Seasoned Contributor for Minuteman Review and teaches over 100 shooting classes a year.
When you need a high-quality scope for a price that won’t break the bank, then set your sights on the Crossfire II series from this popular brand.
With the combination of technologically advanced features, multiple models, and the assurance of the VIP unlimited lifetime warranty, there is a scope for any of your shooting needs
Vortex Optics Crossfire II
PROS
CONS
Vortex has packed a ton of features into the series without jacking up the price or sacrificing quality. Construction features include multi-coated lenses, aircraft-grade aluminum, waterproofing, and fog proofing. There are also several reticle options, including an illuminated variant.
Though you may find these features on optics costing hundreds more than this product that doesn’t mean that they will outperform it. The combination of accuracy, clarity, and quality make the series worth more than its price point.
Scope Review and Breakdown
Features
The fast focus eyepiece that comes on all of the model’s scopes allows the user to quickly and easily adjust the focus of the reticle when it’s time to shoot. A simple twist of the focus knob lets you dial in the sharpest setting for your eyesight. This feature makes sure you always have a crisp reticle.
Model 60 with a Crossfire II | Photo by constantinebolo
The fully multi-coated lens increases the light transmission to the scope while reducing glare on all glass surfaces. It reduces the amount of haze, will make colors appear bright, and will increase your accuracy by allowing for the distinct sight picture.
Thanks to the waterproof aluminum construction you will never have to worry about using your scope in the elements. O-rings prevent unwanted dirt and moisture from penetrating the tube. Nitrogen gas purging ensures you will not experience internal fogging. It makes the scope reliable in any environment.
Crossfire 2 on an AR-15 | Photo by _phantomtactical_
Multiple reticle options allow you to select the one that best suits your eye. The V-Plex is an all-purpose crosshair that can be used for a wide variety of applications. The Dead-Hold BDC features hash marks to assist on bullet drop and windage corrections. It is a good option for shooting at various distances and in different wind conditions.
The V-Brite is an illuminated version of the V-Plex. It uses battery power to light up the center dot for better performance in low light conditions.
Specifications
Ease of Use and Reliability
These scopes have straightforward controls that are easy to use for any level of shooter. The adjustable controls are the fast focus eyepiece, knobs for elevation and windage, and the magnification adjustment ring. Select models also include an illumination adjustment knob.
The fast focus knob allows a simple turn in or out until the reticle becomes sharp and clear. You will not need to refocus every time you use the scope, but if your eyesight changes or you are sharing the product, it is essential. The magnification knob is marked with different power levels, allowing a quick adjustment to your desired zoom.
Photo by _phantomtactical_
The windage and elevation dials are located on the top and side of the scope. An audible click when adjusting will let you know when a change has been made. Each click is equal to 1/4 MOA (Minute Of Angle – MOA is roughly 1/4″ at 100 yards) allowing for precise adjustments. Turret caps protect your settings once the unit is zeroed.
Models with the illuminated reticle have a brightness adjustment knob on the top of the eyepiece. The illumination has 12 different settings, 11 brightness levels and “off,” and can quickly be adjusted.
Photo by edcgeordie
The scopes are very reliable. The tube is constructed from a solid piece of aluminum for strength. The waterproof O-rings make sure the outside elements do damage the internals of the scope. The construction is also fog proof to keep a clear sight picture, and shockproof to withstand recoil.
The brand stands by the quality of their products with their VIP unlimited lifetime warranty. The warranty protects against damage and defects and it will service or replace it at no charge to the customer.
Battery Life
Illuminated reticle models are powered by a single CR 232 battery. Battery life is 1,000 hours on the 1st (dimmest) setting, 70 hours on the 6th setup, and 25 hours on the 11th (brightest) setting.
1-4x24 Variant | Photo by turtletacs
Cost
While not the least expensive option on the market, the cost is very reasonable for the features and quality. Even the top models cost less than $300, and you will be hard-pressed to find a better quality scope in this price range.
Who is this scope for?
Type of Shooter
While this model has many variations for use in multiple applications, it is best suited for the novice to intermediate 100 yard+ target shooter or hunters. Shooters who are new to long range shooting or new to scopes will be able to learn the controls without issue, the quick adjustments allow for a smooth zeroing process.
Photo by lateboyscout
The reticles are crisp for precise targeting, and the waterproof construction ensures you don’t run into any issues in the field.
Type of Firearm
3-9x40 Variant | Photo by hunterc_lly
This product would best be suited on any bolt action hunting gun or AR-15 & AR-10 platforms set up for target shooting or hunting. There is also a version that is designed specifically for use on bolt action and semi-automatic rimfire products.
Due to the traditional size and shape of these scopes, there are numerous mounting options available.
Final Verdict
The adage with scopes is “spend twice as much on optics as you did on the gun.”
If you are in the market for a durable, high-quality scope without shelling out a ton of money, you should take a look at the Crossfire II series.
It has everything shooters would need for hunting, target practice, or competition. The construction is of high quality, the optics are clear, and the structure is rigid.
With over a dozen models to choose from you won’t have to settle for one that isn’t exactly what you’re looking for in a scope. Different zoom powers, tube sizes, and reticle options are all available.
Photo by oscartuneback
Even with all the models available it still might not be the right fit for your shooting use. If you are more interested in high-speed competition, sub 100-yard targets, or close quarter drills, you may want to look elsewhere.
Vortex Optics makes the customer a priority. The VIP unlimited lifetime warranty means you never have to worry about defects or damage. It is undoubtedly easier to purchase a product knowing the manufacturer stands behind it 100%. I would not hesitate to put a Crossfire II on any of my units.
Other Options Worth Looking At
What if this unit doesn’t seem like a good fit? You should check out any of the dozens of optics manufacturers on the market today. Every company offers something a little bit different.
If you like the Vortex but don’t want to spend as much, you may want to try Bushnell. A longtime manufacturer of scopes, binoculars, and rangefinders, Bushnell offers several quality scopes at a lower price point.
If you’re an experienced shooter or are looking for something smaller with a fixed magnification, Trijicon may be worth buying. They offer several high-end combat optics perfect for the AR-15 unit.
Leupold is a manufacturer of medium to high priced, high-quality scopes. While they do make some models in the same price range as the Vortex, they have several high-end models available if you are looking for a precision scope of extremely high quality.
Other Models from the Manufacturer
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