Rifle Scopes Question-Glass Comparison-SS 3x9 and Vortex Viper

thebolt

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Apr 15, 2006
171
79
Colorado
Does anyone have hands on experience with both of these scopes? I know they have their differences but would like to know if anyone can provide a comparison of their glass.

This site is wonderful and it's great that members share their knowledge!

Thanks in advance!
 
Re: Question-Glass Comparison-SS 3x9 and Vortex Viper

Since the Vortex PST's are just coming to market, such a comparison from a user of both would be rare.

But generally, on variable scopes in the $500.-$1000. price range, the glass is pretty well much the same. You get what you pay for.

Glass that's really excellent, that your eyes can see the difference, really starts in the $1500. and up price range

Bushnell, Nikon, Vortex, Super Sniper 3-9, Burris, Sightron, among others all make tactical scopes in this price range, and the glass between them is more a pick-it.

Rather look at the features, CS, ruggedness, that each offers, and not the glass per say, and find one you like.

IMHO and YMMV,

Bob
 
Re: Question-Glass Comparison-SS 3x9 and Vortex Viper

Bob,

In general, I'd agree with what you've said with the exception of low light performance. I've seen some similarly priced/featured scopes differ radically in how they perform before dawn or after dusk. If that's important to a guy. I use my rifles to hunt also, so it is an issue that I pay attention to.

John
 
Re: Question-Glass Comparison-SS 3x9 and Vortex Viper

The Super Snipers glass is pretty clear, almost on par with a Leupold Vari-x iii Tactical on clarity. In the SS, there is distortion on low magnification and chromatic abberation on higher mags.

The low light preformance on this is actually better than the Leupy.

I have not had the pleasure of testing a Viper yet.