Vortex Razor Spotter- New vs Old Model

wooduckman

Lil-Rokslider
Joined
Jun 28, 2016
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Location
Colorado
Wondering if anyone has had a chance to a do a side by side comparison of the old model razor spotter vs the new model. I have the opportunity to swap out my old model (less than a year old) for the new model they just released. I have seen a couple "professional" reviews, but am looking for some more average joe feedback. Thanks in advance!
 
I have a 50mm razor and I had a 65mm razor that I just sold and got the new 85 razor. They are all great IMO. Honestly though, I haven't had enough time behind the new 85 to have an accurate judgement yet. I will be getting some field time behind it in the next couple weeks. I'll let you know what I think.
 
I do not own one but did compare them when they first came out.

Noticeable improvements for me would be first and foremost, the change of the eyepiece. The three screws on the old model would wiggle themselves out on occasion and then you had problems. It is also brighter and clearer on 60 power. We were looking about 2 miles out and it was a noticeable difference in the look of the trees and grass.

Misses. the new locking system for the eye piece seems like a bad idea. Seems as if it could unlock itself easier than the old style. I also liked the eye cup on the old model a lot better but that is more of a personal thing.
 
Noticeable improvements for me would be first and foremost, the change of the eyepiece. The three screws on the old model would wiggle themselves out on occasion and then you had problems.

^^^ this was true for me also.
 
Appreciate the feedback. I'm leaner towards the newer model strictly because the new streamlined design will fit in my pack better than the old model with the two focus dials.
 
I have the older straight version 65mm and my father bought the new angled version 85mm. Personally I didn't like the new focus adjustment knob on the newer version, but I think that's just because I'm used to the smaller knob of the old version. I like being able to just use one finger to make the adjustment, whereas on the new one I had to use my thumb as well. I know that sounds ridiculous but it's just something I noticed when using both. I do think the newer model would be more difficult to damage since there is no adjustment knob sticking out like there is on the old models. Glass seemed the same as far as clarity. I wouldn't hesitate to upgrade, just not sure you're gonna gain a whole lot and if you're like me it might take you a couple glassing sessions to forget old habits and become used to the knew adjustment knob. Good luck and let us know how you would compare them if you make the move.
 
Anyone else had a chance to compare the two side by side?

I have the new version in 65mm, but didn't realize at the time it was 8oz heavier than the previous. That is a good chunk of weight for no gain in glass.

I don't love the focus wheel as part of the body but I am sure I would get used to it. But for no gain in glass I am happy to go back to the older version.

I have a used 65mm older model on its way, but only one tripod so it'll be hard to do a side by side test. But I'll see what I can do and share my thoughts.

If anyone has anything to add, I am all ears.
 
Anyone else had a chance to compare the two side by side?

I have the new version in 65mm, but didn't realize at the time it was 8oz heavier than the previous. That is a good chunk of weight for no gain in glass.

I don't love the focus wheel as part of the body but I am sure I would get used to it. But for no gain in glass I am happy to go back to the older version.

I have a used 65mm older model on its way, but only one tripod so it'll be hard to do a side by side test. But I'll see what I can do and share my thoughts.

If anyone has anything to add, I am all ears.

Any updates on this?
 
I had the old razor in 65mm and have the new razor in 85mm. I cannot comment on glass since its not exactly apples to apples but I do say i much preferred the old style focus rather than the new style focus. Its difficult to get the fine focus perfectly crisp if you have to move the whole body of the scope while focusing. With the old style, it was much easier to just feather the fine focus with your little finger to get a good picture.
 
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