Equip your muzzleloader with an efficient scope and increase the odds of hitting targets accurately. In today’s guide, we will show you the best Vortex muzzleloader scopes purposely engineered to improve your shooting ability in the field.
When selecting a scope for your muzzleloader, you must keep in mind that muzzleloaders operate slightly differently from other rifles. Pairing your muzzleloader with a quality scope enhances accuracy and ensures you don’t miss a target.
Finding the ideal scope with so many options on the market can be daunting. Fortunately, Vortex manufactures some models that are specific to the rifle. Let’s jump into the best Vortex muzzleloader scopes:
1) Vortex Optics Diamondback 2-7×35 Rimfire Riflescope
Designed to fit diverse shooting applications, the Vortex Diamondback 2-7×35 Rimfire Riflescope is what you need for your muzzleloader. Many hunters love it because it is budget-conscious and delivers outstanding accuracy when shooting at close to medium ranges.
The scope promises life-long performance since it is made of sturdy aircraft-grade aluminum. It also has a hard-anodized finish, which greatly increases its durability. The anodization offers a matte, low-glare surface and aids in concealing your position.
It is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a scope with impeccable performance in all lighting conditions. All air-to-glass surfaces have multiple anti-reflective coatings and a proprietary coating that enhances light transmission.
The other positive attribute that makes the Diamondback 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope a prime choice among the best Vortex muzzleloader scopes is reliability. The rugged construction will help the scope withstand shocks and vibrations from rifle recoil.
Capped reset turrets are present on the scope. The caps protect the turret from the elements. Additionally, it incorporates a Precision-Glide Erector System that guarantees seamless moving of the parts of the zoom lens mechanism across all magnification settings.
Equip your muzzleloader with the Vortex Diamondback 2-7x35mm Rifle Scope and experience the difference quality glass makes. With sharp images on your display, you will make accurate shots every time.
Features
- O-ring seals make it waterproof and fogproof
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Precision-glide erector system
- Capped reset turrets
- Hard anodized finish
- A fast-focus eyepiece
- Second focal plane
Pros
- Lightweight
- Pocket-friendly price
- Exceptional low-light performance
- Easy to mount
- Robust
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
2) Vortex Optics Diamondback 3-9×40 SFP Riflescope
The Diamondback 3-9×40 SFP Riflescope is another great muzzleloader scope. This scope’s magnification and objective lens size are pretty basic for muzzleloader scopes. It is one of the best Vortex muzzleloader scopes for all-around hunting.
The lenses are fully multi-coated for optimal light gathering leading to bright and clear images in all lighting conditions.
The capped turrets, which offer a 70 MOA windage and elevation adjustment range, are another feature worth noting. They enable tool-free re-indexing so you can make adjustments and instantly return to zero. A fast-focus eyepiece allows quick reticle focusing for rapid acquisition of the target.
Another impressive attribute is the precision-glide erector mechanism, which makes the scope change between magnification settings effortlessly.
There are two reticle options; the Dead-Hold BDC and V-Plex reticles. Construction-wise, the scope doesn’t disappoint. Its tough construction confers reliability and durability.
It is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum for rugged use. It is also purged with argon gas and O-ring sealed making the scope waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof.
Features
- 3 inches of eye relief
- High-quality aluminum construction
- Capped turrets
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Dead-Hold BDC or V-Plex reticle options
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Precision-glide erector system
Pros
- Durable construction
- Advanced adjustable systems
- All-weather reliability
- Exceptional light transmission
Cons
- Lacks an illuminated reticle
3) Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1-4×24 SFP Riflescope
The illuminated V-Brite reticle makes the Crossfire II 1-4×24 riflescope a top contender among the best Vortex muzzleloader scopes. The reticle is on the second focal plane and as a result, you can be sure that no matter what magnification adjustments you make, the reticle will always be the same size.
Being illuminated also ensures that it will perform effectively in any dimly lit environment you may experience. Speaking of dimly lit environments, the scope is fully multi-coated to optimize light transmission leading to superior-quality images.
The MOA clicks on the capped reset turrets and makes adjustments simple with the finger. When you have sighted in, you can reset these to zero.
The Crossfire II offers a long, more than adequate 4-inch eye relief. Another perk is a very forgiving eye box. With these capabilities, shooters can quickly and precisely acquire targets using the fast-focusing eyepiece.
Since using your muzzleloader scope means exposure to tough conditions, unfavorable weather, knocks, and bumps, it is instrumental that the scope is built for the task. The Crossfire II delivers in this regard. It has been constructed as an aircraft-grade aluminum tube in a single piece.
This promotes durability, sturdiness, and shock resistance. You will benefit from the performance of the scope being waterproof and fog-proof since it has been nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed.
Features
- 4 inches of eye relief
- 24mm objective lens
- 1-4x magnification
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Hard anodized finish
- Capped turrets
- V-Brite reticle found on the second focal plane
- Nitrogen purged and sealed with O-rings
- Forgiving eye box
Pros
- Budget-conscious
- Durable to withstand anything thrown at it
- Superior glass quality
- Unlimited eye relief
Cons
- Images at high magnification could be clear
- Turret tracking could be better.
4) Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 4-12×44 SFP Riflescope
Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-12×44 SFP Riflescope will take your shooting and hunting to the next big level. This scope harbors incredible features suited for handling all hunting scenarios making it one of the best Vortex muzzleloader scopes.
With this scope, you can hunt in any weather condition since it is crafted from premium aluminum and has a hard-anodized finish that makes it resistant to water, fog, and shock.
A hard anodized finish enhances durability while providing a glare-free surface for concealing the shooter’s position.
Fully multi-coated optics ensure optimal light transmission, which is essential for clear, bright, and sharp images. There are also anti-reflective properties on all air-to-glass surfaces.
Another attractive attribute of the scope is the Precision-Glide erector system that makes sure components in the zoom lens mechanism move seamlessly.
Turrets with an exposed tactical design offer elevation and windage changes that are quick, precise, and simple to read.
Even better, a magnification rib allows fast magnification changes on the fly. A fast-focus eyepiece allows quick reticle focusing to help you acquire your target in the blink of an eye.
Features
- VMR-1 MOA reticle
- Hard anodized finish
- Fully multi-coated with anti-reflective properties
- Precision glide erector system
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- Elevated magnification rib
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Exposed turrets with a tactical design
Pros
- Sturdy constitution
- Crystal-clear optics
- Affordable
- Wide field of view
- Easy to mount
Cons
- The reticle is not etched on the glass
5) Vortex Optics Crossfire II 4-12×50 AO SFP Riflescope
The Vortex Crossfire II 4-12×50 is a budget-friendly entry-level scope that is another great muzzleloader partner. The objective lens is adjustable and aids in fine-tuning the focus, which consequently gets rid of the undesirable parallax error when taking shots.
If you intend to hunt at dawn or dusk when lighting conditions are dismal, this scope got you. It is fully multi-coated for the best views ever viewed on an optic. The enhanced visual clarity makes Crossfire II 4-12 one of the best Vortex muzzleloader scopes.
Also, the scope will not let you down even when weather conditions are challenging. Additionally, it is sealed with O-rings to make it water-resistant and nitrogen-purged for complete fog-proof functionality.
Moreover, it is sturdy, reliable, and shockproof. The scope has consistently provided dependable performance in all weather conditions, cementing its name as a scope worth paying attention to.
The scope also brings to the table a fast-focus eyepiece that helps in quick reticle focusing. The 4-12x magnification is versatile, making the scope ideal for various ranges. Eye injury will be a thing of the past as the scope boasts long eye relief.
Offering the highest levels of performance and reliability, the Crossfire II 4-12 x50 AO scope will surely elevate your hunting experience and shooting ability. This scope is a perfect choice for tactical and hunting applications.
Features
- Adjustable objective
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- Lenses have multiple coatings
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Ultra-forgiving eye box
- Made of premium aircraft-grade aluminum
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Superior low-light performance
- Long eye relief
- Durable construction
- Performs in all environmental conditions
Cons
- Glass quality diminishes in high magnification
- Turrets track poorly
6) Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20×50 PA SFP Riflescope
The accuracy, durability, and image clarity are some of the reasons why many hunters, competition shooters, and gun enthusiasts love the Vortex Viper 6.5-20×50 SFP Riflescope.
Long-range shooting prowess at an unbeatable price makes this scope stand out among the best Vortex muzzleloader scopes. The scope is ideal for predator hunting and target applications.
The scope can endure abuse from your rifle and mother nature as well. Its 30mm tube is made of aircraft-grade aluminum for rugged performance. Since it is O-ring sealed and argon-purged, the scope is waterproof and fogproof. It also has an Armortek coating that protects against scratches and dirt.
The Viper is most effective for shooting at medium to long ranges because of its 6.5–20x magnification range. The Precision-Glide Erector mechanism of the lens allows for seamless changes between all magnification settings.
The piece of glass included with the unit is excellent. All magnification levels are guaranteed to provide a crisp sight picture owing to the extra-low dispersion lenses.
Furthermore, it includes multiple anti-reflective coatings, which enhance light transmission and reduce glare. Thanks to its 50mm objective, the image remains clear even at longer distances. You are promised distortion-free images, even when facing the sun.
Features
- BDC and Mil-dot reticle
- Positive and audible clicks
- Capped resettable turrets
- Precision-force spring system
- Precision glide erector system
- Fully multi-coated with anti-reflective properties
- 50mm objective lens
- Parallax adjustment
Pros
- Easy to zero
- Phenomenal light transmission
- Clear glass
- Robust construction
- All-weather reliability
Cons
- Not illuminated
- A bit heavy
7) Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-18×44 AO SFP Riflescope
The Crossfire II 6-18×44 AO SFP Riflescope is fitted with an array of great features and is mediumly priced. It boasts a Dead-Hold BDC reticle that is both customizable and accurate, making it a top-notch hunting or shooting scope.
With the BDC reticle and the adjustable objective, this great hunting scope provides exceptional image focus and parallax elimination.
The scope is ruggedly built to stand up to the harshest outdoor conditions. It features a one-piece tube constructed of aircraft-grade aluminum for excellent strength and shock resistance. Thanks to the O-ring seals and nitrogen purging, the scope is completely waterproof and fogproof.
With fully multi-coated lenses, the scope produces clear and bright target images, no matter the lighting setting.
Like other Vortex Crossfire scopes, the Crossfire II has capped reset turrets that can be adjusted with the finger and have MOA clicks that are zero resettable after sighting in.
Features
- Single-piece tube made of premium aluminum
- A fast-focus eyepiece
- Capped reset turrets
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- 7 to 4.3 inches of eye relief
- Second focal plane reticle
- Hard anodized finish
Pros
- Great value for money
- Remarkable glass quality
- Ideal for various applications
- Long eye relief
Cons
- Images appear blurry at maximum magnification
8) Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1×24 Muzzleloader Riflescope
The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 1×24 Muzzleloader Riflescope is designed for use with muzzleloaders, as its name connotes. The scope sports fully multi-coated lenses coupled with anti-reflective properties to enhance light transmission. As a result, bright and clear images are produced no matter the lighting conditions.
For more convenience, the scope brings to the table a fast-focus eyepiece that facilitates seamless reticle focus. This is essential for fast target acquisition.
There are capped reset turrets for quick re-indexing after sighting in. The caps protect the turrets from outside elements.
Regarding construction, the scope is ruggedly built to meet the demands of serious shooters and hunters. It is designed with sturdy aircraft-grade aluminum that ensures it survives anything it is subjected to. A hard anodized finish provides durability and reduces glare. Better yet, it is waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof.
Features
- Single-piece tube
- Hard anodized finish
- Capped reset turrets
- Fully multi-coated
- A fast-focus eyepiece
- V-Plex MOA reticle
- Second focal plane
Pros
- Fast target acquisition
- Durable design
- Great glass quality
- User-friendly reticle
Cons
- Fixed 1x magnification limits flexibility
Further Reading
- Best Vortex Scopes for Deer Hunting
- Best Vortex AR-15 Scopes
- Best Scopes for Browning Bar MK 3
- Best Vortex Scopes for 30-06 Rifles
- Best Rimfire Scopes for 22 MAG
How to Choose the Best Vortex Muzzleloader Scopes
Magnification
Because muzzleloaders are short-range weapons, your muzzleloader scope doesn’t need to have a lot of power.
The most typical magnification range is usually between 3 and 9 x, but many muzzleloader scopes offer a lower minimum magnification. Some go a little higher, but you won’t be using the scope’s maximum magnification range at that point.
Durability
Again, muzzleloaders produce a lot of recoil with their powerful rounds. A muzzleloader scope needs to withstand all of that. It must be extremely shockproof. Also, it makes the scope more resilient to potential drops and bumps.
Recoil is one of many issues muzzleloaders can encounter. Rain and fog might also be a problem. There are fortunately many waterproof and fog-proof muzzleloader scopes available.
O-ring seals help keep water out, while nitrogen or argon purging, which also helps to enhance light transmission, helps to reduce fog.
Read: Best Burris 450 Bushmaster Scopes
Eye Relief
Eye relief is crucial with any scope, but especially with a muzzleloader. Muzzleloaders shoot powerful rounds with a lot of recoil. A scope may kick back and strike your brow bone or, worse, your eyeball as a result of that recoil.
Select a muzzleloader scope with a minimum of 4 inches of eye relief to avoid this. This connotes that you can get a full, unobstructed view through the scope by placing your eye at least 4 inches behind the ocular lens.
Reticle
Both a BDC reticle and a duplex reticle are common in muzzleloader scopes. Bullet drop compensation (BDC) reticles are useful because they allow you to estimate how much a bullet will drop over time and change your aim accordingly.
Conversely, duplex reticles are fairly simple. Some folks favor that style. The reticle style you select won’t matter once you become used to using your muzzleloader because you probably won’t be firing that far anyway.
A reticle that is illuminated can improve reticle visibility. Even though illuminated reticles aren’t necessary, they can be helpful, especially in low light or for shooters with weaker vision.
Read: Best Vortex Scopes for 308 Long Range
FAQs
Q: Is a Special Scope Necessary for Muzzleloaders?
A scope that can withstand recoil is necessary when using a muzzleloader. If you have a rifle scope rated to a larger caliber, it can handle a muzzleloader without any problems, but you should do some research on the specific scope you have in mind to be sure it will be as durable as you require it to be.
Q: How Far Can a Muzzleloader Shoot Accurately?
Many high-quality muzzleloaders nowadays are capable of pinpoint accuracy at 200 yards. However, shooting small groups with a muzzleloader is more challenging than doing so with a centerfire rifle. You must begin with a solid platform. You, therefore, need a high-quality firearm.
Conclusion
Vortex is a household name in the scopes industry, and all the scopes above epitomize excellence, reliability, and durability.
Each model has its unique set of features. This means there is a scope with the best features that meet your requirements. All you have to do is find it and pair it with your muzzleloader.