(I wear glasses; even if I didnt, a future user of these binoculars might wear glasses and could benefit from the additional eye relief.) The focus takes its time getting to its destination, but its a nice ride. Both are fine, but not as good as the magnesium shells and dielectric coatings found on the best within this class. Both binoculars have a Roof - Schmidt/Pechan prism type and fully multi-coated lenses. from Rifle & Crossbow Scopes to Binoculars & Spotting Scopes. Theres a lot to requite my love. The weight of Vortex Diamondback (604 g) is a bit lighter than of Hawke Endurance, as the latter weighs 652 g,. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates. 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???" The center-barrel focus is hard to use with a close-fitting tripod because your fingers cant get beneath the scopes low-slung barrel. But those are minor demerits for an otherwise excellent full-sized spotter that delivers an image on par with higher-priced European optics. I have been thinking of trying one of the newer . And yeah, my AMG was rad, for sure. In addition, the recommended scope usage begins to change as well. 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. I'm more familiar with the Hawke rifle scopes as I own two Sidewinders. At its higher powers, from about 5.5-8x, the reticle reveals its long game. In fact, the ProGuides durability was one of its highest-scoring attributes, thanks to its tight focus, positive eyecups, and hard-wearing shadow gray armor that covers the magnesium body (its also available in 85mm configurations, and with both straight and angled eyepieces). 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. 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. While there is no clear victor, each scope offers exclusive features that may appeal to one shooter more than another. Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12X40mm. Congrats. Those models were manufactured in either South Korea or China and featured an MSRP between $900 and $1200. What is truly remarkable is that Athlon is able to bring such a well-appointed spotting scope to the market for the price of a mid-level binocular. For example, Hawke Optics has a few models in this price range, but then they top out as they dont have any scope offerings priced above the $1500 MSRP point. In the mid-range price point, the cost points between the brands become more even, and the number of optics offered in that range begins to even out. They both have pretty much every other feature I'm looking for. For that outrageous value, the Argos HD wins this years Great Buy award. 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. All told, this was the standout optic in this years spotting scope category, and a worthy recipient of our Editors Choice award. I would rather spend 2-3K on a nice set of bino's to be honest. Within the mid-range grouping, Vortex features twelve different reticle choices, with most being designed for long range or long distance shooting. The Vortex offering in this price range features a combination of SFP and FFP models, while all the Hawke models in this category are FFP only. 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. Then I became aware (I even checked with Hawke) that this model will not be in stock until July. Subscribe to OL+ for our best feature stories and photography. The Panorama series comes in four variable magnification models including 3-940, 3-950, 4-1240, and 4-1250. CANADA. Are you aware of any Hawke scopes problems? Vortex does all that as well but the warranty is even better . First time post, several years of reading the forum and education from the posts. The scope will go on a .300 win mag for hunting purposes. Vortex has an integration deal with Kenton, where they produce aftermarket, drop-in custom turrets for the more higher-end Vortex scopes. 13mm of eye-relief is plenty if you dont wear glasses whilst binning. I compared the specs on all the models under consideration and was able to make my choice. For the mid-range category, Im using an MSRP price range of $501 up to $1000. Most of the Vortex optics in this category are more on the higher magnification side of things, focusing on the 4-16 and up magnification range. Hi everybody, sorry for the extremely late followup!, I know it's been a long time since I have started this thread in Jan 2011, I have been very busy with life and work. I should have it here on the 13th. Theres no clear victor, but each brand offers distinct advantages that some shooters will find useful. 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. Since I had to adjust the entry-level category numbers to accommodate the Hawke line, I made similar adjustments in the mid-range category. Also, like Vortex, Hawke only offers optics with a side focus parallax adjustment in this price range. It's neck and neck for the Monarch 7s and Viper HDs, but when you add everything up the Vortex Viper HD (2018 model) is our winner. May 3, 2021. So something to keep in mind if you wear glasses. Some of these, like Athlons Argos HD ($369) represent a howling bargain, and should be considered by any hunter on a budget. Vortex Diamondback 832 and Hawke Endurance ED 832 are both made in China, can be mounted on a tripod and offer 10-year warranty period. Hawke Endurance ED is made from magnesium alloy which contributes to smaller weight, while Vortex Diamondback is made from plastic and rubber with some metal details. This affordable Vortex scope line is available in thirteen different variable magnification settings from 1-424 to 6-2450, and several magnification settings are available in both 1 inch and 30mm tube diameters. The upper mid-range scopes are their top tier of scope offering for Hawke. Now for the elements that werent quite up to snuff. Vortex features forty-three scope models covering five different scope lines with an MSRP under $550. So, to reach the minimum $550 MSRP point, a customer will have to progress through five different Vortex series. The ProGuide scored in the very middle of the field in resolution and low-light assessments. Sorry you cannot see this table as your browser does not support iframes. As a result, the Hawke optics in this category will cover almost every type of shooting or hunting situation commonly encountered. In my experience, Hawke doesnt have any commonly noted problems and no more issues than any other optics brand (including Vortex). We loved the tight, responsive controls, from the removable angled eyepiece to the rubberized center-barrel focus, and the sunshade seemed to glide as though mounted on ball-bearing tracks. If you want a simple scope with as few adjustments as possible, youre probably interested in a fixed power scope. The company was initially established in the founders garage and has expanded into a global source of sporting optics. Unlike some scope manufacturers, the Vortex warranty is not limited by a certain number of years or a time frame. Vortex features eighteen scope models spanning five different series with an MSRP of $1500 or higher. Hawke offers a wider variety of reticle options in this price range, including several caliber-specific reticles, including. The Vortex scopes in this group will predominantly be geared towards hunting, plinking, and target shooting, with some long-range shooting as well. Heres the best part: Vortex doesnt require a warranty registration, proof of purchase, or receipts to engage the warranty. I gave the edge to Trailseeker because of 1) the field of view, and 2) the eye relief. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. At my day job, it is very common to have customers ask for a comparison of different rifle scope brands and different scope models. Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made. JavaScript is disabled. As a result, Hawke was disqualified. Vortex VS Hawke Body Comparison. Max yardages that I would probably shoot at an animal would probably be 600 yards max. 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. Normally, both binoculars are waterproof and purged with dry gas to prevent any internal fogging. The magnification ring, however, didnt have the same tight tolerances; the locking ring freely spins at the lowest power. Finally, Hawke offers a limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship throughout the life of the scope. Comparing the glass quality in the upper mid-range category, I would rate Vortex as the winner as their optics are noticeably better. Choosing the better scope The Vortex Venom vs. Viper, Bushnell phased the Forge scope models out of production, Comparing the Vortex Copperhead vs Diamondback Rifle Scopes, Comparison of the Vortex Crossfire II Scopes vs Vortex Diamondback Scopes. Vortex. You also rightly mention that the 8x42 Endurance ED is currently unavailable in the US (it is listed as on back order on most websites I looked at), however I did notice that the 10x42 model is available in limited quantities (see Amazon and Adorama on the where to buy these link below) and so that is why I have added it here. In addition, Hawke offers a fixed 4x scope with an adjustable objective, which is fantastic as the lack of parallax adjustment has always been the one weak spot of fixed power scopes. When it comes warranty, Vortex is also the clear victor with their Very Important Promise policy, but Redfield and Hawke stand out in other areas. The Vortex optics in this group are more geared towards hunting, long-range hunting, and long-range shooting. Key differences arise between each scope line when you look at magnification settings. I know a lot of things are personal opinion but I still like to hear different perspectives. Vortex rifle scopes have numerous features that will improve your shooting experience and more precise. There are some differences in costs between these two brands, especially in the mid-range and upper mid-range categories. A rifle scope reticle is one of those features that can make or break a scope purchase. Id love to hear what people think about scope options. I hope that at least some of my advice is of help to you in making your decision. They won't be brighter during the day. And if something goes wrong, its backed by Leupolds excellent warranty. 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. Mid Level Reticle Options - MSRP from $550 to $1000. 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. Finally, Hawke offers a limited warranty that. The first rifle scope in our selection is the Vortex Crossfire 2 series. We also like its excellent eyecups. Its when something goes wrong a leaking pipe or a grainy image that you start to question their utility. They have a phenomenal field of view, slightly better edge to edge clarity, are brighter, and have a better warranty than the Nikons (even if they're . One thing is certain, there is certainly a wide selection of affordable yet distinct rifle scopes on the market, and the Vortex, Hawke, or Redfield brands are a great place to start your search for a $250 rifle scope. It may not display this or other websites correctly. Mid-Range ($501 to $1000) Next up is the Hawke Panorama series of rifle scopes. That combination earned it very high Price/Value consideration, and runner-up status for our Great Buy honors. For others, it may not really matter as much. Curious about the basics on selecting a scope for $250 or less? Re: Vortex Viper vs Hawke Tactical? Continue with Recommended Cookies, Overview and Reviews of Different Rifle Scope Models. In the mid-level category, I would score give Vortex a slight edge in the optical quality as, across the board, their glass seems just a bit brighter and clearer. In addition to the higher optical quality, nearly every Vortex riflescope in this price range comes standard with side focus parallax adjustments. 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. In addition to rifle scopes, Vortex also offers several other quality-made optical products like binoculars, spotting scopes, red dots, etc. When they work, you hardly notice their service. UK. Vortex features an extremely diverse scope line that covers everything from entry-level optics all the way up to top-shelf long range models. USA. In fact, Vortex only offers a few select 1-inch scopes in this price range. The textured coarse-focus was tight and precise, and the fine focus glides smoothly. So if it was my choice and whilst still great value for money, I would probably go for one of the other options on the shortlist, which look even better and are also listed at the same low price. The primary reason Im looking to buy a good pair of binoculars is that my wife and I will be on a safari in a couple of months. Thank you very much for your assistance. While Vortex offers a mix of 30mm and inch models in this category, the bulk of the scope offerings is 1-inch models. In the $1000 range I'm debating between the Vortex PST Gen ii or the Hawke Frontier 30 FFP. The upper mid-range price points are where the most significant changes in costs begin to show. In the upper mid-level scope options (with an MSRP range from $1000 to $1500), Vortex offers six different reticle choices, and all are focused on long range, hunting, or precision tactical style shooting. I read somewhere that the Hawke scopes had some issues. I suspect that Bushnell saw the same issue with the Forge line of scopes. 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. 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. Theres simply so much of it that it allows great quantities of light to reach the eye. Also, since both brands have different product offerings, there are areas where Hawke doesnt have an optic in the Vortex price range. 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