Tract optics founders and owners have extensive knowledge in the optics industry working with leading companies before founding Tract Optics. Brownells looks to be doing the same thing, selling a product and cutting out middlemen.
I have both, but I feel that Tract is just as competitive. Plus a lower cost point, especially if you're military or LE. I'd be hard pressed to buy Leupold optics anymore unless Tract didn't offer what I was looking for.
I would go with the Tract. I own a 4.5-30x56 and other products. As good as anything twice the price or more. I have yet to see a bad review. Owners are great people and extremely helpful too. Brownells might have a good product too but I know Tract will get the job done. And if you're...
I have both brands. Tract makes a superior optic and it'll cost you less than the Vortex being they sell direct to consumer. Unfortunately the 4.5x30 Toric is posted as being on backorder. I'd wait it out. The extra magnification is a plus too.