7 Best Vortex Scopes for 223.Vortex 223 Scopes

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If you are looking for the best Vortex Scopes for 223 for Bolt Action Rifle, Varmint, Coyote Hunting, and more, this review comprehensively covers that.

The 223 cartridges are used by a wide range of semi-automatic/manual-action handguns. This cartridge is very popular for hunting and home defense use.

Before we look at the scopes here are the 223 cartridge specifications

 

223 cartridge specifications Specifications

  • Type- Rifle
  • Designer- Remington Arms
  • Design Year-1962
  • Origin -United States
  • Primer type- Small rifle
  • Velocity-Upto 3,750 ft/s (1,140 m/s)
  • Energy-1,338 ft⋅lbf (1,814 J)
  • Parent case- .222 Remington
  • Case type- Rimless, bottleneck
  • Case capacity- 28.8 grain H2O (1.87 ml)
  • Overall length 2.26 in (57 mm)
  • Case length- 1.76 in (45 mm)
  • Rim diameter- 0.378 in (9.6 mm)
  • Base diameter- 0.376 in (9.6 mm)
  • Neck diameter- 0.253 in (6.4 mm)
  • Bullet diameter- 0.224 in (5.7 mm)
  • Shoulder diameter- 0.354 in (9.0 mm)
  • Rim thickness 0.045 in (1.1 mm)
  • Maximum CUP 52000 CUP
  • Maximum pressure (SAAMI) 55,000 psi (380 MPa)
  • Maximum pressure (CIP) 62,366 psi (430.00 MPa)

Source-Wikipedia

 

Here is a summary of the Best Vortex Scopes for 223

 

Scope Image                  Best Price
1) Vortex Viper HS-T 4-16×44 Riflescope Vortex Viper HS-T 4-16x44 Riflescope Amazon

 

Opticsplanet
2) Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 Rifle Scope Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40 Rifle Scope Amazon

 

Opticsplanet
3) Vortex Viper 6.5-20×50 Riflescope Vortex Viper 6.5-20x50 Riflescope Amazon

 

Opticsplanet
4) Vortex Crossfire II 4-16x50mm AO Riflescope Vortex Crossfire II 4-16x50mm AO Riflescope Amazon

 

Opticsplanet
5) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 Riflescope Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8x24 Riflescope Amazon

 

Opticsplanet
6) Vortex Diamondback 3-9×40 Riflescope Vortex Diamondback 3-9x40 Riflescope Amazon

 

Opticsplanet
7) Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 Riflescope Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27x56 Riflescope Amazon

 

Opticsplanet

 

Best Vortex Scopes for 223

 

1) Vortex Optics Viper HS-T SFP Riflescopes

Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

 

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Available in different sizes/styles

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

 

This riflescope is perfectly suited for a .223 rifle as it is a product of the prominent Viper HS-T (Hunting, shooting, and tactical) manufacturing line.

This means that the Vortex Optics Viper HS-T riflescope is specifically designed and manufactured for hunting operations which is also the major function of the .223 rifle.

It is fitted with a convenient fast focus eyepiece that allows the shooter to adjust the reticle in line with the vision of the eye. The magnification adjustment ring gives the shooter a 4x zooming range which increases the versatility of the focus area.

The application of this magnification ring is supported and boosted by a side focus knob and which enhances image focus and parallax removal.

Designed and assembled to perfection, the Vortex Optics Viper HS-T riflescope features premium grade lenses that are multi-coated and provide extra-low dispersion of light to provide top-notch resolution and accurate color representation in the final image.

Features

  • The tube is O-ring sealed and argon purged to ensure the entire riflescope is fog proof and waterproof
  • The target style-built turrets are designed for precise and repeatable finger click adjustments
  • Incorporates fully multi-coated lenses that include XR coatings and Armortek coating which enhance light-gathering capabilities and protect the lenses respectively.
  • Has a windage adjustment knob, a side focus knob, and an elevation adjustment knob that serve to complement the magnification adjustment knob
  • Fitted with a CRS Zero stop that allows for a reliable return to zero capability after dialing temporary elevation corrections.

Pros

  • Fit for outdoor varmint hunting as it is rugged, fog proof, and waterproof.
  • Versatile yet extremely simple and easy to use.
  • The fitted VMR -1 Reticle is ideal for use in .223 rifles as it’s designed for accurate holds at extended ranges which is usually the case in hunting situations.

Bottomline

The Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Riflescopes are perfect for .223 rifles as they are designed, manufactured, and assembled to carry out hunting operations just like the .223 which is perfect for varmint hunting.

 

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

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

 

 

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Available in different sizes/styles

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

 

The sturdy and high-quality construction of the housing makes the Vortex optics crossfire II riflescope one of the best Vortex Scopes for 223.

The aircraft-grade aluminum guarantees the lenses will not get damaged from shock emanating from the firing of a .223 round and the edges have O-ring sealing technology and nitrogen purged.

The front sight of this riflescope has a fast-focus eyepiece that allows quick and easy reticle focusing and has a custom build to ensure an easy rest on the shooter’s eye.

The Vortex Optics Crossfire II as one of the Best vortex scopes for 223 has a simplistic yet versatile design to make it easy for the shooter to focus on.

This design consists of a single-piece tube fitted with fully multi-coated lenses to provide bright and clear views for the user. For instances where the .223 rifle is required to shoot at varying ranges, the dead hold BDC reticle fitted in this riflescope is perfect as its estimations are accurate.

Features

  • Anti-reflective lenses for bright and clear views for the shooter
  • An elevation adjustment knob that reaches peak elevation at 60 MOA
  • Finger adjustable turrets with MOA clicks that can be reset to zero after sighting in
  • Housing is made of aircraft-grade aluminum for strength and durability
  • Reticle type is a Dead-hold BDC efficient in varying range focus
  • Fitted with a long eye relief for quicker focusing and delivering a clear picture.

Pros

  • Has proven to work effectively and efficiently in all .223 rifle models
  • High performance at a modest price makes it attractive to varmint shooters who would go for a .223 rifle.
  • High-quality glass lenses and holds zero whenever required without failure.

Bottomline

This riflescope maintains the long-running reputation for Vortex scopes having a high-quality glass leading to high quality and extremely clear images. The Crossfire II is further ideal for most .223 rifle users as it is relatively cheap without compromising on quality and strength

 

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3) Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20×50 SFP Riflescope

Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20x50 Parallax Adjustment Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

 

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Reliable in terms of delivery but still retaining the ease of use is a befitting highlight for Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20×50 second focal plane riflescopes. Designed to handle long-range shooting operations such as varmint hunting, this riflescope is a great addition to any .223 rifle.

Sometimes this kind of operations involving a .223 rifle could stretch into uneven terrain or highly vegetative areas but the shooter can still rely on the Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20×50 Second Focal Plane Riflescopes for efficient focusing as they have that rugged anodized housing construction with the edges O-ring sealed and argon purged to allow usage during all seasons.

Features

  •  A dead-hold BDC reticle that comes in handy when that .223 rifle is in use when hunting varmint which moves in groups.
  • Cutting edge, fully multi-coated extra dispersion lenses for high-end resolution and color quality.
  • A MAG-Bar that helps in quick and easy changes in magnification.
  • Easy-to-tune turrets that are capped to ensure re-indexing back to the zero is achieved quickly.
  • XR-coating on the lenses that enhance light-gathering capabilities
  • Armortek coating on the lenses to protect the lenses.

Pros

  • The use of the dead-hold BDC reticle is made easier by an innovative addition to this reticle model called the fast focus eyepiece allowing the .223 to shoot at a consistent focus.
  •  An innovative construction gives the shooter space to operate in rugged environments and under extreme weather conditions.
  • Value for money to the shooter as it is durable and has excellent delivery all at a fairly low price.

Bottomline

The Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20×50 Parallax Adjustment Second Focal Plane Riflescopes as one of the Best vortex scopes for 223 is ideal for mounting on any .223 cartridge rifle as its purpose, design, and workability aligns with that of these rifles in terms of varying range, target animals, and focus specifications.

 

4) Vortex Optics Crossfire II AO,SFP, 30mm Tube Riflescopes

Vortex Optics Crossfire II Adjustable Objective, Second Focal Plane, 30mm Tube Riflescopes

 

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Available in different sizes/styles

  • 1-4×24
  • 4-16×50
  • 6-24×50
  • V-Brite Illuminated/Dead-Hold BDC/V-Plex

 

Shooters using the .223 cartridge rifles would be delighted with the idea of a riflescope that provides extra artificial light during instances where there is extremely low visibility.

This vortex optics crossfire II 30mm riflescope is one such scope that has the provision of a battery that powers to provide artificial light that illuminates the center dot for easier focusing on the target animal.

To enhance its efficiency and reliability further, this riflescope is fitted with anti-reflective and fully multi-coated lenses for a bright and clear view of the target.

The strength of this riflescope is supported by an aircraft-grade aluminum housing, setting the shooter free to operate with their rifle at any terrain and environment.

This quality finish is also crucial in absorbing the shock that emanates from firing a .223 which could be quite significant. On instances that require quick focusing and firing, the turrets are capped to ensure easy adjustments and accurate finger clicks.

Features

  • A fast-focus eyepiece on the reticle focus that is comfortable enough for the eye
  • Edges are O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged to make the riflescope waterproof and fog proof.
  • A V-plex technology-powered reticle that provides artificial light for extra clarity in low light.
  • An extra illumination adjustment knob to control the amount of light in the tube
  • A minimized but still efficient 30mm tube.
  • Long eye relief

Pros

  • Extremely useful in ultra-low light due to the innovative battery-powered V-Brite reticle
  • Client-friendly prices yet maintaining efficiency.
  • Handy for fast target acquisition due to the capped turrets that allow quick finger click adjustments and an illuminated red dot.

Bottomline

The Vortex Optics Crossfire II 30mm riflescope is extremely useful during shooting operations when there is extremely low light as it allows the shooter to still focus on the target. Its reduced size and lightweight build also ensure that the gross weight of a .223 rifle after mounting does not significantly vary giving comfort to the user.

 

5) Vortex Optics Strike Eagle SFP Riflescopes

Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

 

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Available in different sizes/styles

  • 1-6×24
  • 1-8×24
  • 3-18×44
  • 4-24×50
  • BDC3/BDC2/EBR-4

 

This riflescope is intended to take magnification to the next level with a cutting-edge magnification ring that includes a thread-in throw lever that ensures the magnification indicators are constantly visible on the scope of view.

Built-in line with the requirements of a .223 rifle to work in rugged environments, the Vortex Optics Strike eagle riflescope has an aircraft-grade aluminum finish which is also vital in the absorption of shock and recoil from the firing of .223 rounds hence protecting the lenses within the tube.

This riflescope is fitted with an updated BDC3 reticle that is complete with focusing calibrations and enlarged show details which help the shooter to choose their specifications easier.

As one of the Best vortex scopes for 223, this riflescope will make varmint control an easy task. This scope is relentless and when it comes to urgent focusing, it gets the job done right.

Features

  • Nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed edges make the tube fog proof and waterproof.
  • Enhanced light transmission due to anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces.
  • A magnification ring fitted with an additional thread in the throw lever for faster focusing
  • The eyepiece is equipped with a fast-focus dial that ensures quicker and easier focusing.

Pros

  • Additional features allow this riflescope to accomplish extremely quick focusing from point-blank to far-flung ranges within the shortest time
  • High-clarity images are still achieved in low-light environments due to the anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces on the lenses.
  • Instant focusing of over 650 yards can be achieved thanks to the BDC3 reticle.
  • A new riflescope is Included in the Vortex lifetime warranty to protect the client’s investment.

Bottomline

The Vortex Optics Strike Eagle Riflescopes as one of the Best vortex scopes for 223 provides the much-required complementary assist to any .223 rifle, especially in situations where a fast focus is required to achieve that quick shot on a target.

This is achieved by utilizing additional features such as the fast-focus eyepiece, the thread-in throw lever, and the numerous capped turrets.

 

6) Vortex Optics Diamondback SFP Riflescopes

Vortex Optics Diamondback Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

 

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Available in different sizes/styles

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

Vortex riflescopes from the diamondback line definitely fit the Best vortex scopes for 223 categories because of their diverse applications. The Vortex optics diamondback riflescope is no exception with its use stretching to slug short gun and brush hunting operations where the .223 cartridge rifles feature significantly.

Varmint hunting, which is a specialty of the .223 rifle may at times require shooting at varying ranges meaning that a vortex optics diamondback scope would greatly assist the shooter due to its dead hold BDC reticle.

Hunting and pest control operations that stretch to rocky areas or in the rain should not be a concern if the shooter’s .223 rifle is mounted with this riflescope as it features an anodized housing for durability and the ability to absorb recoil emanating from intense shooting.

Features

  • A precision glide erector system to ensure accurate tracking and consistency in repeatable focusing.
  • A fast-focus eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focusing
  • All-weather performance is guaranteed by the O-ring sealing of the tube and additional argon-purged tubes.
  • A resolution of 1.75-5×32 is ideal for long-range focusing.
  • Fully multi-coated lenses to deliver clear and highly visible images

Pros

  • Guarantees a quick catch with the .223 rifle as the riflescope is fitted with quality colored lenses.
  • Guarantees reliability in line with vortex products
  • Easy to camouflage due to perfect cutting-edge housing material

Bottomline

Varmint hunting sometimes requires to pinpoint accuracy and the vortex optics diamondback riflescope delivers exactly that due to its precision guide erector system, making it perfect for mounting on a .223 rifle.

 

7) Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II FFP Riflescopes

Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen II First Focal Plane Riflescopes

 

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Available in different sizes/styles

  • 3-18×50
  • 4.5-27×56
  • EBR-2C (MRAD)/EBR-7C (MOA)/EBR-7C (MRAD)/Ebr-2c (Moa)/EBR-1C (MRAD)/ Horus H59 (MRAD)/Horus Tremor3 (MRAD)

 

Clarity is greatly enhanced in the vortex optics razor HD gen II riflescope through the innovative APO optical system that is designed to enhance image quality.

This ensures that the .223 rifle delivers maximum kills during pest control or any other small game hunting operation where the target could be in a distant range from where the shooter is.

Strength and durability in this riflescope are also heavily emphasized through an aircraft-grade aluminum construction maintaining a sturdy but efficient performance in any kind of environment.

Features

  • Fully multi-coated lenses with XR and Armortek coating layers.
  • O-ring sealed and argon purged single tube design
  • Magnification range of 3-18x
  • 50mm objective lens diameter
  • A 6X zoom range provision
  • An EBR-2C MRAD Reticle
  • 11 illumination intensities

Pros

  • Ease of use and enhanced performance are assured through a single knob that controls both illumination and parallax adjustments
  • Can perform in low light efficiently through careful coatings of the XR type
  • The long-life performance of the lenses is assured through Armortek coatings that ensure the lens is free of dirt, oil, and scratches.

Conclusion

Any .223 cartridge rifle requires a riflescope that can focus over long ranges and can handle sudden variations in the area of the target without blurring the final image. This allows the .223 rifle to deliver as many kills as the shooter would desire regardless of the distance between the shooter and the target involved.

The above-reviewed riflescopes are relatively reliable in these aspects and can therefore work well with the .223 rifles.

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