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Rifle Scopes Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

G

Gregrachelle

Private
Minuteman
Mar 21, 2012
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Vortex Razor Hd 5-20x50 ffp, illuminated, zero stop, 35mm tube
SWFA SS 5-20x50 ffp, illuminated, 30mm tube
Bushnell 6-24x50 ffp, illuminated, 30mm
or bushnell 3.5x21x50 ffp, illuminated, 34mm tube

These are the main scopes i have been looking into. What i am looking for and anyone who is able to give me a actual comparison that they have done or been able to do as to function, quality, ease of use, and able to say which one they liked, and for what reason. If you have a scope that you feel is better than all of these, and have been able to actually compare it to one of these, then i would appreciate your input or suggestion.

These are the perimeters:
under $2500
FFP
ILLUMINATED
PARALLAX
around the 5-20x50 zoom/lens size or grater
30mm tube or grater
and looks super sweet
smile.gif


Im building a .308 and am about to purchase a scope. from what i can see, any one would most likely be happy with any one of these, however, just want some input before i drop the hammer.
thanks
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

Here is a nice review of all scopes mentioned except the 6-24 Bushy. There are a few other really nice scopes reviewed as well. The IOR 3.5-18X50 is another excellent choice in the price range listed

The 3.5-21X50 Bushnell isnt Illuminated as of yet I believe so that may take it off your list... either way here is the link and the review was done by ILYA, a member here on the hide.

<span style="text-decoration: underline">http://opticsthoughts.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=98:high-end-tactical-scopes-part-3&catid=4:rifle-scope-reviews&Itemid=4</span>

PS good luck as there are some really terrific scopes in that price range and you can probably find some used Premiers and S&B's around that price to make things even more difficult!

Steve
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

Thanks for the link Steve... and for making it more difficult!
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

No worries Greg, trust me I feel your pain I was in the same boat a year ago. I chose the IOR 3.5-18x50 and am again contemplating the Bushy 3.5-21 because the reticle is outstanding!

The only complaint I have on the IOR is the thickness of the reticle, however a lot of folks love the thick reticle as its easily visible.

A lot of it will be what the user is going to be doing. All of the scopes listed are excellent and will probably suit your needs however I think if I had to choose straight off your list and had the money I'd go with the Vortex but thats just my opinion.
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

I too was looking at a few of those scopes, and now the review made it more difficult. I have to debate stretching my budget now or not. It seems like all of the scopes are great, but certain features stand out to everyone differently.
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

At your price point I think you would be better of buying a used Premier. It's a lot more scope than what you listed.
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

it’s all subjective;

Vortex Razor HD vs. SWFA 5-20 opinions:
- More accessible and manipulative controls, especially parallax, on the Vortex. Forget the obvious tall turret; it’s more on tactile turns vs applied effort. It also shouldn’t be a chore to put the reticle and the image on the same plane or adjust magnification.
- Reticle options favor the Vortex. I prefer a simple line ret and thinner stadia. EBR-3
- The SWFA is optically superior, enough to notice.
- The SWFA eyebox is more forgiving, after Vortex ocular upgrade (only one I know).
- Better reticle illumination on the Vortex with more question on the contact reliability (sometimes works intermittent from one direction vs the other).
The reticle and controls on the Vortex make it a more a win for me. I think the SWFA has more potential as a piece of hardware.

Bushnell 3.5x21x50 ffp, illuminated, 34mm tube:
No firsthand experience. I was a bit surprised on all the ills reported on the optical picture as I always found lesser Bushnell optics to be exceptional is this aspect and more lacking in options and elevation.
Here the reticle situation is more adverse with Horus offerings. I think the G2DMR gets allot of attention as it has a “tree” addition without the real application that is either give-or-take. The tree is equally represented in half or 1-mill. 5mil elevation hold gets you two equal marks for 1mil wind. 9 mil elevation hold is 2mil wind available in 4 equal marks. So change your brain off the main stadia count or never leave it which IMO isn’t a real issue. In this case, your already outside the tree without a local horizontal guage of 1mil. I assume it as more of a feature of confusion.

The optics situation is quite adverse and subjective. Probably because human sight is the most direct personal engagement into a rifle and therefore the most subjective. This assumes all the mechanicals work equally as well and there is proof in this across use. You have a good budget and therefore options.
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

Yes agreed. The problem i have noticed is.... it would be easy to go and pick an optic if i was able to hold them in my hand and look at each one side by side like picking a new TV out of a home theater super store. However... no known stores seem to carry really high end optics, which leads to really long hours or researching and contemplating. I was finally able to look through a Nightforce 5-22x50 i believe on a persons barret416. I have heard so much about the nightforce but for me... i didn't like the eye relief. On top of this, it doesn't seem as though there is really one scope that is considered the best? US optic? Premier? schmidt and bender? these are all really expensive scopes with not much said about why they are really all that much better. Every manufacture has their own lingo for what they call their glass and what process they say it has gone through, but that means absolutely nothing to me because i can't look at it through my computer or in a store.
so.....(sorry about the rampage)
the scopes i have listed seem to be your run of the mill... but above average scopes and seem to be the most liked based on popularity.
Now I could raise my budget to account for one of these other higher end optics BUT... what makes a premier optic better? it has the same options and claimed usability, or US optic, or schmit and bender,. Why are they better and by how much?
Thanks again guys. Each input helps that much more.
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

Love my SWFA. I bought it until I could buy another S&B but I am so pleased with it I will keep it and spend my money on ammo.
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

If you need zero stop then Razor.

If you can do without it, Super sniper. Ive only used my super sniper twice now, but its been great. Tracking is yet to be proven, ive only used it through load development but should be fine.

The other two are meh, id never buy anything bushnell.

Chris
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

When I shoot a match, the less I have to think about the better. Zero stop is a must have for me because of that... so naturally, from that selection, I would get the Razor. I've owned the HDMR and SS and they are both very good scopes in their own right (if you can get a Bushy with good glass... I've looked through two... one great and one horrible) but most of the time you end up making compromises to get the one or two things you just HAVE to have.

Make a list of what is REALLY important to you from most to least. Then go back through your list of potential scopes and see how they shake out. A lot of times this helps narrow down the choices.

For me, the zero stop issue was a deal breaker and I don't have the money for a SB, so I went back to the Razor. Are there things about it that I don't like. Yep. It's heavy, I prefer thin reticles and 10 mil/turn and the turrets are huge. But overall, it is an excellent tool for the job I ask of it. It's built like a tank, does nothing poorly, doesn't get in my way and has outstanding warranty and CS.

Good luck on your search. Most times it doesn't end with the first one...
wink.gif


John

 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

Thanks for all the replies. I agree with the comment that you give up one thing in order to get another and am now seeing it better and better as these discussions take place. Here is what i have seen so far

Bushnell goes from 3.5-20x50 has a 34mm tube but you give up the IR, and the reticle is now closed in the middle, (i like the reticle slightly open in the middle, and zero stop,
Bushy 6-24x50 gives up on the tube at a 30mm but you get the IR (and i think this is my favorite reticle) the BTR-mil reticle. I love the illuminated circle with the dot in the middle. But i don't really care to much for bushnell.

SWFA SS 5-20x50 Tactical FFP IR
sounds like you get better glass, all the reviews lead to that, but you give up on locking turrets or zero stop, and only a 34mm tube which means less elevation adjustment

Vortex Razor HD 5-20x50 FFP IR
you get, Zero Stop, IR, range of reticles, 35mm tube,
you give up on weight, i have seen mixed reviews on the glass isn't as good as most? if you were to mix this one with the glass from the swfa I think i would have my scope.

So if anyone could answer this question for me, how does the features of the

Premier HERITAGE 5-25X56MM TACTICAL

compare to what we have been talking about prior. Also, is a scope like this overkill for a .308?

Thanks again. look forward to further comments.
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

The razor would be my choice out of those. The glass in the SWFA isn't better either.

If you can deal with no illumination the coupon code for a couple hundred off the non-illuminated SWFA scope will probably be active in little while (look for the SWFA thread about facebook likes).
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Greg S</div><div class="ubbcode-body">if you were to mix this one with the glass from the swfa I think i would have my scope.
</div></div>

If this is how you truly feel, you should place the order for the Razor now. I have not done a live side-by-side between the SS and the revised Razor (I did an extensive review comparing the SS to the original Razor), but I can say with conviction that Vortex fixed about 95% of the optical issues I found with the Razor and it is now very good.

John
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

Having shot both the SS and Vortex, the Vortex would be my choice. Better glass, reticle/ebr3 is better, illumination functions more to my personal liking. Also noticed when resetting the turrets, the SS rarely sets back to the 0 mark. Either one side or the other. Main reason to stay with Vortex for me is, every shooting comp I go to has 15k worth of Vortex gear on the prize table. They support my sport more than any optics company out there.
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

If I was going to spend 2000+ I would look for a used Premier. I have the SS 5-20 HD which I got last year for $1,000 and at that price its hard to beat. I really don't think that the Vortex is twice the scope, although the price difference is now only 400 - 500 not $1,000.
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jrob300</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Greg S</div><div class="ubbcode-body">if you were to mix this one with the glass from the swfa I think i would have my scope.
</div></div>

If this is how you truly feel, you should place the order for the Razor now. I have not done a live side-by-side between the SS and the revised Razor (I did an extensive review comparing the SS to the original Razor), but I can say with conviction that Vortex fixed about 95% of the optical issues I found with the Razor and it is now very good.


John </div></div>

not sure if i did that quote thing right... Is there a way to tell if you are purchasing a revised razor or the old one? I would hate to buy one and find out i got old stock or something.
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

If the ring closest to your eye is rubber, it's the original. The revised ocular replaced that with a black aluminum ring.

ETA: I'd be shocked if you could find an old one in stock. I just recently bought a second and I had to buy used as there were none in stock that I could find.

John
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

Sounds like out of all the Scopes you've listed RAZOR HD fit's Most if not ALL of your requirments. There are A LOT of Comp Winning Shooters that uses and swares by the HD so it does have a proven track record (In Competition anyways). For the Bushnell and SWFA HD it's almost a wash as both Scopes are Made in Japan (I think) so the Glass are both Quality, I believe most say SWFA wins out a bit more. At the end it all comes to down to how much you want to spend and the end Goal of your purchase. If you're only intrested in Purchasing this scope in Place until you can afford the Elite Brands then Go with a more cost effective one, but if you're thinking about getting the best one for the price range and be set then get the RAZOR HD as it is probably the most features and expensive one no the list. I went with the Bushnell HDMR with the G2DMR reticles because I live in Texas and SWFA mean I'd need to pay a Tax. However I Do Not Regret my purchas as the Bushy turned out to be a Outstanding scope of which I bought another one. Good Luck and You won't go wrong with either on the list as they're ALL Capable Scopes that'll get any job done!
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

My first post,

I purchased a Vortex Razor HD 5-20 with the EBR-2 reticle a few months ago, ended up sending it back to Vortex for the EBR-2B because the EBR-2 reticle .2mrad dots were very small, unusable small. Even with the small .2mrad dots I am very pleased with my purchase. The EBR-2B reticle has bigger .2mrad dots and is going to work great. Just wanted to let everyone know that I am very happy with the Vortex, made my first shots out to 1 mile with the Razor HD on top of my TRG42 338 Lapua....not consistant but did hit 2 out of 10 rounds.
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Greg S</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jrob300</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Greg S</div><div class="ubbcode-body">if you were to mix this one with the glass from the swfa I think i would have my scope.
</div></div>

If this is how you truly feel, you should place the order for the Razor now. I have not done a live side-by-side between the SS and the revised Razor (I did an extensive review comparing the SS to the original Razor), but I can say with conviction that Vortex fixed about 95% of the optical issues I found with the Razor and it is now very good.


John </div></div>

not sure if i did that quote thing right... Is there a way to tell if you are purchasing a revised razor or the old one? I would hate to buy one and find out i got old stock or something.
</div></div>

As fast as these move......there is a snowballs chance you would get an "old one"....that being said a call to Vortex with the s/n and you would know for sure.

Also Vortex's CS is BEYOND good.
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

The revised eyepiece is metal/aluminum, and the "older" eyepiece is rubber.
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

so i just about decided on the vortex and came across another scope. As far as zoom features its not exactly in the same category, but it does offer advantages that all the other scopes do not. has anyone had any experience with the Burris 4-16x50 laser scope eliminator III ? its calculates your ballistics as well.
here is a link
http://www.burristactical.com/laserscope.html
and here is a video
http://youtu.be/wtUlQui62So

input would be appreciated
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

What exactly are you going to be using this scope for again?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Greg S</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Vortex Razor Hd 5-20x50 ffp, illuminated, zero stop, 35mm tube
SWFA SS 5-20x50 ffp, illuminated, 30mm tube
Bushnell 6-24x50 ffp, illuminated, 30mm
or bushnell 3.5x21x50 ffp, illuminated, 34mm tube</div></div>

or

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Greg S</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> Burris 4-16x50 laser scope eliminator III</div></div>

Apples v. Orangutans

Sounds like someone needs to have a long talk with themselves in the corner and get *REALLY* clear about what they really want. Then you can answer your own question.

Take this guys advice:

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jrob300</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Make a list of what is REALLY important to you from most to least. Then go back through your list of potential scopes and see how they shake out. A lot of times this helps narrow down the choices.</div></div>

Here are your own <span style="font-weight: bold">parameters</span>:

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Greg S</div><div class="ubbcode-body">These are the perimeters:
under $2500
FFP
ILLUMINATED
PARALLAX
around the 5-20x50 zoom/lens size or grater
30mm tube or grater
and looks super sweet
smile.gif
</div></div>

If what you really want is a rangefinder built into a scope... then problem solved. If FFP is important to you, then not so much.

John
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

greg, i agree with jrob300, i think you have plenty of input, with the razor, you won`t be disappointed, just got the ebr-2b in the mail today, sold a nightforce to fund it, and am not looking back!
 
Re: Vortex Razor vs SWFA SS vs Bushnell

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Greg S</div><div class="ubbcode-body">it doesn't seem as though there is really one scope that is considered the best <span style="color: #3366FF">[...]</span> means absolutely nothing to me because i can't look at it through my computer or in a store. so <span style="color: #3366FF">[...]</span> BUT... what makes a premier optic better? it has the same options and claimed usability, or US optic, or schmit and bender,. Why are they better and by how much? Thanks again guys. Each input helps that much more. </div></div>
Greg,

I just had this discussion with buddies since I finished testing the (typically considered) top end brands. In the end, I find it hard to recommend any scope as better than another -- only what worked better <span style="text-decoration: underline"><span style="font-style: italic">for me</span></span>. There's no such thing as "how much" better another scope is because everything is subjective. Worst part is looking through a scope at a store or at a firing range reveals nothing about how it will work for you the way <span style="text-decoration: underline"><span style="font-style: italic">you</span></span> intend to use it; that is, unless your only use will be the firing range, in which case I would say get a top quality fixed mag scope or SFP.

Best analogy I could provide my buddies is if you compare shooting to lounging around the house watching TV. Which scope makes you feel like you're chilling in comfy pajamas vs tight Wrangler jeans? Of course, comfy to me is a pair of Adidas warm up pants (non swishy type), and that isn't the same for everybody. Same with the scope, it boils down to the ergonomics & design of the scope and how they fit you.

Not here to start a "X is better than Y" debate, but two examples of <span style="text-decoration: underline"><span style="font-style: italic">my</span></span> preferences so you know what I mean are:
- Nightforce zoom turns the entire ocular bell. It drives me nuts cause I've changed my diopter focus on accident before, and it prevents me from using scope caps. I hate bikinis. On/off illum with surgery required to change setting sucks. Again, these is my personal gripes and don't bug most people.
- Premier glass is awesome. Image is big. Everything on paper looks great. Turrets are simply a superior design. It's compact. Tenebraex caps are the shit & wish all brands used them. But for whatever reason, the eyebox feels tight & the image feels like its so on top of my eye that I notice fast eye fatigue when using my PR 3-15. Again, my problem and heck, some people like it that way!

Kind of a long post but I hope you get my point re: your question of what makes brand X better than brand Y -- it's different for each person & cannot be measured.

And just in case, compare it to steaks. Ribeyes are the best. Juicy. Fatty. Flavorful. That grizzled fat edge is to die for when charred perfectly. Bet everybody doesn't agree, especially vegetarians!

Andy
 
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