465. If youre shopping for a new scope, limiting your options to Vortex is a fantastic place to start. 5. So, just like a 10x50 has more light than a 10x42, an 8x42 has better light and image than a 10x42. Can't remember if the Leupolds have a fine focus knob. Sometimes. And maybe well be able to understand the significance of riflescope reviews. If you want to glass up you have to raise it much higher and you have to line your head up with the target always. To reduce operational and levy costs, the company has brought down some of its manufacturing operations in three Asian countries. We wont rent or sell or spam your email. Re: Vortex vs Leupold binoculars [ Re: coalminer7755 ] #6681129. Nonetheless, they get the same exceptional standard produced instrument as they will from a higher-priced scope. So, technically, speaking, Leupold is not 100% made in America from the perspective that 100% of the scope components come from the US. A Comparison of the Leupold Rifleman vs VX1 Scope Models. No need to show warranty card or receipt. The final area where these two brands significantly in the entry-level or budget-oriented scopes is the pricing. Typically, the second focal plane outperforms its fixed focal plane equivalent. it was a police scope we borrowed. At first it can be disorienting but once you get the hang of it it's easy. 1.3 #3) Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 Spotting Scope 30-60x85mm. I would say that it's no good beyond 35x magnification at the most, under ideal conditions. Orion Grandview 20. I wont dispute that; in some cases, buying a Vortex scope gets more value for the money. The first difference is in their weight. With an eye relief of 3.5 inches, its lenses are multicoated with 91% light filtering capability. And actually i have sold off (at a loss) both the 4-12X40 and the Tactical. The SX-2 Alpine HD spotting scope is a must have for all serious hunters or shooters who are looking to add HD performance to their optics kit. On the other hand, Leupold binocular has a 13.7 mm eye relief. This week I bought the fourth. The SX-2 Alpine HD spotting scope is new and sports the right specs for the hunter, wildlife observer, and range shooter. Both brands are worthy of purchase. $399.99. MSRP: $269.99; vortexoptics.com. If you happen to catch a significant sale, then the costs may be closer to even. These normally sell for around $550. 2. 4.7 out of 5 star rating (36) Leupold SX-2 Alpine HD 20-60x80 Spotting Scope - Angled. These spotting scopes are backed by Leupold's lifetime warranty. It went off into manufacturing binoculars, spotting scopes and eventually into riflescopes. The Leupold Mark 4 20-60x80mm Tactical spotting scope is an excellent scope without any doubt. All rights reserved. I think Optics Planets "regular" prices are inflated. Item: DS-85S 3 In Stock. We promise! But to be clear, just because the Leupold optics typically cost more than a comparable Vortex optic doesnt necessarily mean that the Leupold is automatically the better choice, higher quality, etc. How Much Should I Spend on a Rifle Scope? Redfield Rampage 20-60x80 Spotting Scope - Best Under $300. Both brands have areas where they are strong and then other areas where they are not as strong. Glassing at long ranges demands an HD optic that delivers stunning clarity. Whereas Leupold offers more expensive, but well-designed optics, such as the Golden Ring scopes. They both have what it takes to take the lead in the scope manufacturing trade. Since it has a rotating ring and is tripod mountable, it can easily be used in any position that you find best for your needs at any . Built for the harshest conditions, the SX-2 Alpine HD 20-60x60mm angled spotting scope is a must have for all serious hunters or shooters who want a little more HD magnification and the weight savings offered by a smaller objective. Vortex Diamondback 20-60x80 Spotting Scope. Vortex. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. The Leupold SX-1 Ventana spotting scope is a good entry level "jack-of-all-trades" spotting scope and it's a good choice for most bird and nature watchers, shooters, and some hunters. Only you know which are needed when you arrive at the range. Both scopes are excellent. 1.5 #5) Leupold SX-2 Alpine HD 20-60x60mm. With an angled you can rotate the scope and cover a large area with just a turn of the head and a small nod up or down. Best Value: Meopta MeoStar S2 82HD. Now, about price, Leupold sells this on large online retails stores at around $230. I have a razor spotting scope from vortex, good glass but or course more money. I believe the prices charged by Optics Planets are excessive. The Leupold BX-1 mckenzie 1032 roof prism was $129.99 in December was $234 45% off, or the Vortex Diamondback 10x 32 was $169.99 in November was 39% off. The Vortex 8x42 will have less magnification, but it will have a brighter image than the Diamondback 10x42. According to the company, anyone who has the product can enjoy the warranty privilege. As for the two scopes I don't know. We see a 20mm objective as opposed to the larger Vortex 24mm objective lens, and each are built to exacting water-, fog- and shock-proof standards. . Aside from scopes, they also manufacture binoculars for bird and wildlife viewing, as well as law enforcement devices. Vortex Diamondback HD 20-60x85 Straight Spotting Scope $ 499.99. When you pick one up, youll notice a difference: its up to 20 ounces lighter than most scopes in the range. They dont care if youre the original owner or the 15th owner; they will either repair or replace it free of charge. The scope retains its longevity despite weighing slightly more than 12 oz, making it an excellent addition to any weapon. Learn more about our process. The Diamondback HP comes in a variety of sizes. The Leupold & Stevens company (which is more commonly known as a Leupold) is the oldest US-based sports optics company in the United States. I just sold my older model Diamondback non HD 20-60x80. Your preference for a Leupold vs Vortex scopes can be heavily influenced by your shooting style. Quick view Add to Cart Leupold binoculars offer slightly better glass than Vortex, but they're not made in the United States. Your explanation makes perfect sense. Joined: Nov 2014. This Vortex scope has a VIP (Very Important Promise) lifetime warranty against defects and is transferable while Leupold also offers Lifetime Warranty. Theres a viper in the classifieds for $450 Id recommend over those. Vortex somewhat follows the same plan except that they have a smaller number of reticle options, and their choices in this power range are more geared towards long-distance shooting. 1.4 #4) Swarovski ATS 80 20-60x Spotting Scope. Thread starter DEWD_STUFF; Start date Jul 3, 2017; Forums. Opening the window at minus 15C outside and 20C indoors is not a good idea. Vortex has a Lifetime VIP Warranty against defects and this warranty is transferable. This fits your . I tend to use the following categories: Lets look at comparing both brands within each category: Both Leupold and Vortex match up well in this category, offering several entry-level scope models or families. Leupold BX-1 mckenzie 10x32 roof prism: $129.99 was $234 45% off or. Had I realized that I probably would've saved some money and went with the Vortex but for some reason I thought all Leupold stuff was made in the . $449.97 . Leupold and Volpel company which is headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon was established in 1907. And to cater to their American consumers the company itself never outsources labor to other countries to produce their riflescopes. Leupold BX-2 Alpine HD Binoculars - Best for Beginners. Recoil, scope defect, and some other factor unknown to me all stand as possible reasons. It means that looking at each brand as a whole; my opinion is Leupold has slightly better glass. You will not be disappointed regardless of the choice you choose. In terms of costs within this category, youll also find that the Leupold scopes tend to cost more, and many are right at the top of the $1000 MSRP line. A common request that Im asked at my day job (and online) is to compare Leupold vs Vortex against one another at the brand level. If their rifle scopes are good enough for the US Marines, they should be good enough for you. Vortex scopes that are designed for long-term use. I own a pair of really good binoculars that cover 95% of my glassing needs. If you wanted to buy an American-made scope or as close to American made as possible between these two brands, then the Leupold is your only option. Vortex Scopes vs Leupold Who Gets the Last Nod? I have had come success with Vortex but honestly, better success with Leupold. The Leupold gear can run $100 to $150 more than a similar Vortex on the low end. I'll be whitetail deer hunting and generally most shots will never exceed 100 yards unless I target shoot. Vortex optics are all multicoated and this Diamondback is also equipped with a Glide Erector System to ensure magnification is at its finest. Leupold SX-2 Alpine HD 20-60x80 Angled Spotting Scope . With Vortex, using the $500 MSRP limit, their entry-level lines are the Sonora, Copperhead, Crossfire II, Diamondback, and Diamondback Tactical models. Leupold. www.theguardian.com I bought my wife a pair of Vortex Diamondback 10x42s. His service included operation Restore Hope in Somalia and Desert Storm in Kuwait. Essentially, it did not also fail its loyal consumers. The entry-level Leupold optics also seem to offer less critical and better eye relief compared to Vortex. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates. A fixed base angled sucks though. The SX-2 Alpine HD 20-6080 Angled costs $649.99. I very much like Vortex as a brand and own a few Vortex scopes personally, but that does not change my opinion that Leupold has marginally better glass when comparing brand to brand. Examples of this style of reticle are the Vortex EBR-4 and EBR-7 reticles. The Vortex Diamondback HPs output disparity is due to the use of a second focal plane construction. To quickly reiterate, the Leupold brand tends to cost a bit more than the Vortex stuff when comparing comparable models. Compare Compare . So what we are trying to say is that, Leupolds are generally pricier than the Vortex. However, that edge comes at the price of the increased or higher costs typically associated with Leupold. My thoughts are don't skimp on glass as they are your eyes and you don't want to miss anything or get a headache if your glassing for long sessions. With a straight you have to move your body and head angle to get them aligned and it will move you around and put lots of uncomfortable stress on your neck. $399.99. Typically, for the entry-level scope classification, I use riflescopes with a price range up to $350. There are many entry-level scopes in the Leupold product range. Used by Marines: Leupold Mark 4 MK4. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Vortex brand now is also recognized for its quality and reliable products. I own both scopes. The Hide Armory. as they seemed more focused on the hunting side of the market within this price point. However, since Leupold has some models in one of their entry-level series that goes all the way up to $499, I increased the price range for this category up to the $500 mark. Also, if you are not familiar with Leupolds history, they invented the duplex reticle design in the early 1960s, so they know a thing or two about reticle designs. And even though most of its riflescopes or some of its spare parts are manufactured abroad, its products only kept getting better and getting exceptionally highly functional. $399.99. However, you really cant go wrong with either brand in this category. If there are separate double and single glazed panels try each to see which gives the best image. For the extra $100+ there is no advantage to getting the regular Diamondback. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Never had any problems. Everyone of them seem new. Roxant Blackbird: Roxant Blackbird. People always say that you only get what you pay for. But in case of Vortex scopes vs Leupold, this quote may not always apply. The Leupold comes in with 1.5 to 4x magnification compared to the Vortex 1-6x. Now, the older made Leupold models are marked as being Made in America, but Leupold migrated away from this label around the 2007-2008 timeframe. Like most rifle scope brands, Leupold does not produce their own glass or lenses. Diamondback HD 85mm Straight Combo 20-60X 85mm Spotting Scope Body - 20X-60X Zoom Eyepiece. Required fields are marked *. Simply put, Leupold has one of the best (and many would argue the best) warranty program in the sports optics market. I have to agree with jalen as far as the diamondbacks. In this price range, Leupold features a broader range of scope options. and there not very bright and easy to see out of in my opinion. So, if you were shopping for a new riflescope within the Vortex and Leupold brands and preferred to buy something that was mostly made in America, then Leupold is the clear choice between the two brands. Presently two models are available, a 20-60x60mm internal optics and a 20-60x80mm option. Im not the most graceful guy. Best Overall: Leica Televid 82. A Leupold scope can cost $400 to $500 more than a comparable Vortex model on the high end. They dont require proof of ownership or register the product to be warranty eligible. Recently introduced, the SX-2 Alpine HD spotting scope line delivers impeccable images and ample magnification, upping your chances of filling your tag. However, there wont be useful info about which among them deserves to have better recognition if we cant specifically provide readers the things they need to know about them. As we move up into the higher magnification ranges, the Vortex reticle options move away from hunting applications and focus extensively on long-range shooting. So, use your own judgement but whatever you do, buy American and if you can afford them,US Optics makes really nice but pricey glass. Having looked through an example of pretty much all the optic models in this category, Id give a slight edge in optical quality to Leupold across the board. You are using an out of date browser. This review focuses specifically on the 3-12x42mm version. Is Vortex a better brand than Leupold across the board? But youll be surprised to know that a lot of the new generations of hunters are now going in for the Vortex riflescopes. They are both packed with many outstanding features to help you hone your precision and accuracy skills. Call Doug at Camera Land, he'll set you up with the best in your budget. First, it is primarily made in an American land. Our favorite Leupold is the VX-Freedom. Replies 77 Views 2K. Don't know about the scopes, but you need good double or triple glazing to use 60x through window. The scope models from each brand in this category will be included in the upper-level echelon of US-based riflescope models and will compete with some higher-end European-based optical models. Michael Adams: Killing animals could be useful in developing better ethical, non-secular understandings of the relationships between humans and the rest of the world They just work and are great at holding a zero. With top brands like Vortex, Leupold, and Swarovski, find a spotting scope for your next adventure. I wish atleast the real Americans left would do the same. On amazon Found the Leupolds for normally $149, now $129. Take a look at the FOV specs. The scope retains its longevity despite weighing slightly more than 12 oz, making it an excellent addition to any weapon. You must log in or register to reply here. Despite sourcing about 90% of their products overseas, Vortex has done exceptionally well in the US market. Suppose a product is manufactured from components from different countries. Yes they both stand behind their warranty but when youre out in the bush and the reticle kinda breaks (horizontal part of the reticle fell off and to the left inside the vortex scope), it can almost ruin your day. Moreover, for some, they favor Leupold better because it is supporting Americans with more jobs. Vortex Viper PST Gen ii 3-15x44 7c reticle MRAD vs Meopta Optika6 3-18x50 MRAD reticle. As their products are assembled in the US, it appears that they opted to remove the country of origin labeling entirely at some point. With the Vortex scope line, the upper mid-range models in the $1000 $1500 price range include the following scope series: Switching over the Leupold scope line, the upper mid-range models in the $1000 to $1500 MSRP range are the following: Within this price range (at the time of this writing), Vortex offers a total of 18 scope models in the upper mid-range price points, while Leupold offers 12 scope models that fall into the $1000 to $1500 price point. What Rifle Scope Magnification Should I Get? Unlike other manuals or Vortex scopes analyses, we took the time to carefully study each scope. A removeable center post adds just over a foot of length to this total, and it's worth noting that unlike other center posts, which nest in the vacancy between the legs, the Leupold post screws into the top of the tripod. The mid-range winner would have to be the Leupold VX-3i because its features work together to create such a well-developed scope. GR at 12-40 is a better bet for your stated use. I tend to keep scopes I like for long periods of time. As the business grows, more family members came to join. There are an unlimited number of power slider settings available to assist you in matching the ballistics of your weapon and eliminating the need for extra measurements. Jan 7, 2023. . Combined, the Vortex Sonora, Copperhead, Crossfire II, Diamondback, and Diamondback Tactical models feature 40 different scope models, while the Leupold FX and VX-Freedom series feature 27 models. This CDS design is a really neat system that is an optional custom bullet drop compensation platform. A Rifleman is a common option. Over the years, the company continues to develop more sophisticated riflescopes. Vortex. This past summer, at the urging of friend, I bought a vortex to mount on my 35 Whelen, not a baby gun. i used the exact Leupold as you listed. Glassing up is sooo much easier with an angled. My friend is in the Leupold family and I can get pretty good deals. If youre having trouble determining which scope to buy, youve come to the right spot. Also, both are compact with low to medium range magnification, lightweight but with a slight difference with their specs. Thats why I bought the Vortex. Make sure this fits by entering your model number. Vortex does not currently offer a system like this, although they partner with Kenton Turrets for custom-made aftermarket turrets that function like the CDS system. Leupold. And as we move on well tackle only about their riflescopes. Leupold has the FX, UltimateSlam, Mark, Competition and the VX series. The power ranges between the two brands is relatively even as well, except that Leupold seems to offer more options in this price range that are in the lower power ranges (like 2-10, 3-15, etc.) 1) for sh*ts and giggles go look at how many of each of those brands is showing up for sale in used items. okay. Blackdiamond at less than $200. The optic is waterproof and fog proof due to the 1-diameter main tube being filled with nitrogen. Chances are, you wont be disappointed at most any scope in this price range. Leupold SX-2 Alpine HD 20-60x60mm Angled Spotting Scope. While the Vortex Dead-Hold BDC is a reticle, Leupold does not (or at least no longer offers) a reticle called the LRP. I have the Leupold alpine scope. For comparison purposes, we have pulled up two rifle scopes from each company. Vortex offers what they call their VIP warranty, with VIP standing for Very Important Promise. I had a straight and quickly learned to hate it. there's a reason a certain product shows up often in used sales. Has ED glass and is $300. The tough structure of the Leupold Rifleman scope is its best feature. I had a set of Leupold Olympics,stolen out of my pickup,they were quite a bit more,but didnt see that big of a difference between the two sets. my vortex 65mm HD glass is clearer. Free Tax & Free Shipping. How about the fine adjustment feature on some models, is that really usefull or is it just a gimmick? No, it does not. The Leupold VX-6HD, on the other hand, is a strong competitor thanks to its motion sensor technology. Leupold SX-2 Alpine HD 20-60x60 Spotting Scope - Angled. Strengths. Barska Blackhawk 18-3650 - Best Under $100. Now, this is extremely important because the warranty of the product entitles you to protect your right as a consumer thus deserves the best product for your money. If you wanted an illuminated reticle, both brands offer that type of reticle, but Leupold has far more illuminated reticle options than Vortex. When it comes to the work of these two optics, there isnt much of a distinction. Leupold's binos and spotters suck hind tit in my experience. the Vortex is more narrow so it is WAY easier to rapidly yank out of a scope pocket on my backpack. Rather than repeat some or all of that information, Ill just suggest that you follow the link above and check out the warranty section. Honestly, there are more people in the US who favor the Leupold because primarily this is made in the US. Celestron Ultima 65 18-55x65 Spotting Scope - Best Under $200. Leupold has proven time and again to be a company that excels with everything they do. One caveat about their warranty program (and most all warranty programs) is that they do not cover the optic or item if youve made any alterations or modifications. Two focus wheels is really nice but I've never used a true top end scope. . The packed length of the Leupold Alpine is 18.5 inches, but it extends to 58.5 inches. Ive always found scope warranty programs to be an interesting topic of discussion. Leupold, on the other hand, being the more experienced and seemingly more intense in producing optics that a lot of American hunters appreciate. Leupold reps have indicated that the glass is sourced from US, Japan, and Europe locations. As I come across more questions or new information, Ill update this page. However, if we talk about Vortex scopes vs Leupold with their high-end riflescopes, their price difference could be great. The quality of glass just isn't there. Please read on for an analysis of two of Leupolds best rifle scope versions. However, the company never loses its grips in its quality trademark. While I technically could probably utilize another category to cover the $1500 $2000 range, there wont be many models included in the category. Snyder said it well one time, buy the best binos you can, and upgrade if necesssy, before a spotter. The upper mid-range category is for riflescopes with an MSRP between $1000 and $1500. Linear FOV (ft/100 yd) - Low: 102. Brothers-in-laws Fred Leupold and Adam Volpel put it up as a surveying equipment manufacturer. All of these optics companies offer high-quality work, making it difficult to select between the two. However, our crowd favorite vortex scope is the Diamondback Second Focal Plan. Buy Now and We'll Pay for Both! Maybe newer model is better. This spotting scope can offer a field of view of 118 feet at 20x magnification and 61.2 feet at 60x magnification. The rubber-armored magnesium body is waterproof and nitrogen purged. I typically see customers start asking questions about warranty around the $350 to $400 price and up. It is light and bright. Vortex optics tend to less expensive than Leupold and, in some cases, offers features at a lower price point. Bottom Line. Because of that, it made sense just to create a top-level category that includes every scope from each brand with an MSRP cost that exceeds $1500. The Vortex Viper I have is built like a tank, but the magnifier ring with the fibre optic mark did come loose and I had to send it back for warranty repair (which they fixed for free, also recharging the gas). Still, they're great binoculars! 7 Best Vortex Rifle Scopes Reviews (Recommended By PROS) Vortex Diamondback 1042 vs 1250 - Side by Side Comparison; Top 3 Vortex Spotting Scopes For Birding & Hunting; The Best Tripod Adapter For Vortex Binoculars; 4. The linear fov for diamondback 10X42 is 330ft @ 1000yds while the alpine 1042 boasts 342ft fov . Sometimes things happen that I cant explain, like most folks. but buy once cry once is the best piece of advice youll get with optics. But honestly I'm on a bit of a budget at the moment. For most consumers, where a product is made is essential. The comparable Leupold vx-3 and vx-3i scopes I own have been impeccable. Dollar to dollar, they are the better option than the Diamondback. Every scope has its own set of features, specifications, and other essential functions that can improve your shooting experience and make it more competitive, thrilling, and rewarding. It could be because they are more affordable for their pockets. Born into the bloodline of our popular Diamondback family, this all-new . My thought with it was to help clarify something I had spotted in my binoculars. Best Under $500: Vortex Optics Diamondback. Leupold SX-2 Alpine Spotting Scope for $329.99 (Save $70) I hate to have to report this. Nov 25, 2020. Leupold SX-2 Alpine Spotting Scope for $329.99 (Save $70) Vanguard Endeavor HD Spotting Scope for $399.99 (Save $50) http://www.rokslide.com/forums/showthread.php?238-Spotters-Angled-vs-Straight&highlight=angled, Leupold Sx-2 alpine vs Sx-4 Pro spotting scope, Leupold 12-40x60 HD gold ring spotting scope, Leupold Golden Ring HD 12-40X60 Spotting Scope, FORLOH AllClima Softshell and AllClima Stretch Woven Pant Review. That's because the same mm objective lens over a smaller magnification means more light for each level of magnification. In this section, we will look at Leupold vs vortex scopes. It continues to manufacture optics/riflescopes that are designed for lifetime performance. As long as weight and size are not a serious concern, this scope works well for identifying and scoring game at long range. Within the Vortex line, the mid-range optics in the $500 $1000 range include the following scope series: Within the Leupold line of riflescopes, the mid-range models in the $500 to $1000 MSRP range are the following: Vortex has a total of 22 scope models in the mid-range price points, while Leupold offers 32 scope models that fall into the $500 to $1000 price point. Leupold has proven time and again to be a company that excels with everything they do. What spotting scope and binos do you use? Although we have heard that Leupold is also now importing lenses from Asian countries like Japan, we know that Japan-made parts are absolutely reliable. And many Vortex fans would argue that the Vortex warranty is the best warranty in the riflescope industry. Vortex Optics was established in 2004, making it a much younger company than many other optics manufacturers. Vortex Optics which is based in Middleton, Wisconsin was established in 2004 by Daniel C. Hamilton. If you looked at just the total number of reticle choices offered within each scope brand, Leupold wins that battle as they provide far more reticle variants than Vortex. However, if we talk about Vortex scopes vs Leupold with their high-end riflescopes, their price difference could be great. Again, the leupold BX-4 Pro12x50mm has also more eye relief distance than the vortex razor 1250. The remaining scopes in this series all fall into the next category up), VX-5HD (A select few of the very top end scopes in the VX-5HD family will fit into this category), VX-6HD (All the VX-6HD models except for the 1-624 and 2-1242 models fit into this category). Linear FOV (ft/100 yd) - High: 48. Hence, no fundamental differences there other than Vortex offers s few power ranges (like a 3-12) that are not found in the Leupold line. It features a powerful magnification range of 20-60x, which allows users to get a close-up view of distant objects or landscapes. Leupold also offers the most expensive scope between the two brands with an MSRP of $4700 compared to Vortexs most expensive model with an MSRP of $3700. Location. Posted by lawyers_guns_nomoney. 5100s/1.6in eibachs, wheelers AAL, OME N182 rear shocks, 4.56s, Detroit truetrac, 255/75/17, SOSConcepts sliders. Continue with Recommended Cookies, Overview and Reviews of Different Rifle Scope Models. Ive also had the occasion to engage the Vortex warranty personally and for customers at my day job, and its always been a very smooth and hassle-free process. The redesigned Diamondback HD spotting scope has all the optical horsepower the western hunter needs, and excels in low light. Manage Settings The Twighlight Max Light Management System offers crystal clear images in low-light environments, while also reducing glare in direct light for versatile, dependable service you can . Norman is a US Marine Corps veteran as well as being an SSI Assistant Instructor. Vortex has the Razor, the Vipers, Crossfire and Diamondback series riflescopes. I do own a very good high end spotting scope I use only because I feel guilty having bought it. It may not display this or other websites correctly.