Vortex rifle scopes are one of the best for hunting, today we look at the best Vortex Scope for Deer Hunting recommendations.
Deer hunting is no easy task, there are many deer hunting tips, and having a quality scope is one of them.
Once you have settled on a hunting location, mostly near swamp edges, logged areas where the thick regrowing forest meets the deep forest, wooded areas, or edges of agricultural land near forest land it’s time to hit the ground running.
Some of the deer hunting tips include:
- Wind direction and scent control, deers will sense predators from afar by just smelling (stay under the radar and use scent-free soap, the hunting clothes should be scent-free too)
- Make sure the wind is working in your favor when hunting (Being “downwind” of the deer you are hunting is critical to your hunting success)
- Be quiet while walking in the woods, deer will recognize any unnatural noises
- The stand should not create silhouetting or shadowing, if it does the deer notice you
- Hunting higher up in a tree (allows your scent to blow higher, makes deer less aware of your presence)
- Take an ethical shot
- Wear camouflage
What Scope Magnification is Best for Deer Hunting?
The best magnification will be dependent on where you will be deer hunting.
In midwest hunting where you see deer at 200 yards, a scope’s magnification of 3-9x, 4-12x, 2.5-10x, or 4-16x will work just perfectly.
If you are hunting long range(out to 1,000 yards) a 3-9×40 scope will do the job, other magnifications for 1000 yards are 4-16x to 6-24x.
If you are hunting mid-range (100-300 yards Or 500-800 yards) an AR15 or AR10 LPVO will do the job. Magnifications of 1x to 6x, or even 8x will do the job.
Without a doubt a 3-9x magnification is the best for deer hunting, the 3x power is low enough and has a large exit pupil and field of view for close-range applications while the 9x magnification will work for longer shots.
Best Vortex Scopes for Deer Hunting
1) Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40mm Riflescope
Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is the best Vortex scope for deer hunting, it features fully multi-coated optics, guaranteeing exceptional light transmission and clarity, allowing for vivid, high-contrast images even in low-light conditions.
Its second focal plane reticle maintains the same appearance regardless of magnification, ensuring precise aiming points at all ranges. The rugged single-piece tube, constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum with a hard anodized finish, delivers unparalleled durability and reliability, capable of withstanding the harshest hunting environments.
Equipped with waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof properties, this scope is built to endure the rigors of outdoor expeditions with unwavering performance.
The capped reset turrets provide quick and easy adjustments while maintaining zero, ensuring accuracy shot after shot. Additionally, the adjustable objective allows for parallax removal and enhanced focus, crucial for achieving pinpoint accuracy over varying distances.
With a fast-focus eyepiece, you can swiftly acquire your target with precision and ease, empowering you to seize every hunting opportunity.
Advantages
- Exceptional light transmission and clarity with fully multi-coated optics
- Rugged construction from aircraft-grade aluminum ensures durability and reliability
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof properties for reliable performance in any conditions
- Quick and easy adjustments with capped reset turrets
- Adjustable objective for parallax removal and enhanced focus
- Fast-focus eyepiece enables swift target acquisition
Disadvantages
- Limited magnification range compared to some higher-end scopes
2) Vortex Diamondback 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
Vortex Diamondback 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is a versatile deer hunting scope boasting a host of advanced features, with fully multi-coated lenses, the Diamondback ensures maximum light transmission and optimal brightness, providing clear and crisp images even in low-light conditions.
Its second focal plane reticle maintains a consistent appearance throughout the magnification range, facilitating precise holdover and windage corrections at any distance.
Crafted from a single-piece tube of aircraft-grade aluminum with a hard anodized finish, this scope offers exceptional durability and reliability, capable of withstanding the toughest environments with ease.
Built to excel in adverse weather conditions, the Diamondback is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring unfaltering performance when it matters most. The capped reset turrets allow for quick and easy zero resets, while the precision-glide erector system ensures smooth and precise adjustments for effortless targeting.
Equipped with a precision-force spring system, this scope maintains optimal tension and stability for consistent shot placement, even under recoil.
Featuring a fast-focus eyepiece and MAG-View fiber optic indicator, the Diamondback allows for swift target acquisition and intuitive aiming, empowering you to react quickly to changing shooting scenarios.
Advantages
- Exceptional light transmission and clarity with fully multi-coated lenses
- Rugged construction from aircraft-grade aluminum for durability and reliability
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof properties for reliable performance in any conditions
- Quick and easy zero resets with capped reset turrets
- Smooth and precise adjustments with precision-glide erector system
- Consistent shot placement ensured by the precision-force spring system
- Swift target acquisition facilitated by fast focus eyepiece and MAG-View fiber optic indicator
Disadvantages
- May lack some advanced features found in premium optics
3) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6x24mm Rifle Scope is the best Vortex scope for deer hunting if you are looking for speed and versatility Its true 1x magnification on the low end allows for seamless transition between close-quarters engagements and extended-range shots, offering adaptability for a wide-range of situations.
This scope features a magnification ring with a thread-in throw lever, enhancing the ease of use and ensuring rapid adjustments without compromising on stability. Additionally, the magnification indicators are now visible without the need to disengage from the scope, allowing for quick reference during intense shooting sequences.
Equipped with the new illuminated BDC3 reticle, the Strike Eagle facilitates faster target acquisition, while holdovers extend usability out to 650 yards for targets of known distance, promoting swift and accurate aiming even in challenging conditions.
The fast focus dial on the eyepiece enables effortless reticle focusing, while anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces optimize light transmission for enhanced clarity and low-light performance, ensuring a clear sight picture in any environment.
Built to withstand the rigors of the field, this scope is nitrogen purged and o-ring sealed for reliable water and fogproof performance. The one-piece, aircraft-grade aluminum 30mm tube construction ensures shockproof durability, capable of enduring recoil and harsh handling without compromising functionality.
Backed by Vortex’s unlimited, unconditional, lifetime VIP Warranty, the Strike Eagle offers unparalleled peace of mind, with a promise to repair or replace the scope if it becomes damaged or defective, ensuring long-term reliability and customer satisfaction.
Advantages
- True 1x magnification offers versatility for various shooting scenarios
- Updated magnification ring with throw lever for rapid adjustments
- Visible magnification indicators enhance usability in fast-paced situations
- Illuminated BDC3 reticle enables faster target acquisition and precise holdovers
- Fast focus dial ensures quick and easy reticle focusing
- Anti-reflective coatings enhance light transmission for improved clarity
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction for reliable performance in any conditions
- Unlimited, unconditional, lifetime VIP Warranty provides peace of mind and long-term protection
Disadvantages
- May not be ideal for extreme long-range shooting applications
4) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24mm Rifle Scope comes packed with advanced features for uncompromising performance for both short-range engagements and extended-distance shots.
Featuring XD Lens Elements, the Strike Eagle utilizes extra-low dispersion (XD) glass to enhance resolution and color fidelity, delivering crisp and sharp images with exceptional clarity.
Its fully multi-coated lenses are equipped with proprietary coatings that maximize light transmission, ensuring bright and clear-sight pictures even in low-light conditions.
The second focal plane reticle maintains a consistent appearance throughout the magnification range, providing accurate holdover and wind drift corrections at the highest magnification setting.
Additionally, the glass-etched reticle allows for intricate design while being protected between two layers of glass for optimal durability and reliability.
In low-light situations, the illuminated reticle offers precise aiming points, allowing for quick and accurate target acquisition. The fast-focus eyepiece enables rapid reticle focusing, ensuring that you can adapt to changing shooting scenarios with ease.
Built to withstand the elements, the Strike Eagle is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring reliable performance in any weather conditions or rugged environments.
Advantages
- XD Lens Elements enhance resolution and color fidelity for crisp, sharp images
- Fully multi-coated lenses maximize light transmission for bright and clear sight pictures
- The second focal plane reticle provides accurate holdover and wind drift corrections at all magnification levels
- The glass-etched reticle offers durability and reliability while allowing intricate design
- Illuminated reticle enables precise aiming in low-light conditions
- Fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof construction ensures reliable performance in any environment
Disadvantages
- Limited maximum magnification compared to higher-powered scopes
5) Vortex Viper HS 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope
Vortex Viper HS 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope is one of the best Vortex scopes for deer hunting in the long range. This scope features a 4-16x magnification range and a 44mm objective lens diameter, striking the perfect balance between versatility and precision.
The Dead-Hold BDC reticle offers holdover points for hunting at varying ranges, ensuring accuracy when estimating holdover becomes crucial.
At the heart of the Viper HS LR is an advanced optical system, featuring XD glass that delivers sharp and clear images from edge to edge. With XR multi-coated lenses, this scope maximizes light transmission, allowing for optimal performance from dawn to dusk. The 4x zoom range provides versatility, pulling you closer to your target with ease.
Equipped with exposed target-style elevation turrets, the HS LR enables precise adjustments for dialing elevation at extended ranges. The CRS Zero Stop ensures that you can return to your zero reference point reliably, even after multiple turret revolutions.
Built to withstand the rigors of the field, this scope features ultra-hard, scratch-resistant Armortek coatings that protect the exterior lenses from damage. Argon purging guarantees fogproof and waterproof performance, ensuring clarity in adverse weather conditions. The hard-anodized matte black finish not only enhances durability but also adds a sleek aesthetic to your setup.
Backed by Vortex’s unlimited, unconditional, lifetime VIP Warranty, the Viper HS LR offers unmatched peace of mind, promising to repair or replace your scope if it becomes damaged or defective, ensuring long-term reliability and customer satisfaction.
Advantages
- Versatile magnification range suitable for various shooting scenarios
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle provides holdover points for hunting at varying ranges
- Advanced optical system with XD glass and XR multi-coated lenses for sharp, clear images
- Exposed target-style elevation turrets allow for precise adjustments at extended ranges
- CRS Zero Stop ensures a reliable return to zero reference point
- Armortek coatings protect exterior lenses from scratches
- Fogproof, waterproof, and durable construction for reliable performance in any conditions
- Backed by Vortex’s lifetime VIP Warranty for added peace of mind
Disadvantages
- Higher magnification may limit the field of view at shorter distances
6) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm 30mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24mm 30mm Rifle Scope is designed for close to medium-range deer hunting.
For users who demand precision, the Viper PST Gen II features laser-etched turrets, adjustable parallax, and the RZR zero stop, allowing for precise adjustments for drop and wind compensation. A fiber optic rotation indicator ensures easy tracking of turret position, enhancing user experience and confidence in the field.
The reticle of the Viper PST Gen II provides highly functional and intuitive hold points, while remaining uncluttered for optimal viewing. With 10 intensity levels and off positions between each setting, users can customize their reticle illumination to suit any lighting condition.
Built to deliver superior optical performance, the Viper PST Gen II utilizes extra-low dispersion glass to increase resolution and color fidelity, while XR fully multi-coated lenses maximize light transmission. Armortek coatings protect the lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt, ensuring clear and crisp images in any environment.
Constructed from a single-piece, aircraft-grade aluminum, the Viper PST Gen II offers a durable platform that can withstand the rigors of the field. O-ring sealed and argon purged, this scope delivers waterproof and fogproof performance, ensuring reliability in adverse weather conditions.
Backed by Vortex’s unlimited, unconditional, lifetime VIP Warranty, the Viper PST Gen II offers unparalleled peace of mind, with a promise to repair or replace your scope if it becomes damaged or defective, ensuring long-term reliability and customer satisfaction.
Advantages
- Versatile 1-6x magnification range suitable for close to medium-range scenarios
- Laser-etched turrets, adjustable parallax, and RZR zero stop for precise adjustments
- Intuitive and detailed reticle with customizable illumination levels
- Extra-low dispersion glass and XR fully multi-coated lenses for superior optical performance
- Armortek coatings protect lenses from scratches, oil, and dirt
- Waterproof and fogproof construction for reliable performance in any conditions
- Durable single-piece, aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Backed by Vortex’s lifetime VIP Warranty for added peace of mind
Disadvantages
- Limited maximum magnification for long-range shooting applications
7) Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x44mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x44mm Rifle Scope features a 4-12x magnification range and an adjustable objective, the Crossfire II delivers image focus and parallax removal, catering to shooters’ needs across varying distances. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle provides holdover points for hunting or shooting at different ranges, eliminating guesswork and enhancing accuracy.
The scope’s fully multi-coated lenses, coupled with anti-reflective coatings, offer bright and clear views even in low-light conditions, ensuring optimal sight picture clarity. With long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, shooters can swiftly acquire targets, aided by the fast focus eyepiece for quick reticle focusing.
Capped reset turrets, finger adjustable with MOA clicks, allow for easy zero reset after sighting in, providing convenient adjustments on the fly. Constructed from a single piece of aircraft-grade aluminum, the Crossfire II ensures strength and shockproof performance, capable of withstanding recoil and impact without compromising accuracy.
Moreover, this scope is O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, delivering waterproof and fogproof performance, ensuring reliability in any environment making it one of the best vortex scopes for deer hunting
Advantages
- Versatile magnification range suitable for various shooting scenarios
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle offers precise holdover points for improved accuracy
- Fully multi-coated lenses provide bright and clear views in all lighting conditions
- Long eye relief and forgiving eye box facilitate quick target acquisition
- Single-piece tube construction ensures strength and durability
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof performance for reliable operation in adverse conditions
- Capped reset turrets allow for easy zero resetting after sighting in
Disadvantages
- Non-Illuminated
8) Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope is the best Vortex deer hunting scope for medium to long-range hunting pursuits. With its robust construction and advanced features, this scope is designed to excel in the field under demanding conditions.
Featuring pop-up dials, the Diamondback allows for easy and precise adjustment of elevation and windage, with audible clicks that are both distinct and easily counted. This ensures swift and accurate adjustments, crucial for maintaining accuracy in dynamic hunting scenarios.
Constructed from durable 1-inch tube made of 6061 T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, the Diamondback undergoes rigorous factory testing, enduring forces of up to 1000 G’s – 500 times over. This ensures its reliability and durability even under heavy recoil and impact.
Purged with Argon gas, this scope delivers waterproof and fogproof performance, ensuring clear visibility in adverse weather conditions. With fully multi-coated optics, the Diamondback provides enhanced light transmission and clarity, resulting in bright and sharp images even in low-light situations.
Advantages
- Precise and easy adjustment of elevation and windage with pop-up dials
- Robust construction withstands recoil and impact, ensuring durability in the field
- Fully multi-coated optics deliver bright and clear images in various lighting conditions
- Waterproof and fogproof performance for reliable operation in adverse weather
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction provides strength and rigidity
Disadvantages
- Non-Illuminated
9) Vortex Viper HS 2.5-10x44mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Viper HS 2.5-10x44mm Rifle Scope, a part of the Viper HS (Hunting & Shooting) line, is engineered to deliver exceptional performance in various scenarios.
Featuring the Dead-Hold BDC reticle, the Viper HS provides holdover points for hunting or shooting at different ranges, eliminating guesswork and ensuring accuracy.
The advanced optical system, with XD glass and XR multi-coated lenses, delivers sharp and clear images from edge to edge, maximizing light transmission from dawn till dusk. With a 4x zoom range, this scope brings you closer to your target, providing versatility in various shooting environments.
Equipped with capped quick-reset turrets, shooters can swiftly reindex their zero after sighting in, ensuring consistent and reliable performance. Built on a 30mm main tube, the Viper HS offers increased elevation and windage travel for optimal adjustment, catering to long-range shooting needs.
Protected by ultra-hard, scratch-resistant Armortek coatings, the exterior lenses of the scope are safeguarded against damage, ensuring longevity and durability.
Argon purging guarantees fogproof and waterproof performance, ensuring clear visibility in adverse weather conditions. The hard-anodized matte black finish not only enhances durability but also adds a sleek aesthetic to your setup.
Advantages
- Versatile magnification range suitable for various hunting and shooting scenarios
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle provides precise holdover points for improved accuracy
- XD glass and XR multi-coated lenses deliver sharp and clear images in all lighting conditions
- Capped quick-reset turrets allow for swift reindexing of zero after sighting in
- 30mm main tube offers increased elevation and windage travel for optimal adjustment
- Armortek coatings protect exterior lenses from scratches
- Fogproof and waterproof performance ensures reliability in adverse conditions
- Durable hard-anodized matte black finish enhances longevity and aesthetics
Disadvantages
- Non-Illuminated
10) Vortex Viper PST 2.5-10×44 Rifle Scope
Finally on the best Vortex scope for deer hunting we have the Vortex Viper PST 2.5-10×44 Rifle Scope,a precision-engineered optic designed to deliver unparalleled performance and reliability in any shooting environment. Packed with advanced features and built to withstand the rigors of the field, this scope is a versatile tool for hunters and shooters alike.
Backed by Vortex’s lifetime warranty, ensuring peace of mind and long-term reliability.
The computer-controlled alignment during construction to ensure optimum image sharpness and brightness, allowing for true reticle use from edge to edge.
The 30mm tube maximizes alignment for improved accuracy and optimum visual performance, while also increasing strength and waterproofness.The tube is made from solid 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum for increased strength and rigidity.
Advantages
- Comprehensive warranty for long-term peace of mind.
- Superior image quality and brightness.
- Durable construction for reliability in rugged conditions.
- Precise and customizable adjustments for accuracy.
- Clear and intuitive reticle design with illumination options.
- Convenient and ergonomic design features for ease of use.
Disadvantages
- None
Read Also
Why Choose a Vortex Hunting Scope?
- Shockproof to withstand recoil and impact
- Waterproof and fog proof performance
- Multicoated lenses for increased light transmission
- Strong and durable Aircraft grade aluminum construction
- Hard anodized finish for camouflage and glare reduction which are crucial during hunting
- Illuminated reticles for low light conditions
- Ample Eye relief
Considerations when Choosing the Best Vortex Scope for Deer Hunting
- Objective lens size
The objective lens is found closest to the rifle’s barrel. This lens transmits the light into the scope delivering a bright and lucid target view. The larger the objective lens, the more light is transmitted and the heavier the scope. It is best to have a scope with a large objective lens if you intend to spend more time in the shooting range. However, a large objective lens will hinder you if you plan to use the scope in outdoor hunting as you have to carry it along.
- Lens coating
This is pertinent when choosing the best Vortex scope for deer hunting. This is because the lens lets you see a bright target image without any glare. Ensure that your scope has fully multi-coated and has anti-reflective coatings for the best view of the target.
- Magnification
It is best to have a variable magnification when it comes to deer hunting. The correct magnification for you depends on the applications. A 3-9x magnification is suitable.
- Weight
Think about where you intend to use your rifle the most. Weight will not be much of a concern if you will be mostly plinking in your local range. But if you plan to use your rifle more on hunting, you must get a lightweight scope. This is because it can be hard to stalk your prey with a heavy and bulky rifle.
- Durability
It is advisable to have a scope made of aircraft-grade aluminum. This ensures that the scope will endure the harshest outdoor conditions. It should also be waterproof and fog-proof. Additionally, ensure the adjustment turrets and lenses are durable. The turrets should have the ability to endure recoil and lots of use.
Read Also: 7 Best AR 15 Deer Hunting Scopes
Best Vortex Scope for Deer Hunting FAQs
What size scope can be put on a Hunting rifle?
Both the 30mm and one-inch diameter tubes can be used. But it would be best if you used the right mounting rings. You can use one that has a massive objective lens if you intend to use the scope on a hunting rifle.
This allows maximum light transmittance. Frankly, it is acceptable to put whatever size of riflescope you want on a hunting rifle. This is as long as the objective bell doesn’t touch any part of the rifle and doesn’t affect the bullet ejector and the bolt action.
What scope magnification is best for deer hunting?
3-9x magnification is the best for deer hunting, the 3x power is low enough, and has a large exit pupil and field of view for close-range applications while the 9x magnification will work for longer shots.
Conclusion
Having the right deer hunting scope will increase the speed and accuracy of your aiming. This will ensure that you don’t miss your shots and exponentially improve your shooting and hunting.
We hope from our best Vortex Scope for Deer Hunting recommendations you have found the one that suits you and your needs from the scopes above.
Related: 8 Best Deer Feeders