Vortex is undoubtedly a manufacturer you can run to if you are looking for good quality scopes available at a low price range. No, Vortex is not merely about providing cheap scopes. Vortex is a veteran-owned-and-run industry. And this is why they are highly aware of the needs and preferences of a hunter or shooter. This is easily visible in the minute detailing they give to a scope’s optics and their knowledge of a hunter’s affordable range. Vortex is undoubtedly popular. Let us look at a popular model Vortex has given birth to – the Crossfire – and examine why the scope becomes so popular.
Crossfire is what you can call an ‘entry-level’ affordable’ scope. It is the cheapest within Vortex models and might even be at most times the cheapest in the market. By cheap, I mean that it scales below $200. But this does not affect the quality of the scope. In fact, Vortex Crossfire is undoubtedly the best quality scope within a given price range. So, you need not limit the scope to bein cheap or affordable but it is rather cost-efficient. Also, the scope is crafted according to the needs of a beginner. Enough beating around the bush, let us go into a detailed Vortex Crossfire II 6-18×44 Review.
Vortex Crossfire II 6-18×44 Review
Vortex Crossfire has certain features that make it stand a rung above other scopes of the same price and range. These are efficient MOA reticle, clear multi-coated lens, a fast-focus eyepiece, and remarkable eye relief. While these are commonalities for all scopes within the Crossfire II range, there are some factors that stand out for each model.
Each scope is different from the other on the basis of one or the other of the following three factors, i.e., objective lens size, tube diameter, or magnification range. The model we are going to look into – Vortex Crossfire II 6-18×44 – has some features that make it a tad bit more popular than many other scopes even within the Crossfire II range. Let us look at these now. Read on.
Optics
The first thing you will have to look for in any scope is the quality of the optics. This depends on two components – the lens and the reticle.
Vortex Crossfire II 6-18×44 scope has an objective lens of diameter 44 mm. This is quite huge, especially if you consider other scopes of the same range. So what does a big lens signify? A big lens means more area for light absorption and hence a better lit image. While the lens size takes care of the light absorption, there are other features included to ensure optimum utilization of these light rays. One such feature is the lens coating. This lens is fully multi-coated, meaning there is a better absorption as well as transmission of light within the scope.
Further, the lens is coated with many anti-reflective layers to reduce the wastage of light through the process of reflection. This lens is what you can call an adjustable lens as it lets you customize your shot by reducing parallax errors. Hence, you get a clear, sharp, and bright image. You will have to think twice before blaming the lens for a missed shot.
The next component is the reticle. This scope is bestowed with a Dead-Hold BDC MOA reticle. This kind of reticle is customized as well as versatile. That is, the reticle is made with customized hash marks that help in reducing guesswork on windage and elevation readings. In essence, this type of reticle is made for shooters or hunters who will have to continuously change their targets. Or in other words, it is best suited for shooting across varying ranges hence eliminating any chances of holdover confusions.
This reticle model is useful and compatible with various kinds of ammo – like high powered rifles, rimfire rifles, black powder rifles, and slug shotguns. That is why I said that it is versatile – versatile in terms of range as well as rifle type. This Dead-Hold BDC reticle is placed in the Second Focal Plane. So your image will always be well-sized even upon magnification. This reticle coupled with the highly efficient lens makes your shot indispensable even to moving targets.
Range and Magnification
This Vortex Crossfire II 6-18×44 is essentially meant for mid to long-range shots. The magnification scale available for this Vortex scope is 6-18x. This range is quite versatile. Also, if you couple this with the Dead-Hold BDC reticle you will get a scope that is definitely worth every penny. The reticle and lens (along with the other features I will discuss in the ‘Adjustments’ part) will make your shot on-point.
Adjustments
If you think that the aforementioned features are all that you need to look into then you are clearly mistaken. The adjustment features that are provided to each scope is what determines the practical efficiency of a scope. It is what puts the aforementioned concepts into technicality. Let us take a peek at these.
To start with, this Vortex Crossfire 6-18×44 scope has a fast-focus eyepiece. This enables you to track down and shoot moving targets efficiently. The parallax remover functions along with this to give you a better aim. This parallax setting functions from 10 yards to infinity.
Another factor is the capped turrets. These finger click enabled turrets are efficient and easy to use. Also, the capped feature ensures that the readings do not fluctuate accidentally. Hence, your windage and elevation readings are safe and well placed. Also, it zeroes in perfectly and stays so intact.
The eye relief of 3.7 inches is another must-mention feature. This eye relief will enable you to make hardcore shots with high caliber rifles without putting your safety at risk. Yes, I am talking about the scope eye. A 3.7-inch gap is sufficient to save your own face from the force of the shot.
Structure
The strength and durability is more or less a consequence of the structural features. Our Crossfire 2 Vortex is strong owing to the block of aircraft-grade Aluminium used for its construction. The scope has a single piece tube of a one-inch diameter. Both of these factors add to the strength and versatility of the scope. The single-piece tube makes space for better internal features while the one-inch diameter offers a place for a perfect blend of different features.
The tube is purged with Nitrogen and is O-ring sealed. This helps in making the scope weather resistant. That is, the former makes it fog proof and the latter makes it waterproof. It also makes the scope susceptible to all environmental conditions. Further, the rigidity and the strength of the scope makes it shockproof as well. This way you need not worry about hard recoils or harsh shots.
Additionally, the tube is coated with a hard-anodized finish. This matte layer makes the scope less susceptible to glare and hence your prey will not easily notice your ammo. This is the exact kind of camouflage we all need. The scope weighs just around 20 oz thereby making it lightweight and easy to handle.
There are very few chances of your scope failing you. But unfortunately, if it does, don’t worry. This Vortex Crossfire II scope is bestowed with a VIP warranty. This Very Important Promise curtails to repair and replacement offers on workmanship and mechanical issues. I would certainly believe a brand that promises me things rather than putting clauses of consumer powers.
Compatibility
There are very few specifications that this Crossfire Vortex scope caters to. This shockproof scope with ample eye relief can be used efficiently with high power rifles with high caliber and recoil. Also, the lightweight nature of the scope also makes it compatible with small and low power rifles. So, basically, any rifle would do. The same applies to the process of mounting as well. You can alter between rails or rings according to your wish.
Pros
Cons
FAQs
Diamondback or Crossfire II?
Each has its own benefits and drawbacks. Crossfire II is at a lower price range in comparison to Diamondback and Diamondback is definitely a mechanical and optical improvement on Crossfire II. Essentially, Crossfire is better if you are looking for better mechanical features like eye relief or an adjustable objective lens. Diamondback, on the other hand, has a remarkably better lens and optical clarity/feature.
Interesting – Our friends at The Optics have a good list of scopes for AR-10, just wanted to let you know in case you guys are interested.
Conclusion
Well, that is my review for the Vortex Crossfire II and I presume this has shaken you and your pockets. What are you waiting for then? Rush to Amazon and bag the best deal in the market. Don’t forget to thank me later. Happy Hunting to you!