6 Best Vortex Scopes for Elk Hunting

Themarketfront.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn More

If you are looking for the best Vortex scopes for elk hunting, this post will comprehensively cover that, we look at what magnification you need at different distances and also review the best scopes the Vortex brand has to offer for Elk Hunting.

Elk hunting requires tact and a powerful rifle as it is a huge and dangerous animal. A quality riflescope is also very essential for precision and accuracy.

What is the Best Magnification for Elk Hunting?

The best answer to this question is getting a scope with magnification that fits the riflescope needs 80-90% of the time.

2.5-10x is a good magnification for minimum out west, 4-16x, and 6-24x work best for long-range shooting while a 3-9×40 magnification is great for 1,000 yards with great optical quality, so basically the choice will depend on your own preference.

Best Vortex Scopes for Elk Hunting-Our Top Picks

 

Product Image                     Best Price
Vortex Viper HS-T 6-24x50mm Riflescope Vortex Viper HS-T 6-24x50mm Riflescope Best Price
Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm Riflescope Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56mm Riflescope Best Price
Vortex Diamondback 3-9×40 Riflescope Vortex Diamondback 3-9x40 Riflescope Best Price
Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-12x40mm Riflescope Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-12x40mm Riflescope Best Price
Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Riflescope Vortex Crossfire II 2-7x32 Riflescope Best Price
Vortex Viper HS-T 4-16×44 Riflescope Vortex Viper HS-T 4-16x44 Riflescope Best Price

 

 

1)Vortex Optics Viper HS-T SFP Riflescopes

Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

 

Check Price on Amazon

 

Check Price on Opticsplanet

 

Available in different sizes/styles

  • 4-16×44
  • 6-24×50
  • VMR-1 (MOA/ VMR-1 (MRAD)

 

The Viper HS-T series is great for Hunting, shooting, and Training. This multipurpose riflescope is ideal for big game hunting such as the elk thanks to its advanced optical system which is easier to adjust and offers consistency in focusing over changing targets.

Long-range focusing is made possible at an optimum level by the hashmark-based VMR-1 second focal plane Reticle that maintains the same-sized image as the real object and is supported by extra-low dispersion glass for enhanced resolution.

For longevity, these riflescopes have a durable aluminum construction. The tube is rugged making it shockproof so as to resist any encounters that would compromise the integrity of the scope. Argon purging and O-ring sealing help deliver waterproof and fog-proof performance.

Another notable feature that supports elk hunting is long-range magnification. XR coating and XD lens elements to increase light transmission for brighter and crisp images. These scopes are definitely a consideration for the Best Vortex Scopes for Elk Hunting.

Features

  • Offers comfort to the hunter as it has a long eye relief, an ultra-forgiving eye box, and a fast-focus eyepiece
  • Has a wide field of view
  • Aircraft-grade aluminum construction for strength
  • Hard anodized finish for easy camouflage
  • XR and Armortek multi-coat for enhanced light transmission and lens protection
  • Exposed tactical turrets for easier elevation and windage adjustments
  • Fiber optic turret rotation indicator offers a reliable point of reference for turret rotations
  • Parallax setting from 50 yards to infinity
  • 4X or 6X Zoom range magnification versatility

Pros

  • Long magnification range allows the hunter to operate from a distance for safety purposes
  • The hard anodized finish on the tube results in a low-glare matte surface that enables the elk hunter to camouflage

 

2) Vortex Optics Diamondback SFP Riflescopes

Vortex Optics Diamondback Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

 

Check Price on Amazon

 

Check Price on Opticsplanet

 

Available in different sizes/styles

  • 1. 75-5×32
  • 3.5-10×50
  • Dead-Hold BDC / V-Plex

With a long-running reputation as the go-to hunting riflescope, the Diamondback riflescope as one of the best Vortex Scopes for Elk Hunting has a wide pool of configurations guaranteeing high-level performance.

It stands tall in terms of efficiency of the turrets, image quality, and quality construction making it a valuable addition to an elk hunting rifle package.

The capped rest turrets allow the hunter to easily make adjustments and score multiple kills in a small-time range. The Dead – hold BDC Reticle in this riflescope is ideal for long and varying ranges hunting as it saves the shooter holdover estimation hustles.

Diamondback Riflescope will completely revolutionize how you hunt elk. It features a sturdy single-piece aluminum tube creating a perfect blend of size and weight.

The single-piece design helps with proper alignment for improved visual performance with the utmost accuracy. Internally the tube is purged with argon gas preventing fogging that would interfere with the focusing.

Additionally, the riflescope is O-ring sealed to keep off moisture and other elements from entering the tube. The rugged nature bestows shockproof abilities to the riflescope guaranteeing reliability and durability.

The lenses feature proprietary coatings and anti-reflective layers to support excellent light transmission. This grants elk hunters vivid images and the opportunity to make the killer shot.

Reticle’s focus is effortless through the fast focus eyepiece fitted at the back of the scope. For repeatability and consistency, the scopes have a precision-glide erector system. Experience the fascination of quality optics, robust performance, and reliability of top-tier riflescopes.

Features

  • Precision glide erector system that ensures consistency in images under various magnifications.
  • Fast focus eyepiece for quicker and easier focusing
  • Fully multi-coated lenses for anti-reflective purposes on all air to glass surfaces
  • Capped reset turrets for easier and quicker elevation and windage adjustments
  • O-ring sealed and Argon gas purged making it waterproof and fog proof
  • Single-piece tube with 1 inch in diameter provides increased accuracy and optimum performance
  • Eye relief of 3.5 inches
  • 1-inch tube diameter
  • Parallax setting from 100 yards
  • ¼ MOA adjustment dials

Pros

  • Allows the shooter to carry out precise and tactful hunting operations as the tube has a hard-anodized finish resulting in a low-glare matte surface perfect for camouflage
  • The versatility of Diamondback second focal plane riflescopes directly translates to a better score ratio in the hunt for elks and better comfort for the hunter meaning all hunting operations featuring these riflescopes are bound to get enjoyable.
  • Strong construction with aircraft-grade aluminum material ensures the Diamondback SFP is going to offer the owner long-term service and withstanding damage from falls, shock, and recoil.

 

3) Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12×40 Tactical SFP Riflescope

Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12x40 Tactical Second Focal Plane Riflescope

 

Check Price on Amazon

 

Check Price on Opticsplanet

 

Tactical hunting operations call for a good tactical scope which is what the Diamondback tactical SFP riflescope brings to the table. Quality capped turrets ensure that the elevation and windage remain to the liking of the elk hunter at any specific time.

Re-indexing to zero after sighting in, which is quite challenging in most riflescopes is made extremely easier by a zero-reset feature unique to the Diamondback tactical SFP scope.

Long-range elk hunting is bound to be a fun activity as the VMR-1 MOA reticle is effective in determining holdovers and windage corrections and can still perform optimally on moving targets.

This Diamondback Tactical Riflescope as one of the best vortex scopes for elk hunting is rich in features that support incredible performance, reliability, and durability.

The scope has XD lens elements and XR multi-coatings that help maximize light transmission resulting in sharp elk images. The superior optics are packed on a 1-inch tube constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum.

The tube is toughened to withstand stress emanating from recoil and impact. To support reliability, the tube is purged with nitrogen gas to impede internal fogging that would obstruct the shooter’s view.

To check moisture and other elements that could interfere with the performance of the scope, the O-rings are completely sealed.

Convenience is another important attribute of this riflescope. At the back of the scope, you will find the fast focus eyepiece that allows the effortless and speedy focusing of the reticle. This function is of great help, especially when maximizing long-distance shooting and ranging.

Another addition to the scope is the magnification rib that facilitates swift magnification adjustments in the heat of action.

Features

  • Field of View: 23.6-7.9ft/100yd
  • Second focal plane reticle
  • Raised rib on the magnification ring for quicker magnification adjustment
  • The radius bar offers a conspicuous and tactile point of reference for turret rotations
  • Precision glide erector system for consistency under different magnifications
  • O-ring sealed and Nitrogen purged to protect the inside from water and fog damage
  • XR fully multi-coated lenses to enhance light transmission
  • 40mm objective lens diameter
  • Eye relief of 3.9 inches
  • 1-inch tube diameter
  • Tactical style turrets
  • Parallax setting from 100 yards
  • VMR-1 Reticle
  • The hard-anodized finish helps camouflage the shooter
  • Sturdy aluminum construction
  • Fast focus eyepiece

Pros

  • Intense firing sessions during a hunting operation would normally cause some sort of stress or damage on a mounted riflescope but not to the Diamondback tactical Second focal plane scope.
  • This Vortex scope has an advanced construction whose material enables it to withstand shock, recoil, and even multiple falls. Get yourself a Diamondback tactical SFP for your elk hunting expeditions today.

 

4) Vortex Optics Crossfire II SFP 1-inch Tube Riflescopes

Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescopes

 

Check Price on Amazon

 

Check Price on Opticsplanet

 

Available in different sizes/styles

  • 2-7×32
  • 3-9×40
  • 3-9×50
  • 4-12×44
  • Dead-Hold BDC/V-Plex/V-Brite Illuminated

Crossfire II SFP riflescopes are very effective for hunting/shooting at varying ranges where estimating holdover is a concern. Solid construction is one of the best features, a single-piece construction that help maximize alignment when attached to a rifle.

This alignment affords the shooter better visual performance and trouble-free focusing.

The scopes also have a long eye relief that helps with the speedy acquisition of images. To support quick target acquisition, there is a fast-focus eyepiece that helps with effortless focusing of the reticle.

After sighting in, the reset turrets help zero in speedily giving you the opportunity to take the shot of your life.

Features

  • Field of view is 42-12.6 feet per 100 yards
  • Capped turret style
  • 1-inch tube diameter
  • Second Focal plane reticle
  • Capped reset turrets
  • Shockproof, fog proof, and waterproof performance
  • Aircraft-grade aluminum
  • Fast focus eyepiece
  • Hard anodized finish for easier camouflage and protection from corrosion
  • O-ring sealed and Nitrogen purged to make it waterproof and fog proof

Pros

  • Unmatched accuracy with a magnification ring that incorporates magnification power and FPS setting
  • Fast focus eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focusing
  • Low lying capped turrets in the Crossfire II riflescope ensure that the elk hunter is able to track windage and elevation adjustments easily and with swiftness whenever a quick opportunity for a catch arises and also ensures that the scope provides long term service to the hunter as they do not damage easily.
  • Enhanced performance, toughened construction design and versatility make this riflescope one of the best vortex scopes for elk hunting.

 

5) Vortex Optics Crossfire II AO,SFP, 1-inch Tube Riflescopes

Vortex Optics Crossfire II Adjustable Objective, Second Focal Plane, 1-inch Tube Riflescopes

 

Check Price on Amazon

 

Check Price on Opticsplanet

 

Available in different sizes

  • 4-12×40
  • 4-12×50
  • 6-18×44
  • Dead-Hold BDC/V-Plex/V-Brite Illuminated

 

Aiming from afar is enhanced by the magnification and an effective reticle that determines accurate holdovers over the long range. It also has a lightweight built to ensure convenience and portability during elk hunting.

The fully multicoated optics do not compromise light penetration for bright and vivid images even in dim environments. Swift target acquisition is another reason why the Crossfire II AO is the perfect choice for elk hunting.

The long eye relief, large eye box, large field of view, and fast focus eyepiece helps the shooter achieve speedy target acquisition. The adjustable objective also comes in handy in target acquisition by optimizing focus and removing parallax.

The construction of these riflescopes is exceptional. The tube used is made of sturdy aluminum making the riflescopes rigid and strong. The riflescopes are rugged so as to handle stress emanating from recoil and impact.

The tube is purged with nitrogen gas-filled to ensure uninterrupted performance when hunting in varying temperatures where fogging could be an issue. The O-ring seals also play a key role in reinforcing reliability as they keep moisture, dust, and debris at bay.

Features

  • Single-piece tube construction
  • 1-inch diameter offers versatility in shooting applications
  • An adjustable objective lens for image focus and parallax removal
  • Aircraft-grade aluminum construction to absorb shock and recoil impact
  • Second focal plane
  • Fully multi-coated lenses enhance light transmission
  • 15.2 -5.2 feet per 100 yards wide field of view
  • Dead-hold BDC reticle with a customized hashmark design
  • Parallax setting from 10 yards to infinity

 

6) Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6×24 SFP Riflescope

Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6x24 Second Focal Plane Riflescope

 

Check Price on Amazon

 

Check Price on Opticsplanet

 

The Razor HD Gen II offers an elk hunter unrivaled clarity with cutting-edge picture quality. This riflescope as one of the best vortex scopes for elk hunting allows quick focus and transition between targets reducing the amount of energy required on the shooter’s arm to remain still and focus on one target after another.

Extra low-profile capped turrets are damage-proof and enable the shooter to easily make windage and elevation changes for that accurate kill shot on an elk.

The optics are made to deliver the highest degree of clarity, color fidelity, increased resolution, unmatched light transmission, and the brightest images. To enable them to achieve all that, the optics feature a series of aspects that work cooperatively.

Image sharpness is achieved by the optically indexed lenses while the APO system helps increase the color fidelity. The glass has HD lens elements that increase resolution whereas the XR plus multi-coatings maximize light penetration resulting in vivid HD images. Lastly, their lenses are coated with Plasma Tech to enhance performance and promote durability.

The next notable facet of the Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6X24 is the solid construction. The riflescope features a 30mm tube crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum. The tube is rigid and sturdy ensuring reliability and durability.

Internally, the tube is purged with argon gas to ensure fog-proof performance. The O-ring seals are another construction property that enhances performance by preventing the entry of moisture, dust, and debris that could interfere with the performance of the scope. To protect the lenses from wear, they are coated with a hard, scratch-resistant coating.

The tube’s surface has a hard-anodized finish that offers a low-glare matte surface and at the same time helps conceal the position of the shooter.

The riflescope also hosts an array of convenience features to boost its performance. First, at the back of the scope is a fast-focus eyepiece whose function is to permit speed reticle focusing. The next element is the lockable illumination dial with 11 settings that help offer precise aiming points in varying lighting conditions.

Another key factor is the friction reduction system whose function is to enhance longevity by preventing deformation of the contact point for the erector screw. The Razor HD Gen II-E 1-6X24 Riflescope is definitely loaded with unique elements that will take elk hunting a notch higher.

Features

  • 115.2-20.5 feet per 100 yards wide field of view
  • The plasma tech coating application method ensures the lens coatings do not chip off
  • The locking illumination technique maintains illumination at a certain preferred setting
  • Single-piece tube with 30mm diameter
  • O-ring sealed and Argon gas purged to make the tube waterproof and fog proof
  • Parallax setting from 100 yards
  • Long eye relief of 4 inches and ultra-forgiving eye box
  • ½ MOA adjustment dials
  • 24mm objective lens diameter
  • The magnification power of 1-6x
  • Zero-resettable turrets provide 50 MOA dials in one turn

Pros

The Razor HD Gen II-E is arguably the most durable riflescope in the Vortex line with extra features included such as the friction reduction system which prevents deformation of the erector screw contact point, aircraft-grade aluminum construction for recoil absorption, and a Matte anodized finish to prevent from corrosion.

The clarity of images is not compromised here due to high-quality glass and multi-coated lenses. To put the icing on this deal, this scope is covered under the Vortex lifetime warranty. Make it your own!

 

Factors to consider when choosing the Best Vortex Scopes for Elk Hunting

Image quality-Image quality is determined by the magnification and the lenses used in the riflescope. Considering that elks are big animals; you need optics that offer the best view, better magnification, and bright clear optics.

Durability-Like any other hunting, elk hunting is an outdoor activity and while engaging in hunting external factors are inevitable. Moisture and dust are just some elements you encounter while in the field. The most ideal scope for elk hunting should be fog proof and waterproof.

Complementary features-Elk hunting is a demanding affair and riflescopes with unique performance-enhancing features are very helpful. The extra features help simplify the hunting process. Although the features make riflescopes cost more, they are absolutely worthwhile.

The Hunting Range-Elk hunting demands shooting from a distance and so one should look for a riflescope that can take accurate and precise shots from a few yards away. Choose a scope with the long-range capability and you will take down those elks like a champion.

Conclusion

Elk like other big game animals requires power and tact for any rifle shooter to inflict serious damage or completely kill them.

Vortex riflescopes have both the tact and ability to withstand the stress that comes from firing these weapons. They are also capable of zooming in on an elk target from a distance and enabling the hunter to still make that kill shot.

Related