I’m always looking for that perfect buy: a blend of value, budget, and quality. Usually, the cost goes up significantly trying to get all three. Enter the Vortex Optics Crossfire II. The price tag of $149 can’t be beaten for the value and quality that you get with this scope. This has quickly become my go-to scout scope. Keep reading while I break it down for you.

Glass Clarity & Reticle

The Vortex Crossfire offers a 32mm objective lens and a magnification of 2-7x, so whether you’re hunting large or small game, this scope has you covered. The fully multi-coated glass lens is surprisingly clear. I was able to see my target clearly at 300+ yards. It features a V-Plex duplex reticle and an SFP, and it’s super easy to read. This makes finding your targets and game a breeze. However, the reticle is larger than I was used to, which took some adjustment.

Eye Relief & Eye Box

The eye relief is 9.5”, which is pretty much perfect for a Scout rifle. It also has an incredibly lenient eye box, and I noticed I didn’t experience any eye fatigue after shooting a few rounds. The 9.5” relief may seem large, but I found it perfect and incredibly comfortable.

Durability

The shockproof aircraft-grade aluminum frame and black anodized finish ensure lasting durability. It also sports waterproof O-rings to prevent moisture, dust, and debris from entering the tube. This thing can take a beating. When I’m moving through rough terrain, it’s nice to not have to worry if my scope is gonna be wrecked in the process. Oh, and it’s got nitrogen gas purging to keep it fog proof. So, no matter where you’re hunting, this scope’s got you covered. Finally, with its 150-hour battery life, I know it won’t die on me whether I’m going on a quick weekend trip or extended hunt.

Elevation & Windage Knobs

1/4 MOA Capped reset turrets allow for quick resetting to zero after sighting the scope. They’re finger adjustable and audibly click which means there’s no need to carry additional tools to fix your sights. These are capped for additional durability and protection from outside damage to the turrets. I found the caps to be a little weird at first, but they’ve grown on me with use.

Parallax & Magnification

The magnification is 2-7x, making it ideal for a scout rifle scope. The wide range makes it perfect whether you’re hunting small or large game, defending your home, or shooting targets. At lower mag levels there is a bit of parallax, however after 3x the parallax drops to nearly nothing.

Mounting & Rings

This scope does not come stock with mounting or rings, so you’ll need to purchase them separately. Personally, I use the roller coaster sight mount from Brownells and mounted it on my 243 rifle. But any of the low, medium, or high 1” mounts directly from Vortex will do. They all work beautifully, and at the end of the day it comes down to personal preference.

Is the Vortex Optics Crossfire II worth it?

Absolutely. For the price, this budget scout scope can’t be beaten. It’s got: 

• Clear glass 
• Durable build 
• Capped turrets 
• 150-hour battery life 
• Amazing eye relief at 9.5” 

The Vortex lifetime no questions asked warranty is insane. There’s no risk to trying this scope, and that’s what made me pick it up. Now it’s my go-to scout scope. Speaking of which, this scope is meant for dedicated scout rifles, and I wouldn’t try putting it on other types of firearms. So if you’re looking for a one and done scope, this isn’t the one. But if you’re looking a budget scout scope that performs just as good as optics 3x its cost, I’d highly recommend getting the Vortex Crossfire II Scout.  

Richard Douglas is a long-time shooter, outdoor enthusiast and technologist. He is the founder and editor of Scopes Field. Columnist at The National Interest, Cheaper Than Dirt, Daily Caller and other publications.  

Image: Vortex Optics