Adjustment? Those Vortex scope lines include: As you can see, the Vortex Crossfire II series is the most extensive offering in this group, with twenty-six scope options under the $550 MSRP price point. The entire optic, including all the components, is sourced from one country and then assembled in that country. Yeah I wish more people out there had experience with a "this vs that" on optics, only a handful of people have put their eyes on that many optics. Congrats. Today we are going to compare rifle scopes from each of the aforementioned brands to see what each scope has to offer. However, the warranty does not cover loss, theft, or deliberate damage. Finally, Hawke offers a limited warranty that. Id love to hear what people think about scope options. That is why their units have been on the top of the consideration list for most of the advanced shooters that are out there. 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. So, to reach the minimum $550 MSRP point, a customer will have to progress through five different Vortex series. One thing is certain, there is certainly a wide selection of affordable yet distinct rifle scopes on the market, and the Vortex, Hawke, or Redfield brands are a great place to start your search for a $250 rifle scope. It may not display this or other websites correctly. on Vortex Diamondback vs Hawke Endurance ED vs Vanguard Endeavor ED, Vortex Diamondback vs Hawke Endurance ED vs Vanguard Endeavor ED, how to choose between different binoculars, How Different Configurations Affect a Binocular, 70mm Astronomy Binoculars & Tripod Setup Advice. 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 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. They offer top-of-the-line optics which allow you to view your target in clear detail, no matter what magnifications you select. The Vortex scopes in this group will predominantly be geared towards hunting, plinking, and target shooting, with some long-range shooting as well. The rubber ring that keeps the sharp edge of the ocular lens from biting the brow came off somewhere during our low-light testing. May 3, 2021. (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. 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. For me the areas on the 10x42 version that slightly disappoint are their relatively narrow field of view and less eye-relief than some of the others: At 304ft wide at a distance of 1000 yards, it is not bad, just a little less than the best on your list. Vortex. We havent tested many 100mm spotters in the past, but that big lens provides a very valuable attributeit gathers a crazy amount of light. Determining the better value between brands is always highly challenging because there are so many variables to consider. Theres a lot to requite my love. The evaluation basis is entirely opinion based on ones own personal perspective and experience. Ask the BinoWizard Here If you are undecided between two or more binoculars, or are confused by all the options available and dont have the time (or dont want to) read through my reviews, then please feel free to contact me for some personal optics advice. As you can see from the table above, Vortex features 18 different reticle choices in this price range, while Hawke has no reticles in this range as they dont offer an optic costing $1500 or more. Most optics in this price range are geared towards long-range, and most feature a magnification range over 4-16. I have had zero issues with it. I gave the edge to Trailseeker because of 1) the field of view, and 2) the eye relief. We also liked the responsive 2-speed fingertip focus and positive 3-position eyecup. 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). It is at the top of the range of what I intend to spend. 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. If we're not suppose to eat animalshow come they're made of meat? While the Hawke warranty isnt bad, its typical of the warranty restrictions seen in the optical industry these days. Unfortunately, Vortex does not offer any adjustable objective options in the mid-range category. I regards to the Hawke Tactical, I consider myself an informed decision maker and as such found the Hawke 6.5-20x44 to be a quality affordable scope for someone like me that enjoys shooting within a budget. Since these two companies dont match up as equals in terms of the overall price points, the easiest way to break down these criteria is through the following broad categories: Typically, I use a $350 MSRP price point as the top end of the entry-level classification. Best example is why V went with 6-24 vs 5-25 or better like the rest of the manufactures, including themselves. To help us deliver the best user . With their exceptional optics and durable design, Vortex scopes will meet all your shooting requirements regardless of whether you're looking for an affordable model or a high-end tactical option. Enjoy whatever you buy. I'm also considering two in the $2000 range in case I scrounge up the money to get something next level(according to my standards. Top 8 Rifle Scopes Less Than $200 In 2023. For that outrageous value, the Argos HD wins this years Great Buy award. Vortex does all that as well but the warranty is even better . Vortex New Diamondback 10x42 Vortex seems to a popular line with good specs. I've had one two months.I REALLY like it for a binocular in the $400 range. I think it's because the eyecups of the hawkes are so thin" and do let a lot of light in. When the Dark Lord speaketh, one is wise to listen. For the mid-range category, Im using an MSRP price range of $501 up to $1000. Entry Level Reticle Options - MSRP up to $550. Look through both and see what you like best . The finish is slick as grease. In sum, the new Leupold spotter is a hard-wearing utility player that should give you years of service. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. 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.. US Optics - Foundation Series Vortex - Razor HD AMG (almost completely made in the USA) . If you were interested in seeing where a specific Vortex optic is made, I put together a more in-depth overview of where all the Vortex scopes are made here. Vortex VS Hawke Price Comparison. 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. : Agree about Nikon HGL 8x42, still occasionally available new, still being a strong contender. I noted there is the Diamondback line, which must be the 2014 model, and the New Diamondback line which apparently debuted in 2016. All the optics featured in this group are built on a 30mm or 34mm tube, and most are FFP-based. My vote is for a Meopta Meopro HD 8X42. 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. 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. Vortex scopes are some of the best on the market due to a variety of reasons. Theres simply so much of it that it allows great quantities of light to reach the eye. 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. Ive owned a few Hawke scope models (some of the pics on this page are actually one of my Hawke scopes), shot under several more, and mounted too many to count. Indeed in some cases (especially in the lower price brackets) they outperform them. The 17 Best New Versatile Riflescopes Put to the Test. Perhaps the Zeiss conquest 8x42, Nikon Monarch HG 8x42, TORIC 8X42 SCHOTT HT. Simply put, Hawke offers a broader range of magnification options compared to Vortex. The Panorama series comes in four variable magnification models including 3-940, 3-950, 4-1240, and 4-1250. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Hawke Sport Optics, LLC, 6015 Highview Drive, Suite G. Fort Wayne, Indiana, 46818. So my advice as always is to get the best you can afford and depending on how often you are planning to use your bins. Sure, like the Vortex Dimondback, these do not contain ED Glass elements in their lenses, but as I have already said I have often observed well designed non ED glass bins perform as well than instruments with ED glass at reducing color fringing. Vortex has an integration deal with Kenton, where they produce aftermarket, drop-in custom turrets for the more higher-end Vortex scopes. Press Enter for Accessibility for blind people who use screen readers; Press Enter for Keyboard . They won't be brighter during the day. I'm more familiar with the Hawke rifle scopes as I own two Sidewinders. From that MSRP cost up to the $1000 mark, the costs begin to even out between the brands. 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. 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 . At my day job, it is very common to have customers ask for a comparison of different rifle scope brands and different scope models. Firstly, I would like to add some general advice on how to choose between different binoculars as I get a number of similar requests from visitors to BBR. Konus ships this spotter with a very good smartphone adapter that allows the spotter to pull double duty as a telephoto lens. I read somewhere that the Hawke scopes had some issues. A Comparison of the Leupold Rifleman vs VX1 Scope Models. ButterFly likes this #5 ECP M42 Vanguard Posts: 2,234 Joined: 28 Apr 2021 In addition, Hawke offers more illuminated reticle choices in this space (if reticle illumination is essential to you). Its interesting to note that none of the leading European brandsSwarovski, Leica, or Zeisshas a new spotter for the year. For some prospective buyers, where a product is produced or manufactured plays a significant role in the buying decision. with a straight-wall-based BDC reticle. The fingertip focus is vague and spongy. Compare Hawke Sport Optics Frontier APO vs GPO USA Passion ED vs Hawke Sport Optics Frontier ED X vs Vortex Viper HD. A few of the models in this group are designed as short-range/close quarters optics for the AR platform. | 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. SIG Sauer. 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. A look at the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-824 reticle. Major highlights include the magnesium chassis and dielectrically coated prisms, which is a real sign of quality and not often found at this price range. Of the 19 riflescopes in this category from Vortex, 16 are second focal plane models, and three are first focal plane versions. It may not display this or other websites correctly. The Oscar8 was runner-up in our low-light test and turned in a good resolution score, thanks to its combination of high-transmission and extra-low dispersion glass and excellent coatings. Whilst still containing all the great components and features, the specifications of the 10x42 version could be a concern to some users. If youre strictly shopping on price and want the least expensive scope between those brands, then Hawke is your best bet. 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. Well, Id be wearing dentures as I told you that such a unicorn exists. However, in this instance, Im classifying entry-level scopes as any with an MSRP price up to $550. Something worth noting here: Where a product is manufactured is commonly called the source country or country of manufacture. However, to be honest, Im not entirely convinced that Hawke will ever compete well in this category, and Ill dive more into why down below when discussing where these brands are manufactured. 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. The vortex got a much more narrow opening to look through. Curious about the basics on selecting a scope for $250 or less. I ended up getting the MPO. 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. Vortex rifle scopes have numerous features that will improve your shooting experience and more precise. No ED Glass Specialty scopes are models that are built for one specific purpose or use. Hawke looks to cost slightly less than Vortex until around the $500 price point at a high-level view. Examples of specialty optics include: Vortex offers a couple of specialty scope models, including: In addition, Vortex has introduced a specific scope for the straight-wall calibers (350 Legend, .450 Bushmaster, etc.) You must log in or register to reply here. Mid-Range ($501 to $1000) 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. I recently bought two binoculars, a Vortex Diamondback 8x42 and a Hawke Endurance ED 8x42, both returned for mechanical defects! Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Service. In the upper mid-level scope options (with an MSRP range from $1000 to $1500), Vortex offers six different reticle choices, and all are focused on long range, hunting, or precision tactical style shooting. There are some shortcomings. Minoltah 2 yr. ago What were you thinking the advantage is of 8x42 is over 8x32 if you intend to keep both? That being said, Hawke certainly offers quite a bit of value as well, especially in the entry-level optics category. Both binoculars have a Roof - Schmidt/Pechan prism type and fully multi-coated lenses. I have owned Swift scopes for over 18 years and they have performed up to my satisfaction on my 308 Ruger. In addition, the recommended scope usage begins to change as well. I hope I like it, it will be a step up from what I'm using now and I feel it will be perfect for my situation. 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. Today's topic is a comparison of scopes between Hawke Optics vs . And who knows maybe I made the wrong choice, but I never really could get excited for that scope. However, they didnt sell very well, so Bushnell phased the Forge scope models out of production. 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