hawke optics vs vortex

Riflescopes are pieces of precision equipment with mechanical parts, screws, etc., and mechanical products can and may fail, break, or malfunction. Create new. 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. Before I describe the image that this gargantuan spotter produces, I should tell you that I nearly dropped the 100mm optic almost every time I handled it off the tripod. Upgrading my 8x42 Birdwatching Binoculars - what to get? If that sounds downbeat, its not intentional. Read Next: Top Spotting Scopes Put to the Test. The bulk of the scopes in this category come from the Hawke Sidewinder series, which is Hawkes most popular series. But over the last few weeks I swear I've read and watched reviews on just about anything in this range. 7 Inexpensive Binoculars for a Family Safari Holiday, InfiRay Xinfrared T2 Pro Thermal Eye Review, Top 5 Reasons To Get a Spotting Scopeto Compliment Your Binoculars, BBR @ IWA 2023 EP 4. As mentioned before, I would give the Vortex a slight edge here in optical quality, but Hawke is a viable contender if youre strictly shopping for an FFP optic. The Panorama series comes in four variable magnification models including 3-940, 3-950, 4-1240, and 4-1250. (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). And if something goes wrong, its backed by Leupolds excellent warranty. 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. The Revenge series comes in six variable magnification settings from 2-734 to 6-1844. I noted there is the Diamondback line, which must be the 2014 model, and the New Diamondback line which apparently debuted in 2016. Hawke also offers sub-categories within each line that define the tube size, reticle options, and focal plane. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9X40mm. Indeed in some cases (especially in the lower price brackets) they outperform them. Enjoy whatever you buy. They both have pretty much every other feature I'm looking for. And all of the product that they are offering is highly reliable as well. The entry-level and lower mid-range optics come from an optical facility in China, while the upper to higher mid-level optics come from the Philippines. In the table below are the main features and specifications of the instruments on your shortlist. Phase Corrected Silver/Dielectric Mirror Coatings I am not sure which, but through testing, I found the image quality to be excellent, so whatever is used, is not a limiting factor in this case. The magnification range, from 27X to 55X, is curious, but by keeping the power below 60X, the image stays relatively bright compared with peers that have higher magnification. Vortex scopes are some of the best on the market due to a variety of reasons. 1. For a 65mm scope, the image is not bad, and the CS.1A beat the same-sized Bushnell in our low-light test. In addition, the recommended scope usage begins to change as well. All told, this was the standout optic in this years spotting scope category, and a worthy recipient of our Editors Choice award. But as long as you dont expect the Argos to deliver an image on par with high-end spotters (most of which cost three to four times the price of the Athlon), this scope should give you satisfying performance for a number of purposes. The Panorama series also has fully multi-coated lenses for crisper images, and every model sports waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof construction which can be vital when youre shooting in unpredictable locations. If youre abnormally hard on your gear (like me), or the warranty coverage is vital to you, then Id shop Vortex Optics. 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. 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. While Vortex offers a mix of 30mm and inch models in this category, the bulk of the scope offerings is 1-inch models. 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. I would give the edge to Vortex in this category, but its predominantly based on one issue: Hawke does not offer any SFP scopes in this price range. 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). Contact Me | About Best Binoculars | Privacy | Sitemap | Copyright 2023 Best Binocular Reviews | Do You Want to Review Binoculars & Write for BBR? Well, Id be wearing dentures as I told you that such a unicorn exists. The upper mid-range price points are where the most significant changes in costs begin to show. Others, like Mavens new straight-barrel 65mm CS.1A, are fairly priced for their useful size and adequate image. 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. The Redfield limited warranty is similar to Hawkes warranty and covers defects in materials and workmanship throughout the life of the product. Finally, Hawke offers a limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship throughout the life of the scope. 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.) In addition to the higher optical quality, nearly every Vortex riflescope in this price range comes standard with side focus parallax adjustments. 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. Founded in 2002, Vortex has grown by leaps and bounds over the last 20 years. 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. 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. Illuminated reticules also come standard in this series. Who am I kidding here? Vortex does all that as well but the warranty is even better . 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. No ED Glass That combination earned it very high Price/Value consideration, and runner-up status for our Great Buy honors. 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. 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. The question for the BinoWizard this week comes from a reader with a maximum budget of $250 (250) and is looking for a binocular to take on safari and then use for general use, once the holiday is over. This years collection of spotting scopes is a mostly serviceable class. Key Features Magnification: 9-27X Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm Weight: 20.3 ounces Length: 7.6 inches Field of View at 1,000 Yards: 234-108 feet Aluminum-alloy chassis This comparison is a tight race as both brands offer various reticle choices across all different scope models. If we have a gripe, its with the two-speed fingertip focus, which seemed to take a week to go from close to infinity. 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. To help you narrow your search, weve selected three well-known brands that offer good scope options in the $150 $250 price range: Redfield, Vortex, and Hawke. Buy & Compare Prices: Hawke Endurance ED Binoculars. Founded by Frank Galli in 2000, Snipers Hide has been offering informational videos, podcasts, and other support to its users in one location. Vortex offers models with side focus parallax corrections and adjustable objective parallax corrections within this grouping. When they work, you hardly notice their service. Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Service. Something worth noting here: Where a product is manufactured is commonly called the source country or country of manufacture. We expect the durability of the Oscar8 to provide years of steady service. In addition, almost all of those 13 reticles are also available in an illuminated version. I know the Frontier has Hawkes best glass but I'm not sure how it would stack up against the PST glass. with a straight-wall-based BDC reticle. People are cheap. 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. Vortex features an extremely diverse scope line that covers everything from entry-level optics all the way up to top-shelf long range models. The 13 Best New Precision Riflescopes Put to the Test, The 17 Best New Versatile Riflescopes Put to the Test, The 9 Best New Hunting Binoculars Put to the Test. First time post, several years of reading the forum and education from the posts. 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. JavaScript is disabled. For example, they feature an entire sub-group of optics made with a 1-inch tube and another group made with 30mm tubes. Heres the best part: Vortex doesnt require a warranty registration, proof of purchase, or receipts to engage the warranty. Rather than trying to figure out which is the best in any area, Ive always suggested that the better approach is to determine a budget, then look at all the scope options between both brands that meet your individual needs. Vortex Crossfire II 4-12X44mm Deadhold BDC MOA. This growth was fueled by their diverse riflescope lines, outstanding warranty (which may be the most comprehensive in the optics business), quality and durability, and reasonable pricing model. However, they didnt sell very well, so Bushnell phased the Forge scope models out of production. I read somewhere that the Hawke scopes had some issues. Edited by TomK1, 22 July 2021 - 10:31 PM. Read Next: 3 Great Reasons to Own a Spotting Scope. The locking collar on the removable eyepiece also hitched a few times, nearly causing us to unscrew the eyepiece as we were zooming through the magnification range. There's no clear victor, but each brand offers distinct . Have you looked at the Vortex Dimondback Tactical at all , Its certainly worth look . Snipers Hide is a community of Snipers of all kinds, focusing on long range shooting, accuracy, and ballistics. 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. A look at the Vortex Strike Eagle 1-824 reticle. Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12X40mm. It is at the top of the range of what I intend to spend. If activities birding from closer ranges is high on your list, then perhaps this may not be the best option. The 9 Best New Hunting Binoculars Put to the Test. Hi (excuse me for my bad english). GLOBAL. Compare ZEISS Conquest HD vs GPO USA Passion HD vs Vortex Razor HD vs Hawke Sport Optics Frontier APO . There are some shortcomings. 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.. The fingertip focus is vague and spongy. Rarely have I wanted to fall in love with an optic as much as I have with Mavens new compact spotting scope. Should be readily available close to you. The close focus distance on these is also not great, which is not a problem unless you like to view things like flowers, butterflies etc from close range. Hawke Vs Vortex. If you wanted to read more about Hawkes approach to manufacturing, I wrote a more detailed post here about where Hawke Optics are manufactured. However for more frequent use, the combination of all the upgrades that you get on the more expensive models do add up and will be appreciated ever time you reach for them. However if I may, I would also like to throw another option into the ring for you to look at (see below). In addition to rifle scopes, Vortex also offers several other quality-made optical products like binoculars, spotting scopes, red dots, etc. Hawke looks to cost slightly less than Vortex until around the $500 price point at a high-level view. To be honest, I am not sure that Hawke would even compete well in this category since it is a strong selling area for Vortex. I'm more familiar with the Hawke rifle scopes as I own two Sidewinders. Having a hard time desiding between a couple different scopes. However, if I had to pick a winner, Id give the edge to Hawke as they feature a larger number of reticle options across all their scope models compared to Vortex. Choosing a winner in this category is more difficult because its one of Vortexs strongest selling categories, but Hawke also has some unique benefits. While some scope brands arent really clear about where their products are made, Hawke is very clear that all their scope models are produced in China. While Vortex offers a broader line of optical products, Hawke features some attractive scope options that Vortex does not. However, theres more to a spotting scope than pure observation. From scopes made for competitive shooting to other optics that are meant for outdoor usage, Vortex has an extensive lineup of all of them. Its been a pleasure as well as a learning experience for me. However, Hawke offers more features, reticle options, and power range options in many cases than Vortex at slightly lower prices, so its a pretty close competition about whos better. They are inspected, tested, and boxed at those locations, then sent to an authorized Hawke retailer. 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. DEUTSCH. CANADA. At under $200 (see where to buy below), I think you should most certainly consider the Celestron Trailseeker. Also, like Vortex, Hawke only offers optics with a side focus parallax adjustment in this price range. In terms of power magnification ranges, the optics meeting this criteria range from fixed 4x power up to a maximum of 6-24x50mm. The upper mid-range scopes are their top tier of scope offering for Hawke. However, Hawke has changed that approach as all their riflescopes are sourced from an optical facility in China. First, what we liked about this mid-sized spotter: its trim size and compact straight-barrel design make it highly useful for backpack hunters or for use on a shooting bench; its controls are tight and precise; and we like its stylish gray-and-crimson armor. Ive always considered the warranty program on scopes to have significant value, especially if you run into issues with the optic. Both products cost 319.00, which does not make your decision easier.. 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. Mid Level Reticle Options - MSRP from $550 to $1000. Next up is the Hawke Panorama series of rifle scopes. If you want a simple scope with as few adjustments as possible, youre probably interested in a fixed power scope. 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. Hawke Sport Optics 10x42 Frontier APO Binoculars (Green) You Pay: $649.00 (1) Add to Cart View Cart. The Panorama series comes in four variable magnification models including 3-940, 3-950, 4-1240, and 4-1250. This little engine that could produced a good image and punched above its heft in both low-light and resolution testing. I found myself trying to justify the extra $$ for a scope that would be used for hunting. No ED Glass Published Aug 18, 2020 4:01 PM EDT. While the lenses are adequately coated, we noted some scratches and marring in the interior of the tube, which produced noticeable optical flaring. The tripod foot is also a bit forward of the balance point of the spotter, which is a minor quibble. 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. Today, Hawke Optics offers 93 different scope models for hunting, air gunning, and target shooting. Vortex has an integration deal with Kenton, where they produce aftermarket, drop-in custom turrets for the more higher-end Vortex scopes. Whilst I have not yet been lucky enough to try it out, if my past excellent experiences that I have had with Vortex binoculars that I have reviewed are anything to go by this really does look like a cracking instrument for the money. For others, it may not really matter as much. The optical quality and features for this line were outstanding (perhaps the best Ive seen yet out of SE Asia) and in line with the price tag. Comparing the glass quality in the upper mid-range category, I would rate Vortex as the winner as their optics are noticeably better. Buy & Compare Prices for Vortex Diamondback Binoculars. While the Hawke warranty isnt bad, its typical of the warranty restrictions seen in the optical industry these days. The entire optic, including all the components, is sourced from one country and then assembled in that country. 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. Im looking for a cost effective scope for my 300 Weatherby mag and Im debating between a vortex viper and a bushnell Nitro. 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. (2) The optic must be purchased from an authorized Hawke retailer to be covered. If youre strictly shopping on price and want the least expensive scope between those brands, then Hawke is your best bet. To help us deliver the best user . So for me this is a consideration, but not a major concern. 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. They use a cheaper polycarbonate shell (I think) and silver coatings on the prism. Illuminated reticules also come standard in this series. 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. I have had zero issues with it. 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. If youre looking for a caliber-specific reticle or a specialty reticle, then Hawke Optics will offer you more options in that area. Thats allowed what Id call the second tier of optics brandsLeupold, SIG, and Mavento really shine in this years test. 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. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates. 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. After reading your report, I went back to the web site and read the Celestron Trailseeker 8x42 review and also watched the related video. 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. And the glass is only fair. 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. The quality of glass is probably the most underwhelming part of this scope, and helps explain its price. ITALIANO. So, to reach the minimum $550 MSRP point, a customer will have to progress through five different Vortex series. Now for the elements that werent quite up to snuff. All Hawke riflescope models are built to Hawkes specifications and then shipped to a Hawke facility in either the UK or the United States. Those models are in the following scope series: From an adjustable magnification perspective, Hawke features optics that range from 1-624 up to a maximum range of 8-3256. Vortex VS Hawke Body Comparison. However, with Hawke, there does not seem to be as noticeable an improvement in their glass. Vortex transitions from 1-inch scopes over to 30mm models in the mid-range category, including one 34mm model. Top 8 Rifle Scopes Less Than $200 In 2023. Minoltah 2 yr. ago What were you thinking the advantage is of 8x42 is over 8x32 if you intend to keep both? It's all a matter of economics. 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???" Athlon Neos 4-12x40 Center X. At my day job, it is very common to have customers ask for a comparison of different rifle scope brands and different scope models. We recommend that SIG add an aiming slot to more quickly acquire distant targets, and we noticed some smudging on internal lenses. When Hawke Optics first entered the sporting optics business, its optics were predominantly sourced from Japan. I recently bought two binoculars, a Vortex Diamondback 8x42 and a Hawke Endurance ED 8x42, both returned for mechanical defects! I'm curious as to which one of those two will have better glass. It used to be the entry-level market, but the mid-range market has grown exponentially over the last few years. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. In my experience, Hawke doesnt have any commonly noted problems and no more issues than any other optics brand (including Vortex). 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. Look through both and see what you like best . Burris Fullfield II 3-9X40mm. Summary: Vortex Viper HD vs Nikon Monarch 7 vs Maven C.1. In addition to the caliber-specific reticles, Hawke also features a broader range of illuminated reticle options than Vortex. Max yardages that I would probably shoot at an animal would probably be 600 yards max. Both are fine, but not as good as the magnesium shells and dielectric coatings found on the best within this class. The company was initially established in the founders garage and has expanded into a global source of sporting optics. The ProGuide scored in the very middle of the field in resolution and low-light assessments. (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. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. 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. They are almost the same lengths; Hawke Endurance being 143 mm long and 125 mm wide, in contrast to Vortex Diamondback, which is 145 mm long and 130 mm wide. We also liked the graceful bend of the 45-degree angled body, as well as the clever rotating collet that locks in the removable eyepiece. T: 877-429-5347 F: 260-918-3443 us@hawkeoptics.com I also like the fact that both models have a very wide field of view (426ft @ 1000yds for the 8x42 and 341ft for the 10x42), which is better than the Vortex and wider than the majority in their respective magnification classes and thus will bring a smile to most users faces, but especially birders. However, Hawke offers better (as in less critical) eye relief on most models. Taking all those factors into account, here are my assessments of the better value: In terms of an overall brand-to-brand comparison, I would give Vortex the edge in overall value, but the deciding factor in that decision is the strength of the Vortex warranty program. The Hawke Panoramas 20% wider field of view is appealing, especially if you plan on hunting in thicker wooded landscapes where quick target acquisition can be vital, and the Redfield Revenge Accu-Ranger system is likely to be a favorite with high country or longer range shooters. 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. Do You Want to Review Binoculars & Write for BBR? 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. Another area where Hawke has a slight edge over Vortex in this category is power magnification choices. Vortex Optics may be the fastest growing optical brand in the business. Here are a few commonly asked questions that I see when comparing the Vortex and Hawke lines of riflescopes: Ive repeatedly stated that proclaiming one optic better than another is all relative because its solely based on a persons opinions and experiences with the two products.

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