I normally don’t write reviews on product but I wanted to put something out there on the the Vortex Crossfire II because the only positive reviews I could find were on Amazon. A majority of Vortex reviews only point towards the Viper PST when considering a 1-4x scope which is listed on Amazon ranging between $449 to $462. Of the scarce reviews I could find on Crossfire, people downplayed the scope because it is made in China and considered it the lowest quality. While this may true, looking through the Crossfire, Nikon M223, Nikon P223, and other $200-$350 range 1-4x scopes, I felt the eye relief and glass was pretty good on the Crossfire.
My purpose for buying this was range shooting from 50-200 yards on a spikes tactical home built AR. After a couple of minutes I was zeroed in at 50 and moved my way up to 100 and 200 yards. I can tell you firsthand the optic performed exceptionally well and I had no issues at all while shooting. The V-Brite illumination itself is low and barely visible on the highest setting during the day but that did not concern me. I bought the V-Brite version after looking at youtube reviews on 1-4x scopes because as one video said “when I turn my illuminated reticle on out there in the cold wilderness, its a good feeling”. While the illuminated reticle is hardly visible during the day, at night it is just right. – youtube Best AR-15 Scopes by Nutnfance for a great breakdown on scopes and price range depending on your budget.
I couldn’t justify buying a $400+ variable optic even if it is made in Germany, Japan, Philippines, or any other preferred country outside of China. Some shooting and optics forums will tell you that its a waste to buy anything made in China or anything under $500 for a scope/red dot. Personally, if you are only hunting or range shooting, the value should be what is the best bang for buck. I think Vortex does just that with the Crossfire II.
Pro’s:
-Variable scope magnification
-Clear glass with little to no fish eye at 1x magnification
-Great eye relief
-Able to shoot close range and holdovers for 200-250 yards
-Visible illumination at night
-Great manufacturers warranty
-Reliable company which stands behind its products
Con’s
Caps for the scope
Don’t be fooled into thinking you need the very best scope when it isn’t practical. Take baby steps and get familiar with lower to mid-range priced optics before you decide to go for the top end models. That way you’re basing it off of personal experience and knowledge that works for you. The Vortex Crossfire II is a really solid scope and will suffice all your needs.
