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

[BrigandTwoFour]

US optics uses U.S. Glass iirc

From what I've found, US Optics gets their glass from Schott (German). But they get it in raw form and finish it themselves as opposed to having the glass manufacturer do it.

Japanese glass is still very good- there are a lot of quality companies using Japanese such as Trijicon and Nightforce.

As far as SWFA's classic scopes, the glass still comes from Japan, but the optic housing comes from a different source that is a little more budget oriented than the HD line. Still, from what I've read, the classic line is priced well below what it could be. I actually really like the SWFA Classic 1-4x reticle, and it would probably be my top choice in that price category. If you are keeping it to budget, and don't really need QD levers, I'd look at Aero Precision's mounts.

As far as the high/low scope mounts go, that depends on your use. I used to keep a TR24 in an ADM Recon-H mount (high), and thought it was great for fast run-and-gun shooting. But as I got more into precision work, the high mount caused uncomfortable neck strain (especially in the prone). I switched to a standard height mount from then on and have no more pain, and do not think it is appreciably slower for my uses.

[Militant83]

As I was looking around some more, I came across the Leupold VX-R Patrol.. being that my main use for this is on a patrol rifle. Does anyone have any experience or thoughts on this optic? I know it is above my budget but I may just wait and save some more cash to ensure I get the right optic for my needs.

[BrigandTwoFour]

I have no personal experience with it, but I've seen it recommended before- particularly the firedot model. Another newer option in the category is the new Atibal Velocity 1-4. I've seen a few decent reviews of it, but (again) no personal experience. The owner of Atibal apparently designed the Velocity to outcompete the Leupy VX-R with optical quality and build. I have no dog in that fight.

Honestly, at that price point, you're not far off from a good deal on a Trijicon TR-24 ($799 at Liberty Optics right now, he might be able to do better if you call him directly).

[austinN4]

Honestly, at that price point, you're not far off from a good deal on a Trijicon TR-24 ($799 at Liberty Optics right now, he might be able to do better if you call him directly).

I can vouch for Liberty, having bought from them before. Good people. And yes, call him directly.

[Militant83]

I have no personal experience with it, but I've seen it recommended before- particularly the firedot model. Another newer option in the category is the new Atibal Velocity 1-4. I've seen a few decent reviews of it, but (again) no personal experience. The owner of Atibal apparently designed the Velocity to outcompete the Leupy VX-R with optical quality and build. I have no dog in that fight.

Honestly, at that price point, you're not far off from a good deal on a Trijicon TR-24 ($799 at Liberty Optics right now, he might be able to do better if you call him directly).

I had looked at those as well the reticle or at least the one I looked at seemed really busy. Im trying to keep the reticle as simple and functional as possible. The VXR was appealing due to it only having the dot then hold marks.

Im not really partial to a brand I just need to figure out what is going to work best in an LE environment. And cant go to crazy in price or the wife will kill me.


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[MegademiC]

I went with the vxr patrol, it's lighter than most 1-4 scopes, the eybox is generous, and I can pick up the dot before seeing through the scope which makes it very fast on target. With the reticle and above attributes, it's geared more for close range, with long range capability. If I was shooting at farther ranges more, the other reticle might help, but the hash marks are function. Also the motion sensor let's me keep it "on" sitting on the night stand and not have to worry about the battery.

Full discloser, my only experience with the vortex was in a shop, side by side with the vxr. The daylight visible do is a huge plus imo. Btw I picked mine up in a larue mount (combo) from larue and it was the best deal at the time.

I also thought the vxr would be better than the trij for odd lighting conditions, and I didn't like the fisheye effect.

[Militant83]

Thanks for the info mega. Id like to get some info from LEO who might be using them on the job. But I'm sure most LEOs are still using Aimpoint and Eotech sights. I wouldn't imagine a scope is too popular on the everyday patrol rifle.

[MegademiC]

I should also add, the vxr is one of the lightest 1-4ish scopes out there, if that matters.

[Militant83]

Weight is always a factor in my eyes especially for a rifle that isn't just some safe queen that I take out to shoot from time to time. Were you comparing it to the classic Vortex or an HD?

[POPE]

I own the SWFA and have really enjoyed it. It's glass is VERY clear and the reticule is clean. The entire reticule isn't illuminated, only the dot in the middle. Great for quick shots or you can take an extra second and read the reticule. I use it on my mid distance gun for varmit control. There is a storage spot for a spare battery in the illumination turret, and the turret has an off between each brightness level.

Downside. The turrets all have clear "clicks" between but they move EASY. The light has ran down from the gun being put back in the case and it rubbing the switch enough to turn it on. I check turret location before every session now. That is my only complaint about it.