SWFA 3-15x42 vs Vortex Viper PST 4-16x50?

[bgrav321]

Any thoughts on this particular comparison? In an FFP, the the Vortex seems to be around 200 more, as SWFA has theirs for 700, and the Vortex for 900. I want mil/mil as well. Is the Vortex better glass/worth the extra? Both brands seem to be well reviewed and have great service. Decisions, decisions...

 

[Clayne_b]

I have the SWFA 3-15x42, and have spent a good bit of time with the 6-24x50 PST...

Thant being said I would still rather have the SWFA.

IMO

 

[MtnCreek]

6-24 PST is a good scope. I've heard a lot of the 4-16's have bad glass, but that's just what I've heard...I don't have one.

 

[C-grunt]

Both of those are good scopes. You cant go wrong with either. The Vortex has a couple extra features like illumination and zero stops so the extra money isn't for nothing.

I have a 6-24 PST and the glass on it is VERY good. I have looked through a couple 4-16 PST scopes and couldn't tell the difference between them and my 6-24, but I wasnt testing the two.

 

[bgrav321]

Clayne why would you prefer it exactly? Thanks all for answers so far. Keep em coming!

 

[Beentown]

Both of those are good scopes. You cant go wrong with either. The Vortex has a couple extra features like illumination and zero stops so the extra money isn't for nothing.

I have a 6-24 PST and the glass on it is VERY good. I have looked through a couple 4-16 PST scopes and couldn't tell the difference between them and my 6-24, but I wasnt testing the two.

Exactly my thoughts and experience. Both my 3-10x50 and 6-24x50 Vortexs are best in class IMHO. Heck my truck gun wears a Vortex Crossfire and it is better than most scopes 2-3x the price.

 

[Z-Michigan]

The Vortex offers nicer turrets, illumination, and the option of a MOA based reticle. For $200 or so more, though you can probably find it closer to $800 by calling some of the scope specialists (try Liberty Optics or Sport Optics; I know Sport Optics is currently offering a set of Griffin ETAC rings with any Viper PST, and those rings normally go for $125).

SS is made in Japan, but NOT at Japan's best optics factory, while PST is made in the Philippines at their best optics factory. Vortex is known for a terrific warranty, although SWFA is reputed to be excellent too. The SS glass is getting rave reviews at snipershide. Personally I would go with the PST, but they are very close competitors.