Vortex Viper 6.5-20-Thoughts?

I really like my MeoPro scopes and binoculars.

 

I just picked up a Viper HST because it was the only decent scope I could find in any of my local stores.. Was wanting to look at a Athlon, SWFA or upper end Burris (and maybe some others) but will have to wait until I end up somewhere that stocks the "higher" end scopes. Looking for something to go 700 yards or more for my Tikka UPR.

 

Here's the 6.5-20x44 on my 527 Varmint. I like the scope pretty well. I've found it very similar in optical quality to the Sightron SII 6-24x42, Weaver V-24, Burris Fullfield 4.5-14 (both the E1 and FF II), and a few other scopes that used to sell in the $400 +/- range. If I were buying a 6.5-20 right now, I'd be inclined to try the Burris E1 because I've been very pleased with all of the other Burris scopes I have.

 

We have numerous vortex scopes all across their different models with no problems.

 

I've had about a half-dozen Vortex scopes, predominantly Viper PST, but with one base model Viper on my wife's 7mm Browning, and a Diamondback 1.75-5 that lived on a 16" barrel .358Win AR, and got re-homed with that upper when a friend of mine bought it.
I also have 3 pairs of Diamondback binos of different sizes, and a Ranger 1000 rangefinder.
I have never had any issues with any of my Vortex products, apart from dead batteries on illuminators when I inadvertently left them on.
I have a friend who has had to warranty a Crossfire II VO when the reticle broke while riding on his M1A, and a rangefinder that couldn't get a return past about 650yds. Both were done quick and painlessly.

I'm a fan of their products, personally, though I've generally avoided their entry-level offerings. The low power Diamondback was mainly chosen for it's small size and weight. Otherwise I prefer to shop the Viper lines, predominantly.

 

What's your thoughts on the Argos? Looking to upgrade my 6-18 crossfire. I want to dabble in long range steel with my 223rem and varmint hunt with it. Once I figure out if I like the steel shooting I'll upgrade.

 

I have had this one for about 6 years:
https://www.sportsmans.com/hunting-gear-supplies/optics-binoculars-scopes-rangefinders/rifle-scopes-red-dots/vortex-viper-65-20x-44mm-rifle-scope-mil-dot-moa/p/1296935
mounted on a Stag Model 6. It has been rock solid, although I don’t dial for distance, choosing to use the mil dots instead. Can’t beat it for Sportsman’s price.
The only knock on it is not a lot of eye relief, but for a .223, this is a non issue.

 

While I am happy with Burris FF E1 6.5-20x50mm for my current 100 yard 22LR testing, I am thinking about trying Viridian Serac 6-24x50 Side Focus, SFP Long Range Reticle 30mm for 200-300+ yard .223 testing - https://viridianweapontech.com/viridian-serac-rifle-scope-6-24x50-sf-sfp-reticle?avad=9441_b26495919

• Reticle: LRR
• Field of View Feet: 15.2-4.2
• Eye Relief: 3.35"-3.5"
• Parallax Setting: Side Focus Adjustable
• Focus Range: 25yds to ∞
• Main Tube Diameter: 30mm
• Objective Diameter: 50mm
• Magnification Rage: 6x-24x
• Length: 16.00”
• Weight: 24.68oz

While list price on website is $419, Amazon is currently selling for $150 - https://www.amazon.com/Viridian-Serac-6-24x50-Reticle-Riflescope/dp/B0856Z2T5F/ref=sr_1_6?m=A8KH5QXJVQNB8&qid=1642984196&s=merchant-items&sr=1-6

 

The main advantage the Viper has over the Burris is its 30 mm tube vs. the Burris 1” tube. This results in the Viper having more than twice the elevation and wind age adjustment available, Vortex 65 MOA Burris 30 MOA. If long range is desired, the Viper is the better option.

 

And why I am ordering the 30mm tube Viridian Serac 6-24x50.

 

Made in China. No thanks, but hope it works out for you.

 

I know ... Why I have been buying Korean Bushnells and Filipino Burris.

And likely Viridian is made in China but I ordered for the "Accurizing 22LR on the cheap" thread to test as there may be members tight on money and can't spent $400 on a scope.

I am happy with my $109 Bushnell 6-18x50mm and if Viridian is better, than it would be worth the $150. We will see if it improves my 100 yard 22LR groups.

 

Hey, I like cheap off name scopes as much as anyone. But I have been lucky to buy some surprisingly good scopes for less than $150 over the years: a 3-9x40 Nitrex for $100, another one for $70 both new, both made in Japan. A pair of Intensity 6.5-20x44’s, made in the Philippines for $125 each, a pair of Redfield Revolution 2-7x33’s made in USA for $125 each. The Bushnells I bought in that price range from Korea and China were not a good deal at any price. YMMV