Long-range hunting and shooting are growing in popularity and there is no better way to venture into these thrilling activities other than investing in the best Vortex long-range scopes. As one of the most popular and highly-respected brands, Vortex offers a ton of rifle scopes ideal for long-range bench rest, target shooting as well as hunting.
Vortex long-range rifle scopes provide excellent durability, reliable accuracy and versatile magnification for optimal performance and an enjoyable shooting experience. Additionally, Vortex has scopes for every budget. That way, every user can find a reliable sighting tool that suits their budget.
No matter the kind of long-range shooting that you do, there are tons of factors to take into consideration before making your purchase. In this article, we will first look at the attributes that make a great scope for long-range and then take a look at the best Vortex long-range scopes available on the market.
What Makes a Great Long-Range Scope?
A great long-range scope is made of plenty of features with the main one being good glass. To acquire targets at long distances, you must have a clear view even in poor light situations. It is therefore important to choose a scope with good glass elements and proper lens coatings.
Secondly, the scope should have a magnification power that is high enough to get you closer to the action. The high magnification should then be complemented by a large objective lens of 40mm and above.
The other important features that the best Vortex long-range scopes must have include:
- Turrets that allow for reliable, repeatable and accurate tracking
- Easily adjustable parallax
- A large main tube provides ample room for more internal adjustment
- Generous eye relief
- Housing that is not just durable but also weatherproof and shockproof
8 Best Vortex Long-Range Scopes
When it comes to long-distance hunting and shooting, here are the best-rated models from Vortex ideal for you. Let’s take a look.
1) Vortex Venom 5-25x56mm 34mm Rifle Scope
When you need a high-quality riflescope, you can’t go wrong with the Venom 5-25×56 scope. As one of the best Vortex long-range scopes, this scope offers the tools and functionality you need to hit distant targets precisely.
Vortex Venom 5-25x56mm is a relatively new optic that is optimized for long-range use. It is loaded with a ton of impressive long-range shooting features all at a remarkable entry-level price. It is simple to operate and ideal for both hunting and target shooting.
The vast 5-25x magnification power is housed in a 34mm body tube that offers massive room for adjustments and turret travel. Furthermore, the scope comes with a RevStop Zero System that is responsible for ensuring an easy return to zero.
Another feature that makes it one of the best Vortex long-range scopes is the phenomenal EBR-7C reticle. It is put on the first focal plane and glass etched to allow for intricate design. Over and above that, the scope has XD lens elements and fully multi-coated lenses for optimal clarity.
Construction-wise, this rifle scope is made from a solid block of aircraft-quality aluminum. It is 100% waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for use in a wide range of temperatures and all kinds of weather conditions. It is also built with exposed tactical-style turrets.
Features
- RevStop zero system
- Fog-proof, shockproof and waterproof
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Built-in throw lever
- Single-piece 34mm body tube
- Glass-etched FFP reticle
- XD lens elements
Pro
- Great value for the price
- Crystal clear glass
- Accommodating eye relief
- Solid construction
- Superior performance
- Truthful and crisp adjustments
Cons
- Heavy
2) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm Rifle Scope
When you need a versatile rifle scope to give you a competitive advantage when taking long-range shots, look no further than the Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 rifle scope. This long-range scope combines elite performance and a state-of-the-art optical system to create a reliable way of enhancing accuracy in the field.
The Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm rifle scope has a multipurpose zoom range that provides superb performance in various hunting and shooting conditions. It is perfect for taking down medium and large games at varying ranges.
It is ideal for use in a wide range of environments and is packed with advanced features that you need to significantly boost the accuracy and efficiency of your rifle. Mount the Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 rifle scope to greatly enhance the accuracy and efficiency of your long-range rifle.
A defining feature of this rifle scope is superb low-light performance. This is made possible by the large 50mm aperture and the fully multi-coated lenses. On top of that, it has a front focal plane illuminated reticle that offers 10 different intensity levels.
This rifle scope is easy to use with features like Rapid Zero Return (RZR) that prevent the turret from dialing below sight in. Moreover, the scope has a fast-focus eyepiece that allows for quick and easy focusing of the reticle when it matters the most. This high-performance scope is surely one of the best Vortex long-range scopes.
In terms of construction, the Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm rifle scope has an aircraft-grade aluminum body designed to outperform all elements. Better yet, the entire unit is anodized to protect the tube from corrosion and create a low-glare matte surface.
Features
- 30mm tube diameter
- First focal plane reticle
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Hard anodized finish
- Water, fog and shockproof
- XD lens elements
Pros
- Accurate
- Solid construction
- Ease of use
- Extremely clear glass
- Quick target acquisition
- Brilliant optics perform exemplarily under low light.
- Glass-etched reticle for reliability and durability
Cons
- Short eye relief
3) Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50mm FFP Rifle Scope
Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50mm is another high-quality rifle scope that strikes the best balance of performance and value. It is designed with a front focal plane that makes it easy to use the reticle sub tensions through the entire 6-24x zoom range.
This rifle scope is built for use even in low-light conditions. First, it has an oversized 50mm ocular lens that gathers more light inside. Further, the scope has anti-reflective coatings on all glass surfaces to improve visibility in the less ideal light settings.
When it comes to construction, it is made from aircraft-grade aluminum to ensure durability and rigidity. Other than that, the scope has a fast-focus eyepiece to allow quick and smooth reticle focusing. It is also built with a precision-glide erector system for smooth tracking and repeatability.
To top it all off, the Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50mm rifle scope is sealed and purged with nitrogen gas to allow use in all weather conditions. Vortex 6-24x50mm Diamondback scope is a testament that you don’t have to break the bank to get a dependable long-range solution.
Features
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Raised magnification rib
- Broad 6-24x magnification power
- Waterproof and nitrogen gas purged
- Precision-glide erector system
- Glass-etched FFP reticle
- Fully multi-coated lens
Pros
- Great zoom range
- Loud audible clicks
- Long eye relief
- Fairly lightweight design
Cons
- Non illuminated reticle
4) Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm FFP Rifle Scope
The Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm features premium glass and is engineered for precision long-range shooting making it a prime choice for long-range rifles. As one of the best Vortex long-range scopes, this unit offers the best of the best as far as optical quality and build quality are concerned.
Engineered with an ultra-versatile 4.5-27x zoom range, this optic is ideal for both medium and long-range sighting. The oversized 56mm objective diameter makes the zoom power useful at every power. Besides, the scope has superior glass and specialized optical coatings to provide clear and bright images.
Another remarkable feature of this optic is solid construction. An array of superb construction details protect the precision optics and make the scope ideal for use in the most unforgiving conditions. In addition to quality construction, the scope has a black anodized finish that is non-reflective, scratch proof and rustproof.
Like any other Vortex optic, the Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm is built-ready for use in any weather conditions. A 4-inch removable sunshade is also included to not just limit glare but also shield the objective lens from elements.
Features
- Large 34mm main tube
- Strong aluminum alloy body
- Waterproof and O-ring sealed
- 48 MOA windage adjustment range
- Exposed tactical turrets
- EBR-7C MOA glass etched reticle
- High-density ED glass
- 1/4 MOA impact point correction
Pros
- Great fit and finish
- Illuminated reticle
- Good eye relief
- Phenomenal clarity
Cons
- Big turrets
- Heavy
- Pricey
5) Vortex Crossfire II AO 6-24x50mm SFP Rifle Scope
If you are on a tight budget, the Crossfire II AO 6-24x50mm Scope suits you. It is the most affordable long-range rifle scope from Vortex on our list. But despite the low cost, it harbors a ton of really great features to enhance your performance when hunting or shooting.
This rifle scope is optimized for low-light use. It features a large 50mm objective lens and fully multi-coated optics that boost light transmission.
In addition to that, the scope has a versatile Dead-Hold BDC duplex reticle that is simple to use at all magnifications and easy to see in all lighting conditions.
To ensure ease of use, the scope has a fast-focus eyepiece that lets you quickly refocus the reticle after changing the magnification. Furthermore, it boasts an adjustable object for parallax correction and an ultra-long 4” eye relief designed for rapid target acquisition.
Above all, the Crossfire II AO 6-24x50mm rifle scope has scratch-proof and corrosion-resistant aluminum housing designed to stand up to the rigors of outdoor use.
Features
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Second focal plane reticle
- 30mm main tube diameter
- Capped turrets
- Anodized aluminum housing
- Adjustable objective
- Waterproof and nitrogen filled
Pros
- Inexpensive
- An eye relief that is great and unforgiving
- Ease of use
Cons
- Image clarity is poor at the highest zoom settings
6) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15x44mm FFP Rifle Scope
As one of the very best Vortex long-range scopes, the PST Gen II 3-15x44mm has every feature you need to keep the upper hand in every hunting and shooting situation. From close to long ranges, it yields unmatched performance in any environment.
The scope is designed for use even in less ideal lighting conditions. Thanks to the XD elements, XR fully multi-coated lenses and the 44mm aperture, it offers bright, crisp and clear images rich in edge-to-edge sharpness.
Not only is the scope’s optical performance great but also its build quality. Crafted from aerospace-quality aluminum, it is lightweight yet durable enough to take in any beating. Over and above that, the scope is built waterproof and fogproof to be usable even in unforgiving weather conditions.
The PST Gen II 3-15x44mm FFP Rifle Scope also brings to the table fast focus eyepiece, built-in accuracy features, and a highly functional reticle put on the rear focal plane.
Features
- XD lens elements
- Glass-etched SFP reticle
- Aircraft-quality aluminum body
- Water, fog and shockproof
- Hard anodized finish
- Tactical-style turrets
- Fully multi-coated optics
Pros
- Manageable weight
- Solid and sturdy construction
- Simple to use
- Illuminated reticle
Cons
- Bad eye relief
7) Vortex Razor HD LHT 4.5-22x50mm Rifle Scope
The best long-range scopes come at a cost. For western hunting, the Razor HD LHT 4.5-22x50mm FFP Rifle scope is your ideal option. It is built for the long-range and the long haul and this is what makes it stand out among the rest.
This rifle scope employs an HD optical system that yields stunningly bright and high-quality sight pictures. In low light environments, the large 50mm aperture maximizes light collection so the images generated are bright. It also provides hunters with a wide field of view for easy monitoring of the mobile game.
Moreover, the scope has an XLR-2 MRAD reticle great for hunters who prefer to hold for bullet drop and wind at long distances. The reticle is located on the first focal plane and is illuminated to use in all lighting conditions.
Features
- XR plus fully multi-coated optics
- Single-piece 30mm body tube
- Waterproof and argon-purged
- Armortek lens coatings
- Anodized aluminum body
- RevStop zero system
- HD optical system
Pros
- Good magnification range
- Compact and lightweight
- Accurate
- Good glass quality and clarity
- Generous eye relief
Cons
- No drawbacks
8)Vortex Razor HD Gen II 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope
Razor HD Gen II 3-18x50mm is another front focal plane rifle good for long-range hunting and shooting applications. It is designed and built to take in the beating and survive in the most extreme shooting environments.
It combines top-tier optical and construction elements to provide a robust scope that is rugged enough to perform in any situation. The oversized objective makes the broad zoom range useful even at the highest 18x level. On top of that, the scope boasts HD glass elements and solid lens coatings to boost light transmission.
This rifle scope comes with a duplex EBR-7C MOA ranging reticle that is illuminated to guarantee clear visibility in poor lighting conditions. Even better, this reticle is etched on glass for permanence without the possibility of ever-shifting.
Vortex also designed the Razor HD Gen II 3-18x50mm rifle scope with long eye relief, fast focus eyepiece, and a 4” removable sunshade.
Features
- Lockable illumination knob
- Parallax correction from 25-yards to infinity
- Strong aluminum alloy body
- Low-friction erector system
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Front focal plane reticle placement
- Exposed, locking turrets
Pros
- Great clarity
- Good eye relief
- Sturdy and durable construction
Cons
- Heavy
Further Reading
- Best 450 Bushmaster Scopes
- Vortex Scopes for 308 Long Range
- Best Vortex Muzzleloader Scopes
- Vortex Scopes for Deer Hunting
- Best 1000 Yard Rangefinder
Considerations when Choosing Vortex Long-Range Scopes
Let’s have a look at the most important features that you need to take into account when purchasing a Vortex long-range scope.
Magnification
This is the first thing to consider. For both hunting and shooting, you will need a scope that has a magnification power powerful enough to cover long ranges easily.
We recommend that you get a scope with up to 12x magnification power for long-range use up to 400 yards and at least 14x for extreme distances over 400 yards.
Glass Coatings
The type of glass a scope has can make or break your long-range shooting experience. Look for a scope that uses ED, HD or fluorite glass elements.
The best Vortex long-range scopes should also have good glass coatings to produce bright, crisp sight pictures even in low-light situations.
Reticle
Vortex long-range scopes have different reticle designs located on either the first or second focal plane. For long-range hunting, a BDC reticle put on the second focal plane is ideal.
On the other hand, it is best to get an FFP Mil-Dot or MRAD reticle if you purpose to mainly use the scope for target shooting.
Read: Best Leupold Long-Range Scopes
Tube Size
Like reticles, Vortex scopes come in different tube sizes. We recommend that you get a 30mm or 34mm scope for long-range use. The large body tube size is important as it allows for easy reticle movement. Besides, such scopes provide massive room for adjustments.
What is the Best Scope Magnification for Long Range?
Long-range shooting generally involves distances of 400 yards and above. A magnification power of 2.5x to 10x is a good minimum for those new in long-range hunting/shooting. However, if you are looking to take your long-range shooting skills to a higher level, a scope with 4-12x, 6-24x, or anything in between will be sufficient.
FFP vs SFP: Which is better for Long Range Shooting?
There is a definitive answer to this question as the reticle choice depends on the shooting activity, personal preference and other parameters.
Long-range scopes with FFP reticles are best for tactical and target shooting applications. The reticle stays true at each zoom setting to give shooters a more clear point of aim.
On the other hand, some people prefer second focal plane reticles for long-range hunting. So, in the end, it all trickles down to personal preference and intended usage.
Read: Best Scopes for Bergara B14 HMR
Why Choose Vortex Scopes?
Choosing the best Vortex long-range scopes is a guarantee that you are getting a scope that is not just versatile, but also durable and rich in high-quality optical features.
Virtually all long-range scopes from Vortex have a lifetime warranty which is also transferable. Vortex is a reputable brand and so you can have confidence knowing that you are investing in a high-performance scope for your rifle.
Conclusion
Long-range shooting needs patience, skills, and more importantly, a rifle scope engineered to give you a competitive tactical advantage in the field. Vortex long-range scopes are specially designed to help you stretch the limits of your rifle as they are built with the perfect balance of magnification and field of view to help you identify distant targets.
We hope that you have found this post to be insightful and helpful. Choosing the best Vortex long-range scopes is easy when you know what features you require for your specific shooting/hunting needs. Take that into account and focus on finding a scope that will better your skills and turn every long-range shooting/hunting excursion into a success.