SWFA SS 1-4x24 Tactical vs. Vortex PST 1-4x24

[Militant83]

I've narrowed down my optic search to SWFA SS 1-4x24 Tactical and Vortex PST 1-4x24. There are things I like about each and they both are right where I want to be price wise. My intended use is for my patrol duty rifle. I wanted something that I can use in CQB situations but also be able to take some more precise longer shots if need be in an active shooter type situation.

With the SWFA I like the reticle better. However I know Vortex has an amazing warranty. I was not able to find any information on a SWFA warranty.

I seen some guys that have had one or the other on here. So I'm looking for some advice from guys who can give direct comparison between the two. Looking at standard models not HD.

Thanks in advance for any advice

[austinN4]

I've narrowed down my optic search to SWFA SS 1-4x24 Tactical and Vortex PST 1-4x24. There are things I like about each and they both are right where I want to be price wise. My intended use is for my patrol duty rifle. I wanted something that I can use in CQB situations but also be able to take some more precise longer shots if need be in an active shooter type situation.

With the SWFA I like the reticle better and the fact that it is first focal plane over Vortex with 2nd focal plane. However I know Vortex has an amazing warranty. I was not able to find any information on a SWFA warranty.

I seen some guys that have had one or the other on here. So I'm looking for some advice from guys who can give direct comparison between the two. Looking at standard models not HD.

Thanks in advance for any advice

Thanks for posting this as I am also interested in the replies.

[Militant83]

I had to edit my original posting the SWFA is 2nd Focal Plane as well. I was thinking of the Burris when I mentioned the focal plane difference.


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[JackFanToM]

I can only speak on the Vortex (I've heard great things about SWFA, esp. regarding value, but no 1st hand knowledge), and I think it is excellent for the cost. The Good - FOV is amazing, the glass is very clear (probably the clearest it gets under $1000), the turrets have good solid detents and solid clicks (mine are exposed), zero stop works perfectly, reticle is excellent on 1x for fast acquisition, true 1x, off positions after every setting on the illumination knob, it has an illumination knob not a button, solid build with great QC, warranty is as good as it gets, as is their CS. The Issues - She's a pig (add a LaRue QD and she is heavy), the reticle is busy (it doesn't bother you if you are doing precise shots at leisure, but I can see an issue if you are in a hurry), 2nd focal plane (if this bothers you), and my turrets are uncapped (I have yet to have an issue, and I am far from gentle, but I have seen folks post concerns so get a capped version if this bothers you). As you can see there are not a ton of issues. A buddy of mine shot with mine one time at the range and had to have one, if that says anything.

[Militant83]

For the guys interested in SWFA I was finally able to locate and answer to my warranty question. After looking through some threads on OpticsTalk I located a thread where the question was asked and a SWFA rep replied that they have a no worries lifetime warranty. so 1 more + for the SWFA for me.

[Caeser25]

My vote goes for the Vortex with capped turrets, because of having capped turrets and it has a larger exit pupil which give you a larger eye box.

[tigershilone]

I have the SWFA SS 1-4 2nd focal plane 30mm. Tank-like build with very good glass, nice Mil Quad reticle, heavy, very fair price. Don't care for 2nd FP scopes anymore, spoiled by FFP scopes now. Be advised that the illumination can be seen from the front of the scope (target's view of you) if that is a concern.

[Militant83]

I would assume that is something you have to deal with in any illuminated optic.

[BrigandTwoFour]

Both are going to be fine, and are backed by great warranties.

Which SWFA were you looking at? They have two models, an HD and a classic. If I recall, SWFA uses Japanese glass, which is considered superior to the Filipino glass that Vortex uses (The hierarchy goes German (ELCAN, Swaro, S&B, etc.)->Japanese (Trijicon, SWFA, etc.) -> Filipino (Vortex, et. al.) -> Chinese. There aren't really any US manufacturers.

IMO, SFP is more useful in 1-4x optics. You aren't likely to be ranging or doing dope work on the 1x setting.

[Militant83]

Both are going to be fine, and are backed by great warranties.

Which SWFA were you looking at? They have two models, an HD and a classic. If I recall, SWFA uses Japanese glass, which is considered superior to the Filipino glass that Vortex uses (The hierarchy goes German (ELCAN, Swaro, S&B, etc.)->Japanese (Trijicon, SWFA, etc.) -> Filipino (Vortex, et. al.) -> Chinese. There aren't really any US manufacturers.

IMO, SFP is more useful in 1-4x optics. You aren't likely to be ranging or doing dope work on the 1x setting.

Im looking at the classic... Would love the HD however it is outside my budget.


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