Looking for a quality rifle scope to enhance your varmint hunting performance? Well, look no further. We have put up a comprehensive guide on the best Vortex scope for varmint hunting to help you find a model that will fine-tune your precision and help make every hunting expedition a success.
Varmints are a nuisance, especially among farmers. They cause massive destruction in the farms and if not controlled, their population can rise radically and pose more threat. There are several ways of controlling their population and hunting is one of the most effective methods.
Just like any other hunting, varmint hunting requires proper gear and equipment. One of the indispensable items you need in a scope. And not just any scope, but a reliable model from a reputable brand like Vortex.
Best Vortex Scopes for Varmint Hunting
Vortex Optics is a brand that is committed to excellent performance and innovation. All its optics are designed to provide unrivaled performance in the field. With versatile magnification power, premium quality optics, and a ton of other incredible features, these game-changing optics will certainly take your hunting to the next big level.
With all that said and without further ado, here are the best Vortex scopes for varmint hunting available on the market. Let’s have a look.
1) Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope
Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm is by far the best Vortex scope for varmint hunting. Crafted with the avid hunter in mind, it provides all the benefits of a hunting rifle scope without unnecessary bulk and heaviness that can interfere with portability or performance.
This rifle scope has an adjustable 4-16xx magnification offered in the front focal plane reticle. The versatile zoom power makes it easy to hunt all kinds of varmints at all distances. Other than that, the reticle stays true throughout the magnification range and is protected between two layers of glass for permanency.
Furthermore, the scope is built with durability in mind. It is able to handle whatever abuse you subject it to and still perform. Besides, the robust aircraft grade aluminum body is fully waterproof, fog proof and shockproof to enhance durability and enable use in any weather condition.
The optical performance of the Vortex Diamondback 4-16x44mm is another feature that makes it stand out. It employs XD lens elements and fully multi-coated optics that work in tandem to optimize image brightness, clarity and sharpness.
This rifle scope also brings to the table a fast focus eyepiece, raised magnification rib and a precision glide erector system to enhance overall performance in the field.
Features
- 30mm tube
- Waterproof, fog proof and shock proof
- Precision-glide erector system
- Raised magnification rib
- XD lens elements
- Glass-etched first focal plane reticle
- Anodized aluminum body
- 4-16x total magnification
- Fast focus eyepiece
Pros
- Bright and clear optics
- Long eye relief
- Relatively lightweight
- True tracking
- Ease of use
Cons
- Non illuminated
2) Vortex Crossfire II AO 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope
Built with discerning hunters in mind, the Crossfire II AO 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope is an excellent companion for varmint hunting. It provides unmatched accuracy in all hunting fields and reliable performance as well.
The selling point of this rifle scope is optical finesse. It has a 40mm objective lens to enhance performance in low level light situations. Additionally, all the optics are fully multi-coated to give you high enough light transmission for accurate target acquisition even in low light settings of dawn and dusk.
Moreover, this rifle scope has an adjustable objective which is responsible for image focusing and parallax correction. The turrets are capped to prevent accidental adjustment in the field and also ensure added protection from bumps. Other than that, this rifle scope has a fast focus eyepiece for precise, accurate reticle adjustment.
In terms of construction, the scope is crafted in a 1-inch body made from aircraft quality aluminum. This guarantees great durability. The ruggedized construction is also complemented by waterproof and fog proof protection to guarantee reliable performance in any weather condition.
Features
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Aircraft grade aluminum housing
- Adjustable objective
- Waterproof, fog proof and shock proof
- Hard anodized finish
- Capped turrets
- Second focal plane Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- 1-inch body tube
- 50 MOA adjustment range
Pros
- Lightweight construction
- Generous eye relief
- Robust and reliable make
- Great optical quality
- Simple to use
Cons
- Mushy turrets
3) Vortex Viper HS 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope
The Viper HS 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope is a high-powered scope ideal for hunting and tactical applications. It harbors a multitude of intuitive and reliable features to guarantee superb performance in all environments.
This rifle scope has an advanced optical system which makes the magnification useful at every level. It boasts XD lens elements to enhance resolution as well as picture color and detail. On top of that, the lenses are fully multi-coated to minimize glare and enhance light transmission.
Not only is the optics system of this rifle scope stunning, but also the construction quality. Built with aircraft grade aluminum, you are guaranteed of unrivaled durability even with repeated use. Furthermore, the scope has a hard anodized finish that is non-reflective, scratch proof and rust resistant.
Cementing the robust construction is reliable waterproof and fog proof protection which makes the scope operable even in the harshest weather conditions. Other than that, the Viper HS 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope is outfitted with capped turrets that are zero resettable.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle
- 4-16x magnification power
- Aircraft grade aluminum construction
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Hard anodized finish
- 30mm tube diameter
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Capped reset turrets
- XD lens elements
- Precision-force spring system
- XR fully multi-coated lenses
Pros
- Ample eye relief
- Lightweight and portable
- High levels of abrasion resistance
- Good quality glass
Cons
- Stiff parallax adjustment
4) Vortex Viper HS-T 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope
Fourth in our list of the best Vortex scope for varmint hunting is the Viper HS-T 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope. This multi-feature rifle scope is versatile and simple to use for hunters and shooters of all levels, including beginners.
The selling point of this optic is the reticle. It boasts a second focal plane reticle with MOA/MRAD hashmarks for accurate holdover at extended ranges. This guarantees fast and precise shooting at long ranges.
Another impressive thing about the scope is optical performance. It has XD lens elements that work in tandem with XR fully multi-coated lenses to boost light transmission in low light and enhance the overall image brightness and clarity. Thus, the scope is usable even in dismal environments.
Moreover, the Viper HS-T 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope is made with durability in mind. It is crafted in a 30mm tube to offer unmatched strength and durability. It also has a robust aircraft grade aluminum body that protects the optics from abuse and highest levels of abrasion.
With all these features plus the reliable weatherproof construction, the scope is a perfect companion for pest and varmint control, season after season.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle
- Fully multi-coated optics
- 30mm single-piece main tube
- Aircraft grade aluminum housing
- XD lens elements
- Hard anodized finish
- Fast focus eyepiece
- MAG-view fiber optic
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- 4-16x total magnification
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Easy to use
- Great eye relief
- Good value for the price
- Excellent low light visibility
Cons
- Non illuminated
5) Vortex Strike Eagle 3-18x44mm Riflescope
Let’s have a closer look at our next pick of the best Vortex scope for varmint hunting, the Strike Eagle 3-18x44mm Riflescope. One of its standout features is optical clarity. It is crisp clear to ensure that you identify your target accurately without strain and know where to place the shot.
Built with a variable 3-18x magnification, this sighting tool will help you to dominate close ranges and stretch fully at extended distances. Besides, the large 44mm objective lens makes this magnification range usable even at the highest settings, while enhancing low light performance.
When it comes to the optical features, this rifle scope features fully multi-coated optics for optimal transmission of light. As result, you get bright and crisp views of targets no matter the lighting condition. On top of the stunning low light performance, this rifle scope features a second focal plane lighted reticle for confident aiming in low light.
Solid construction is another feature that makes this rifle scope ideal for hunting. It is constructed on a 30mm tube to enhance strength and rigidity, while still providing more room for adjustments. The housing is made from aluminum and has a hard coat anodized finish to make it scratch proof.
Above all, the Strike Eagle 3-18x44mm Riflescope is built with a fast focus eyepiece for rapid zooming and focusing of targets, and a knurled zoom ring for easy magnification adjustments.
Features
- Waterproof and nitrogen filled
- Tactical style windage and elevation adjustment dials
- 30mm main tube diameter
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- 120 MOA adjustment range
- Single-piece aluminum housing
- Hard anodized finish
- Second focal plane reticle
- 3-18x magnification range
- Fast zoom eyepiece
- 1/4 MOA impact point correction
Pros
- Crisp and accurate adjustments
- Impressive clarity
- Tough and durable construction
- Great magnification range
Cons
- Slightly heavy
6) Vortex Razor HD Gen II 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope
Our last Vortex scope recommendation for varmint hunting is the Razor HD Gen II 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope. This is a high-end rifle scope that is designed and engineered for hunting at close to long ranges, in virtually any environment.
Built from a 34mm single-piece main tube, the scope provides ample room for adjustments and guarantees toughness and rigidity. It is sturdy enough to weather any shock, abuse as well as wear and tear. Additionally, it is fully waterproof, fog proof and dust proof for use even in the less-than-ideal weather conditions.
To ensure confident aiming in low level light settings, this rifle scope has an illuminated reticle put on the front focal plane. The brightness of the reticle is adjustable into different intensities for precision aiming in all light settings. Furthermore, a fast focus eyepiece is included to enable rapid reticle focusing.
And that’s not all. The Razor HD Gen II 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope is built with optically indexed lenses, HD lens elements and XR plus fully multi-coated optics to maximize the brightness and clarity of the sight pictures. It also has an Armortek lens coating that is scratch proof and dust proof.
Features
- Side focus
- Glass-etched first focal plane reticle
- Maximize turret zero adjustment
- Hard anodized finish
- Aircraft grade aluminum body
- Large 34mm single-piece tube
- Waterproof, fog proof and dust proof
- HD lens elements
- L-Tec zero stop
- Fully multi-coated optics
- 3-18x total magnification
Pros
- Magnificent picture quality across the entire zoom range
- Lighted reticle
- Solid turrets
- Rugged and reliable construction
Cons
- Heavy
Why Vortex Scopes for Varmint Hunting?
Vortex is a popular brand in the industry of optics and among varmint hunters. Here is why:
- Versatility. The main benefit that comes with choosing a Vortex scope for varmint hunting is versatility. You can use one rifle scope for a multitude of hunting and shooting applications, not just varmint hunting
- Rock-Solid Durability. Another benefit of Vortex scopes is durability. Each and every scope from this brand it crafted with high-quality and hard-wearing materials to enhance durability and ensure reliable performance in the most challenging hunting environments
- Optical Quality. When it comes to optical quality, it is hard to go wrong with a Vortex scope. All Vortex rifle scopes employ premium-grade optical elements which guarantee great image brightness, clarity and sharpness
- User-friendly Features. All Vortex scopes for varmint hunting are designed with a ton of user-friendly features to enhance overall performance. These includes fast focus eyepiece, zero reset turrets and easily accessible parallax adjustment among others
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Criteria for Choosing a Vortex Scope for Varmint Hunting
Before you decide to buy a Vortex scope for varmint hunting, take into account the following factors.
Low Light Performance
It is vital to get a scope that excels in different lighting conditions not just broad daylight. To achieve this, the scope should have a large aperture of at least 40mm which gathers large volume of light inside the optics. Additionally, the best scope for varmint hunting has premium anti-reflective lens coatings to ramp up light transmission.
Weight
Go for a scope that is built lightweight. On average, a good scope for hunting weighs 1.2lbs. With the lightweight design, you will be able to maneuver in the fields without fatigue. A light scope also does a better job of shaking off high recoil compared to heavy weight models.
Tracking and Adjustments
The next thing to consider is how the scope tracks and whether or not the adjustments are repeatable and accurate. When hunting varmints, precise adjustments are vital to taking shots accurately and consistently. So, ensure that you get a scope with accurate tracking and repeatable adjustments as well.
Eye Relief
You need a scope that guarantees great glassing comfort even during long hunting periods. This is where eye relief comes in to play. The longer the eye relief the scope is built with, the better. It will not just be snug to shoot with, but also safe to use with heavy recoiling calibers.
Reticle
Lastly, consider reticle. The shape and pattern of the best vortex scope for varmint hunting plays an important role in overall shooting accuracy. So, go for a reticle that is uncluttered, easy to aim and simple to use. It is also wise to get an illuminated reticle for easy and precise aiming in low light.
FAQs
- Are Vortex scopes suitable for varmint hunting?
Absolutely. Vortex scopes are a favorite amongst varmint hunters. This is because of the phenomenal optical performance they provide even in low light. Besides, Vortex scopes are durable, weatherproof and easy to use for all hunters, even beginners.
- What magnification range is ideal for varmint hunting?
It depends on several things such as individual preference and hunting distance. But typically, scopes with 3-12x, 4-16x and 6-24x are commonly used.
- Is illuminated reticle necessary for varmint hunting?
A scope with an illuminated reticle is important to have for varmint hunting, but its not a must-have especially if you prefer to hunt in broad daylight. However, the illumination will be of great benefit when you are hunting in low light conditions of early mornings and late evenings.
Final Words
The gateway to making every hunting expedition fun-filled and successful is having a quality scope at hand. Vortex scopes are outstanding in terms of performance and value and all the models we have mentioned in our article are not any different.
Choosing the best Vortex scope for varmint hunting calls for some prior research, but irrespective of what your hunting needs or budget are, there is a model out there for everyone.