Vortex Razor HD spotting scope

[Backpack Hunter]

Anyone try out the Vortex Razor HD spotting scope in either 50mm or 65mm? Image clarity? Worth it to get more magnification and carry more weight with the 65mm?

 

[Matt Cashell]

BH,

I used the 65HD for a few weeks last summer. I thought it was similar to the 85HD in that it compares well to much more expensive spotters at a lower price.

I have the 50 right now. I haven't got to use it as much as I would like yet, but after owning the NIkon ED50, I would say it is right in that league. It is just tiny, which is nice.

If I had just one spotter, out of your choices, I would go for the 65. It is brighter and has better resolution as well as more magnification.

I think the 50 would be a nice compliment to a larger spotter for less glass intensive trips. It is so small that you probably won't be tempted to leave it in the truck, though!

 

[Beastmode]

I used the 65 razor all year this year. I am very impressed with it. It is extremely clear even In high contrast situations. For the price I believe it is the best bang for the buck. It is about the perfect size for me, but there have been a couple times I wish I had the 85mm. Those couple times were never while I was hauling it. As BB said the 65 is about perfect size for an all around spotter.

 

[Slim Jim]

I'm no glass expert but my razor 65 is REAL nice. You can see very clear a couple miles away. I love it and the weight isn't that bad.

 

[Beastmode]

Here is a pic using a Samsung s3 at 500 yards through the razor 65. No adapter or digiscoping equipment.

 

[Wrongside]

I have the HD50 and like it a lot. Small, light, super clear, nice focus adjustment. Only problem I've got with it, is now I want the 85.

 

[Backpack Hunter]

Anyone get the 65mm, but wish they had gotten the 50mm instead?

 

[HighHunter1232]

I love my 50mm razor! Great size/weight for packing in deep. If the photo attached the way it should, you should see a cow at about 250 yards. Pic taken with phoneskope/iPhone.

 

[HighHunter1232]

 

[chindits]

I used the Razor hd 11-33 all last summer, ML, and supporting some friends 1st rifle for elk hunts mostly above tree line. I never thought about leaving it behind because it is an easy pack and you can hand hold for quick looks. I've dirtbiked it, usually have it lashed to the outside of my pack with no cover in all weather, left it outside the tent once or twice in the rain, and supported part of my tarp tent in the snow with it. I only have two complaint, the lens covers suck and there are no options for the eye piece like the Nikon ED. No 65 experience yet.

 

[Moose2367]

The 65mm is the scope i'm contemplating buying at the moment, be good to find a second hand one. Otherwise i'll probably get a demo model, here in Aust the 65mm model goes for $1939 at one of the retailers.

 

[ElkNut1]

I've used all 3 of the Vortex Spotters for many hours & the 65 is the best All Purpose Spotter that will work well around the rig or for packing it miles back in. My favorites are the 50 & the 85 but all 3 do very well. The 85 will out shine the 65 at low or dim light times but not a big deal if you don't have them side by side for comparison! (grin)

Moose, I can get a 65 to you for around 700.00 less than you can get out your way if this helps. That would include shipping. PM me if interested.

ElkNut1

 

[JNDEER]

I have no experience with the Vortex line. A member who is not on so much now did a youtube review comparing the Ed50 and vortex 50.

I have been using the ED50 for quit a while and felt it was limiting in low light (or even dim light) at close and far distances. I purchased an ED60 and used it this year. I had zero issue determining buck from doe in early light and close and far distances. So, moral is if you plan on needing it for low light or dim light the 65 would probably work better for you, otherwise the 50 would do just fine.

Here is a buck I took a pic of. He is well over 1000 yards using a handheld camera against the ED60 lense...nothing fancy, just me point and shooting the picture.